Holland America Line has launched bookings for its 2028 Canada & New England cruise season, highlighting Montreal as a key port with more calls than any competing cruise line. The season features voyages aboard the Volendam and the post-Evolution Zuiderdam, offering seven- to 14-day itineraries from May through October. Departures will originate in Montréal, Québec City, Boston, New York, and Fort Lauderdale, with select sailings including late-night calls in Charlottetown and Saint John, New Brunswick, as well as overnight stays in Québec City.
Montreal Focus and Itinerary Options
The season emphasizes coastal exploration, allowing guests to experience Atlantic Canada and New England’s maritime heritage. Paul Grigsby, Holland America’s vice president of revenue planning and deployment, noted that guests can enjoy European-style culture without crossing the Atlantic. He highlighted Montreal and Québec City’s French influence, Atlantic Canada’s maritime traditions, and the immersive onboard experiences featuring regional dining and entertainment. Itinerary examples include a 9-day voyage from Montréal to New York via Québec City and Saguenay, a 10-day route from Montréal to Boston passing through Newfoundland, and a 14-day journey from Fort Lauderdale to Montréal.
Longer 14-day options sail from Québec City to Fort Lauderdale, incorporating stops in Sept-Îles, Halifax, Sydney, and Boston. The ships provide access to five national parks, seven UNESCO sites, and smaller ports larger vessels cannot reach. An 11-day Canada & New England Circle: Maritimes & New France Sails roundtrip from Montréal aboard Volendam, departing May 27 and Aug. 29, 2028, offers calls in Québec City, Saguenay, Cap-aux-Meules, Prince Edward Island, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, and St. John’s.
Evolution Ship Transformation
The 2028 season marks the Canada & New England debut of the Zuiderdam following its Evolution transformation, the line’s largest fleet investment in 153 years. New additions include Solo Verandah staterooms, Bridgeview Suites with forward-facing views, and the Grand Dutch Café. Refreshed staterooms and guest spaces draw inspiration from Holland America’s Pinnacle Class ships, enhancing the travel experience with updated amenities. The transformation integrates modern comforts with the line’s classic hospitality, ensuring guests enjoy both innovation and tradition during their voyage.
Guests can also spot marine wildlife such as beluga whales in the Saguenay Fjord, humpbacks and puffins along Newfoundland’s coast, and enjoy regional cuisine and performances by groups like Breton Thunder. The destination-focused programming extends the immersive experience beyond port visits, integrating local culture into onboard activities.
Destination Highlights and Wildlife Opportunities
Canada & New England’s natural beauty showcases diverse scenery and wildlife. Québec’s Saguenay Fjord offers beluga sightings, while Atlantic Canada’s waters host humpback, finback, and minke whales. Newfoundland’s coastal regions are known for puffin colonies. Historic cities like Montréal, Québec City, and Boston blend with maritime hubs such as Halifax and St. John’s, offering a mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
Ports like Portland, Maine, and Saint John, New Brunswick, provide intimate access to communities often overlooked by larger ships. Overnight stays in Québec City allow deeper exploration of its UNESCO-designated Old City, while late-night calls in Charlottetown and Saint John offer flexible sightseeing opportunities. The region’s seven UNESCO World Heritage sites and five national parks highlight its ecological and historical significance.
Booking Incentives and Travel Details
For a limited time, Holland America offers its Have It All Early Booking Bonus on select 2028 sailings. The promotion includes shore excursion credit, specialty dining, an Elite Beverage Package, premium Wi-Fi, prepaid Crew Appreciation, and the Best Price Guarantee. Terms and availability are limited, so travelers are encouraged to book early through authorized advisors or by calling 1-877-SAIL HAL. For more information about Holland America Line’s shore excursions or to book a cruise, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.
