The arrival of MS Eurodam at Port Seattle on April 25th marked the start of the 2026 Alaskan season for HAL-Holland America Line.
HAL's schedule encompasses 100+ voyages on 6 ships, with departures from 3 homeports (Seattle, Vancouver BC, Whittier AK), and itineraries spanning from 7 days to extended Arctic Circle cruises of up to 28 days.
The season has been structured to deepen engagement with the region through a combination of revised onboard programming, expanded culinary offerings and the introduction of over two dozen new shore excursions. Company representatives indicated that the objective was to provide a more detailed connection to Alaska’s natural environment and cultural framework, integrating both shipboard and shore-based elements into a cohesive experience.
A total of 25 new shore excursions have been added to the program, ranging from glacier-focused expeditions in Juneau to wildlife observation experiences in Anchorage and coastal explorations in Kodiak and Sitka. These itineraries are intended to complement the line’s established emphasis on nature-based travel, with particular attention given to remote landscapes and local ecosystems.
Within the voyages themselves, a dedicated “Glacier Day” has been incorporated into each sailing, centring on the observation of Alaska’s major ice formations, including Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and Dawes Glacier. The day is structured around scenic navigation, interpretive commentary and presentations delivered by park rangers and cultural specialists, alongside themed culinary and beverage offerings. The company continues to maintain its glacier guarantee policy, under which compensation is provided should a scheduled glacier visit not occur.
Wildlife observation remains a central component of the Alaska deployment. Each vessel carries a specialist to assist in identifying species along the route, supported by mapping tools indicating key observation areas. Shore programs further extend these opportunities, including visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where structured encounters with regional fauna are available.
Culinary operations continue to emphasise locally sourced seafood, supported by a program designed to deliver fresh fish to the vessels within a short supply window. Menus incorporate regional ingredients and dishes developed in collaboration with culinary partners, alongside themed dining events and demonstrations linked to Alaskan food traditions.
Additional onboard enrichment includes lectures, workshops and cultural presentations focused on the region’s history, environment and indigenous heritage. Younger travellers are accommodated through dedicated programs, including the extension of the Teen Ranger initiative across the fleet.
The Alaska season is further complemented by a series of land-based extensions combining cruises with inland travel. These cruisetours incorporate visits to Denali NP and, in selected cases, onward travel into the Yukon, forming part of a broader investment in shore infrastructure and guest facilities.