Holland America Line Launches Over 150 Cultural Tours Worldwide
Holland America Line, a division of Carnival Corporation (NYSE: CCL), has introduced two new shore excursion collections, "Meet the Maker" and "Community Connections," aimed at providing passengers with immersive cultural experiences across various global itineraries.
Authentic Engagement with Local Cultures
The new collections are designed to enhance destination engagement by inviting guests to connect with local culture and community. These curated experiences offer travelers a chance to explore beyond traditional sightseeing and delve into the heart of each port of call. With more than 150 new cultural experiences, guests can embrace authentic traditions, create lasting memories, and foster genuine connections.
"Guests consistently express a desire for deeper, more authentic engagement with every destination," said Carole Biencourt, Vice President of Onboard Revenue for Holland America Line. "These experiences go far beyond traditional sightseeing, opening doors to kitchens, workshops, and community spaces to share stories and learn from the people who shape each place."
'Meet the Maker' Shore Excursions
The "Meet the Maker" tours allow guests to interact directly with the artisans and producers of each destination. These excursions provide unique opportunities to learn traditional techniques and savor local flavors from chefs, farmers, and craftspeople. Examples of notable excursions include:
- Tassie Tasting Trail in Burnie, Tasmania: Journey through the countryside and visit the House of Anvers for handcrafted chocolate tastings, followed by a visit to 41° South for salmon and ginseng sampling.
- Magna Grecia Farm Visit in Katákolon, Greece: Stroll through olive groves, taste olive oil, and enjoy a traditional Greek meal with local wine and a dance demonstration.
'Community Connections' Tours
Holland America Line's "Community Connections" tours aim to immerse guests in local communities. These excursions focus on building real relationships, where travelers get to experience daily life through the eyes of local residents. Each tour supports local businesses and artisans, aligning with Holland America Line's sustainability mission. Examples include:
- At Home With the O'Hanlon Family in Cobh (Cork), Ireland: Guests enjoy a hands-on cooking class for a three-course traditional Irish lunch in a local home.
- Maori Waka (Canoe) Experience in Waitangi (Bay of Islands), New Zealand: Guests are welcomed into Maori culture with a traditional canoe experience along serene estuaries.
Connecting Cultural Experiences with History
The new shore tours build upon the existing partnerships Holland America Line has formed with The HISTORY® Channel and National Geographic. These collaborations enrich guests' journeys by offering expert-led exploration and insights into the varied cultures and histories of each destination.
Cruises Now Open for Booking
Travelers can now book the "Community Connections" and "Meet the Maker" tours on a variety of Holland America Line itineraries. Currently, guests can take advantage of limited-time offers, including:
- 7-Day Norwegian Fjords with Scotland, departing May 3, 2026, starting at $236 per person per day
- 34-Day Legendary South Pacific Crossing: Seattle to Sydney, departing October 11, 2026, starting at $134 per person per day
- 11-Day Mediterranean Splendor: Greece, Italy & Provence, departing October 24, 2026, starting at $252 per person per day
- 14-Day Wild British Isles: Belfast Evening Stay, departing July 11, 2026, starting at $208 per person per day
- 14-Day South Australia Discovery Holiday, departing December 20, 2026, starting at $167 per person per day
For further details about Holland America Line's shore excursions or to book a cruise, contact a travel advisor or call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425). Visit hollandamerica.com for more information.