Holland America Line has unveiled the itineraries for its two Grand World Voyages in 2028, carefully crafted voyages developed from years of passenger feedback and a shared desire for discovery measured in continents crossed and time well spent ashore. Travelers can choose between a 129-day round-the-world cruise aboard the Grand World Voyage 2028 or a 90-day immersion in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific with the Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage. Holland America Line President Beth Bodensteiner shared the news with passengers on the Grand World Voyage 2026.
The Grand World Voyage includes a comprehensive Antarctic experience and an immersive tour of South America, with scenic sailing through the Chilean fjords, Glacier Alley, and the Beagle Channel. The voyage also includes a stop at Easter Island and a sail past Null Island, where the Greenwich Meridian and the Equator intersect at 0°N, 0°E.
The Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage offers access to the remote coasts of Western Australia, rarely included in cruise itineraries, without the need for international flights. Both voyages include a stop in Bora Bora, with 2028 marking the first time the company has brought both of its Grand Voyages to this iconic South Pacific destination in the same season.
“What makes our Grand Voyages special is the opportunity to experience destinations more deeply while visiting unique ports in the Mariners’ Collection, exclusive to these cruises,” said Bodensteiner. “In direct response to our guests, the 2028 voyages are designed with truly unforgettable moments, from exploring Antarctica and circumnavigating the globe to sailing past Null Island and visiting legendary destinations like Easter Island and Bora Bora.”
The 2028 voyages will take place aboard Volendam and Zaandam, ships known for their ability to access ports where larger vessels cannot reach: intimate enough to dock in remote ports, yet spacious enough to feel at home for several months.
The Grand World Voyage 2028 departs on January 4th, round trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage 2028 departs on January 30th, round trip from San Diego, California.
Highlights of Grand World Voyage 2028 — Volendam
- 129-day trip departing and returning from Fort Lauderdale on January 4, 2028.
- Route south through the Caribbean and the east coast of South America to Antarctica; then north through the Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley and the Chilean fjords, crossing the equator and stopping at Easter Island.
- It continues through the South Pacific and French Polynesia (including Bora Bora), with eight days in six New Zealand ports.
- Sail past Australia, Indonesia, Singapore and Sri Lanka before rounding the Cape of Good Hope and crossing the equator again.
- It passes through the Gulf of Guinea and sails past Null Island before visiting ports in West Africa.
- Cross the Atlantic with a stopover in San Juan, Puerto Rico, before returning to Fort Lauderdale.
- 45 ports in 26 countries and territories on six continents.
- 16 exclusive Mariners' Collection ports, such as Easter Island, Walvis Bay (Namibia), Reunion Island and Cape Verde.
- 31 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Valparaíso (Chile), Komodo National Park and the Taj Mahal.
- Memorable moments: eight days in New Zealand, four-day Antarctic experience, 65 hours in Cape Town, two crossings of the equator and sailing off Null Island.
Highlights of the Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage 2028 — Zaandam
- 90-day trip departing and returning from San Diego on January 30, 2028.
- Westbound route through Hawaii and the South Pacific, crossing the International Date Line towards New Zealand and Australia, including remote ports in Western Australia. Return via Melanesia, Fiji, Samoa, and French Polynesia, with an extended stay in Bora Bora.
- 41 ports in 12 countries and territories on two continents.
- 13 UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Great Barrier Reef and Tongariro National Park.
- Overnight stops in Hobart, Sydney, Cairns, Fremantle (Perth), Auckland and Papeete.
- Memorable moments: multiple ports in New Zealand, extended overnight stay in Bora Bora for snorkeling or exploring the lagoon, and departure without the need for international flights from San Diego.
In 2028, both Grand Voyages include Bora Bora, accessible only to smaller ships like the Volendam and Zaandam. Passengers will sail through the Teavanui Passage to a lagoon of extraordinary colors, surrounded by white sand islets and the volcanic peak of Mount Otemanu. On the Zaandam, the extended stay allows for activities such as snorkeling with sharks and manta rays, traditional outrigger canoe trips, or simply enjoying the scenery even after sunset.
Each Grand Voyage offers an elevated experience with Holland America Line's signature service, refined amenities, and thoughtfully planned surprises. With more days at sea, guests can fully enjoy the ship through cultural programs, activities, or simply relaxing. Evenings come alive with shows, regional cultural performers, and special guests. Events such as galas, black-tie nights, and the Captain's Dinner add a special touch. Dining is a highlight, with menus that change daily and incorporate local ingredients and dishes inspired by the destinations visited.
Passengers who book any of these trips before June 14, 2027 will be able to get cabin benefits, including onboard credit, air credit, free Wi-Fi and additional discounts.
