Holland America Line has just announced a unique new cruise itinerary designed for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Setting sail aboard the Zaandam, the 18-Day Great Bear Rainforest and Alaskan Explorer itinerary offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of Alaska and British Columbia—and the chance to spot the elusive ‘Spirit Bear,’ a rare white-coated bear species native to the Great Bear Rainforest in Canada.
Journey Highlights and Itinerary Details
Departing from Vancouver on September 16, 2026, and returning on October 4, 2026, this roundtrip voyage offers an extensive look at the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Here’s a closer look at what makes this cruise itinerary one-of-a-kind:
- Scenic Cruising Through Breathtaking Passages
Over the course of two days, guests will navigate some of British Columbia’s most scenic waterways, including Seymour Narrows, Bella Bella, Grenville Channel, the Great Bear Rainforest, Princess Royal Island, and sections of the Inside Passage. This time is designed for spotting the “big three Ws”—whales, wildlife, and waterfalls—and, for those lucky enough, the rare Spirit Bear. - Stops at Eight Alaskan Ports, with an Overnight in Anchorage
The Zaandam will call at eight different ports in Alaska, allowing passengers to experience both the vibrant communities and remote wilderness that make this region so special. The overnight stay in Anchorage will allow time for a deeper exploration of the city and surrounding areas. - Extended Stop in Prince Rupert, BC
A highlight for nature lovers, the itinerary includes an 11-hour stop in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, where guests can book excursions to explore even more of the Great Bear Rainforest. This area is one of the few places in the world where travelers might glimpse the Spirit Bear in its natural habitat. - Scenic Cruising of Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay
No Alaskan cruise is complete without a close-up view of these iconic glaciers. Passengers aboard Zaandam will have ample time to marvel at the power and beauty of Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay, two of the region’s most dramatic natural attractions. - A Full Day of Inside Passage Cruising
As the ship makes its way back to Vancouver, guests will experience a full day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, famed for its narrow fjords, steep cliffs, and wildlife-rich waters.
Editor’s Note: If you’re cruising out of Vancouver, take a look at the list of pre-cruise hotels in Vancouver we recommend.
A New Approach to Alaska Cruising
“We’ve been sailing in Alaska for over 75 years—longer than any other cruise line—and hundreds of thousands have experienced its magic sailing with us. By building this itinerary, we’re giving our guests a new way to experience the region,” said Paul Grigsby, Holland America Line’s vice president of revenue planning and deployment. Unlike shorter itineraries, this 18-day journey allows for a slower pace, with extra time to fully immerse in Alaska’s majestic landscapes and vibrant local cultures.
Pricing and Availability
Starting at $3,029 per person (inclusive of taxes and fees), this itinerary offers a premium Alaska cruising experience with added value for the extended voyage and unique destinations. For those interested in shorter options, Holland America Line also offers two seven-day cruises to the Great Bear Rainforest on the Noordam, available in October 2025 and April 2026.
Book Now for 2026
Bookings for the Great Bear Rainforest and Alaskan Explorer aboard Zaandam are now open. Additionally, Holland America Line’s 2026 Cruisetours, which combine land and sea adventures, are also available for those seeking even more immersive travel experiences.
Something worth mentioning while in Alaska is checking out the White Pass Summit train. I documented my experience during my Holland America Alaskan cruise last year on my YouTube channel. Take a look below!
Happy cruising!
