Holland America Line Expands South America and Antarctica Cruises for 2027-2028

Holland America Line has announced an expanded offering for travelers looking to explore South America and Antarctica during the 2027 and 2028 cruise seasons. This new initiative features extended voyages, with all itineraries set for 14 days or longer, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the region’s iconic landmarks and remote destinations at a leisurely pace.

The cruise ship Nieuw Amsterdam will make its South American debut, embarking on voyages that span up to 41 days, beginning in October 2027 and running through March 2028. Passengers will have the opportunity to experience breathtaking landscapes, including Antarctica’s icy vistas, the Amazon River, and the stunning Chilean Fjords, as well as visits to some of South America’s most celebrated ports.

Dan Rough, Vice President of Revenue Management for Holland America Line, emphasized the value of these additional sailings. “By adding more sailings, including a new Legendary itinerary, we’re giving guests more opportunities to experience South America and Antarctica,” he stated. He highlighted that the voyages are crafted to help travelers connect deeply with the region, showcasing everything from the vibrant energy of South America to the historical significance of the Inca Coast and the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. To enhance the onboard experience, the company will offer destination-themed meals, such as Argentinian empanadas, and enrichment activities like Spanish language and tango classes.

Enhanced Experience and Itineraries

The 2027-2028 season reflects Holland America Line’s commitment to destination-focused travel, combining extended itineraries with onboard experiences that resonate with the regions visited. The introduction of Nieuw Amsterdam increases capacity and enriches the onboard experience. This ship replaces Oosterdam, providing guests with a broader choice of staterooms and suites, as well as popular dining venues, including Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea.

The season commences with the 26-Day Inca Coast: Mexico & Latin America Legendary Voyage, departing from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, to San Antonio (Santiago), Chile, on October 7, 2027. This itinerary promises a wealth of experiences, featuring overnight stays in Manta (Quito), Ecuador, and Callao (Lima), Peru, along with stops across California, Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile. Guests will even have the rare opportunity to cross the Equator and visit the ancient site of Machu Picchu.

Passengers will journey along the Pacific coastline from North to South America, blending major port calls with opportunities to explore ancient civilizations, vibrant rainforests, and volcanic landscapes. Itineraries include scenic cruising along the California coast, visits to Mayan sites in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala, and the chance to experience the stunning coastal beauty of Peru.

Holland America Line’s voyages to South America and Antarctica will also feature nine dedicated scenic cruising experiences, allowing guests to witness some of the world’s most remarkable landscapes. Highlights include a four-day Antarctic Experience, sailing past the impressive Pío XI Glacier, through Glacier Alley, the Beagle Channel, and the winding Chilean Fjords.

Beyond the Shore: Unique Overland Adventures

In addition to coastal experiences, guests can participate in overland adventures that take them deep into South America’s most legendary destinations. One notable excursion to Machu Picchu offers travelers the chance to encounter the famed “Lost City of the Incas,” where they can explore ancient stone terraces, sacred temples, and intricately crafted granite walls that speak to the ingenuity of a long-gone civilization.

For those interested in nature, the Galápagos Islands Overland Adventure provides access to one of the world’s most biologically diverse areas. Travelers will witness unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas, all while learning about the islands’ extraordinary evolutionary history.

Itinerary highlights for the upcoming season include the 28-Day Legendary Amazon Explorer cruise aboard Zuiderdam, departing from Fort Lauderdale on January 6, 2028. This journey will delve into the heart of the Amazon rainforest with overnight stays in Manaus and visits to Parintins, Alter do Chão, Santarém, and Caribbean destinations such as Martinique and Barbados.

Other notable itineraries include the 14–15 Day South America Pathways cruise, which explores the Chilean Fjords and Glaciers; the 17-Day Inca & Panama Canal Discovery voyage, featuring an overnight stay in Lima; and the 22-Day South America & Antarctica cruise, which offers four days of exploration in Antarctica.

Travelers can also take advantage of the South America and Antarctica Collectors’ Voyages, which allow for back-to-back sailings, maximizing their experience with minimal port repeats.

Holland America Line’s expanded offerings for the 2027-2028 season reflect a robust commitment to providing unique and enriching travel experiences, allowing guests to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of South America and Antarctica in comfort and style.