The lengthy flight can deter some U.S. travelers from visiting Australia, but a new itinerary from Holland America Line offers an alternative. The cruise line’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage will set sail round-trip from San Diego, California in 2026, taking guests to and from Australia over a span of 93 days.
“Our Grand Voyages are celebrated for connecting guests with the world’s most captivating destinations while sailing roundtrip from the United States,” said Beth Bodensteiner, the line’s chief commercial officer, in a press release. “This itinerary not only includes the expected highlights of Australia and New Zealand but also features often-requested yet rarely visited ports throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.”
When is Holland America’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage?
The cruise is set to depart on January 4, 2026, aboard the line’s 1,432-guest Zaandam ship.
Where will the cruise sail?
The ship will visit 44 ports across 10 countries. The journey begins in Hawaii, then heads to the South Pacific. It will almost circumnavigate Australia and visit New Zealand before stopping in Tonga and French Polynesia on the return trip to San Diego.
The itinerary includes two days of scenic cruising at the Great Barrier Reef and four late-night departures in Adelaide, Australia, and the French Polynesian islands of Moorea, Raiatea, and Huahine. Guests will also enjoy overnight stays in six ports, including Honolulu, Sydney, and Auckland, allowing ample time for exploration.
How much does the cruise cost?
The cruise starts at $17,699 per person, based on double occupancy, according to Holland America’s website. Travelers who book by June 16, 2025, can enjoy perks such as a Surf Wi-Fi package, airport transfers in San Diego, a 3% pay-in-full discount, and more, with benefits varying by stateroom category.
