HAL-Holland America Line has commenced its first UK-based season in over a decade, with the Pinnacle-class vessel Nieuw Statendam embarking on a 14-night cruise to the Canary Islands, Morocco, and Portugal from Dover UK. This marks the beginning of a series of 10 roundtrip departures from Dover scheduled through September 2025, offering itineraries ranging from 14 to 42 days. Destinations include the British Isles, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Iberia, and the eastern Mediterranean.
To commemorate the occasion, Holland America Line organized a British-themed dinner aboard Nieuw Statendam, catering to guests primarily from the UK, Netherlands, and the United States. Additionally, the cruise line donated 200 Lindt Easter bunnies to the Dover SmART Project, a local charity supporting disadvantaged children, particularly young carers. This gesture aligns with Holland America Line's fleet-wide partnership with Lindt, which includes branded chocolates featured in dessert menus, onboard shops, and special events.
Karen Farndell, UK Director of Sales and Marketing at Holland America Line, indicated that the return to Dover represents a significant development for the company, reflecting increased demand from guests wishing to embark from the UK. Peter Wright, Head of Cruise at the Port of Dover, noted that the arrival of Nieuw Statendam is anticipated to bring thousands of visitors to the region, generating enthusiasm within the local community.
Looking ahead, Nieuw Statendam is scheduled to return to Dover from April to October 2026, offering a series of seven- and 14-day European cruises, including voyages to the Norwegian fjords, Iceland, and the Canary Islands. In total, Holland America Line plans to operate from 9 European ports in 2025, with 68 departures and 62 overnight or late-night calls.