Holland America’s 2026 Alaska Season: Ships and Itineraries

Holland America Line’s 2026 Alaska season featured six ships, with advertised itineraries ranging from seven to 28 days. HAL says it holds more Glacier Bay permits than any other cruise line and offers its “We Heart Alaska” onboard programming. Eligible 2026 voyages were covered by its Glacier Guarantee, subject to the program’s terms.

Why Choose Holland America for Alaska?

Holland America has sailed in Alaska for decades. HAL says it holds more Glacier Bay permits than any other cruise line, but entry depends on the specific sailing. Under its Glacier Guarantee, eligible guests on qualifying voyages could receive a future cruise credit equal to 15% of their cruise fare if HAL canceled a scheduled port call or Cruisetour featuring a glacier, subject to the applicable terms.

“We Heart Alaska” brings destination-focused presentations, regional flavors, and activities aboard HAL’s Alaska cruises. Specific offerings vary by sailing.

HAL’s six-ship 2026 deployment offered multiple departure dates and itinerary types, including roundtrips from Seattle and Vancouver and one-way cruises between Vancouver and Whittier. Several ships shared routes, so compare each sailing’s ports and glacier destinations.

Pro Tip: If Glacier Bay is a priority, choose a sailing that explicitly lists Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. National Park Service naturalists board cruise ships that enter the park to provide interpretation.

Holland America Alaska Ships for 2026

Holland America Line’s 2026 Alaska deployment featured six ships, from Zaandam, with a published capacity of 1,432 guests, to Koningsdam, listed at 2,650. The ship you choose affects its onboard venues and atmosphere; check the specific sailing for its route, ports, and glacier stops.

The ships’ onboard venues differ. Koningsdam features Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge, while Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam offer Tamarind, HAL’s Pan-Asian specialty restaurant. Check the ship’s current venue list when comparing entertainment and dining.

Zaandam offers a smaller-ship option for travelers who prefer fewer guests onboard. Its 2026 Alaska sailings departed roundtrip from Vancouver. For any ship, choose based on the specific itinerary and onboard features you value; ship size alone does not guarantee access to particular waterways or glacier-viewing conditions.

Pro Tip: Noordam’s April 19, 2026, seven-night Great Bear Rainforest cruise departed roundtrip from Seattle and included an overnight in Prince Rupert, plus scenic cruising along British Columbia’s coast. It also called at Ketchikan, Nanaimo, and Victoria. This was a distinct coastal itinerary, separate from the ship’s Alaska sailings.

Best Holland America Alaska Itineraries for 2026

HAL’s 2026 Alaska program included five main itinerary types. Routes and glacier destinations varied by ship and departure date, so check the individual sailing details when comparing options.

7-Day Alaska Explorer (Roundtrip Seattle)

Eurodam and Noordam sailed this route from Seattle, calling at Victoria, Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka. Eurodam’s itinerary included Icy Strait Point and Glacier Bay; Noordam’s featured Dawes Glacier. Check each sailing’s details for its port sequence.

7-Day Inside Passage (Roundtrip Vancouver)

Koningsdam, Zaandam, and Nieuw Amsterdam sailed roundtrip from Vancouver, with calls including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Scenic cruising and glacier destinations varied by departure; check the specific itinerary for Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay. These sailings departed from Canada Place.

7-Day Glacier Discovery (Vancouver–Whittier)

Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam sailed between Vancouver and Whittier, calling at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Northbound sailings featured Glacier Bay and College Fjord; southbound sailings featured Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.

14-Day Great Alaska Explorer

HAL offered this itinerary roundtrip from Seattle and Vancouver. Noordam departed Seattle on August 23, 2026; Nieuw Amsterdam departed Vancouver on May 3, and Westerdam departed Vancouver on September 13. Routes included several Alaska ports and scenic cruising in Glacier Bay; port combinations varied by sailing.

28-Day Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice

Noordam sailed roundtrip from Seattle on June 7, traveling to the Bering Sea and Arctic Circle. The voyage visited 11 Alaska ports, plus Prince Rupert and Vancouver, and included an overnight in Anchorage.

Related coastal option: Great Bear Rainforest. This Noordam cruise was part of HAL’s 2025–2026 Pacific Coast program, not one of its Alaska itinerary types. It departed roundtrip from Seattle on April 19, 2026, called at Ketchikan, Prince Rupert, Nanaimo, and Victoria, and included an overnight in Prince Rupert.

For a deeper look at how these itineraries compare across cruise lines, see our guide to the best Alaska cruise itinerary—which option is right for you?

Glacier Bay vs. Hubbard Glacier: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier depends on the itinerary and the kind of scenic cruising you prefer.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise ships typically spend a day in the park, where National Park Service naturalists board to provide interpretation. The route and glaciers viewed vary by sailing; wildlife sightings, including whales, sea otters, and harbor seals, are not guaranteed. Check that Glacier Bay is named on your specific itinerary.

Hubbard Glacier is a tidewater glacier approximately 76 miles long and North America’s longest tidewater glacier. The National Park Service says its terminus is currently stable after advancing over the past century, while the glacier continues to thicken. Ships approach for scenic viewing when conditions permit; distance and calving activity vary, and neither can be guaranteed.

Glacier Bay offers a national-park setting and onboard naturalist interpretation; Hubbard offers scenic viewing of a single large tidewater glacier. Compare the named glacier destination on each sailing rather than assuming one guarantees closer viewing or more wildlife.

Pro Tip: Glacier destinations vary by departure. Check the itinerary details for the exact named glacier stops before booking.

Alaska Port Guide: What to Prioritize at Each HAL Stop

Juneau

Alaska’s capital is accessible by sea or air. Mendenhall Glacier is a major attraction, with a visitor center, trails, and waterfall viewpoints. Downtown Juneau is walkable from many pier locations, with attractions such as the Red Dog Saloon and Alaska State Museum nearby. Port arrival and departure times vary by sailing; check your itinerary and onboard schedule.

Skagway

Skagway’s historic district includes buildings protected within Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The White Pass & Yukon Route railway climbs toward White Pass, nearly 3,000 feet above sea level, through mountain scenery. Excursion availability varies by date and operator; check current schedules and reserve priority tours when bookings open.

Ketchikan

Known as Alaska’s “First City” because it is often the first port of call for ships arriving from the south, Ketchikan has the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles throughout the community, including at Totem Bight and Saxman. Creek Street, a former red-light district on boardwalks over Ketchikan Creek, is now a popular historic district. Flightseeing and boat excursions offer different ways to explore Misty Fjords National Monument.

Sitka

Fewer HAL itineraries call at Sitka than at the standard trio of Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, but it offers a distinct port day. St. Michael’s Cathedral, Sitka National Historical Park, and the Alaska Raptor Center are among its cultural and nature-focused attractions. Wildlife sightings in Sitka Sound vary.

Glacier Bay (Scenic Cruising)

Glacier Bay is a scenic-cruising destination, not a port call. The route and schedule vary by sailing, so follow onboard announcements and use the ship’s deck plan to find public viewing areas. Bring layers for time spent outside.

For detailed excursion recommendations at each port, our Alaska Cruise Excursions by Port: Skagway, Juneau & Ketchikan guide covers the top picks by budget.

HAL Alaska Cabin Recommendations

Cabin choice affects how you enjoy scenic cruising, but public viewing areas also provide glacier views. Compare stateroom categories, location, and price against how much private outdoor space matters to you.

Verandah (Balcony) Cabins provide private outdoor space for scenic cruising, though whether the added cost is worthwhile depends on your budget and how you plan to use the ship’s public decks. Stateroom and balcony measurements vary by ship and category; check the individual stateroom listing and whether its published measurement includes the verandah. Zaandam does not have a standard Verandah Stateroom category; private verandahs are available in suite categories such as Vista Suites.

Port vs. Starboard for Alaska: There is no side that guarantees the best view throughout a cruise. On northbound sailings, starboard generally faces the mainland; on southbound sailings, port generally does. Scenery is visible from both sides in the channels, and ship positioning during glacier viewing varies.

Neptune Suites include access to the Neptune Lounge, concierge service, and complimentary refreshments. The lounge also has an honor bar, where purchases are charged. Suite benefits and service details can vary; confirm them with HAL for your sailing.

Inside Cabins can suit travelers who plan to spend scenic-cruising time on public decks. Deck names and locations vary by ship, so check the deck plan to find the Crow’s Nest and other viewing areas.

Pro Tip: On Koningsdam and Eurodam, the Crow’s Nest offers panoramic indoor views and seating for scenic cruising. Check your ship’s deck plan for other viewing areas; specialty coffees and other beverages may cost extra.

For more guidance on picking the right stateroom type, see How To Choose a Room on a Cruise Ship.

Best HAL Alaska Shore Excursions

HAL’s shore excursion catalog in Alaska is extensive, but not every offering represents equal value. These are the experiences worth prioritizing by port.

Juneau — Helicopter Glacier Walk: Some excursions include a helicopter flight to a glacier landing, followed by a guided walk. Tour routes, landing locations, duration, accessibility requirements, and availability vary by operator and conditions; review the excursion details before booking.

Juneau — Whale Watching: Juneau is a popular whale-watching destination, but wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Compare tours by vessel size, duration, accessibility, and naturalist commentary, and reserve priority excursions once booking is available.

Skagway — White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: The summit excursion follows a scenic route toward White Pass. Longer extensions may be available on select dates. HAL says that if its shore excursion is delayed in the exceptional case that the ship must leave, it will arrange transportation to the next port at its expense (shore-excursion timing policy).

Ketchikan — Misty Fjords: Flightseeing offers aerial views of the monument, while boat excursions provide a water-level perspective. Tour duration, transfers, and whether a water landing is included vary by operator; check the specific excursion description.

Sitka — Raptor Center & Wildlife Tour: Pair a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center with a wildlife boat tour, if available on your date. Sea otters, Steller sea lions, and harbor porpoises may be seen, but sightings vary.

For a comprehensive breakdown of Alaska excursion options across all budgets, see our Best Alaska Cruise Excursions guide, and our dedicated Best Shore Excursions in Juneau for Wildlife & Glaciers article for Juneau-specific picks.

Booking Tips and Pricing for Holland America Alaska Cruises

When to Book: The 2026 Alaska season has ended. For a future season, compare itineraries and current inventory when bookings open; popular dates and cabin categories may have fewer choices as departure approaches. Availability changes, so check live inventory rather than relying on a fixed booking window. Our Alaska Cruise Booking Window guide covers timing strategy in detail.

Pricing Context: Fares vary by sailing date, ship, stateroom category, occupancy, currency, taxes, and included offers. Check current prices for the exact departure and compare what each fare includes; avoid relying on undated price ranges.

Have It All Package: Have It All is an optional premium package that includes a beverage package, Wi-Fi, specified specialty dining, and shore-excursion credit. Benefits such as dining and excursion credits vary by cruise length and offer terms. Compare the current package price and inclusions with the amenities you expect to use.

Cruisetour Add-Ons: HAL Cruisetours combine a cruise with a land itinerary that can include Denali and, on selected routes, the Yukon. Routes, duration, transfers, meals, and included excursions vary. Review HAL’s current itinerary options and compare the complete itinerary and costs with arranging land travel independently before deciding which offers better value for you.

Seattle vs. Vancouver Embarkation: Compare flight options, port logistics, and the specific itinerary. Vancouver sailings may include scenic destinations such as Tracy Arm, but routes vary by departure. Canadian entry-document requirements depend on citizenship and travel method; check the Government of Canada’s current guidance. U.S. citizens traveling with a valid U.S. passport do not need an eTA. See our Alaska Cruise from Seattle vs. Vancouver comparison for a full breakdown.

Pro Tip: Check when excursion reservations open for your sailing. If the White Pass Railway or a helicopter glacier walk is a priority, review availability early; tour capacity and sellout timing vary.

If you're comparing HAL against Princess for Alaska, our Princess Cruises vs. Holland America breakdown covers the key differences in fleet, pricing, and itinerary structure.

Key Takeaways

• Six ships sailed Alaska in HAL’s 2026 season: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam operated between April and September, according to HAL’s deployment announcement.
• Check the glacier named on the itinerary: HAL says it holds more Glacier Bay permits than any other cruise line, but this does not mean every sailing enters the park. The line’s Glacier Guarantee is subject to its terms.
• Great Bear Rainforest was a separate coastal itinerary: Noordam’s April 19, 2026, sailing included an overnight in Prince Rupert and calls in Alaska and British Columbia; it was not a standard Alaska itinerary.
• Cabin choice is personal: Private verandahs and public viewing areas offer different ways to watch scenic cruising; stateroom categories, deck layouts, and views vary by ship.
• Check excursion details and availability: Routes, durations, prices, and tour capacity vary by operator and sailing date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many ships does Holland America have in Alaska for 2026?

Holland America Line’s 2026 Alaska season featured six ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam. The season ran from April through September, with departures from Seattle and Vancouver and one-way sailings between Vancouver and Whittier, the cruise gateway to Anchorage. Onward ground or rail transportation is needed between Whittier and Anchorage.

Q: Does Holland America guarantee glacier viewing on Alaska cruises?

HAL’s Glacier Guarantee is subject to eligibility and other terms. For qualifying 2026 and 2027 journeys, the terms provide eligible guests a promotional Future Cruise Credit equal to 15% of cruise fare if HAL cancels a port call or cruisetour featuring a glacier listed on the published itinerary. It does not guarantee visibility or access to a particular glacier on a particular day. HAL states that it holds more Glacier Bay permits than any other cruise line; check whether your specific itinerary lists Glacier Bay National Park.

Q: What is the best Holland America ship for Alaska in 2026?

Koningsdam is a strong choice for travelers who prioritize onboard amenities, with live music at Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge and views from the Crow’s Nest. Glacier destinations depend on the specific sailing, so compare itineraries before choosing. Zaandam carries fewer guests and may appeal to travelers who prefer a smaller ship.

Q: What is the Great Bear Rainforest cruise on Holland America?

The Great Bear Rainforest itinerary was a seven-day roundtrip sailing from Seattle aboard Noordam that departed April 19, 2026. It was a Pacific Coast cruise distinct from HAL’s Alaska itineraries, calling at Ketchikan, Prince Rupert (with an overnight stay), Nanaimo, and Victoria, with scenic cruising along British Columbia’s coast.

Q: Should I choose Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier on a HAL Alaska cruise?

Glacier Bay offers a national-park setting, a day of scenic cruising, and NPS naturalist interpretation aboard cruise ships. Hubbard is a single tidewater glacier; the NPS describes its terminus as stable after advancing over the past century, while the glacier continues to thicken. Calving and wildlife sightings are unpredictable. Compare the published itinerary for each departure; do not assume a sailing visits both.

Q: How far in advance should I book a Holland America Alaska cruise?

For a future Alaska season, aim to book 6–12 months ahead. Book earlier if you want a peak summer departure, a particular cabin, or a sailing that includes Glacier Bay. Check current fares and availability for your preferred departure.

Fast Facts

• Best For: Couples, seniors, and multigenerational travelers who prioritize destination immersion over onboard entertainment
• Price Range: Fares vary by sailing date, ship, and stateroom. Compare the total cost for an interior, verandah, or suite on your preferred departure, including taxes, fees, and any packages.
• Season Covered: April–September 2026
• Ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, Zaandam
• Ports: Seattle, WA; Vancouver, BC; and Whittier, AK, for one-way sailings to or from Vancouver
• Best Time to Book: Aim for 6–12 months ahead, and book earlier for peak summer dates, preferred cabins, or Glacier Bay itineraries.
• Top Itinerary Pick: Seven-day Alaska Explorer roundtrip from Seattle on Eurodam for first-timers; 14-day Great Alaska Explorer for travelers seeking a longer voyage.
• Glacier Highlight: Glacier Bay National Park; HAL says it holds more permits than any other cruise line, but access depends on the itinerary
• Distinct 2026 Coastal Cruise: Great Bear Rainforest, Noordam, April 19, 2026