Filled with exciting destinations and iconic sites, Holland America Line ’s 2026-2027 South America and Antarctica season is now available for booking. Each itinerary, ranging from 14 to 31 days, includes a wide variety of ports and natural destinations for guests to choose from when planning their perfect vacation.
From November 2026 to March 2027, the Oosterdam and Volendam will explore the region, taking travelers to hard-to-reach destinations such as the Amazon River, the Falkland Islands, Antarctica and, new for the 2026-2027 season, the Pio XI Glacier, the largest glacier in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica.
“Pius XI, also known as the Brüggen Glacier, is the longest glacier in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica, and it is truly spectacular,” said Paul Grigsby, vice president of deployment planning and revenue for Holland America Line. “Often called the ‘Patriarch of the Patagonian Ice Fields,’ it is famous for its brilliant blue hues and distinctive dark band, and is accessible only by ship. Furthermore, it is a very active glacier in terms of calving, so our guests will enjoy a unique experience when they visit it.”
Pio XI Glacier: An unmissable destination
Guests wishing to visit the Pio XI Glacier can board the Oosterdam and enjoy the 14- or 15-day itinerary called “South American Roads: Chilean Fjords and Glaciers,” departing from San Antonio (Santiago, Chile) or Buenos Aires, Argentina. The voyages include ports such as Montevideo, Uruguay; Stanley, Falkland Islands; Ushuaia, Argentina; and Punta Arenas, Puerto Chacabuco, and Puerto Montt, in Chile. The itinerary also explores the stunning Chilean fjords, the Glacier Passage, and offers a day of scenic sailing in front of the Pio XI Glacier, among other natural wonders.
Adventure in the Amazon
For those who wish to fulfill their dream of exploring the Amazon, Holland America Line is once again offering the popular "Legendary Explorer of the Amazon" aboard the Volendam. On 27- or 30-day round-trip voyages from Fort Lauderdale or New York to Fort Lauderdale, guests will sail into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, observing local wildlife such as pink river dolphins, exotic birds, and howler monkeys. An overnight stop in Manaus provides the opportunity to admire the famous "Meeting of the Waters" where the Amazon and Rio Negro rivers meet.
Antarctica aboard the Oosterdam
The Oosterdam is the perfect host for those wishing to marvel at Antarctica. Its 22-day itineraries, from San Antonio (Santiago, Chile) to Buenos Aires, Argentina, include a four-day Antarctic experience, as well as the opportunity to discover the gems of South America, such as an overnight stay in Buenos Aires to enjoy its architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and the captivating culture of tango.
In addition, guests can opt for a special 22-day Christmas trip, celebrating Christmas and New Year on board with festive meals, themed decorations and new traditions while enjoying unique scenery and wildlife.
Panama Canal and the Andes
Two 16-day itineraries called “Panama Canal and Discoveries in the Andes,” between Fort Lauderdale and San Antonio (Santiago, Chile), allow guests to experience modern wonders like the Panama Canal and delve into the culture of destinations such as Fuerte Amador (Panama City) and Callao (Lima) with overnight stays. Optional land excursions are also available, such as a visit to the Galapagos Islands or a 3-4 day experience in Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Holland America Line's 2026-2027 cruises visit 22 UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing the best of both human and natural heritage. The cruises also highlight local flavors, such as Chilean salmon and Argentinian Black Angus beef. Excursions include visits to pisco distilleries in Chile, markets in Peru, wineries in Uruguay, and culinary experiences in the Falkland Islands.
With the premium Have It All package , guests will receive excursions, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and beverages, plus prepaid gratuities and upgrades to premium drinks and Wi-Fi. Mariner Society members can earn generous onboard credits if they book before March 31, 2025.
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
