Holland America Line has revealed a $70 million investment plan to expand guest capacity and improve its Denali and Alaska cruise tour experiences. The move aims to strengthen the company’s position as a leader in Alaska tourism, offering guests unmatched access to the region’s natural wonders, including glaciers and wildlife.
Enhancing the Denali Experience
The investment will focus on upgrading the Holland America Denali Lodge and improving the overall land-and-sea cruise tour offerings. Beth Bodensteiner, President of Holland America Line, emphasized the importance of the project, saying, “It’s truly special to bring guests to a lodge at the doorstep of Denali National Park. This investment benefits Alaska, our guests, and Holland America Line.”
The company is positioning itself as a top choice for Alaska travelers by providing more glacier-viewing and wildlife experiences than any other cruise line.
Key Upgrades Over the Next Three Years
The multi-phase project will introduce significant improvements between 2025 and 2027:
2025 Enhancements:
- Updates to the riverside interpretive trail and on-site wayfinding.
- Refined restaurant menus.
- Upgraded public spaces in the Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge guest room buildings.
2026 Renovations:
- Remodeling of 48 guest rooms in the Denali Lodge.
- Addition of a new coffee shop.
- Renovation of the Karstens Public House with expanded indoor and outdoor seating.
2027 Additions:
- Construction of a new guest room building with 120 suites and standard rooms.
- A full renovation of the main lodge, including a new restaurant, lobby bar, and enhanced coffee experience.
Expanded Cruise Tour Options
Holland America is also improving its land-and-sea cruise tours, which combine Alaska cruises with immersive land journeys. For the 2025 and 2026 seasons, guests can choose from over 17 itineraries, including visits to Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory.
Highlights of the cruise tours include:
- Scenic rides on the McKinley Explorer train.
- Direct-to-Denali service on select itineraries, allowing guests to travel from the ship to the lodge in one day.
- Visits to Dawson and rides on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from Skagway.
Unmatched Wildlife Experiences
To enhance guest experiences, Holland America employs wildlife experts on its cruises to guide and assist with wildlife viewing. Daily announcements highlight wildlife sightings, and guests can explore nearly 180 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing spots during shore excursions.
Supporting Alaska Tourism
The $70 million investment reflects Holland America’s commitment to Alaska’s tourism industry and its goal of meeting the growing demand for combined land-and-sea adventures. The upgrades aim to create unforgettable experiences for guests while boosting the local economy.
Travelers interested in exploring Alaska’s stunning landscapes can now book 2025 and 2026 cruise tours. Each itinerary offers a unique mix of natural exploration, luxurious accommodations, and seamless travel, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska.
Related topic:
- Rapid KL Hits Record 1.5M Riders on NYE 2025
- Air India Express Boosts Regional Connectivity with New Pune-Mangalore Flights Starting January 4
- Why Puerto Vallarta Is a Top Destination for Canadians in January