Holland America Line Launches 2025–2026 Australia & New Zealand Close-to-Home Season

Holland America Line is dialling up the adventure in the Southern Hemisphere, unveiling an exceptional close-to-home season for 2025–2026 across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Perfect for Aussies and Kiwis seeking epic journeys without the marathon long-haul flights, this new collection of cruises is all about deeper connection, destination discovery and culinary excellence.

Closer, Deeper, More Delicious

From extended Grand Voyages to flexible Standby options and guest appearances from culinary rock stars, Holland America Line offers something for every style of traveller. The demand is strong: guests are booking months ahead to grab their preferred itineraries and take advantage of early bird deals.

Alex Pikardt, Senior Director of Sales for the line, notes, “Noordam’s sailings have sold out early this season, reflecting the desire for slower, immersive journeys that allow travellers to truly connect with each port.” Holland America’s perfectly mid-sized ships and innovative Destination Dining™ program continue to set the benchmark for memorable, meaningful cruise holidays.

Standout Itineraries & Signature Highlights

• Australia & New Zealand Cruise (14 days, Sydney to Auckland):
  Departures in November, February and March. Sail via Melbourne, Hobart and/or Burnie before crossing the Tasman to the treasures of Tauranga, Napier, Port Chalmers, and more.
• New Zealand Discovery (14 days, roundtrip from Sydney):
  Departs 7 December 2025. Ports include Auckland, Waitangi, Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier, Wellington, Lyttelton and Port Chalmers.
• South Australia Discovery Holiday (14 days, roundtrip from Sydney):
  Departs 21 December 2025. Visit Melbourne, Phillip Island, Eden, Adelaide and Penneshaw, as well as Burnie, Port Arthur and Hobart (with a late departure) in Tasmania.

All New Zealand cruises venture through the breathtaking Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park—a bucket-list scenic moment for any traveller.

A Feast of Fresh Flavours

Dining with Holland America is a highlight in itself, thanks to the Global Fresh Fish Program. Guests savour local ingredients such as New Zealand green-lipped mussels, Tasmanian Atlantic salmon, Sydney rock oysters and classic Tasmanian meat pies.

The Flexible Standby Program

For those who love a cheeky last-minute getaway, Holland America Line’s Standby Program delivers:

• Inside/Oceanview: AU$129 per person per day
• Verandah: AU$199 per person per day
  The program lets you join a waiting list for select cruises—if you miss out, you can stay on the list for a later sailing or get a full refund, making it ideal for spontaneous travellers near departure ports.

Grand Meetup in Sydney—A Chocolate Lover’s Dream

Save the date: March 7, 2026, when Volendam and Zaandam make a dual call in Sydney during their Grand Voyages. Not only will guests have a chance to mingle between ships, but chocolatier Jacques Torres will host a “Chocolate Teatime” on Zaandam—a sweet highlight for connoisseurs.

Global Exploration, Local Taste

Holland America Line’s 2026 Grand Voyages are going next-level with celebrated Culinary Ambassador segments.

• Chef Masaharu Morimoto will craft authentic Japanese dishes on the Sydney-to-Yokohama (Tokyo) leg.
• Chef Ethan Stowell joins from Yokohama (Tokyo) through to San Diego.
• Master Tea Blender Steve Schwartz brings his expertise to the Singapore-Yokohama segment.
• Jacques Torres sweetens the Sydney-to-San Diego route on Zaandam’s Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage.

Flexible Grand Voyage Segments

For those with limited time, Grand Voyages aren’t out of reach. You can choose shorter segments—10 options on the Grand World Voyage (14 to 72 days), or two segments on the Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage (33 or 60 days):

• 60-Day San Diego to Sydney, departing Jan 4, 2026
• 33-day Sydney to San Diego, departing Mar 6, 2026

Upgrade to Have It All™

Make your cruise effortless and all-inclusive by booking Holland America Line’s Have It All™ package—signature drinks, shore excursions, specialty dining and Premium Wi‑Fi roll into one smooth experience.

Whether you’re after a foodie odyssey, cultural immersion, or classic seaside relaxation, Holland America Line’s close-to-home 2025–2026 cruises roll out the red carpet for Australia, New Zealand, and the islands beyond. Check out full details, itineraries, and booking options at Holland America Line’s official website.