An Epic Global Circumnavigation
Prepare for an unprecedented travel experience in early 2028 with the unveiling of two magnificent grand voyages. One of these is a remarkable 129-day
round-the-world itinerary, commencing and concluding in Fort Lauderdale. This extensive journey will traverse the globe, offering passengers a chance to witness diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. A key highlight is the exclusive access to 'Mariners' Collection' ports, destinations not typically featured on regular sailings. These unique stops are a direct response to traveler feedback, promising moments that are truly unforgettable. The itinerary is meticulously designed to provide a profound immersion into each location, allowing guests to savor the essence of places like Antarctica, Easter Island, and the idyllic Bora Bora. The smaller ships chosen for these expeditions are instrumental in accessing more intimate and less frequented ports, enhancing the exclusivity of the experience. Furthermore, both grand voyages share a common desire to call at the iconic Bora Bora, a destination consistently favored by cruise enthusiasts for its stunning South Pacific allure and unparalleled natural beauty. This focus on curated destinations ensures that passengers are not merely visiting but truly experiencing the world.
Antarctica to the Tropics
The 2028 Grand World Voyage sets sail from Fort Lauderdale aboard the Volendam, charting a course through the Caribbean and down the eastern coast of South America. A significant portion of this journey includes scenic cruising in Antarctica, offering unparalleled views of its majestic icy landscapes and unique wildlife. Following this Antarctic exploration, the ship will navigate the dramatic Chilean Fjords, a region renowned for its rugged beauty and tranquil waters. The adventure continues eastward across the Pacific, with a highly anticipated call at Rapa Nui, more commonly known as Easter Island, famous for its mysterious Moai statues. From there, the voyage progresses to the South Pacific paradise of Bora Bora, a destination synonymous with turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows. After experiencing these South American and Pacific wonders, the itinerary takes a turn towards Asia and Africa. The ship will visit New Zealand and Australia before venturing through Indonesia and Singapore. A crossing of the Indian Ocean will lead to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, a historically significant maritime passage. The journey then proceeds across the Gulf of Guinea, passing the unique geographical point of Null Island where the Prime Meridian and Equator intersect. Calls in West Africa follow, before the final leg involves a Transatlantic crossing, with a stop in Puerto Rico en route back to Florida, completing the grand circumnavigation.
Exclusive Ports & Unique Access
A remarkable aspect of this grand voyage is the inclusion of 16 ports that are accessible exclusively through these special Grand Voyage itineraries, offering a truly unique opportunity for passengers. This means that only a select few Holland America cruisers will have the chance to visit destinations such as the remote Rapa Nui (Easter Island), the stunning coastal landscapes of Walvis Bay in Namibia, the picturesque Reunion Island, and the captivating islands of Cape Verde. Across the entire 129-day journey, the ship will dock at a total of 45 distinct ports, spanning 26 different countries and reaching all six inhabited continents. This extensive reach provides an unparalleled opportunity for global exploration. The choice of smaller, more intimate ships for these voyages is a deliberate strategy, enabling calls at smaller, less commercial ports that larger vessels cannot access. This approach allows for a more authentic and immersive experience of local cultures and environments. The common inclusion of Bora Bora in both grand voyages underscores its enduring appeal and the cruise line's commitment to providing access to sought-after destinations. The ability to spend ample time in ports like Bora Bora, as highlighted by Paul Grigsby, Vice President of Planning and Analytics, is crucial. It allows guests to engage with the destination at their own rhythm, exploring the lagoon, observing marine life, and admiring the iconic Mount Otemanu without feeling rushed, truly savoring the experience.
Pacific Odyssey & Extended Stays
Complementing the round-the-world adventure, a separate 90-day 'Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage Highlights' is also scheduled, departing from San Diego aboard the Zaandam. This voyage focuses on the vast expanse of the Pacific, commencing with a call in Hawaii. From there, it embarks on a journey to remote and captivating ports within Australia and New Zealand, regions known for their unique natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The return leg of this Pacific odyssey will feature calls at popular South Pacific islands, including Fiji, Samoa, and French Polynesia. A particularly noteworthy element of this itinerary is an extended stay in Bora Bora, lasting 15 hours and extending into the late evening, allowing for a more in-depth exploration and appreciation of its famed beauty. The voyage will dock at 41 ports across two continents, providing extensive opportunities for discovery. Several ports are designated for overnight stays, including Hobart, Sydney, and Cairns in Australia, as well as Auckland in New Zealand, and Papeete, Tahiti. These extended stays permit travelers to immerse themselves more fully in the local culture, explore the cities and surrounding areas at a relaxed pace, and experience the vibrant nightlife or enjoy leisurely evenings in these iconic locations.
