Holland America Line has revealed the inaugural itineraries for its new ship, Nieuw Statendam, along with expanded sailings to Mexico.
The Nieuw Statendam, sister ship to Koningsdam and the second Pinnacle-class vessel, is scheduled for delivery on December 1, 2018, and will embark on its maiden voyage on December 5. After leaving the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the 14-day transatlantic crossing will depart from Rome and arrive in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The premier itinerary includes calls in Cartagena, Colombia; Málaga, Spain; and Madeira, followed by seven sea days and an overnight in Fort Lauderdale prior to disembarkation.
“Holland America Line’s last season in Mexico was very popular, so we are adding capacity for the next season so that more of our guests can enjoy these itineraries that truly showcase the allure of the destination,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Our Mexico cruises offer convenience and ease, especially for multigenerational families seeking a unique vacation. By calling at three ports, we’re able to fully immerse our guests in the culture, history, entertainment, recreation and cuisine of the country.”
From Fort Lauderdale, Nieuw Statendam will spend the 2018–19 winter season in the Caribbean on weeklong sailings, with additional three-, four- and 10-day variants available. All itineraries will include the line’s private island, Half Moon Cay, and call on popular ports such as Key West, Florida; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Nassau, Bahamas; Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Willemstad, Curaçao; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Cozumel, Mexico.
The 2017–18 Mexico cruise season will begin with a Vista-class ship departing from San Diego, California, to the Mexican Riviera. Between Nieuw Statendam and the Vista-class vessel, Holland America Line will offer a total of 11 weeklong cruises to the region.
Onboard Mexican-themed experiences will include local craft demonstrations, language and dance classes, and mariachi band performances. Explorations Central (EXC) programming will feature cultural EXC Talks and regional cooking demonstrations, as well as hands-on classes and mixology sessions. The onboard atmosphere will be further enhanced with regional floral arrangements and themed towel presentations to reflect Mexican traditions and hospitality.