Holland America Line is celebrating eight decades of Alaska cruising with the introduction of Alaska Heritage Tours, a curated collection of experiences that connect today's travelers with the line's pioneering history in the region. The tours, available on select cruises and Cruisetours, are designed to immerse guests in the landscapes, wildlife, and communities that have defined Alaska travel since the 1940s.
The Alaska Heritage Tours lineup includes more than 35 options, spotlighting the state's iconic railways, glaciers, wildlife, and national parks. Highlights include the McKinley Explorer Railroad, the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad, and the Mendenhall Glacier Explorer. Carole Biencourt, vice president of onboard revenue at Holland America Line, noted the enduring appeal of these experiences: "One of the most remarkable things about Alaska is that many of the experiences travelers seek out today are the very same ones that first inspired visitors decades ago."
Expanded itineraries and booking details
Guests can select from a range of itineraries, including the 28-day Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle voyage and the Glacier Discovery cruises, which provide access to the natural wonders of Southcentral Alaska. The new tours are intended to deepen connections with Alaska's rugged terrain and rich cultural heritage, complementing the line's existing shore excursion program.
Alaska Heritage Tours are now open for booking on select 2027 Alaska cruises and Cruisetours. Holland America Line continues to offer more than 200 shore excursions, expert-led insights, and exclusive inland exploration options, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience for all guests.
The launch comes as Holland America Line expands its Alaska presence, with the 2028 Canada/New England season also boosting calls in Montreal, reflecting the line's broader strategy to enhance regional itineraries. For travel advisors, the new tours represent an opportunity to sell differentiated experiences that leverage the line's historical legacy in Alaska.
Alaska remains a cornerstone of Holland America's deployment, and the Heritage Tours are positioned to appeal to both first-time and repeat cruisers seeking authentic encounters. The line's investment in rail and glacier experiences underscores its commitment to showcasing Alaska's most iconic attractions.
As the cruise industry continues to rebound, Holland America's focus on heritage and cultural programming could set a benchmark for other lines operating in the region. The tours are designed to be flexible, allowing guests to combine them with existing shore excursions or standalone bookings.
Travel professionals can expect strong demand for these experiences, particularly among clients interested in Alaska's history and natural beauty. Holland America's long-standing relationships with local operators and guides ensure that the tours maintain a high standard of authenticity and quality.
For more details on the Alaska Heritage Tours and to book, travel advisors can access the line's booking systems or contact their sales representatives. The tours are expected to be a key selling point for the 2027 Alaska season, alongside the line's other product enhancements.
