Holland America Line has announced an extension of its 2026 Europe cruise season, offering travelers more opportunities to explore iconic Mediterranean and Norwegian destinations. The expanded season will include four new voyages, including an exciting chance to see the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle.
These additional cruises will be operated aboard the Nieuw Statendam, which will sail roundtrip or one-way from Rotterdam, the cruise line’s historic home port. Rotterdam is one of Europe’s most dynamic cities and serves as a great starting point for exploring the continent’s rich history and diverse landscapes.
“Cruises that highlight Europe’s culture and history are very popular with our guests,” said Paul Grigsby, vice president of deployment for Holland America Line. “By extending the season, we’re offering more opportunities for travelers to enjoy our exceptional service in the region. Plus, 2026 is expected to be a peak year for Northern Lights activity, making it an ideal time to offer these cruises.”
One of the highlights of the expanded season is the 14-day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights with The HISTORY Channel cruise, departing on November 7, 2026. This voyage provides a unique opportunity to view the Northern Lights, as 2026 is expected to be an especially active year for aurora viewing.
Guests will visit picturesque Norwegian cities like Ålesund and Trondheim, before crossing the Arctic Circle to Tromsø, known as the “Capital of the Arctic”. The ship will also make an overnight stop in Alta, often referred to as the world’s Northern Lights capital. Other stops include the remote island of Leknes in the Lofoten archipelago, as well as Åndalsnes, Bergen, and Lerwick, Scotland.
To enhance the experience, passengers on this cruise can sign up for a special wake-up service to alert them when the aurora borealis is visible.
Another exciting new addition is the 14-day Mediterranean and Atlantic Treasures: Lisbon Overnight cruise, departing November 21, 2026. This journey will visit seven ports across Spain, Portugal, and Gibraltar, including Cádiz (Seville), Málaga (Granada), and Lisbon. In Lisbon, guests will enjoy an overnight stay, giving them ample time to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. This cruise will also be the first roundtrip Mediterranean itinerary from Rotterdam in nearly a decade.
Other new itineraries include a 7-day Norway with Nordfjord cruise and a 15-day Cultural Crossing with England and Normandy.
Exclusive Booking Bonuses
Holland America Line is offering several perks for travelers who book these new European cruises with the “Have It All” premium package. This package includes complimentary shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and premium Wi-Fi. For a limited time, the package also comes with free prepaid crew appreciation and an upgrade to the Elite Beverage Package.
Holland America Line’s Mariner Society Loyalty members can take advantage of an Exclusive Early Booking Bonus, offering up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom. These offers are available for bookings made by July 9, 2025.
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