Holland America Line will transform its 2027–28 Asia cruise season with three fresh Japanese port calls and more overnight stays at major destinations. The ms Noordam will bring new excitement by visiting Hitachinaka, Nagoya, and Maizuru for the first time. The cruise line will also lengthen stays at key Asian ports so travelers can explore in depth.
New Japanese Ports Open Doors to Unique Discoveries
The 2027–28 season marks the first time the Noordam will dock in Hitachinaka, Nagoya, and Maizuru. Maizuru stands out with its new scenic cruising route through its bay, allowing guests to glide past verdant islets and calm waters. Hitachinaka offers seaside charm and seasonal gardens, while Nagoya presents a dynamic urban blend of history and modern life.
These port additions reflect Holland America’s goal to blend iconic destinations with off-beat experiences. Visitors can stroll historic quarters, sample local food, and absorb traditions seldom featured in standard cruise itineraries.
More Overnight Stays for Richer Shore Time
To complement these new ports, the itineraries now include extended overnight stops in Halong Bay, Seoul, Bangkok, Manila, Osaka, and Shanghai. These longer layovers give guests the freedom to dine late, attend cultural performances, and uncover hidden corners of each city.
Rather than squeeze sightseeing into a few hours, travelers can spread their time across morning, evening, and night. They can wander night markets, visit illuminated temples, or absorb a city’s nocturnal rhythm in leisure.
A Balanced Journey Between Scenic Views and Onboard Luxury
The Noordam offers ample comfort with roomy staterooms, varied dining venues, entertainment, and wellness facilities. Scenic cruising through Maizuru Bay and other famed waterways blends sightseeing with gentle motion on the sea. Guests can soak up the surroundings from open decks without sacrificing comfort.
This format weaves discovery and relaxation, giving passengers space to explore ashore and unwind at sea. The ship’s moderate size also lets it access smaller harbors often off-limits to large liners—like Jeju in South Korea and Boracay in the Philippines.
Itinerary Variety to Suit Every Explorer
Sailings run from September 2027 to April 2028, ranging from 13 to 15 days. The cruise lines offers fifteen distinct routes spanning Japan, South Korea, China, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
Many cruises will embark from Tokyo (Yokohama), giving travelers the option to explore Japan’s capital before setting sail. Other departure points include Singapore, Hong Kong, and even Seattle. Highlights include a 14-day “Circle Japan” route that tours up to ten Japanese ports, and combined itineraries connecting Japan with China or South Korea.
Each route places emphasis on immersive exploration—night calls, scenic cruising, and rich shore programming aim to leave a lasting impression.
Enhancing the Onboard & Shore Experience
Holland America plans to elevate culinary experiences with its Destination Dining concept, which draws on regional flavors of ports visited. The line will also run two pop-up dining events aboard: Taste of Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea.
Shore excursions will range from cultural and historic tours to natural and adventure outings. In Busan, guests might explore cliffside temples and art enclaves. In Kochi, they can visit samurai castles and bustling local bazaars, and in Vietnam, travelers may stroll old towns or savor coastal excursions around Da Nang.
Advice for Booking the 2027–28 Season
Bookings for this Asia cruise season are now open and demand will likely rise fast. Early reserving offers the best choice of cabins—ocean view, suites, or specialty rooms.
Loyalty members should check for perks. Holland America may run early-booking bonuses and exclusive offers for returning guests or frequent cruisers. Those incentives could include onboard credits, upgrades, or bundled amenities.
A Voyage Designed for Memory, Not Rush
With the introduction of Japanese ports, longer overnight visits, and an emphasis on comfort, Holland America’s 2027–28 Asia season aims to deliver more than travel—it promises deep engagement. Travelers who crave authentic culture, scenic calm, and meaningful connections will find this offering highly compelling.
Beyond cruising, this season highlights the full potential of slow travel by sea. With time to savor each port and ample onboard peace, the ms Noordam’s Asia lineup invites guests to look beyond postcards and connect with real places and people.
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