Holland America Line has opened reservations for its 2028 Canada and New England season, positioning Montreal as the primary embarkation point with more departures than any other cruise line. The season, running from May through October 2028, will showcase the Volendam and the newly transformed Zuiderdam, which makes its regional debut following a comprehensive fleet-wide modernization.
The deployment underscores Holland America's commitment to the St. Lawrence River and Atlantic Canada routes, a segment that continues to attract both North American and international travelers seeking a blend of coastal scenery, historic ports, and cultural immersion. With itineraries spanning seven to fourteen days, plus extended Collector's Voyages, the lineup offers flexibility for a range of traveler preferences.
Expanded deployment and port highlights
Beyond Montreal, the 2028 schedule includes departures from Quebec City, Boston, New York, and Fort Lauderdale, providing multiple access points for guests across the continent. Select sailings feature late-evening calls in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and Saint John, New Brunswick, allowing more time ashore. Overnight stays in Quebec City are also included on certain voyages, giving passengers the chance to explore the historic district after dark.
Paul Grigsby, vice president of revenue planning and deployment at Holland America Line, emphasized the region's appeal: “One of the things guests love most about Canada and New England is that you can experience the feel of Europe without crossing the Atlantic.” This sentiment aligns with the line's strategy to market the region as a convenient alternative to transatlantic journeys.
Zuiderdam's evolution transformation
The Zuiderdam, having completed its Evolution upgrade, introduces several new features designed to enhance the guest experience. These include Solo Verandah staterooms, Bridgeview Suites, and the Grand Dutch Café, a venue celebrating the line's heritage. This transformation represents the largest fleet investment in Holland America's 153-year history, reflecting a broader industry trend of refurbishing existing tonnage to meet evolving passenger expectations.
The addition of solo-friendly accommodations is particularly notable, as the cruise industry continues to see growth in single travelers. Bridgeview Suites, located near the navigation bridge, offer a unique vantage point for guests interested in the operational aspects of the ship.
Itinerary highlights and onboard experiences
Guests on the 2028 sailings will have opportunities to visit five national parks and seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, with wildlife viewing chances including beluga whales and puffins. The onboard program emphasizes regional dining and local entertainment, aiming to create a sense of place that extends beyond the ports of call.
For travel advisors and agents, the new season presents a chance to market a product that combines familiar destinations with fresh ship features. Holland America is also offering a limited-time Have It All Early Booking Bonus for select 2028 cruises, which includes shore excursion credits and premium Wi-Fi, adding value for early bookers.
The announcement comes as cruise lines increasingly focus on expedition and regional itineraries to differentiate their offerings. For more on how geopolitical factors are influencing traveler planning, see our analysis on route planning shifts.
Holland America's 2028 program also aligns with broader trends in the industry, such as the growth of fly-cruise packages and the importance of convenient embarkation ports. As the cruise sector continues to recover and expand, the Canada/New England region remains a strong performer, with its mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Travel professionals can expect detailed sales materials and deployment updates from the line in the coming months. The early booking bonus is designed to incentivize clients to secure their preferred stateroom categories, particularly on the newly refurbished Zuiderdam.
For those looking to expand their cruise offerings, the 2028 season from Montreal offers a compelling option. With more departures than any other line, Holland America is clearly betting on the region's enduring appeal.
