Holland America Line unveils 2027–2028 Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific season - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Holland America Line has launched its 2027–2028 season for Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, offering longer itineraries, immersive Legendary Voyages and new overnight stays in Australia and Fiji. Sailing between September 2027 and March 2028, three ships will operate routes ranging from 14 to 35 days, giving guests in-depth access to coral reefs, volcanic landscapes and bucket-list destinations such as Bora Bora and the Bay of Islands.

“Whether guests want to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Milford Sound, the crystal-clear waters of Fiji and the South Pacific, or encounter the region’s iconic wildlife, we’ve designed this season to deliver the authentic experiences travelers are looking for,” said Paul Grigsby, vice president of deployment and revenue planning. “We’ve also added time for guests to linger longer with new overnight stays in Melbourne, Cairns and Lautoka — joining a growing list of ports in the region where we extend the experience beyond a single day.”

Legendary Voyages: deeper exploration across the region

The season features several Legendary Voyages designed for travellers who want a richer, more meaningful exploration of the region’s landscapes and cultures. A highlight is the 26-Day Australia, Coral Sea & Fiji Legendary Voyage, visiting 14 ports across Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga and Australia’s east coast, complete with overnight stays in Cairns and Lautoka. Guests can snorkel vibrant reefs, visit traditional island villages and relax on remote white-sand beaches.

New overnight stays

Three ports will feature extended stays this season:

·        Melbourne – stroll through café-lined laneways, explore galleries and enjoy the city’s vibrant arts scene.

·        Cairns – snorkel the Great Barrier Reef or take the Kuranda Railway through forested mountain slopes.

·        Lautoka – join a traditional kava ceremony, enjoy a natural spa experience in thermal mud pools or visit colourful Hindu temples.

These overnights allow guests to explore at a slower pace and experience the region beyond the waterfront.

Wildlife encounters and UNESCO highlights

More than 100 wildlife and nature tours have been curated for the season. Guests can visit active sheep farms, explore glowworm grottos, and try spotting fairy penguins in their natural habitats. The itineraries also offer access to 13 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including New Caledonia’s lagoons, Australia’s Gondwana Rainforests and the Sydney Opera House.

Destination dining on board

Holland America Line’s Destination Dining programme brings regional flavours to the table. Guests can sample Australian meat pies, pavlovas, New Zealand green-lipped mussels, tropical fruits and freshly prepared mahi-mahi.

Key itineraries at a glance

·        26-Day Australia, Coral Sea & Fiji Legendary Voyage – Westerdam, Jan. 4, 2028, Sydney to Auckland; 14 ports; overnights in Cairns and Lautoka.

·        35-Day Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas Legendary Voyage – Zaandam (Oct. 14, 2027) or Koningsdam (Feb. 19, 2028), roundtrip San Diego; extended stays in Honolulu, Papeete, Raiatea and Moorea depending on the ship.

·        34-Day Legendary South Pacific Crossing – Westerdam, Sept. 19, 2027, Seattle to Sydney; 14 ports; overnights in Honolulu and Papeete.

·        14-Day Australia & New Zealand – Westerdam, various departures between Sydney and Auckland; calls in Melbourne and key New Zealand ports, with select itineraries including Milford Sound.

·        14-Day New Zealand Discovery – Westerdam, Feb. 13, 2028, roundtrip Sydney; eight New Zealand ports plus Milford Sound.

·        16-Day South Australia Discovery Holiday – Westerdam, Dec. 19, 2027, roundtrip Sydney; nine Australian ports, late-night stays in Philip Island and Hobart, and an overnight in Melbourne; festive onboard programming.

Have It All Early Booking Bonus

Guests booking the 2027–2028 season with the Have It All premium package will receive included shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi — plus complimentary prepaid crew appreciation and upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi.

Loyalty members in the Mariner Society can receive up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom when booking early. Reservations must be made by Feb. 16, 2026 to qualify.

For more information, travellers can consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL, or visit hollandamerica.com.

Image Credit: © HAL