The renowned cruise operator Holland America Line is setting the stage for a standout travel season in 2025/26, offering an expansive suite of voyages to Australia, New Zealand and beyond. With a focus on immersive experiences, mid-sized ships and destinations that combine natural beauty, cultural richness and refined onboard service, this season will appeal to seasoned cruisers and first-timers alike.
New itineraries frame a destination-led experience
The heart of the 2025/26 programme includes a broad range of itineraries, with 14-day sailings between Sydney and Auckland being joined by longer cruises up to 60 days or more. Guests will explore a tapestry of ports including Australia’s Sydney, Melbourne and Tasmania, and New Zealand’s Auckland, Napier, Tauranga, Dunedin, Wellington and the breathtaking Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. These options reflect Holland America’s strategy to deliver destination-rich experiences rather than just frequent port calls.
Across the fleet, mid-sized vessels such as the Noordam and Zaandam are slated to underpin this season’s offerings. These ships offer the balance of elegance and intimacy, making them well-suited for exploration in this part of the world while also providing a refined onboard environment.
Grand Voyages and “Collectors’ Voyages” expand the appeal
For those travellers seeking more than a standard cruise, Holland America is offering “Grand Voyages” and “Collectors’ Voyages” that combine back-to-back itineraries, some up to 50 days or more, stretching into the South Pacific and taking in more remote destinations. These extended journeys invite guests to immerse themselves in multiple regions in one seamless voyage, whether circumnavigating Australia or linking New Zealand with the islands beyond. The “Grand” label signifies not only longer duration but curated shore-excursions, destination-dining concepts and deeper exploration.
Culinary immersion and unique onboard events
A highlight of the upcoming season is Holland America’s emphasis on culinary programming. Travellers will enjoy signature experiences such as destination-dining menus featuring local ingredients from Tasmania, New Zealand and Australia’s coastal waters. Further, onboard master-chef collaborations and special events may feature celebrated culinary personalities, reinforcing the brand’s focus on dining as a key element of the travel experience.
Additionally, the season brings unique “double call” events and gatherings. For example, in one March 2026 itinerary, two ships meet in Sydney for a cumulative event that includes special guest engagements, social mixers, themed experiences and an elevated sense of community among cruisers. These moments add layered value beyond traditional cruising.
Standby opportunities and flexible booking options
Understanding that some guests value spontaneity, Holland America is also offering a Standby programme. This allows potential travellers to register for select sailings at significantly reduced daily rates, subject to availability. It offers flexibility and the chance to join a sailing at the last minute, appealing especially to those who keep travel plans open or respond quickly once the season opens.
Why Australia & New Zealand remain key cruise regions
Australia and New Zealand continue to be premium destinations for ocean travellers thanks to their dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, vibrant culture and accessible port-cities. From Tasmania’s old-growth forests to New Zealand’s fjords and beaches, and Australia’s iconic cities and wildlife encounters, this region offers a compelling blend of discovery and comfort. Moreover, seasons in the southern hemisphere’s summer correspond with northern hemisphere’s winter, making it an ideal escape for many.
Holland America’s new programme puts a spotlight on these strengths while making the region more accessible via thoughtfully designed itineraries and vessel deployments that suit both shorter and extended passage times.
What to expect onboard and ashore
Guests sailing in this season can anticipate a mixture of laid-back elegance, destination immersion and thoughtful service. On shore, excursions include wildlife encounters, nature-based adventures, cultural tours, and visits to UNESCO sites and national parks. At sea, travellers can unwind in spa facilities, enjoy world-class dining, participate in enrichment programmes and engage with fellow passengers in relaxed yet upscale environments.
Key ports such as Hobart (Tasmania), Dunedin (New Zealand), Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland serve as gateways to unique experiences: penguin-watching, fjord cruising, Aboriginal heritage, urban exploration and beach-based relaxation—offered in one cohesive journey.
Booking considerations and value-adds
While openings for the 2025/26 season retain early booking bonuses, guests are encouraged to secure their cabins sooner rather than later. Early-bird perks may include WiFi upgrades, drink-package inclusions, shore-excursion credits and pre-paid gratuities. Pricing varies by itinerary length, ship type and stateroom category, but the value proposition is enhanced by the destination-rich nature of the voyages.
Travellers should take note of stateroom grades, departure ports (usually Sydney, with some Auckland departures), inclusions and whether the cruise features “Collector’s Voyage” combinations. Some longer sailings may appeal most to those with flexible calendars or deeper travel ambitions.
Final thoughts
The 2025/26 season from Holland America Line represents a bold statement of intent: to bring travellers closer to the natural wonders and cultural richness of Australia and New Zealand via well-crafted ocean-voyage experiences. Whether embarking on a 14-day itinerary between Sydney and Auckland or a 60-day grand voyage that spans the South Pacific, guests benefit from elevated service, destination-driven content and the freedom to explore in comfort.
For anyone looking to make meaningful travel memories in the southern hemisphere, this season delivers. With standout itineraries, gourmet dining experiences, flexible booking programmes and immersion in some of the world’s most scenic coastlines, Holland America’s Down Under offering is poised to captivate. Travellers seeking a journey that blends luxury, exploration and authenticity won’t want to miss what’s on offer.
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