• The introduction of the Nieuw Amsterdam to the South American region, replacing the Oosterdam and offering enhanced onboard dining and stateroom options.
• An emphasis on extended itineraries lasting 14 to 41 days, designed to provide a more immersive and relaxed exploration of remote environments.
• The inclusion of culturally relevant onboard enrichment programs and culinary offerings to mirror the destinations visited during the voyages.
• The availability of specialized overland excursions to iconic regional landmarks, specifically Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands

Holland America Line has officially detailed its 2027 to 2028 sailing season for South America and Antarctica, highlighting a comprehensive collection of extended and immersive voyages. The upcoming schedule commences earlier than in previous years, providing an increased number of sailings and greater regional coverage. Every itinerary in this season is designed to last 14 days or longer, allowing passengers to experience remote destinations and iconic geographic landmarks at a measured, relaxed pace.

A significant development for this season is the regional debut of the cruise ship Nieuw Amsterdam. Replacing the Oosterdam, the Nieuw Amsterdam brings enhanced passenger capacity and a broader array of onboard amenities to the South American routes. Guests will have access to expanded stateroom and suite configurations, alongside popular specialty dining venues such as Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea. The vessel will operate a variety of routes from October 2027 through March 2028, with the longest journeys extending up to 41 days.

Holland America Line is focusing heavily on destination-immersed travel, pairing the longer physical journeys with culturally relevant onboard programming. The ship environment will reflect the visited regions through authentic culinary dishes, such as traditional empanadas, and enrichment activities like Spanish language instruction and tango dancing lessons. The planned routes feature nine dedicated scenic cruising experiences, offering passengers frontline views of natural wonders like the Chilean Fjords, Glacier Alley, the Pío XI Glacier, and a comprehensive four-day Antarctic exploration.

Beyond coastal sailing, the cruise line provides specialized overland adventures to historically and biologically significant locations. Travelers can book inland excursions to explore the ancient stone terraces of Machu Picchu or observe the diverse, rare wildlife inhabiting the Galápagos Islands.

The season’s portfolio includes several distinct itineraries. Notable options include a 26-day Inca Coast voyage traveling from Canada to Chile, a 28-day Amazon Explorer journey navigating deep into the rainforest aboard the Zuiderdam, and a 22-day expedition focusing on the Antarctic continent and southern South America. Furthermore, early booking incentives are currently available. The promotional premium package includes upgrades for beverages and internet access, covered crew gratuities, and specialty dining, with additional onboard credit opportunities for existing loyalty members.

Included in the Have It All booking bonus:

Estimated package cost of $55 to $60 per person per day, free upgrade to the Elite Beverage Package for premium drinks up to $16 each, free upgrade to Premium Wi-Fi with audio and video call support, free prepaid crew appreciation valued between $17 and $19 daily, shore excursion credits of $100 to $300 depending on the length of the cruise, one to three nights of specialty dining based on the itinerary duration, a low price guarantee honoring subsequent fare drops, up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom specifically for Mariner Society loyalty members.

Sailings

• 26-Day Inca Coast: Mexico and Latin America Legendary Voyage October 7 2027 Nieuw Amsterdam,
• 28-Day Legendary Amazon Explorer departing January 6 2028 aboard Zuiderdam,
• 17-Day Inca and Panama Canal Discovery departing March 21 2028 aboard Nieuw Amsterdam,
• 14 to 15-Day South America Pathways: Chilean Fjords and Glaciers aboard Nieuw Amsterdam with multiple departures,
• 22-Day South America and Antarctica aboard Nieuw Amsterdam with multiple departures.