Holland America Line Unveils Extended Caribbean Cruises for 2026-2027 with Exclusive Island Experiences and New Luxury Amenities

Published on March 31, 2025

Holland America Line has unveiled its Caribbean cruise schedule for the 2026-2027 season, highlighted by a greater number of extended voyages of nine days or more than any other cruise operator in the area. The schedule prominently includes stops at their acclaimed private island, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, where nearly every trip allows guests to explore the island’s enhancements. These include a new beach club with exclusive amenities such as priority tendering, waiter service, and special food and beverage options. Visitors to the beach club will enjoy private beach areas with premium beach furniture and both indoor and outdoor seating areas offering views of the ship.

The island experience for all guests will be elevated with upgraded beach facilities, new villas, enhanced cabanas, and dual canopy loungers. The island now boasts additional shopping outlets, a revamped food court, and a refreshed Lobster Shack, alongside innovative food trucks that serve unique island-specific dishes. Recreational upgrades feature new pickleball courts and novel ways to enjoy refreshments, like Aperol Spritz served from tricycles and Bacardi from beach buggies.

“The Caribbean, with its crystal-clear blue waters and sandy beaches, is the perfect destination to unwind — and we’re enhancing the guest experience to ensure the most relaxing vacation possible,” said Michael Smith, senior vice president, guest experience and product development. “Whether on board or at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, guests will feel immersed in the Caribbean’s charm and the award-winning, personalized service Holland America is known for.”

Additionally, Holland America Line is introducing an exclusive adults-only Signature Pool Experience across its Caribbean fleet. This tranquil sea view pool setting offers spa-like comforts including complimentary refreshments like cucumber water and lemonade, sunglass cleaning services, and ambient live music during sea days.

Travelers can choose from over two dozen diverse Caribbean itineraries on six different ships, with durations ranging from seven to 14 days. These cruises commence from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, Florida, and are available from October 2026 through April 2027.

A notable new collaboration with The HISTORY Channel presents an exclusive 9-day Southern Caribbean journey aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam. This special itinerary includes stops at the ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—as well as a late-night visit to Curaçao, offering tours that explore significant historical sites and natural wonders.

For those seeking more extended stays, Holland America Line offers more than 70 departures on itineraries lasting longer than nine days. These include routes through the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, partial Panama Canal transits, and trips across the Greater Antilles.

Holiday cruises are also available, such as a festive journey on Rotterdam, celebrating Christmas and the New Year in the Caribbean, with stops at several key ports across the region.

For a quicker getaway, the line’s seven-day Caribbean cruises on the Eurodam, Zuiderdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Nieuw Statendam feature weekend departures. These trips include extended evening stays and departures from iconic ports like San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the tropical allure and vibrant culture of each location.

Starting prices for these Caribbean journeys begin at $1,299 per person, including a comprehensive ‘Have It All’ premium package for early bookings. This package covers shore excursions, specialty dining, a signature beverage package, and Wi-Fi, with added bonuses like free crew appreciation tips and upgrades to premium beverage and Wi-Fi plans.

Mariner Society loyalty members also benefit from an exclusive early booking bonus, with up to $400 onboard credit available per stateroom, provided bookings are made by June 30, 2025.