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McKinley Explorer Train

McKinley Explorer Dome Railcars

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, both owned by parent company Carnival Cruises, operate the largest fleet of dome railcars in Alaska, including the McKinley Explorer . As you might expect, most passengers that travel on these railcars are part of cruise line group tours… but when excess space is available, reservations are offered to independent Alaska travelers as well. There are a total of 10 McKinley Explorer train cars that were first placed in service between 2004 and 2006.

One of the most unique things about the McKinley Explorer is its schedule. Although service is offered to Anchorage, Talkeetna and Denali Park… it is a separate train from the Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star , and operates on a different schedule. Depending on your travel plans, you may find the McKinley Explorer’s later departure time from Anchorage or earlier arrival time into Anchorage a convenient option. Check here for the McKinley Explorer schedule and rates, and keep in mind that the McKinley Explorer does not offer service north of Denali Park to Fairbanks.

McKinley Explorer rail cars seat 86 to 88 passengers in the upper level dome. Each passenger has a reserved seat and the large curved glass dome windows run the full length of the car, offering superb 360 degree views. Seating is comfortable, with foot rests and fold down tray tables. Each car has its own host guide who provides tour commentary, answers questions and offers gift shop items. Full bar service is available upstairs for purchase. Both levels of the McKinley Explorer are wheelchair accessible.

On the lower level you will find restrooms, an outdoor viewing platform and a restaurant. Similar to the GoldStar dome and Wilderness Express, guests rotate through the dining room since it cannot accommodate all passengers at the same time.  Enjoy breakfast items like the Alaskan King Crab Cake Benedict from $9 to $17, or lunch items including their Alaska Fish Tacos from $12 to $16. You can see sample McKinley Explorer menus here . Note there is no dinner service on the McKinley Explorer due to its relatively early arrival time into both Denali Park and Anchorage.

There is one item to note if you are booking the McKinley Explorer train. As mentioned above this is a separate train which is utilized just by dome rail cars owned by Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. Holland America cruise tour passengers generally travel on the McKinley Explorer, while Princess Cruises passengers usually travel on separate Princess Rail train cars. Independent travelers, including those who book through AlaskaTrain.com, are generally are seated on the McKinley Explorer but may be moved to the Princess Rail cars in some infrequent cases. The McKinley Explorer cars and the Princess Rail cars are very similar with one notable exception… the Princess Rail seating is set up with tables of four, with half of the seats are facing backwards.

Follow these links for McKinley Explorer rates and schedules .

Alaska Cruise & Land Tour

Some vacations combine a cruise of spectacular coastal Alaska with a land tour that features transportation by motor coach or train and hotel stays. Before or after your cruise, you might explore Denali National Park in Alaska or the resort towns of the Canadian Rockies, for example.

• The season for Alaska cruise and land tours generally lasts from May through September.  
• Alaska cruise and land tours are typically 9 to 19 nights in length.  
• You can find the most affordable rates in the off-peak periods of May and September.  
• Alaska experiences long hours of daylight during summer, lasting up to 23 hours a day in June.  
• Passengers who end their trips in Anchorage or Fairbanks typically are scheduled to return home on late evening "red-eye" flights.  
• If you need to fly a long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

Holland America Opens Bookings for 2026 Alaska Cruise Season

• August 31, 2024

Holland America Line has opened bookings for its 2026 Alaska cruise season.

From April through September, six ships will offer a variety of itineraries ranging from seven to 28 days, featuring glacier viewings, wildlife sightings, cultural programming and destination-focused dining.

“We continue to build an Alaska program that is unlike any other in the industry, that is deeply immersive, putting a spotlight on all the splendor that brings cruisers to Alaska,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line. “Whether it’s talking to a park ranger while observing a glacier calve in Glacier Bay, joining a whale-watching tour or enjoying the freshest local fish that was just brought on board, we want our guests to return home from vacation feeling inspired.”

Guests can sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington; Vancouver, British Columbia; or between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska. Highlights include the monthlong “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise and a new 14-day roundtrip option from Seattle.

Alaska 2026 season highlights include:

• Six ships exploring Alaska: The Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam.
• The Westerdam will sail to Alaska from Vancouver and Noordam will cruise roundtrip from Seattle.
• New in 2026, the 14-day “Great Alaska Explorer” cruise will be offered roundtrip from Seattle, in addition to Vancouver.
• Noordam’s Aug. 23 departure from Seattle and Westerdam’s Sept. 13 cruise roundtrip from Vancouver visit Alaska’s Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Sitka and Valdez, along with Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada and Glacier Bay scenic cruising.
• Nieuw Amsterdam’s May 3 cruise roundtrip from Vancouver calls at Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Prince Rupert, Sitka, Wrangell and Valdez, with Glacier Bay scenic cruising.
• The return of the 28-day “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise. Departing June 7 in time for the Summer Solstice, the voyage aboard the Noordam sails roundtrip from Seattle to the Bering Sea and into the Arctic Circle. The ship visits 11 Alaska ports plus Prince Rupert and Vancouver. 
• Seven-day “Alaska Inside Passage” cruises sail roundtrip from Vancouver on the Koningsdam, Zaandam and Nieuw Amsterdam. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway.
• Seven-day “Alaskan Explorer” cruises sail roundtrip from Seattle aboard the Eurodam and Noordam, and include calls at Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (evening visit); and Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka. 
• Seven-day “Northbound Glacier Discovery” and “Southbound Glacier Discovery” itineraries cruise between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway.
• The “Great Bear Rainforest” cruise aboard the Noordam, departs on April 19, 2026, and sails roundtrip from Seattle. Guests will enjoy an overnight at Prince Rupert and scenic cruising in the Grenville Channel, Bella Bella and Johnstone Strait.

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• Six Holland America Ships Will Sail Alaska in 2026, More Unique Cruises

Andrea Santillan

• August 31, 2024

2026 Alaska sailings hosted by Holland America Line (HAL) are up for grabs. The season’s highlights include a special Arctic Circle Solstice Cruise, a new 14-day roundtrip itinerary from Seattle, and guaranteed glacier sightings.

HAL Ships Visiting Alaska

Six cruise vessels will explore the region: Zaandam, Westerdam, Noordam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Koningsdam, and Eurodam. Westerdam and Noordam will offer Alaskan routes for the first time in over five years, giving passengers new ship options.

Itineraries on Offer

Discover The Last Frontier with these sailings:

The Great Alaska Explorer is a roundtrip 14-day journey from Seattle and Vancouver. Nieuw Amsterdam begins its journey from Vancouver on May 3, Noordam leaves Seattle on August 23, and Westerdam departs from Vancouver on September 13. These vessels will call on destinations like Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Sitka, and Valdez. A scenic cruise along Glacier Bay is also included.

On its third run, the Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice leaves Seattle on June 12 via the Noordam. The 28-day roundtrip voyage will visit 11 Alaskan ports and Canada’s Vancouver and Prince Rupert.

Guests can also sail on seven-day Alaska Inside Passage cruises. Nieuw Amsterdam, Zaandam, and Koningsdam will travel roundtrip from Vancouver, stopping at Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

The Alaskan Explorer is another weeklong option. Roundtrip Seattle sailings feature Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria in Canada’s British Columbia province. Noordam includes visiting Dawes Glacier, while Eurodam will take vacationers to Glacier Bay and Icy Strait Point.

The Northbound Glacier Discovery and Southbound Glacier Discovery occur onboard Westerdam and Nieuw Amsterdam. These two vessels will call on Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan as they navigate between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver.

For more nature and wildlife, the Great Bear Rainforest will head to British Columbia where rare white spirit bears are found. Noordam sets sail from Seattle on April 19, allowing guests to admire the beauty of Seymour Narrows, Johnstone Strait, Bella Bella, and the Grenville Channel.

Holland America Line has strengthened its Alaskan offerings with the Glacier Guarantee , the Global Fresh Fish initiative, and authentic onboard programming through We Love Alaska . It also invites wildlife experts onboard so cruisers can ask questions and enjoy a more interactive experience.

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Cruise Holidays to Alaska

Cruise holidays to alaska from vancouver, canada.

For an unforgettable experience, take a cruise to Alaska from Vancouver , Canada.

Holland America cruises can be added to all the 2024 and 2025 Rocky Mountaineer train vacation packages we offer. These cruises start and finish in Vancouver from late April through to mid-September.

Sip on a cocktail and look out for bears, bald eagles, humpback whales, moose and killer whales. These cruises are exceptional add-ons to your Rocky Mountaineer Train Holiday Package .

To receive a quote for a Rocky Mountaineer® Train and cruise package, use our Rocky Mountaineer Package Quote form to contact us direct or search for packages online:

Alaska Cruise Information

• Alaska Cruise Itinerary from Vancouver
• Cruise Glacier Bay Alaska Video
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Rocky Mountaineer Train Quote

Alaska Cruise Sample Itineraries

Alaska Cruise Itinerary from Vancouver - departs Saturdays and Wednesdays B = Breakfast included, L = Lunch included, D = Dinner included

DAY 01 - Embarkation

Embarkation commences after 12:00 noon. Sailing time is scheduled for 5:00 pm. Only guests who are sailing may board the ship. Overnight on cruise ship. D.

DAY 02 - Cruise the Inside Passage

Enjoy sailing through the dramatic Inside Passage. Overnight on cruise ship. B, L, D.

DAY 03 - Port of Call Juneau, Alaska

Located at the foot of grand mountain peaks on the Gastineau Channel, the town of Juneau has the massive Mendenhall Glacier and the immense Juneau Icefields at its back door. Juneau is the place to let your imagination run wild. Explore the lush Tongass National Forest, visit the rustic shops in town, set out and whale watch, flightsee, hike, kayak, raft or fish. Due to the long daylight hours, there’s plenty of time for your perfect Juneau adventure. Overnight on cruise ship. B, L, D.

DAY 04 - Port of Call Skagway, Alaska

Take your time and poke into every little store from the Trail Bench to Lynch and Kennedy’s Dry Goods. The Red Onion Saloon, with its honky tonk piano and costumed barmaids, is a treasure trove of memorabilia featuring pictures of Klondike Kate, Peahull Annie and other vintage characters. To complete the picture of those rip-roaring days, visit the nostalgic Trail of ‘98 Museum. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park boasts restored buildings and wooden boardwalks that invite you to take a stroll into the past. Overnight on cruise ship. B, L, D.

DAY 05 - Glacier Bay Scenic Cruise

As Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park protects a unique ecosystem of plants and animals living in concert with an ever-changing glacial landscape. Bring out the camera and listen for the thunderous sound of a monumental chunk of ice that has split from a glacier as it crashes into the sea. The impact shoots water hundreds of feet into the air. Glacier Bay has more actively calving tidewater glaciers than anyplace else in the world. Overnight on cruise ship. B, L, D.

DAY 06 - Port of Call Ketchikan, Alaska

Built out over the water and climbing weathered stairways, Ketchikan clings to the shores of Tongass Narrows and drapes the mountains with a cheerful air. Take time to explore Creek Street, the Tongass Historical Museum, Totem Bight State Park and Saxman Village, Ketchikan’s main attractions. Deep water fjords created by retreating glaciers has left behind stunning granite cliffs towering thousands of feet above the sea and countless waterfalls cascading into placid waters. Overnight on cruise ship. B, L, D.

DAY 07 - Cruise the Inside Passage

Day 08 - vancouver.

After breakfast you will disembark the cruise ship in Vancouver where your holiday concludes.

To include this Vancouver cruise in a Rocky Mountaineer rail holiday package, contact us

Alaska Cruise Videos

Holland America cruising Glacier Bay in Alaska.

Contact us direct to add this cruise to your Rocky Mountaineer train holiday package.

Vacation Package Search

Search Rocky Mountaineer Train Vacations in Canada

About Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer Train

The award winning Rocky Mountaineer train is the only all-daylight train through the Canadian Rockies and operates from April, through until October.

Onboard Service Levels

Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer trains, there are two levels of service to choose from:

2024 Rocky Mountaineer Rail Vacations

2025 rocky mountaineer rail vacations, rocky mountaineer promotions, rocky mountaineer rail only, rgr rail to jasper - 2 nights, fpw rail to banff - 1 night, fpw rail to lake louise - 1 night, jtc rail to jasper - 1 night.

Denver to Moab Train

Moab to denver train, vancouver round trip, grand rail circle - 12 nights, golden circle - 11 nights, canadian rockies circle - 9 nights, classic rail circle - 9 nights, canadian rockies getaway - 8 nights, canadian rockies escape - 6 nights, calgary round trip, rockies & vancouver island - 10 nights, vancouver one way, rgr at leisure - 10 nights, rgr top leisure - 10 nights, outdoor adventures vacation - 10 nights, fpw & victoria, vancouver island - 9 nights, jtc top leisure - 9 nights, jtc at leisure - 9 nights, rgr explorer - 8 nights, rgr top explorer - 8 nights, rgr discovery self-drive - 8 nights, fpw at leisure - 7 nights, fpw top leisure - 7 nights, fpw at great leisure - 7 nights, jtc explorer - 7 nights, jtc great explorer - 7 nights, jtc top explorer - 7 nights, jtc discovery self-drive - 7 nights, fpw highlights with tour - 6 nights, fpw top highlights with tour - 6 nights, jtc excursion - 6 nights, fpw highlights - 5 nights, fpw connector to jasper - 5 nights, fpw discovery self-drive - 5 nights, fpw excursion - 4 nights, rgr classic - 4 nights, fpw classic to banff - 3 nights, fpw classic to lake louise - 3 nights, jtc classic - 3 nights, book with confidence.

Holiday Experiences in Canada

Below are vacation experiences which can be taken with or without the Rocky Mountaineer train:

VIA Rail Train Holidays in Canada

Coach holidays in canada, self-drive holidays in canada, private suv holidays, summer holidays in canada, ski holidays in canada, day tours in canada, western canada locations.

Click on the links below for more general information on any of the locations:

Banff Information

Canmore information, lake louise information, jasper information, kicking horse information, fernie information, kimberley information, whistler information, vancouver information, calgary information.

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Holland america line's 2026 alaska cruise season offers front-row seat to the wild wonders of the great land.

Guests can experience Alaska's majestic glaciers, wildlife sightings and destination-focused cuisine on a variety of cruises, including new 14-day roundtrip Seattle voyage

SEATTLE , Aug. 29, 2024 /CNW/ -- Holland America Line is opening bookings for its 2026 Alaska cruise season. With six ships in the region, the cruise line is filling each voyage with experiences designed around vacationers' top reasons to visit Alaska : an abundance of glacier viewings, a variety of wildlife sightings, captivating cultural programming and destination-centric dining.

From April through September 2026 , Holland America Line will give guests the option to sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington ; roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada; or between Vancouver and Whittier ( Anchorage ), Alaska . Itineraries range from seven to 28 days and include the popular monthlong "Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice" sailing and a new 14-day option roundtrip from Seattle .

"We continue to build an Alaska program that is unlike any other in the industry, that is deeply immersive, putting a spotlight on all the splendor that brings cruisers to Alaska ," said Dan Rough , vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line. "Whether it's talking to a park ranger while observing a glacier calve in Glacier Bay, joining a whale-watching tour or enjoying the freshest local fish that was just brought on board, we want our guests to return home from vacation feeling inspired."

Alaska 2026 Season Highlights

Six ships will explore Alaska : Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam.

For the first time in more than five years, Westerdam will cruise to Alaska from Vancouver and Noordam will sail roundtrip from Seattle . This deployment provides guests with different ship options to repeat their favorite itineraries.

New in 2026, the 14-day "Great Alaska Explorer" cruise will be offered roundtrip from Seattle , in addition to Vancouver .

Noordam's Aug. 23 departure from Seattle and Westerdam's Sept. 13 cruise roundtrip from Vancouver visit Alaska's Anchorage , Juneau , Ketchikan , Kodiak , Sitka and Valdez , along with Prince Rupert, British Columbia , Canada, and Glacier Bay scenic cruising.

Nieuw Amsterdam's May 3 cruise roundtrip from Vancouver calls at Anchorage , Juneau , Ketchikan , Kodiak , Prince Rupert , Sitka , Wrangell and Valdez , with Glacier Bay scenic cruising.

The popular 28-day "Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice" cruise returns for a third year. Departing June 7 in time for the Summer Solstice, the voyage aboard Noordam sails roundtrip from Seattle to the Bering Sea and into the Arctic Circle. The ship visits 11 Alaska ports plus Prince Rupert and Vancouver . Guests will enjoy an overnight at Anchorage and late-night departures from Juneau and Valdez .

Seven-day "Alaska Inside Passage" cruises sail roundtrip from Vancouver on Koningsdam, Zaandam and Nieuw Amsterdam. Ports include Ketchikan , Juneau and Skagway .

Seven-day "Alaskan Explorer" cruises sail roundtrip from Seattle aboard Eurodam and Noordam, and include calls at Victoria, British Columbia , Canada (evening visit); and Ketchikan , Juneau and Sitka . Eurodam also includes Alaska's Icy Strait Point and Glacier Bay; Noordam explores Dawes Glacier.

Seven-day "Northbound Glacier Discovery" and "Southbound Glacier Discovery" itineraries cruise between Whittier ( Anchorage ) and Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam. Ports include Ketchikan , Juneau and Skagway .

Guests looking to combine Alaska with more of the wildlife and the rugged nature of British Columbia can embark on the "Great Bear Rainforest" cruise aboard Noordam, departing April 19, 2026 . Roundtrip from Seattle , highlights include an overnight at Prince Rupert and scenic cruising in the Grenville Channel, Bella Bella and Johnstone Strait , with a transit of the Seymour Narrows.

Holland America Line's signature Cruisetours that combine a cruise with an overland tour to Denali National Park and journey up to the Yukon will be available for booking in the near future; 2025 Cruisetours  are available for booking now.

Glaciers Guaranteed on Every Alaska Cruise Holland America Line continues to offer more opportunities for glacier viewing than any other cruise line. Every Alaska cruise includes a scenic visit to Alaska's iconic glaciers  where the ships sail up to the face of the ice formations and rotate for a 360-degree view. Holland America Line is confident that guests will have an unforgettable glacier experience and offers a " Glacier Guarantee " program that pledges glacier viewing on every Alaska cruise and the majority of Cruisetours.

Glaciers visited along the journey may include  Glacier Bay National Park , College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier and Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm . During Glacier Bay scenic cruising, Holland America Line continues to bring on a Glacier Bay National Park Ranger for the day to engage with guests.

In addition to scenic viewing from the ship, guests can get up close to the ice on shore excursions featuring glaciers, including the  26 Glaciers Cruise  from Whittier , Glacier Discovery Helicopter Tour  in Skagway and the Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip  in Juneau .

More Ways to See Alaska's Wildlife in the Wild Holland America Line provides more access to Alaska wildlife than any other cruise line. Guests can choose from more than 175 animal sanctuaries, sightseeing and land excursions to get up close to the region's most beloved creatures, including options through our exclusive partnership with the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Alaska ships carry a wildlife  expert on board to help guests witness the majestic animals found in the region, and a Wildlife Spotting Guide points out the native animals found along the cruise route and includes a map with the best places to see each species.

Serving Fresh Fish in Alaska Holland America Line continues to build on its groundbreaking Global Fresh Fish  Program that brings locally sourced fresh fish from port to plate in less than 48 hours. In addition to the seafood and other local delicacies served on the menus, ships in Alaska serve exclusive dishes created by the brand's Fresh Fish Ambassador Chef Morimoto.

Holland America Line is the only cruise line with Alaska seafood  certified sustainable  by the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM), so the seafood served on all Alaska ships is fresh and certified sustainable.

'We Love Alaska' Program Immerses Guests in Local Culture Holland America Line's "We Love Alaska" program deeply immerses guests in the local culture with authentic onboard programming, cruise activities and award-winning shore excursions. The exclusive experiences are delivered through experts leading workshops and lectures from those who know Alaska best, Alaska Up Close presentations exploring the stories of real Alaskans, tours highlighting the best of each destination, and fine dining events showcasing the culinary traditions of the region.

On Deck for a Cause Supports Alaska's Parks Holland America Line donates proceeds from its "On Deck for a Cause" charitable event aboard ships in the region to Alaska Geographic , the nonprofit education partner of Alaska's parks, forests, refuges and conservation lands. Called "On Deck for a Cause: Alaska's Parks," guests on all Alaska cruises are invited to donate $25 to participate in a noncompetitive 5k fundraising walk aboard every sailing. Funds raised through "On Deck for a Cause: Alaska's Parks" go to support education, science and research in Alaska's parks.

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com .

Find Holland America Line on  X (formerly Twitter ),  Facebook , Instagram  and the Holland America Blog . You can also access all social media outlets via the home page at  hollandamerica.com .

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)] Holland America Line has been exploring the world for 150+ years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to the destinations. Offering an ideal perfectly-sized ship experience, its fleet visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for more than 75 years — longer than any other cruise line. Holland America Line's 11 vessels feature a diverse range of enriching activities and amenities focused on destination immersion and personalized travel. Guests enjoy the best entertainment at sea, and dining venues featuring exclusive dishes by world-famous chefs. A new global fresh fish program brings more than 80 types of fresh fish on board, sourced and served locally in regions around the world.

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/holland-america-lines-2026-alaska-cruise-season-offers-front-row-seat-to-the-wild-wonders-of-the-great-land-302234058.html

SOURCE Holland America Line

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/August2024/29/c2047.html

Holland America Line puts 2026 Alaska season on sale

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Holland America Line has opened bookings for its 2026 Alaska cruise season, which features six ships in the region.

From April to September 2026, passengers will have the option to sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington; roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; or between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska.

Itineraries range from seven to 28 days and include the popular month-long Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice sailing and a new 14-day roundtrip from Seattle.

The six ships featuring Alaska will be Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam (pictured), Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam.

Cruisetours that combine a cruise with an overland tour to Denali National Park and journey up to the Yukon will be available for booking soon.

A ‘Glacier Guarantee’ programme pledges glacier viewing on every Alaska cruise and the majority of Cruisetours.

Shore excursions also feature glaciers, including the 26 Glaciers Cruise from Whittier, Glacier Discovery Helicopter Tour in Skagway and the Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip in Juneau.

Furthermore, Alaska ships carry a wildlife expert on board and a wildlife spotting guide points out native animals found along the cruise route.

HAL’s We Love Alaska programme showcases local culture with onboard programming, cruise activities and shore excursions.

Dan Rough, HAL revenue management vice-president, said: “Whether it’s talking to a park ranger while observing a glacier calve in Glacier Bay, joining a whale-watching tour or enjoying the freshest local fish that was just brought on board, we want our guests to return home from vacation feeling inspired.”

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Five things to know before boarding a Holland America cruise ship

Holland America Line (HAL) started life in 1873 as the Dutch-American Steamship Company, a shipping and passenger line that plied the Atlantic. Today, HAL offers more than 500 sailings a year, visiting all seven continents, though it is best known for its Alaska itineraries; the line has been sailing to the Last Frontier since before it became an American state in 1959.

HAL’s 11 ships are mid-size, meaning that they never feel too crowded and can visit ports that the vast liners can’t. In each destination, the line offers a range of shore excursions tailored to passengers’ interests, be it wellness, wildlife, culture, cuisine, sightseeing or adventure. For £55 per day, you can upgrade your holiday to include complimentary shore excursions (as well as WiFi, a drinks package and specialty dining).

On board, there’s plenty to keep guests busy, with pickleball , yoga or tai chi practised out on deck and evening entertainment at the popular BB King’s Blues Club or the Rolling Stone Lounge.

Every sailing features an Orange Party in homage to HAL’s Dutch heritage. Wear whatever you want so long as it’s tangerine-hued and join the officers and crew for a Dutch-inspired evening of drinks and entertainment.

1. Where does HAL cruise?

HAL ships have been visiting Alaska for more than 75 years, which is longer than any other cruise line. Carefully crafted itineraries range from seven to 28 days and include the famed Inside Passage and guaranteed glacier viewing – including the awe-inspiring Unesco World Heritage-listed Glacier Bay National Park, where HAL is an authorised concessioner.

Passengers can opt to combine their Alaska cruise with a scenic train ride aboard the luxurious McKinley Explorer to experience the wildlife-rich Denali National Park. Here, days can be spent spotting Alaska’s “ Big Five ” – bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves – while evenings are about swapping stories at Denali Square, the focal point of the luxurious lodge guests will call home for up to three nights.

Alaska aside, popular HAL itineraries include cruises to the Caribbean (many of which feature a call at Half Moon Cay, the line’s private island in the Bahamas), the Panama Canal, Canada , South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Northern Europe, Hawaii, the Mediterranean and more.

Throughout the summer of 2025 and 2026, the line will operate a selection of round-trip sailings from Dover onboard Nieuw Statendam – putting the likes of the Canary Islands, British Isles, Arctic Circle , North Cape, Baltic states, Norwegian fjords and the rest of Scandinavia within easy reach, without having to step on a plane.

HAL is also famed for its longer sailings including world cruises , legendary voyages – 25 to 59-day itineraries that focus on a specific region – and repositioning cruises (when ships relocate from one part of the world to another for the start of a new season).

2. Who it appeals to

Passengers on HAL ships tend to be couples aged 50 and over who look for a premium but traditional cruise experience – think afternoon tea, formal nights (dresses and suits are required) and live entertainment shows – at a reasonable price.

The Seattle-based line is also well-suited to solo travellers: three of HAL’s ships ( Koningsdam , Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam ) offer solo cabins with no single supplement, while parties for solo travellers take place on each sailing.

While the cruise line isn’t an obvious choice for families – it lacks the waterslides, race tracks and rock walls that Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and co all have – HAL does operate a daily kids’ club programme for children and teens.

Elsewhere, destination experts are on hand in HAL’s on-board Explorations Central educational centres. Here, lectures shine the spotlight on each respective port city’s art, architecture, history and politics.

3. The HAL fleet

11 ships are divided into four classes; R Class, Vista Class, Signature Class and Pinnacle Class.

Pinnacle class

Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam (2,650 passengers)

HAL’s Pinnacle Class ships are both younger and bigger than any other vessel in its fleet. But, with capacity for 2,650 passengers, they are still considerably smaller than other cruise lines’ largest ships.

Interiors are the brainchild of designer Adam D Tihany, the man behind many of the Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons groups’ hotels, and they centre on art and music. Subsequently, walls are adorned with the works of up-and-coming artists, while in each ship’s atrium, there’s a spectacular 7.5-ton stainless steel sculpture inspired by the strings of a harp.

HAL’s Pinnacle-class ships ​​also boast more on-board venues – be it the five speciality restaurants (Asian-fusion Tamarind, Italian-inspired Canaletto, seafood joint Rudi’s Sel de Mer, Pinnacle Grill steakhouse and Japanese Nami Sushi) or string of entertainment spaces – than its other vessels.

Sails to: The Caribbean, Scandinavia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska, the US and Canada.

Signature class

Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam (2,100 passengers)

Signature ships are around 15 per cent smaller than HAL’s Pinnacle-class ships and consequently have a more intimate feel. However, you’ll still find plenty of dining venues including three of the same speciality restaurants – the Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind and Canaletto.

Live music entertainment options abound too: a BB King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge keep guests entertained until the early hours.

Sails to: The Caribbean, Central America and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Mexico, the US and Canada.

Vista class

Noordam (1,924 passengers), Westerdam (1,916 passengers), Oosterdam (1,964 passengers) and Zuiderdam (1,964 passengers)

Vista Class ships are only 5 per cent smaller than Signature ships but carry approximately 9 per cent fewer people at double occupancy – and subsequently are less crowded.

Because of their slightly smaller size, HAL’s four Vista Class vessels don’t have all the bells and whistles of the Pinnacle Class and Signature Class ships: there are just two speciality restaurants, although entertainment venues mirror the Signature Class ships.

Sails to: Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Oceania and the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, South America, the US and Canada.

Zaandam and Volendam (1,432 passengers)

Approximately 25 per cent smaller than the rest of HAL’s fleet, R-class ships have a more intimate feel. As such they appeal to passengers who are more interested in making the most of port stays than they are about spending time onboard. Little wonder then that Zaandam and Volendam are often deployed on HAL’s world cruises.

Both vessels feature two speciality dining venues (Pinnacle Grill and Canaletto) while nightlife revolves around a piano bar and the World Stage theatre.

Sails to: Central America and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Mexico, South America, the US and Canada, the Caribbean.

4. Loyalty scheme

Returning passengers can earn perks with HAL’s multi-tiered Mariner Society Rewards Program. Onboard purchases and cruise days accrue points that unlock rewards such as priority check-in, discounts in speciality restaurants and so on.

5. Accessibility onboard

HAL says that it has “specifically designed staterooms for guests who require mobility assistive features”. Fully accessible rooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar devices.

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• Holland America Line

Cruise train - Whittier to Anchorage

By IPB4IGO , May 7, 2022 in Holland America Line

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What time does the train depart Whittier?  I can't get in to the alaskatrain.com site, and the HAL site doesn't say. The only unofficial site I can find says it departs at 12:57. We have tickets for the bus at 8:45 and I would rather not hang around Whittier an extra four hours.

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Have you considered the HAL transfer cruisetrain from Whittier to Anchorage?  Look at excursions from Whittier.  HAL will want to get you from the ship to the train directly and there will be no hanging around time.

What time does the ship disembark?  What 8:45 a.m./p.m. bus do you have tickets for?  HAL is so well organized with their transfers and accommodations in Alaska that it much easier to book through HAL unless you have done this before.  HAL will have the ship cruise train schedule and the Alaska Railroad will have their separate schedule not geared to the cruise traffic.

I wasn't clear. The train I was asking about is the HAL cruisetrain.

My tickets are for the ACT Big Bus , which is there just for the cruise ship passengers.  Since the ship arrives at 1:00 AM, debarkation will begin early. I am considering switching to the train because we have driven to Whittier several times (we lived in Anchorage) but never taken the train on that part of the Alaska Railroad route.

I’ve traveled a lot with HAL in Alaska but this is the first year for HAL  in Whittier.  If you are wondering when the cruise train leaves you may get an answer on the Princess board or wait for someone to report on this years HAL transfer experience.  We’re not going until August and have a 26 glacier tour and then I think we are on a bus to Anchorage,  

• 1 year later...

Is the HOL cruise train ride from Whittier to Anchorage a scenic ride or should we just take the bus?  Is the HOL train owned by HOL or by ARR?  Thanks for insight, this is my first trip to Alaska. Super excited.  We are doing the inside passage Northbound from Van Couver to Whittier.  Planning to take the cruise train from Whittier to Anchorage and catch a flight that night home.  Thoughts?  

disneyochem

It is a scenic train ride from Whittier to Anchorage.

Since you’re only in that part of Alaska for that one travel day, you might want to look into taking bus with add ons.  There are bus transfers from Whittier to Anchorage that will make stops at the Alaskan Wildlife Center (opportunity to see bears, moose, caribou etc), Alyeska Resort (scenic tram, lunch), other scenic stops along the way (Beluga Point, Portage Glacier) in addition to touring Anchorage before an airport drop off.

A couple of companies we have used are the ACT Big Bus and Salmon Berry Tours.  The Salmon Berry tour is small (about 12 people) so one can customize the stops.

https://alaskacruisetransfer.com/whittier-tours/ https://www.salmonberrytours.com/alaska-tours/cruise-transfers/

Both companies will pick you up at the dock.

In 2019 we took the train from Seward to Anchorage on our Noordam cruise and we had to be off the sip at 5:00am for a 5:45am departure of the train. Now that they use Whittier, they may have better times for the train.

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Seeing wild Alaska is not enough; you must get out and experience it. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the cruise line consistently awarded "Best In Alaska" (2019 Cruise Critic, Cruisers' Choice Destination Awards). 

Our Alaska shore excursions get you closer to glaciers, wildlife and mountains. Mush a dog team over a glacier and feel the wind in your face. Go high into the mountains on the White Pass Railway for breathtaking views and a better understanding of the prospectors’ plight. Float a river in Haines as majestic eagles soar overhead. Make new friends, eat new cuisine, and watch wildlife hunt and play in their home turf. From culture to food to icy thrills, our iconic Alaska shore excursions will make your trip one to remember forever.

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Get a glimpse into what you’ll experience on one of our Alaska shore excursions. Better yet, come experience Alaska’s breathtaking beauty for yourself.

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