For the first time in two and a half years, cruises will return to Japan, and Holland America Line's Westerdam is gearing up for a series of itineraries in early 2023 that will allow guests to explore lands where ancient temples and tradition-steeped cultures blend with towering skyscrapers and bustling capital cities.
The Japanese government announced on November 15 that it is ready to welcome back international cruise ships, allowing tourists to enjoy the wonders of cruising at the country's many ports.
“We are grateful for the work the Japanese authorities have done to allow the return of cruise ships,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “Holland America Line guests love longer voyages to unique parts of the world, and we will be sailing to some incredible destinations when our season begins in Japan and the rest of Asia.”.
The Westerdam, currently sailing in Australia and New Zealand, begins its Asian season after a dry dock in Singapore in January. Starting February 3, the ship will embark on a series of voyages through the Far East, showcasing the diversity of the countries visited and celebrating ancient histories.
Round-trip cruises from Yokohama, Japan, or Singapore, or between Yokohama and Singapore, range from 11 to 14 days and can be combined to create unique collection voyages. The countries explored include Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia. Five different itineraries are offered: “Discovering Indonesia,” “Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines,” “Explorer of Japan,” “Discovering Japan,” and “Southern Japan.” Overnight stops include Singapore, Kobe, and Osaka, Japan, and Phuket, Thailand. The season concludes on April 24 with a 14-day “North Pacific Crossing” from Yokohama to Seattle, Washington, where the Westerdam will then make a stop for its Alaskan season.
As protocols for cruises in Asia are finalized, each departure will be added to Holland America Line's Voyage Lookup tool, which allows guests to view any specific health protocols for their cruise.
