Holland America Line adds Europe cruises for fall 2026, offering travelers a new chance to sail through Mediterranean coastlines, Norwegian fjords, and even into the Arctic Circle at a time when the Northern Lights are expected to dazzle. The cruise line has extended its 2026 Europe season by six weeks and opened bookings for four additional itineraries aboard the Nieuw Statendam.
The added cruises depart from or return to Rotterdam, Holland America Line’s historic homeport. Among the highlights is the newly available 14-day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights cruise, departing November 7, 2026. With aurora activity projected to peak that year, guests are given a higher-than-usual chance to witness the Northern Lights under dark, clear skies with minimal light pollution.
This exclusive itinerary travels through Norway’s remote and stunning ports including Ålesund, Trondheim, and Tromsø — often called the “Capital of the Arctic.” The ship also visits Alta for an overnight stay, a destination frequently referred to as the world’s Northern Lights capital. From there, guests explore Leknes in the Lofoten Islands before heading south again through Åndalsnes, Bergen, and Lerwick in Scotland, wrapping up the cruise in Rotterdam.
Culture and Coastlines on a Mediterranean Route
Also new for 2026 is a 14-day Mediterranean and Atlantic Treasures cruise, departing November 21. This itinerary explores a wide stretch of the Iberian Peninsula and features seven different ports across Spain, Portugal, and Gibraltar. Guests will visit Cádiz, Málaga, Alicante, Cartagena, Gibraltar, and Leixões, as well as enjoy an overnight in Lisbon — the perfect setting for deeper cultural immersion.
While in Lisbon, travelers can take excursions to the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. This voyage marks Holland America Line’s first roundtrip Mediterranean cruise from Rotterdam in nearly a decade, and it’s already drawing attention from loyal cruisers and newcomers alike.
Two other sailings are now available for booking: a 7-day Norway with Nordfjord cruise and a 15-day Cultural Crossing itinerary that features stops in England and Normandy. Together, these voyages expand the late-season options for those looking to avoid peak crowds and enjoy cooler, quieter moments in Europe’s historic destinations.
Enhanced Booking Perks for Early Planners
Travelers who book these fall 2026 cruises early can take advantage of the “Have It All” premium package. This offer bundles essential cruise amenities like shore excursions, specialty dining, the Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi. As an added bonus, guests will receive prepaid crew appreciation, upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package, and Premium Wi-Fi for a more luxurious experience onboard.
Loyal Holland America Line guests can also benefit from the Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Members of the Mariner Society are eligible for up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom, provided they reserve their voyage by July 9, 2025.
A Unique Way to See the Northern Lights
One of the most distinctive features of the Arctic Journey cruise is its aurora wake-up call. Guests can opt-in to receive notifications any time the Northern Lights are spotted from the ship — day or night. This gives travelers the chance to experience one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena without missing a moment due to sleep or indoor activities.
As more travelers seek out memorable, nature-driven experiences, Holland America Line is aiming to meet that demand with curated itineraries rooted in seasonal beauty and cultural exploration. Whether it’s gazing at the aurora borealis from the deck of a cruise ship or strolling through the medieval streets of Lisbon, these new voyages offer something for every type of explorer.
Bookings for all four newly announced cruises are now open. With limited departures and peak aurora conditions expected, interest is high among those looking to combine bucket-list adventures with refined onboard comforts.
Have you ever cruised during the off-season in Europe? Would you wake up in the middle of the night to catch the Northern Lights at sea? Share your thoughts and cruise wish lists in the comments below.
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