Holland America Opens Bookings for 2026-27 South America and Antarctica Cruises
Holland America has unveiled its 2026-27 South America and Antarctica cruise season, with bookings now open. The cruise line will deploy two ships, the Oosterdam and Volendam, offering itineraries ranging from 14 to 31 days. These voyages will explore diverse destinations including:
- The Amazon River
- Antarctica
- The Falkland Islands
- Chilean fjords
A notable addition this season is the Pio XI Glacier, the longest glacier in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica. Cruises will run from November 2026 through March 2027.
The Volendam will offer the “Legendary Amazon Explorer” cruise with 27- or 30-day itineraries departing from Fort Lauderdale or New York. Highlights include:
- An overnight stay in Manaus
- A visit to the ‘Meeting of the Waters’
The Oosterdam’s “South American Pathways: Chilean Fjords and Glaciers” cruise will travel from San Antonio to Buenos Aires, with stops in Montevideo, Stanley, Ushuaia, and the Chilean fjords.
Exclusive Offer: Mariner Society members booking by March 31 can receive up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom. The Have It All premium package includes shore excursions, specialty dining, and crew gratuities.
Destination Highlights
The Pio XI Glacier, also known as the Brüggen Glacier, offers a unique spectacle. As an active glacier, it regularly calves, providing guests with the sight of ice breaking off into the water. This natural wonder is only accessible by ship.
Amazon River itineraries showcase exotic wildlife, including:
- Pink dolphins
- Scarlet macaws
The Falkland Islands feature rugged landscapes, windswept coastlines, and penguin colonies.
Cultural Immersion: Holland America’s routes include visits to 22 UNESCO World Heritage sites, offering encounters with history and heritage. Ports of call range from colonial coastal cities to indigenous sites, each with its own cultural significance.
Itinerary Details
The “South American Pathways: Chilean Fjords and Glaciers” itinerary on the Oosterdam includes:
- Montevideo, Uruguay
- Stanley, Falkland Islands
- Ushuaia, Argentina
- Scenic sailing through Chilean fjords
- Visit to the Pio XI Glacier
The “Legendary Amazon Explorer” on the Volendam focuses on the Amazon River ecosystem. Key features:
- Overnight stay in Manaus
- Witness the ‘Meeting of the Waters’
- Opportunities to observe diverse wildlife
- Experience the rainforest environment
These itineraries showcase the variety of South America’s landscapes and wildlife, from Patagonian coasts to the Amazon rainforest, offering travelers a comprehensive exploration of the continent’s natural wonders.
- Holland America Line. 2026-2027 South America and Antarctica Cruise Season. Holland America Line website.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. World Heritage List. UNESCO website.