Holland America Line unveils itineraries for sun seekers, wildlife lovers
2026-2027 line-up offers guests plenty of sunshine, rainforest adventures and a few famous landmarks
In 2024, West Coast departure cities saw a drop in passengers and cruise ship count, according to the 2024 Cruise Industry News Annual Report. Still, some major cruise lines, including Carnival and Royal Caribbean, have prioritized growing their presence in the West.
Another major line, Holland America Line, is taking advantage of the wide variety of travel experiences available to West Coast travelers, as evidenced by its enhanced Mexico and Pacific Coast itineraries, which the company just opened for 2026-2027.
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The Mexico season will include longer cruises — up to 12 days — with visits to well-known favorites as well as rarely called-at gems like Loreto. The Pacific Coast Season spotlights the cruise line’s expertise in the region — especially highlighted by visits to the fjord-like waterways of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest.
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San Diego to Mexico for sun seekers
Holland America Line ships the Koningsdam and Zaandam will sail the Mexico season, offering 16 departures on a variety of eight different itineraries ranging from seven to 12 days. The cruises, which explore the Mexican Riviera, the Baja Peninsula and the Sea of Cortez, all sail either roundtrip from San Diego, Calif., or open-jaw between San Diego and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
“San Diego is an important homeport for Holland America Line and provides an exceptional experience to our guests at the beginning or end of their Mexican cruise vacations,” said Vice President of Revenue Planning and Deployment for Holland America Line Paul Grigsby.
“After embarking in San Diego, travelers can explore picturesque Cabo San Lucas, take in the history of Loreto and more — all while enjoying our premium onboard experience and best-in-cruise service,” Grigsby said.
The Mexico itineraries will include shore excursions in each port such as a full-day tour of the Colonial Villages of the Sierra Madre is available from Mazatlan. Travelers seeking an escape from the crowds will want to check out the excursion to Majahuitas Cove Catamaran Snorkel & Yelapa Bay Beach.
Holland America Line along the Northwest coast for wildlife
For travelers seeking an experience focused on wildlife, Holland America Line will offer trips up to seven days, exploring the scenery of the Pacific Coast. Cruises are available on five ships, which will sail from San Diego, Seattle, Washington, and Vancouver on a variety of roundtrip and open-jaw voyages. Cruises call at popular ports like Astoria, Oregon; Santa Barbara, California; and Ensenada, Mexico; and select itineraries feature an overnight in San Francisco, California.
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“Seattle’s our hometown, and as such, we know a little bit about the Pacific Coast — and the experience guests will have on these itineraries will show that,” added Grigsby. “This series of cruises provides great options for those seeking a quick escape and are also a great introduction for those who might be trying their first cruise.”
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