Sail Into Adventure: Holland America's 2026-2027 Cruises Across Asia & Australia

Big Adventures Await: Holland America's 2026-2027 Cruises Through Australia, New Zealand & Asia

Alright, island dreamers and globe-trotting wanderers—start dusting off that passport. Holland America Line has just dropped their 2026-2027 cruise season for Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, and let’s just say… it’s kind of a big deal.

We’re talking epic, once-in-a-lifetime voyages. We’re talking 13 to 35 days of sailing magic. We’re talking volcanoes, koalas, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and more late-night port calls than your average rom-com montage. Whether you want to circumnavigate the Land Down Under, sip something tropical in Bali, or cruise Japan’s cherry-blossomed coast—this is your golden ticket to adventure.

Let’s dive into the details. Grab your sunnies, a drink with a tiny umbrella in it, and let’s set sail through the highlights.

🦘 Australia & New Zealand: A Land of Roos, Reefs, and Ridiculously Cool Scenery

All aboard the Noordam, your floating hotel as you explore the southern hemisphere like a true adventurer (but with way more buffet options). This season, Holland America is not messing around—they’ve rolled out three Legendary Voyages in Australia and New Zealand, and yes, “Legendary” is the technical term.

The 35-Day Legendary Australia Circumnavigation is basically the Avengers Endgame of cruises. You’ll circle the entire Aussie continent, stopping at places most tourists never reach—including Western Australia’s remote coast, four ports in Papua New Guinea, and stunning cities like Fremantle, Melbourne, Hobart, and Adelaide. Expect overnight stays in some cities, so you can dive deeper into the culture (or just try every local wine).

Pro tip: Keep your camera ready—kangaroo photobombs are highly likely.

And for those who like their holidays with extra sparkle, the 14-Day South Australia Discovery Holiday cruise wraps up 2026 with Christmas and New Year celebrations at sea. Picture fireworks over the ocean, festive dinners, and zero family drama—because you’re in the middle of the Pacific with a chilled glass of champagne. Bliss.

🇳🇿 Want Something Shorter? We Got You

Not everyone can take 35 days off work (unless you're a pirate or maybe retired). No worries—Holland America’s got 14-day open-jaw cruises between Auckland and Sydney from January to March 2027. These itineraries hit eight exciting ports and serve up jaw-dropping scenic cruising through Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park. Think fjords, waterfalls, and the kind of dramatic nature that makes you want to start a travel blog.

🌏 Asia Awaits: Volcanoes, Sushi, Temples & More with the Westerdam

Now let’s talk about Asia—because it’s next level. The Westerdam is kicking off Holland America’s Asia season earlier than ever in 2026, and it’s bringing all the heat (sometimes literally—hello, volcanoes!).

Top of the list? The 28-Day Legendary Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef cruise, sailing January 3, 2027, roundtrip from Singapore. You’ll glide through the Coral Triangle, home to 75% of the world’s coral species (yes, you read that right), and enjoy two days of scenic cruising along the iconic Great Barrier Reef. Add in up-close views of Batu Tara and Krakatau volcanoes, and this itinerary reads like a National Geographic special—except you’re the star.

You’ll even overnight in Bali, so you can fully embrace your inner Eat, Pray, Love moment—minus the yoga-induced muscle cramps.

🎎 Circle Japan & South Korea? Yes, Please.

If sushi, cherry blossoms, and bullet trains sound like your dream vacay, the Circle Japan and Japan & South Korea Discovery cruises are calling your name. These 13- and 14-day sailings (many departing from Tokyo) let you soak in Japan’s vibrant culture, neon skylines, and ancient temples—plus tasty bites like ramen, tempura, and Peking duck served onboard (yup, it’s a foodie fantasy too).

And for those craving something a bit more tropical, hop on a 14-Day Far East Discovery cruise from Hong Kong to Singapore or explore The Philippines, Taiwan & Japan in one go. Three cultures, one suitcase.

🏛️ Over 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites = Major Bucket List Energy

What do Angkor Wat, Ayutthaya, and the Great Barrier Reef all have in common? They're just a few of the more than 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites you can visit on these cruises.

Holland America’s shore excursions make it easy to deep dive into these cultural and natural gems—whether you want to explore Thailand’s ancient capital, wander the ruins of Cambodia’s temples, or snorkel above rainbow-hued reefs. You can even add multi-day land excursions for a closer look at select destinations. It’s like the history class you always wanted (but with way better food and zero pop quizzes).

🌍 For the Ultimate Wanderluster: Grand Voyages & Collectors' Cruises

Got a few months and an adventurous spirit? Let’s get extra.

Try combining multiple sailings into Collectors’ Voyages—a back-to-back bonanza of destinations up to 69 days long. Imagine: You start in Japan, swing down to Bali, circle Australia, and still have time for a New Zealand vineyard tour. Not a bad way to spend retirement. Or a sabbatical. Or a “forget everything and find myself” trip.

Also on deck: The 2026 Grand World Voyage (aboard Volendam) and the Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage (on Zaandam). These cruises hit places like Easter Island, Antarctica, Bora Bora, and more. If your goal is to make everyone on Instagram wildly jealous—mission accomplished.

🎁 Booking Bonuses That'll Make You Feel Fancy

Good news: Early birds get more than just worms. When you book with the Have It All package, you’ll snag perks like:

• Shore excursions
• Specialty dining (because one can never have too many lobster tails)
• Signature Beverage Package
• Surf Wi-Fi
• PLUS prepaid crew appreciation (aka no tipping stress)
• AND upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi

And if you’re part of Holland America’s Mariner Society, you’ll get up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom when you book by March 31, 2025. That’s basically your massage budget right there.

🛳️ Why This Cruise Season Is Kinda a Big Deal

Let’s sum it up: this isn’t just another cruise season. This is an epic, culture-packed, reef-snorkeling, volcano-watching, koala-spotting adventurefest across some of the most jaw-dropping places on Earth.

Whether you’re circling Australia like a true explorer, wandering Kyoto’s quiet temples, or snorkeling off the coast of Fiji, Holland America’s 2026-2027 season is all about immersive travel. It’s about connecting with places, people, and stories—while enjoying killer sunsets from your private balcony and making friends over martinis at the Lido Bar.

So grab your travel buddy (or just go solo and make 2,000 new friends at sea), and start planning your journey now.