Holland America LineRoundtrip San Diego Cruises to Mexico, Hawaii & South Pacific in 2013-14

British-American owned cruise line Holland America Line is offering newly expanded itineraries for the 2013-2014 cruise season  with roundtrips San Diego, California departures to some of the most picturesque locations in Mexico, Hawaii and French Polynesia. This round trip cruises from USA will allow guests to embark and disembark in the United States while traveling to exotic destinations that usually require an international flight.

ms Statendam with 1,258 passenger capacity and her sister ms Veendam with 1,350 passenger capacity will offer itineraries from seven- and 12-day cruises to Mexico depart in November and December 2013 and March 2014, while the 17- to 35-day Circle Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas itineraries set sail in October 2013 and February and April 2014.

"These cruises make it easy for travelers to visit extraordinary locales without the need of international air travel," said Richard Meadows, Holland America Line's executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Each sailing features varied port calls including some overnights and enriching onboard activities that give our guests a very exciting and comprehensive Holland America Line vacation experience."

During the sailings with several sea days, guests can enjoy all of the onboard experiences that are exclusive to the premium cruise line. For example, with the new and engaging On Location program, guests on cruises to Hawaii might learn how to hula, make a fresh flower lei or get a ukulele lesson from a local, while cruisers on voyages to Mexico are entertained with an authentic mariachi band during a Mexican fiesta on deck. The itinerary sets the theme for guests to indulge in localized experiences that make time onboard as enriching as visiting the ports of call through lectures, demonstrations and performances.

Guests also can fill their time onboard with other exciting activities or simply relax and catch up on personal time with amenities such as the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine, Explorations Café powered by the New York Times or Digital Workshop powered by Windows.

Mexican Riviera in a Week
In November and December 2013 and March 2014, ms Veendam will sail a total of six seven-day itineraries to the Mexican Riviera. The roundtrip San Diego cruises call at Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, as well as scenic cruising along Bahia Magdalena — a bay that is noted for the seasonal migration of California gray whales. Departure dates are Nov. 9 and Dec. 21 and 28, 2013 (two holiday sailings), and March 9, 16 and 23, 2014.

Mexican Riviera Port Intensive Cruise in 12 Days
Sailing a longer roundtrip San Diego itinerary to the Mexican Riviera, ms Statendam departs Dec. 4, 2013, on a 12-day voyage that calls at Cabo San Lucas, Pichilingue (La Paz), Loreto, Guaymas, Topolobampo and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Guests will get extra time ashore in Puerto Vallarta during an overnight call where they can indulge in local cuisine, learn more about the country's history or check out the nightlife ashore. This departure also includes scenic cruising in Bahia Magdalena.

Circle Hawaii Voyages of 17 and 18 Days
Between Mexican Riviera cruises, ms Veendam sets sail for the beautiful islands of Hawaii on four roundtrip San Diego itineraries that explore the natural beauty of the Aloha State and add another port call for next season: Kona. These longer sailings offer a leisurely pace that combines exciting ports with plenty of sea days to enjoy the amenities found onboard. The 17-day itinerary departs Nov. 16, 2013, and Jan. 4, 2014, and calls at Hilo, Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Lahaina and Kona, Hawaii. The 18-day cruises depart Dec. 3, 2013, and Jan. 21, 2014, and add an overnight at Honolulu.

On these cruises, guests can explore Hilo's world-class botanical gardens, the molten lava flows of Kilauea and awe-inspiring Akaka Falls. Lahaina boasts the Haleakala Crater and Hana's seven sacred pools, while Nawiliwili features Waimea Canyon — the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Honolulu offers a classic Hawaiian allure: pineapple plantations, surfing beaches, hula shows and luaus, while quieter moments await at the USS Arizona Memorial. Once the playground of Hawaii's royalty, Kona is synonymous with the famous coffee that grows on the slopes of the dormant Hualalai volcano.

Circle Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas from 29 to 35 Days
Guests looking for an exotic adventure can set sail on ms Statendam's 2013 and 2014 Circle Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas itineraries. Ranging in length from 29 to 35 days, these three longer voyages sail roundtrip San Diego to the Hawaiian Islands and the stunning island jewels of French Polynesia.

The 2013 sailing departs San Diego Oct. 4 and Dec. 16 for a special holiday journey for a 30-day cruise. Guests looking to embark earlier can join the cruise at San Francisco, Calif., Oct. 2 or Sept. 29 at Vancouver, British Columbia, for 32-day and 35-day sailings, respectively. In 2014, the ship departs San Diego Feb. 14 on a 29-day Valentine's Day-departing roundtrip itinerary, as well as April 15 on a 29-day roundtrip San Diego cruise or a 33-day itinerary that ends at Vancouver.

After departing San Diego, ms Statendam sails west and makes four calls at the Hawaiian Islands of Hawaii, Maui and Oahu, including an overnight call at Honolulu and late departure from Lahaina. The ship crosses the equator on the way to French Polynesia where it calls at Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahiti, Moorea, Rangiroa and Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands. To ensure that guests have the most in-depth experiences ashore, Holland America Line has allotted extra time with overnight calls at Bora Bora and Tahiti. Statendam crosses the equator once again before arriving back at San Diego.

Explore4 Early Booking Promotion
Holland America Line is offering the Explore4 early booking promotion that features a free Signature Beverage Package or beverage card, a free specialty restaurant dinner, free or reduced fares for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom and 50 percent reduced deposits for bookings on select 2014 cruises made before October 15, 2013. Guests may receive all four offers when booking a qualified itinerary.
Cruise fares for Mexico itineraries begin at $899 per person, double occupancy for a seven-day sailing and include Explore4 Early Booking Promotion offers.  Fares for Hawaii begin from $1,599 per person for a 17-day Circle Hawaii itinerary with Explore4 early booking promotions.  Circle Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas begin at $3,699 per person.

This is one of the 3 2014 cruise season announcement from 15 ships strong cruise line others being Canada and New England Cruises in 2014 and 2014 Europe Cruise Season.

Source : Holland America Line Offers Diversity on Roundtrip San Diego Cruises to Mexico, Hawaii & South Pacific in 2013-14

Holland America Line Canada and New England Cruises in 2014

Holland America Line's 2014 Cruise Season offers are extensive. We have written about Holland America Line 2014 Europe Cruise Season where cruise line's 15 ships will sail for 57 unique itineraries on 105 departures cruising to many fantastic European destinations from the tip of Norway to the beautiful beaches of Turkey.

Holland America Line is also offering an extensive Canada and New England program with 48 sailings spanning spring, summer and fall. With three ships (ms Eurodam, ms Maasdam and ms Veendam) departing from five convenient home ports, more travelers can experience the region's breathtaking scenery, historic seaports, culinary treats and cultural charm.

From May 2014 to October 2014, ms Eurodam, ms Maasdam and ms Veendam depart from Boston , Mass. ; Montreal and Quebec City, Canada ; Fort Lauderdale , Fla. , and New York City for 9 different itineraries. These cruises will range from seven to 15 days and include family-friendly summer cruises and visits during the height of the fall foliage season as summer turns to autumn and the jewel-toned leaves offer one of nature's most impressive showings.

" Canada and New England is one of the most picturesque, historic and culturally rich regions in the world, making it an ideal vacation for families, nature lovers and history buffs," said Richard Meadows , Holland America Line's executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "With our comprehensive program featuring three ships sailing throughout the year, our guests can enjoy a variety of experiences in spring, summer and the beautiful fall season."

Here are some highlights from Holland America Line Canada and New England Cruises in 2014:

Departures Across the Summer Perfect for Getaway or Family Vacation
1,350 passenger capacity ms Veendam, named for the capital of Northern Netherlands's peat colonies, starts Holland America Line's Canada and New England season with a nine-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Quebec City departing May 1, 2014. The cruise ship will make its way up the coast with calls at Gloucester ( Boston ), Mass.; Bar Harbor, Maine ; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia , and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island .

From May 10 through the October 11 departure, ms Veendam will sail 17 seven-day itineraries between Quebec City and Boston . Ports of call include Charlottetown , Sydney , Halifax and Bar Harbor , with scenic cruising on the St. Lawrence River . These sailings also include an overnight at Quebec City , Holland America Line's number-one rated port of call.

Departing Aug. 16 , Veendam adds a single cruise roundtrip from Boston that highlights the historic coastline. During the seven-day itinerary the ship calls at Bar Harbor ; Saint John, New Brunswick ; Halifax , Sydney , and Portland , Maine . While ashore, guests will be able to sample the famous Maine lobster, admire the photogenic lighthouses and learn about the area's interesting maritime history.

Maasdam begins its season with a 15-day northbound cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Montreal departing May 2 . During the voyage, guests will visit Charleston, S.C. ; Newport, R.I. ; Bar Harbor ; Halifax , Sydney and Charlottetown ; Gaspe, Sept-Iles , Saguenay and Quebec City, Quebec , and Trios-Rivieres, Canada , before arriving at Montreal . Highlights include an overnight at Quebec City , scenic cruising in the Saguenay Fjord and the only Canada and New England sailing to call at Trios-Rivieres.

From May 24 through the Oct. 11 departure, Maasdam offers seven-day sailings between Montreal and Boston , with calls at Quebec City , Charlottetown , Sydney , Halifax and Bar Harbor . The itineraries feature scenic cruising on the St. Lawrence River and make an ideal option for families looking to take a summer cruise without traveling abroad.

Maasdam concludes the season with a 13-day sailing departing Oct. 18 from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale . Ports of call include Quebec City , Saguenay, Sept-Iles , Gaspe, Charlottetown , Sydney , Halifax , Bar Harbor and New York City . Guests can take in the beautiful landscape at peak fall foliage time on scenic cruising along the Saint Lawrence River , Saguenay Fjord and Gaspe Bay . Guests may also choose a 10-day option to sail from Montreal and disembark in New York .

ms Veendam, seen here while cruising Alaska. will kick off Holland America Line's Canada and New England 2014 cruise season
with a nine-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Quebec City departing May 1, 2014

Fall Foliage Cruises Bring Region to Life with Nature's Colors 
In September and October, during the height of the 2014 fall foliage season, Eurodam will sail three 10-day cruises between New York and Quebec City , and one 12-day cruise from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale . On the 10-day itinerary departing Sept. 14 the ship calls at Boston , Portland , Maine ; Saint John , Halifax , Sydney and Charlottetown , with an overnight at Quebec City . The Sept. 24 departure spends 10 days exploring Quebec City (overnight), Charlottetown , Sydney , Halifax , Portland , Boston and Newport , with scenic cruising along the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Saguenay Fjord. On the 10-day return trip from New York to Quebec departing Oct. 4 , the ship calls at Boston ; Rockland, Mass. ; Halifax , Sydney and Charlottetown , concluding with an overnight at Quebec . Guests will enjoy scenic cruising in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Saguenay Fjord, as well as the line's only call at Rockland this season.

Eurodam concludes its New England season on a new 12-day cruise from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale departing Oct. 14 . The itinerary begins with an overnight at Quebec City and then sails for Saguenay, Charlottetown , Sydney , Halifax , Portland , Boston and Fort Lauderdale , Fla.

For seven-day Maasdam and Veendam itineraries, two back-to-back sailings can be combined for an extended 14-day roundtrip journey, allowing extra time ashore to get to know each port better with repeating calls. Guests can hunt for antiques, explore the charming fishing towns, learn about local history and sample more of the region's fresh seafood.

On Location Provides Engagement with the Cruise Destination as Guests Sail
On each Canada and New England cruise, Holland America Line's "On Location" enrichment program brings local traditions, culinary tastes and cultural experiences to life both onboard and ashore to deepen guests' appreciation of the region. Guests might enjoy a New England clam bake or a Fiddlin' Flapjack breakfast, complete with authentic Canadian maple syrup and featuring local Cape Breton Celtic fiddlers. Other activities to enjoy include regional beer and wine tastings, a Canadian Bar mixology class, cultural cooking demonstrations, and a special Quebecois L'auberge de Lido or New England sailaway party.
Explore4 Early Booking Promotion Gives Added Perks for Planning Now
Presently, Holland America Line is offering the Explore4 early booking promotion that features a free Signature Beverage Package or beverage card, a free specialty restaurant dinner, free or reduced fares for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom and 50 percent reduced deposits for bookings on select 2014 cruises made before October 15, 2013 . Guests may receive all four offers when booking a qualified itinerary.

Cruise fares for 2014 Canada and New England itineraries begin at $799 per person, double occupancy for a seven-day sailing and include Explore4 Early Booking Promotion offers. With free or reduced third and fourth guests, a family of four can take a dream vacation to Canada /New England next summer on select dates with fares starting at $799 for the first and second guest, and the third and fourth guests in the same stateroom sailing for free.

Source : Holland America Line Features Its Most Extensive Canada and New England Program with 48 Sailings in 2014

Holland America Line 2014 Europe Cruise Season

For travelers who would like to explore Europe with a cruise ship in 2014, Holland America Line's 2014 Europe Cruise season itineraries offers eight of the cruise line's 15 ships, 57 unique itineraries on 105 departures cruising to many fantastic European destinations from the tip of Norway to the beautiful beaches of Turkey.

In 2014 Holland America Line's ms Eurodam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Maasdam, ms Noordam, ms Rotterdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Prinsendam will be cruising in Europe. "The allure of Europe is that it offers everything for an ideal vacation: culture, history, culinary excellence, shopping, sun and excitement," said Richard Meadows, Holland America Line's executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Europe is the most diverse region in the world, from the snow-capped fjords of Norway to the olive groves of Greece, and our cruises explore every corner of the continent."

The 2014 Europe cruise season showcases Holland America Line's focus on destination diversity, timeless appeal and high-quality experiences, with maiden calls at Antalya, Turkey; Burgas, Bulgaria; Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), the Netherlands; Itea and Kavala, Greece; La Palais on Belle-Ile-en-Mer, France, and Montoir-de-Bretagne (Nantes), France.

Several convenient roundtrip options will be available from nine ports: Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Boston, Mass.; Civitavecchia (Rome) and Venice, Italy; Copenhagen, Denmark; Dover (London), England; Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Piraeus (Athens) and Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Many of the itineraries also can be extended into Collectors' Voyages ranging from 14 to 37 days, which offer the ultimate European cruise experience. These artfully crafted longer cruises combine back-to-back itineraries, enabling guests to visit more ports and spend extra time exploring centuries of art, history and culture.

Known as Holland America Line's intimate explorer, ms Prinsendam will sail 13 unique European itineraries
in 2014 that feature six of the maiden calls.

Here are some notable new itineraries from Holland America Line 2014 Europe Cruise Season:

D-Day 70th Anniversary 
Travelers looking for a memorable and moving vacation can embark Eurodam April 29, 2014, for a 12-day "D-Day 70th Anniversary" sailing from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Copenhagen. The ship will call at ports in Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar before arriving at Portland, England, where guests can visit the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Eurodam continues north to Cherbourg (Normandy), France, where the famous World War II battle took place June 6, 1944. The cruise calls at Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium, before concluding at Copenhagen. Cruise fares begin at $1,899 per person, double occupancy.

12-Day Baltic Adventure
From May through August, Eurodam will sail a new 12-day Baltic itinerary roundtrip from Copenhagen that features three overnight calls in some of the most exciting cities in the world: St. Petersburg, Russia; Stockholm, Sweden, and Copenhagen, Denmark. The overnight visits allow for an evening Russian ballet performance, an enchanting nighttime cruise along Stockholm's waterways or a performance at the famed Copenhagen Opera House. The ship also calls at ports in Estonia, Finland and Germany. Cruise fares begin at $1,899 per person, double occupancy.

14-Day Iberian & Gallic Explorer
Departing May 10 from Civitavecchia (Rome), Prinsendam sails a 14-day voyage to Ijmuiden (Amsterdam) that explores the French wine country with an overnight call at Bordeaux, France. The extended visit allows for an exclusive dinner at a vineyard or extra time to sample local French cuisine. The cruise also visits ports in Spain, Gibraltar, Portugal, Belgium and additional calls in France. Cruise fares begin at $2,699 per person, double occupancy.

14-Day Bourgundian Explorer
Cruising from Ijmuiden (Amsterdam) Sept. 7 to Barcelona, Spain, Prinsendam visits 11 ports in six countries during the two-week journey. After a call at Vlissingen, the Netherlands, guests will enjoy a day of scenic cruising along the Scheidt River. An overnight at Brussels (Antwerp), Belgium, allows extra shopping time for luxury items such as leather, diamonds and chocolate. The cruise continues on to ports in France, including the maiden call at La Palais, Belle-Ile-en-Mer, as well as Spain and Gibraltar before reaching Barcelona. Cruise fares begin at $2,599 per person, double occupancy.

16-Day Black Sea Explorer
Prinsendam's roundtrip Piraeus (Athens) itinerary that departs Oct. 5 extends from 14 to 16 days in 2014, allowing for two full nights at Istanbul, Turkey, and an overnight at Sevastopol, Ukraine. With extra time at Istanbul, guests can take in sights like the Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque at their leisure. The cruise also includes the maiden calls at Kavala and Burgàs. In addition to ports in Turkey, Ukraine, Greece and Bulgaria, the ship also calls at Constanta, Romania, and guests will enjoy scenic cruising by Mount Athos, through the Bosporus Strait and Dardanelles. Cruise fares begin at $4,199 per person, double occupancy.

14-Day Mediterranean Enchantment
Near the end of the European season when there are fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures, Ryndam sails from Istanbul to Barcelona on a 14-day itinerary that features nine calls throughout Turkey, Egypt, Greece and Italy. Departing Oct. 18, guests can visit some of the most historical sites in the region, including Ephesus at Kusadasi, Turkey; the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx at Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt, and Mount Etna at Messina, Italy. This itinerary also features the line's maiden call at Antalya. Cruise fares begin at $2,099 per person, double occupancy.

Other Unique Experiences
Additional exciting Holland America Line Europe itineraries enable guests to be among the few to cross the Arctic Circle, transit Germany's Kiel Canal or cruise the Gironde Estuary into Bordeaux. Other unique experiences include visiting the stunning Guggenheim Museum at Bilbao, Spain, and searching for "Nessie" the sea monster in Loch Ness at Inverness, Scotland. Those interested in taking a dip in the famous "Blue Lagoon," Iceland's unique geothermal seawater, can choose the 18-day trans-Atlantic cruise aboard Eurodam, which includes an overnight stay at Reykjavik.

On each Europe cruise, Holland America Line's "On Location" enrichment program brings local traditions, culinary tastes and cultural experiences to life both onboard and ashore to deepen guests' appreciation of the region. Guests might enjoy a Turkish Taraf with live belly dancers, Garden of the Gods deck party, Nordic Jazz and Food Festival, German Bierfest with a live "oompah" band, regional beer and wine tastings, cultural cooking demonstrations, special tapas sail-away parties and more.

Explore4 Early Booking Promotion Gives Added Perks for Planning Now
Presently, Holland America Line is offering the Explore4 early booking promotion that features a free Signature Beverage Package or beverage card, a free specialty restaurant dinner, free or reduced fares for third and fourth guests in the same stateroom and 50 percent reduced deposits for bookings on select 2014 cruises made before October 15, 2013. Guests may receive all four offers when booking a qualified itinerary.

Source : Holland America Line's 2014 Europe Season Features 57 Unique Itineraries On 105 Departures

Holland America Line return to Australia/New Zealand for 2013-14 Cruise Season

Holland America Line’s cruise ships, ms Oosterdam and ms Volendam, will be back in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific islands in 2013 – 2014 cruise season. 1,848 passenger Vista-class ms Oosterdam and 1,432 passenger R-Class cruise ship ms Volendam will visit more than 50 ports of call and allow their guests to experience the region's incredible wildlife on land and in the sea such as Australia's legendary Outback and the Great Barrier Reef.

Between October 2013 and March 2014, Holland America Lines offer departures ranging from 10- to 14-days round trips from Sydney to Sydney, Sydney to Auckland.

Here are some cruise tours offered by these ships.

Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Voyages

14-days Australia and New Zealand cruises will be from Auckland to Sydney and from Sydney to Auckland on 27 October 2013, 10 November 2013, 2 February 2014 and 16 February 2014. Ms Oosterdam will perform these cruises and visit ports such as Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Tasmania), Dunedin (Akaroa), Wellington (New Zealand), Napier (NZ),  Gisborne (NZ) and Christchurch (NZ). The cruise fares on these Australia and New Zealand cruises begin at $1,599 per person, double occupancy.

Ms Oosterdam will also sail for three 14-day New Zealand Discovery cruises round trip from Sydney on 8 December 2013, 19 January 2014 and 16 March 2014. The cruise ship will call Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Akaroa, Gisborne, Milford Sound, Napier, Tauranga and the Bay of Islands. The cruise fares on these New Zealand Discovery Voyages begin at $1,499 per person, double occupancy.

Other cruises on offer include a 14-day Pacific Treasures cruises round trip from Sydney featuring more exotic and lesser-known tropical ports at the South Pacific islands of Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Fiji. Cruise fares begin at $1,499 per person, double occupancy.

According to the executive vice president, marketing, sales and guests programs for Holland America Line, Richard Meadows, the popularity of the Australia region cruises has grown tremendously over the past few years thanks to the beauty, diversity and friendly citizens of the region. The region is now top must-do for many cruise travelers. "Our array of itineraries includes popular ports, stunning island visits, extended stays, overnight calls and enticing pre- and post-cruise options to make the trip 'Down Under' a memorable experience" he adds.

Holland America Line's cruise ship ms Oosterdam departing Sydney.

Longer Holland America Line Itineraries in Australia region

Ms Volendam will cruise for a 34-day Australia Circumnavigation (a counterclockwise trip around the continent) round trip from Sydney on 20 October 2013 and will feature more tham 20 ports as well as scenic cruising in the remote Ribbon Reef and Far North Regions. Brisbane, Hamilton Island, Townsville, Cairns, Darwin, Exmouth, Freemantle (Perth overnight), Esperance, Port Lincoln, Adelaide (overnight), Kangaroo Island, Melbourne and Burnie, Australia; Hobart, Tasmania; Komodo Island, Indonesia, and a beautiful sunrise call at Lizard Island and sunset call at Booby Island off the coast of Australia. The ship will also visit the Great Barrier Reef. Cruise fares begin at $4,999 per person, double occupancy.

Ms Volendam will also cruise from Melbourne to Singapore on a 19-day Great Barrier Reef Voyage departing on 20 November 2013. The cruise ship will spend 2 days cruising around The Great Barrier Reef with stops at Sydney, Burnie, Hamilton Island, Cairns and Darwin, Australia; Komodo Island, Bali and Semarang, Indonesia before arriving in Singapore. The cruise fares begin at $2,299 per person, double occupancy.

Trans-Pacific Crossing Itineraries

The beginning and the end of the 2013-2014 cruise season will also offer one-of-a-kind itineraries. You can have an opportunity to cruise from North America to the Pacific region while the cruise ships are travelling to Australia for the start of the season. Ms Volendam’s 21 or 24 day South Pacific Crossing will depart from Los Angeles California or Vancouver for Sydney on 25 September and 28 September 2013. ms Oosterdam's 24- or 27-day South Pacific Crossing will depart from Los Angeles or Seattle for Sydney on 29 September and 2 October 2013 and includes an overnight call at Honolulu, Hawaii. At the end of the season ms Oosterdam will return to North America on a 28- or 29-day South Pacific Crossing from Sydney to Seattle or Vancouver April 13, 2014. These cruises provide an excellent opportunity to visit the South Pacific and Hawaii, as well as enjoy more relaxing days at sea. Cruise fares for the trans-Pacific sailings begin at $1,899 per person, double occupancy.

Collectors' Voyages

Ranging from 28 to 58 days, Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Collectors' Voyages on Oosterdam and Volendam are perfect for avid explorers who seek a more extensive cruise experience. The voyages combine back-to-back itineraries and represent the best per-day value for guests. Holland America Line sails a total of 17 Collectors' Voyages, affording the most in-depth exploration of this diverse region with extended itineraries visiting multiple destinations and more days at sea. Cruise fares for the Collectors' Voyages begin at $2,799 per person, double occupancy.

Extended Stays and Pre- and Post-Cruise Tours

Guests are able to maximize their cruise experience at select calls throughout these voyages that feature a late departure or overnight visit allowing for evening shore excursions or longer independent explorations. Extended-stay ports include Hobart, Tasmania; Noumea, New Caledonia; Honolulu and Lahaina, Hawaii, and Suva, Fiji. Cruisers looking to make the most out of their time in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific can add a three- or five-night pre- or post-cruise land tour to the Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock/Uluru National Park or The Blue Mountains National Park, home to the famous "Three Sisters" rock formation.

Around the World in 113 Days by cruise ship ms Amsterdam

Holland America Line’s cruise ship ms Amsterdam will depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on 4 January 2014 for an epic cruise around the world in a hundred thirteen days! It will cruise to five continents, cross the equator for four times, visit 38 ports in total on the 2014 Grand World Voyage by her operator Holland America Line. And do not worry if you do not have time to spend a third of 2014 cruising. For those who does not have that much time, Holland America Line offers eight segments ranging from 20 to 86 days available from the departure ports along the route.

Sailing on Holland America Line’s Grand World Voyage is a cruise experience unlike any other.  Let’s look at this epic route: ms Amsterdam, cruise line's pacific flagship with the capacity of 1,380 guests, will depart from Fort Lauderdale of Florida and cruise from Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean wia a daylight transit of Panama Canal. The ship will have 2 full overnights at Peru’s Callao which will allow her guests to take a land tour to Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu.

After cruising to Easter Island, Pitcairn Island before an overnight call at French Polynesia’s Papeete, ms Amsterdam will visit six more ports in the South Pacific before heading Down Under to Australia.

In 2014 Grand World Voyage ms Amsterdam will have an overnight visit to Sydney before sailing up to east coast of Australia. Australia will be followed by 2 calls at Papua New Guinea, Cebu and Manila, Philippines and then the cruise ship will sail all the way to Hong Kong, China.

ms Amsterdam’s next port of call is Singapore after Hong Kong. From Singapore, guests will be able to join an overland tour Cambodia and Angkor Wat, one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. After Singapore next port in South East Asia will be Phuket (Thailand), from where the ship will sail to Colombo (Sri Lanka).  Seychelles will follow where an overnight call at this paradise will allow guests to relax on the beaches.

From Seychelles, the cruise ship will sail to Port Louis, Mauritus, and La Possession, Reunion  as the first 2 ports of grand tours African exploration before spending time at two South African ports. Durban, the largest city in South Africa and Cape Town will be next. On the west coast of Africa Walvis Bay (Namibia) , the remote island of Jamestown (Saint Helena) Georgetown (Ascension Island), Banjul (Gambia) and finally Dakar (Senegal) will be visited.

Holland America Line’s cruise ship ms Amsterdam's 2014 Grand World Voyage map

Final leg of the 2014 Grand World Voyage will be Caribbean where guests will have three days on the tropical islands of Barbados, Dominica and St. Maarten before concluding the journey at Fort Lauderdale.

“When it comes to a dream vacation, our Grand World Voyage is as special as you can get due to its length, number of ports and exotic destinations, and our 2014 voyage is no exception,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “Every year we like to change the Grand World Voyage itinerary so each journey is one of a kind and features calls that offer some of the most sought-after sights and experiences in the world.” Following Amsterdam’s departure from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., the ship will take a westerly course from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean via a daylight transit of the Panama Canal. Two full overnights at Callao, Peru, enable guests to take an overland tour to Machu Picchu, also known as the Lost City of the Incas and one of the most breath-taking sites in the world.

ms Amsterdam cruise ship

So how much does a great journey like this costs? It is not as expensive as you may think. 113 day full 2014 Grand World Voyage rates starts from $19,999 (176 USD per day indeed). There are also 20 to 86 days segments with different prices:
• 37-day segment sailing Fort Lauderdale to Sydney departing Jan. 4 2014 costs $6,499
• 57-day segment sailing Fort Lauderdale to Hong Kong departing Jan. 4 2014 costs $10,699,
• 86-day segment sailing Fort Lauderdale to Cape Town departing Jan. 4 2014 costs $15,999
• 20-day segment sailing Sydney to Hong Kong departing Feb. 11 2014 costs $3,899,
• 49-day segment sailing Sydney to Cape Town departing Feb. 11 2014 costs $9,999,
• 29-day segment sailing Hong Kong to Cape Town departing March 3 2014 costs $5,999,
• 56-day segment sailing Hong Kong to Fort Lauderdale departing March 3 2014 costs $10,499
• 27-day segment sailing Cape Town to Fort Lauderdale departing April 1 2014 costs $4,799.

Reservations are now open for Amsterdam’s 2014 Grand World Voyage, and early-booking bonus amenities for full Grand World Voyage guests who book by May 31, 2013, include prepaid hotel service charges, shipboard credit, luggage delivery service and a complimentary shore excursion or event for select stateroom categories.

Guests booking a segment of the Grand World Voyage by May 31, 2013, in select categories of staterooms and suites receive a shipboard credit that varies depending on category.

Holland America Line Cruises in Asia for 2013-2014 Season

Asia is hosting more and more cruise ships as it is rising as a popular cruise holiday destination and its population is discovering the joy of holiday on "floating resorts". Two more ships, Holland America Line's MS Volendam and MS Rotterdam will be positioned in Asia for the 2013-14 cruise season, increasing capacity and adding more robust itineraries in the popular region. According to a press release by the company, new expanded Singapore sailings make it easier to sail round-trip from the bustling port and experience exotic calls at destinations like Myanmar and India:

The diverse 14-day itineraries and longer Collectors' Voyages — that combine back-to-back itineraries into longer cruises — also feature extended and overnight stays at some of Asia's most iconic cities and provide travelers with ample time to explore the region's diverse historical and notable landmarks. Two extensive 51- and 53-day Collectors' Voyages in January and March, respectively, provide comprehensive explorations of the region with visits to Malaysia , Thailand , Sri Lanka and Indonesia while sailing from and to Europe. 

"Asia continues to flourish as a popular cruise destination, so the timing is right to increase our capacity in the region and provide our guests with a variety of exciting travel options to this magical area of the world," said Richard Meadows , executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line . "The enhanced itineraries offer guests an opportunity to take in the rich Asian culture and even go inland to see some of the most well-known sites."[1]

Here are some exiting new cruise itinerary Holland America Line will offer:

New 14-day Asian Adventure Voyage
MS Volendam will depart from Singapore on February 17th 2014 to sail on a new round trip itinerary which will cruise up to Myanmar and will explore Malaysia , Thailand and India . The cruise, which will take 14-days, will visit Malacca, Penang, Porto Malai and Port Klang (overnight), Malaysia ; Phuket, Thailand ; Rangoon (overnight), Myanmar , and Port Blair, India .

Port Klang is the gateway to the city of Kuala Lumpur , famous for its diverse architecture, Malay mosques, Hindu temples and 222-acre Lake Gardens. With an overnight at Rangoon , guests will have time to visit the Shwedagon Pagoda — one of Asia's greatest religious sites — with its gilded domes that hover over the city protectively.

New 14-day Indonesian Discovery Voyages
MS Rotterdam will sail a series and MS Volendam will offer one cruise departure of new round-trip Singapore itineraries in 2014. The 14-day voyages include calls at Jakarta ; Semarang (Java); Lembar (Lombok); Komodo Island; Makassar (Sulawesi); Probolinggo and Suabaya (Java), as well as an overnight stay at Bali. Guests will have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the infamous Komodo dragon on Komodo Island, while an overnight at Bali gives time ashore to take in a traditional fire dance performance or visit Besakih Temple, considered by the Hindu Balinese to be their mother temple. Departure dates are Jan. 6 , Feb. 14 and 28, and March 14, 2014 .

14-day Far East Discovery Voyages
MS Volendam's 14-day Far East Discovery voyages sail between Hong Kong , China , and Singapore and feature calls at Koh Samui and Bangkok (overnight), Thailand ; Sihanoukville, Cambodia , and Phu My, Nha Trang, Da Nang and Halong Bay, Vietnam. Departure dates are Dec. 9, 2013 (12-day sailing), Jan. 6 and 20, and Feb. 3, 2014 . The ship also offers a special 16-day Holiday voyage Dec. 21, 2013 , with overnights at Hong Kong , Phu My and Laem Chabang ( Bangkok ). The overnight at Bangkok enables guests ample time to do some shopping at the spectacular Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, or those looking for a more peaceful experience can explore the serene golden temples and the Grand Palace.

MS Volendam will be in Asia for 2013-2014 cruise season.

14-day China and Japan Voyages
For Volendam's China and Japan voyages, guests can choose to sail between Hong Kong and Kobe ( Osaka ), Japan , or round-trip from Kobe . The 14-day cruises include overnight calls at Xingang ( Beijing ) and Shanghai , China , and day calls at Dalian, China ; Pusan , South Korea , and Nagasaki, Japan . Departure dates are March 17 and 31, 2014. South Korea is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in Asia, and guests will have the opportunity to visit the country's Beomeosa Temple or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju. Beijing brings millennia of history with a variety of sites in and around the city, including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the 2008 Olympic Games National Stadium (aka the "Bird's Nest").

19-day Great Barrier Reef
Travel Melbourne to Singapore on the Volendam departing Nov. 20, 2013 . Featuring two days of scenic cruising in The Great Barrier Reef with stops at Sydney, Burnie (Tasmania), Hamilton Island, Cairns and Darwin, Australia ; Komodo Island, Bali and Semarang, Indonesia before arriving Singapore .

28-day Far East Adventure Collectors' Voyage
Volendam's 28-day Far East Adventure Collectors' Voyage from Hong Kong to Singapore departs Feb. 3, 2014 , and combines back-to-back Far East Discovery and Asian Adventure itineraries. The trip includes overnight calls at Laem Chabang ( Bangkok ), Rangoon and Port Klang, as well as extended stays in many of the region's favorite destinations. The itinerary includes ports in Vietnam, Thailand , Cambodia , Malaysia , Myanmar and India .

51-day Spice Route to Singapore Collectors' Voyage
Departing Jan. 8, 2014 , from Rotterdam , the Netherlands , or Jan. 9 from Southampton ( London ), England, Rotterdam  sets course for Singapore on a 51- or 50-day Collectors' Voyage that calls at ports in Portugal , Spain , Malta , Turkey , Greece , Egypt , Oman , India , Sri Lanka , Thailand , Malaysia and Indonesia . Highlights include a daylight transit of the Suez Canal, a late departure from Safaga, Egypt , and overnight calls at Muscat , Oman ; Mumbai ( Bombay ), India , and Bali, Indonesia . On this extended journey, guests have the chance to visit some of the world's most impressive landmarks, including Ephesus in Turkey , the Acropolis in Greece , Luxor and the Valley of the Kings in Egypt , the Taj Mahal in India and the temple of Borobudu in Java. Additional Collectors' Voyage segments of 25-, 36-, 37- and 39-days are available on this cruise.

53-day Indonesia , Arabia and India Discovery Collectors' Voyage
Departing March 14, 2014 , Rotterdam  will sail a 52- or 53-day day Collectors' Voyage from Singapore back to Southampton ( London ) or Rotterdam visiting ports in Indonesia , Malaysia , Thailand , Sri Lanka , India , Oman , Egypt , Greece , Italy , Spain and Portugal , including a daylight transit of the Suez Canal. Highlights include Java and Komodo Island, Indonesia ; Port Klang, Malaysia ; Phuket, Thailand ; Colombo , Sri Lanka , and overnight calls at Bali, Mumbai ( Bombay ) and Muscat . Additional Collectors' Voyage segments of 25-, 38- and 39-days are available on this cruise.

Cruise fares begin at $1,699 per person, double occupancy for the 14-day Far East Discovery sailings; $1,499 for the 14-day China and Japan cruises; $1,799 for the 14-day Indonesia Discovery departures; $2,299 for the 19-day Great Barrier Reef; $3,599 for the 28-day Far East Adventure Collectors' Voyage; $5,699 for the 51-day Spice Route to Singapore Collectors' Voyage and $5,999 for the 53-day Indonesia , Arabia and India Collectors' Voyage.


[1] - Holland America Line Increases Capacity In Asia With Two Ships For 2013-14 Season