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Your Global Cruise Guide: Step Aboard Holland America Line’s 2027 Grand World Voyage

Marti Gonzalez
Marti Gonzalez 6 Min Read
A cruise ship in a bay surrounded by ice and penguins

Article summary:  

Holland America Line’s 2027 Grand World Voyage is a 129-day luxury cruise visiting 53 ports across six continents. Sailing aboard the elegant Volendam, travelers can choose the full circumnavigation or shorter regional segments, all while enjoying world-class dining, enriching programs, and immersive shore excursions. With rare destinations like Easter Island and St. Helena, plus overnight stays in iconic cities, this milestone 60th world cruise blends comfort, culture, and adventure into a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

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Imagine calling a luxury ship your home for more than four months, sailing to 53 ports across six continents  and discovering the world’s most rare and bucket-list destinations—all without the hassle of repacking. Holland America Line’s 2027 Grand World Voyage marks a milestone: the 60th world cruise since the line’s first circumnavigation in 1958. This once-in-a-lifetime journey lets travelers choose the full global adventure or a shorter, region-focused segment, all while enjoying unparalleled comfort, service  and style.

From the untouched beaches of Easter Island to the vibrant culture of Cape Town, every stop offers immersive experiences designed to inspire curiosity, create memories  and connect travelers with the heart of each destination. Onboard, life is equally extraordinary, with world-class dining, enriching programs  and a welcoming community that transforms every voyage into a shared adventure unlike any other.

Itinerary map for Holland America 2027 World Cruise voyage

What is a Holland America Grand World Voyage?

The Grand World Voyage is Holland America Line’s ultimate extended cruise experience—a full circumnavigation of the globe that spans multiple continents and combines major cities with rare, off-the-beaten-path ports. It’s designed for travelers seeking a truly immersive journey, blending cultural enrichment, luxury and adventure over an unparalleled 129-day itinerary.

In 2027, the Grand World Voyage departs and returns to Fort Lauderdale aboard the elegant Volendam, visiting 53 ports across 28 countries, including seven overnight stays in Bordeaux, Copenhagen, Cape Town, Bali, Sydney, Papeete  and Callao. The journey also features exclusive stops at Jamestown, St. Helena  and Georgetown, Ascension Island, part of Holland America’s prestigious Mariners’ Collection.

For travelers with limited time or who want to focus on a particular region, Holland America offers shorter Grand Voyage segments—still immersive, but regionally focused—making it an ideal option for solo travelers, couples, or families who want a taste of this extraordinary journey.

Female tourist at temple gates of heaven Bali Indonesia

Why the Grand World Voyage is the journey of a lifetime

Step aboard the Grand World Voyage  and step into a world of adventure, discovery  and luxury. This isn’t just a cruise—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey that spans six continents, dozens of countries  and countless unforgettable experiences.

  • Travel seamlessly—Unpack once

Say goodbye to endless packing and hotel transfers. On the Grand World Voyage, your luxurious cabin travels with you, giving you more time to explore breathtaking cities, remote islands  and hidden treasures around the globe. Every day is a new adventure—without the hassle.

  • Exclusive destinations you can’t reach anywhere else

From the mysterious moai of Easter Island to the volcanic beauty of St. Helena and Ascension Island, these bucket-list ports are part of Holland America’s Mariners’ Collection, offering rare access and curated experiences you won’t find on any other cruise.

  • Deep cultural connections

Travel is about more than sightseeing—it’s about living the story of each destination. Enjoy expert-led lectures, hands-on workshops  and immersive shore excursions that connect you with local history, traditions  and cuisine. Every stop is an opportunity to discover, learn  and grow.

  • Flexible options for every traveler

Not ready to commit to all 129 days? No problem. Holland America Line offers a variety of shorter Grand Voyage segments, allowing you to experience a portion of this epic journey without committing to the full circumnavigation. These segments range from 14 to 72 days, providing flexibility to suit your schedule and travel preferences. Each segment is designed to offer a unique and enriching experience, with carefully curated itineraries that highlight the best of the destinations visited.

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Luxury cooking demo on board Holland America World cruise

Grand World Voyage onboard activities

Life aboard the Grand World Voyage is crafted to inspire, educate and rejuvenate. Every day brings opportunities to expand your horizons, savor new flavors and connect with fellow travelers while exploring the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

Onboard enrichment

  • Lectures and workshops: Discover the stories behind every destination with expert speakers on art, history and culture. Each session offers insights that deepen your understanding and connection to the world.
  • Culinary experiences: Savor the world on your plate with interactive cooking demonstrations and guest chef events. From Southeast Asian spices to European pastries, every dish reflects the flavors of the places you visit.
  • Wellness programs: Recharge with daily yoga, guided fitness classes and indulgent spa treatments. Whether stretching on deck at sunrise or enjoying a soothing massage, wellness is woven into every day.
  • Destination Dining™: Taste regional specialties crafted from fresh, local ingredients. From Sydney oysters to Argentinian Black Angus beef, each meal is a journey of its own.
  • Signature events: Celebrate in style with Captain’s Galas, themed evenings and exclusive guest chef experiences that create lasting memories and connections.
Husavik Big Whale Safari Adventure Holland America World Cruise

Shore excursions and Mariners’ Collection ports

Every port is an invitation to explore, connect and uncover hidden gems. Curated excursions and rare stops make every day ashore as memorable as life onboard.

  • Mariners’ Collection: Visit extraordinary, seldom-seen ports like Ascension Island, St. Helena and Jamestown. These exclusive destinations offer experiences unavailable on standard cruises, from historic landmarks to untouched natural landscapes.
  • Overland tours: Extend your adventure with optional multi-day trips, such as a seven-day journey from Phuket to the Taj Mahal. Immerse yourself in culture, history and scenery far beyond the dock.
  • Guided cultural tours: Wander historic neighborhoods, museums and landmarks with expert guides who reveal the stories and traditions that shape each destination.
  • Wildlife and adventure: Encounter nature up close on excursions in the Galápagos and other pristine ecosystems. Hike, snorkel and observe remarkable wildlife in its natural habitat.
  • Culinary and wine experiences: Savor regional flavors through local markets, vineyard tours and cooking classes. Learn from local chefs and artisans while tasting authentic dishes and beverages.
  • Flexible excursion options: From active adventures to leisurely sightseeing, each experience is designed to match your interests and energy level, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect day ashore.

Holland America’s Destination Dining™ brings the flavors of the world to your plate, complemented by guest chef events and themed dinners. Whether enjoying casual meals or formal dinners, each dining experience connects passengers to the destinations they visit, making every meal an opportunity for discovery.

Tamarind Mongolian Beef Lamb Chops on world cruise

Global flavors at sea: Dining on Holland America’s Volendam

Dining on Holland America Line’s Volendam is a journey in itself with flavors as diverse as the ports you’ll explore. Start your day with global bites at the Lido Market, linger over elegant multi-course dinners in the Dining Room or grab a perfectly grilled burger poolside at Dive-In. When you crave something special, Pinnacle Grill delivers with hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood, while afternoon tea and 24-hour in-room dining keep indulgence just a request away. From refined to relaxed, every meal is a passport to satisfaction.

Group of cruisers dining

A community at sea: Relationships that last a lifetime

Life aboard a Grand World Voyage is as much about people as it is about destinations. While friendships can spark on a short cruise, months at sea with the same group of travelers fosters connections that feel more like family. Nearly 20 percent of Grand World Voyage travelers sail solo, yet few ever feel alone.

Repeat cruisers often book future voyages so they can travel with friends they’ve made on previous trips, keeping in touch between sailings. The shared experiences of long days at sea, engaging lectures and immersive shore excursions create a sense of camaraderie that extends well beyond the voyage itself.

This community feeling also extends to the ship’s crew, who develop genuine relationships with passengers. Crew members remember daily drink orders, dietary preferences, cabin choices and even the names and birthdays of travelers’ children. Guests, in turn, remember the names of favorite crew members and often look forward to seeing them year after year.

On a Grand World Voyage, the shared excitement of exploring the world, combined with the welcoming atmosphere onboard, creates a vibrant, inclusive community where solo travelers, couples and families alike feel at home.

Savor the sea. Dive into Holland America’s Global Fresh Fish Program with Chef Morimoto and taste sustainable luxury at every port. 

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Couple dining on board luxury world voyage

Practical tips for first-time World Cruise travelers

Traveling on a Holland America Grand World Voyage is more than a vacation—it’s a journey around the globe with new sights, cultures and experiences at every port. With a little planning, you can focus on enjoying each destination instead of worrying about logistics.

  • Visas and vaccinations: Check entry requirements for every port and keep your documents organized. Regulations can change so review them before you go.
  • Travel insurance: Protecting yourself and your trip is essential on a World Cruise. Comprehensive travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage and other unforeseen events. AAA offers travel insurance options to provide peace of mind for long journeys. Learn more here: AAA Travel Insurance.
  • Packing smart: Layered clothing for all climates, formal wear for gala nights and comfortable shoes for excursions are essential. Don’t forget adapters, sunscreen and personal medications.
  • Health and wellness: Stay hydrated, rest well and keep up your health routine. Ships have limited medical facilities but carry prescriptions and essentials.
  • Connectivity: Internet may be limited in remote areas. Plan ahead with international phone plans or portable Wi-Fi.
  • Budgeting: Meals and accommodations are included but plan for extras like specialty dining, excursions, gratuities and shopping.
  • Excursions: Book popular tours early and mix cultural, active and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
  • Stay flexible: Embrace new cultures, time zones and experiences with an open mind—it’s part of the magic of a World Cruise.
Sydney Australia Holland America cruise

Why book your Grand World Voyage with AAA

Working with AAA to book your Grand World Voyage offers more than a reservation. You’ll enjoy professional advice, exclusive advantages and the comfort of knowing your travel is well planned. Other perks include:

  • Exclusive promotions: Onboard credits, cabin upgrades or flexible booking options.
  • Expert support: Assistance with itinerary selection, cabin choice, visas and insurance.
  • Trusted agents: Streamline complex logistics so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
  • Unmatched value: Receive $1,000 shipboard credit per guest on Holland America Line’s 2027 Grand World Voyage—exclusive for AAA Members.

Why a world cruise should be on your bucket list

The 2027 Holland America Grand World Voyage itineraries are more than a cruise—they’re a transformative journey combining luxury, adventure and cultural immersion. With options for the full circumnavigation or shorter regional segments, it suits solo travelers, couples and families alike. From immersive shore excursions to enriching onboard programs, every moment is designed to create lasting memories and deepen understanding of the world.

Booking through AAA ensures peace of mind, exclusive perks and expert support, making this world voyage an experience you can fully enjoy without stress. For travelers seeking the ultimate journey around the globe, the Grand World Voyage is unmatched.



Exclusive AAA Member Benefit

AAA Members that embark on Holland America Line’s 2027 Grand World Voyage enjoy  a $1,000 shipboard credit per passenger—perfect for unforgettable experiences at sea.


World Cruise Frequently Asked Questions

A World Cruise is a multi-week or multi-month journey across continents and oceans, visiting dozens of ports. It offers travelers a seamless way to experience iconic cities, historic sites, remote islands and tropical paradises without changing accommodations frequently.

Lengths vary from 14-day segments to the full 129-day circumnavigation. Travelers can also choose intermediate segments focused on specific regions such as Europe, Africa or the South Pacific.

Yes. Shorter Grand Voyage segments let travelers explore select regions in depth, enjoy exclusive excursions and experience world-class ship amenities without committing to the full circumnavigation.

Itineraries combine well-known ports with off-the-beaten-path destinations. Guests may enjoy overnight stays in Bordeaux, Copenhagen or Cape Town, explore tropical paradises like Bali and Papeete, or visit rare ports such as Jamestown, St. Helena and Georgetown, Ascension Island from Holland America’s Mariners’ Collection.

Shore excursions vary. Some are included, while others are optional and can be booked before sailing or onboard. Options range from cultural tours to adventure activities, with enhanced or private excursions available for an additional fee.

World Cruises combine luxury, comfort and enrichment. Guests enjoy spacious accommodations, fine dining, entertainment, wellness programs, lectures and social activities, all designed to complement the destinations visited.

Plan for diverse climates and activities. Essentials include layered clothing, walking shoes, swimwear, light jackets and versatile attire for casual and formal dining. Extras such as travel adapters, binoculars and cameras enhance the experience ashore.

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