HAL-Holland America Line has opened reservations for its 2028 Grand Voyages programme, unveiling extended itineraries aboard the vessels Volendam and Zaandam that will span multiple continents and focus on long-duration exploration, scenic cruising and extended stays in key regions. The programme combines Antarctic cruising, South Pacific crossings, Australia and New Zealand itineraries, and a series of immersive overland experiences.
The company indicated that the itineraries were developed with particular attention to the continuity of routing and the amount of time guests would spend within each region. The planning process reportedly prioritised destinations such as Antarctica, New Zealand and the South Pacific while integrating scenic passages as a central part of the voyage experience.
The 129-day 2028 Grand World Voyage aboard Volendam will depart roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale on January 4th, 2028. The itinerary includes calls at 45 ports in 26 countries and territories across 6 continents. The voyage features a 4-day Antarctic experience alongside scenic cruising through the Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley and the Chilean Fjords before continuing across the Pacific via Easter Island, French Polynesia and Bora Bora. Guests will also spend eight days exploring New Zealand before the vessel proceeds through Australia, Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka and Africa, returning across the Atlantic to Florida. The itinerary includes access to 31 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and incorporates two equator crossings as well as a passage past Null Island at the intersection of the Equator and Prime Meridian.
Zaandam’s 90-day Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage will sail roundtrip from San Diego beginning January 30th, 2028. The programme includes 41 ports across 12 countries and territories, with the vessel crossing the International Date Line en route to New Zealand before continuing through Australia and the South Pacific. Overnight calls are scheduled in Hobart, Sydney, Cairns, Fremantle, Auckland and Papeete, while the itinerary also includes an extended stay in Bora Bora. Guests will have access to 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Great Barrier Reef and Tongariro National Park.
Both voyages include dedicated overland programmes intended to supplement the cruise itineraries. On the Grand World Voyage, guests may travel inland from Durban for a safari experience in South Africa, including stays near Kruger National Park before rejoining the vessel in Cape Town. On the Australia and New Zealand itinerary, an overland excursion from Fremantle explores Western Australia’s Margaret River region, including coastal landmarks, wineries and cave systems.
The company also confirmed that Bora Bora will feature on both Grand Voyages for the first time in a single season. Zaandam’s schedule includes an extended evening stay, allowing additional time ashore in French Polynesia.
On board, Holland America Line stated that both voyages will feature enrichment programming, destination-focused entertainment, gala events and rotating regional menus designed to reflect the routes travelled. Early booking incentives are being offered for reservations made before June 14th, 2027, including onboard credit, Wi-Fi packages and air travel credits.