Holland America Line announced it has celebrated the send-off of two Grand Voyages, both departing January 4 from opposite coasts of the United States.
The 133-day “Grand World Voyage” embarked for a roundtrip sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, while the 93-day “Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage” departed from San Diego, California, on a roundtrip itinerary.
Guests were welcomed by each ship’s captain, hotel general manager and members of the onboard leadership team, the company said in a press release.
“We’ve been sailing the globe for more than 150 years, and our Grand Voyages really showcase what makes the Holland America Line experience so special,” said Michael Smith, senior vice president of guest experience and product development.
According to Holland America, the Volendam will welcome Culinary Ambassadors Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Chef Ethan Stowell and Master Tea Blender and Art of Tea Founder Steve Schwartz.
Each will host signature experiences, including private dinners, “coffee chats” and cooking demonstrations or tea tastings.
The two Grand Voyages will meet on March 7 in Sydney, Australia, where Chocolatier Jaques Torres will host a Chocolate Teatime.
Before departure, guests were alerted about themed events so those who wanted to dress for the occasion could do so.
Both ships will host balls and parties, including a Great Gatsby Night, a Masquerade Ball, a Casino Royale party and a Glamp Out complete with s’mores on the Lido deck.
The company added that the Volendam will call at 51 ports in 23 countries and territories across five continents, making a clockwise journey down the coast of South America to Antarctica, then across the Pacific Ocean for an Asia exploration before crossing back to Alaska and through the Panama Canal.
The 93-day “Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage” aboard the Zaandam offers an exploration of the South Pacific, calling at 42 ports across the region, including a rare visit to Bora Bora.
The company stated that travelers seeking a longer cruise experience can choose from two Grand Voyages in 2027, offering guests the option to embark on the 129-day “Grand World Voyage” or a 70-day “Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage.”