If you’ve ever dreamed of taking one long, unforgettable journey across the globe… this might be it
Holland America Line has just unveiled details of its 2028 Grand Voyages, and these aren’t your typical cruise itineraries.
We’re talking about months at sea, dozens of destinations, and the kind of travel experiences most people only plan once in a lifetime.
And this time, the routes have been designed with one thing in mind: giving guests more meaningful, deeper travel experiences—not just quick port visits.
Two Very Different (But Equally Impressive) Long Voyages
For 2028, travelers will have two major options to choose from—both offering extended time at sea and access to destinations that standard cruises simply don’t cover.
Option 1: The Ultimate World Journey
The headline itinerary is the 2028 Grand World Voyage, a massive 129-day sailing aboard Volendam.
What makes this voyage stand out:
- Round-trip sailing from Fort Lauderdale.
- Departure date: January 4, 2028.
- Visits to 45 ports across 26 countries.
- Covers six continents.
- Includes access to 31 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Big picture:
This isn’t just a cruise—it’s a full global journey, designed for travelers who want to experience multiple regions in one continuous trip.
Option 2: Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific
If a full world cruise feels like too much time, there’s a slightly shorter—but still incredible—option.
The Grand Australia & New Zealand Voyage spans 90 days and sails aboard Zaandam.
Key highlights:
- Round-trip sailing from San Diego.
- Departure date: January 30, 2028.
- Visits to 41 ports across 12 countries.
- Crosses the International Date Line.
- Includes 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Destinations include:
- The Great Barrier Reef.
- New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park.
- Remote South Pacific islands.
Why this route stands out:
It focuses more deeply on one region, giving travelers more time to explore rather than rushing between continents.
Built Around What Travelers Actually Want
According to Beth Bodensteiner, these new itineraries weren’t created randomly.
They’ve been shaped based on years of feedback from repeat cruisers—especially those who have already experienced long voyages and wanted something more immersive.
What guests can expect:
- Longer stays in key destinations.
- Access to less-visited ports.
- A mix of iconic landmarks and unique stops.
Some of the standout experiences include:
- Scenic cruising through Antarctica.
- Sailing past the Chilean Fjords.
- Navigating the Beagle Channel.
- Visiting remote locations like Easter Island and Bora Bora.
Interesting detail:
One of the more unusual highlights is passing near “Null Island”—the point where the Equator and Prime Meridian intersect at 0° latitude and longitude.
Why These Ships Were Chosen
Both voyages will take place on mid-sized ships rather than mega vessels.
That’s a deliberate choice.
Why ships like Volendam and Zaandam matter:
- They can access smaller, less crowded ports.
- Offer a more intimate onboard atmosphere.
- Allow for more unique routing options.
Simple advantage:
Bigger ships can’t always go where these ships can—and that opens up more interesting destinations.
Early Booking Perks Could Be Significant
For travelers considering one of these extended voyages, Holland America is offering some serious early booking incentives.
For the 129-day World Voyage:
- Up to $10,700 in benefits per stateroom.
- Includes onboard credit, Wi-Fi, and airfare discounts.
For the 90-day Australia & New Zealand sailing:
- Up to $8,500 in early booking perks.
Additional benefits may include:
- Onboard spending credit.
- Airfare assistance through Flight Ease.
- Priority booking access.
Important note:
Guests can place a Future Cruise Request before general bookings open to secure priority confirmation.
What Happens Next?
While these cruises are still a couple of years away, interest in Grand Voyages tends to build quickly—especially among repeat cruisers.
With limited space and high demand, early planning is often key.
Not Just a Cruise: A Long-Term Travel Experience
These new itineraries aren’t designed for quick getaways.
They’re built for travelers who want:
- Time to truly explore destinations.
- A slower, more immersive journey.
- A chance to see multiple parts of the world in one trip.
Whether it’s a full global circumnavigation or a deep dive into the South Pacific, these voyages offer something that shorter cruises simply can’t.
And for many travelers?
This kind of journey isn’t just a vacation—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
