Ice, Fjords & Machu Picchu: Holland America Announces Latest Upcoming South America & Antarctica Cruise, This Will Blow Your Mind

Published on November 7, 2025

Holland America Line (HAL) has officially revealed its exciting 2027–2028 cruise program, promising an extraordinary opportunity to explore some of the world’s most remote and iconic destinations in South America and Antarctica. This new cruise season is designed to offer travellers a rare chance to embark on immersive and scenic itineraries that span up to six countries, while visiting awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural landmarks, and wildlife havens.

Overview of the 2027–2028 Itinerary

The 2027–2028 cruise program by Holland America Line features two of its most luxurious vessels — Zuiderdam and Oosterdam. The ships will operate throughout the program’s duration, from November 2027 through March 2028, and will depart from a variety of embarkation points. These include Buenos Aires (Argentina), San Antonio (Chile), and Florida ports, such as Fort Lauderdale and Miami, offering plenty of options for travellers to begin their adventures.

The cruise line’s new program will cater to various preferences, with cruise durations ranging from 14 to 31 days. This flexibility will allow guests to choose the perfect balance of time at sea and the amount of exploration they desire. The itineraries are designed to highlight the beauty of the Southern Hemisphere and deliver access to some of the most pristine and untouched regions on Earth, including Antarctica’s icy wilderness and South America’s natural wonders.

Must-See Destinations: Scenic Cruises and Overland Excursions

The highlight of HAL’s 2027–2028 cruise program is the opportunity to experience dramatic and awe-inspiring natural scenery. Cruise itineraries will include scenic cruising through stunning locales, such as the famous Pío XI Glacier, the Chilean Fjords, Glacier Alley, and the Beagle Channel — all breathtaking areas renowned for their unparalleled beauty. These destinations offer travellers an up-close view of glaciers, towering mountain peaks, and lush landscapes that define the region.

In addition to scenic cruising, the program offers several enriching overland excursions, allowing travellers to explore iconic destinations beyond the cruise’s regular stops. Some of the top excursions include visits to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and the renowned Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to extraordinary wildlife and ecosystems. These excursions provide the perfect combination of natural exploration and cultural immersion.

Cruise Comfort Meets Expeditionary Adventure

Holland America Line is known for offering exceptional service and comfort on its ships, and the 2027–2028 South America and Antarctica cruise program will be no different. The line has emphasized that despite the expeditionary nature of the itineraries, guests will experience world-class facilities, fine dining, and a premium level of service onboard. Whether passengers are relaxing on the deck, enjoying a gourmet meal, or indulging in the spa, the cruise will offer an unparalleled level of comfort while traversing remote destinations.

The program’s vice president for itinerary planning and deployment expressed the company’s commitment to providing access to less-frequented regions while maintaining its high standards of service. This reflects the cruise line’s goal of balancing exploration with luxury, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the southernmost reaches of the Earth without sacrificing comfort.

Unpack Once, Explore Six Countries

One of the key selling points of the 2027–2028 South America and Antarctica season is the opportunity to unpack just once and visit multiple countries over the course of the journey. With the wide-ranging itineraries, travellers will have the chance to explore up to six different countries, including Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and the Galápagos Islands, as well as the polar regions of Antarctica.

This convenient aspect of the cruise allows guests to bypass the hassle of checking in and out of different hotels, as they’ll be able to experience several countries and cultures while enjoying the comforts of the cruise ship, which serves as their floating home.

Early Booking and Premium Accommodation Packages

The 2027–2028 South America and Antarctica season is already open for booking, and Holland America Line is offering a range of early-booking incentives to entice potential travellers. Guests who book in advance can take advantage of premium accommodation packages, which feature a variety of cabin options with added perks such as concierge services, priority boarding, and exclusive dining experiences. The line is also offering early-booking bonuses, including discounts and additional onboard credits, making it an even more attractive option for those eager to secure their spot on these exclusive voyages.

Conclusion

HAL’s 2027–2028 South America and Antarctica cruise program promises to be one of the most exciting and enriching cruise seasons in recent memory. With a combination of scenic cruising, overland excursions, and a level of comfort and service that the cruise line is known for, it provides an unforgettable opportunity to explore some of the world’s most awe-inspiring regions. Whether you’re drawn to the icy beauty of Antarctica or the cultural richness of South America, this program is sure to offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

For those seeking an exploration of the world’s most remote corners, HAL’s 2027–2028 South America and Antarctica program represents an exceptional opportunity to discover new lands and create lifelong memories.

Image Credit: Holland America Cruise Line