Holland America 133 Day Cruise: From Pole to Pole and Beyond

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A cruise ship sails calmly through the icy waters of Antarctica, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Credit: pexels.com, A cruise ship sails calmly through the icy waters of Antarctica, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

The Holland America 133 Day Cruise is a journey of a lifetime, spanning from the North Pole to the South Pole and beyond. You'll have the opportunity to experience the midnight sun and the aurora borealis in the Arctic, and then witness the southern lights in Antarctica.

The cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and travels to the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, and the South American coast. You'll visit over 30 ports in 26 countries, including the Galapagos Islands and Easter Island.

This epic journey will take you to the world's most remote and inhospitable regions, including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula. You'll have the chance to see incredible wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales.

The cruise ship, ms Koningsdam, is a state-of-the-art vessel with luxurious amenities and exceptional service. You'll have access to fine dining, entertainment options, and a range of onboard activities to keep you engaged throughout the journey.

Cruise Itinerary

Close-up view of Holland America Line cruise ship docked in Vancouver's harbor.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up view of Holland America Line cruise ship docked in Vancouver's harbor.

This Holland America 133-day cruise will take you on an epic journey from the South Pole to the North Pole, circumnavigating South America, Antarctica, and the Arctic Circle.

The cruise starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and transits the Panama Canal, heading south along the west of South America with overnight stops in Fuerte Amador, Panama and Lima, Peru.

You'll cruise through the Chilean Fjords and Antarctica, then continue north along the west side of South America with overnight stops in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Pole-to-Pole Cruise Itinerary

The Pole-to-Pole Cruise itinerary is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that spans 133 days, starting and ending in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

This epic voyage begins with a transit of the Panama Canal before heading south along the west coast of South America, including overnight stops in Fuerte Amador, Panama and Lima, Peru.

You'll cruise through the Chilean Fjords and into Antarctica, a truly unforgettable experience.

Two adults enjoying a sunny day on a cruise ship balcony.
Credit: pexels.com, Two adults enjoying a sunny day on a cruise ship balcony.

The ship will continue north along the west side of South America with overnight stops in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil before cruising along the Amazon River with an overnight stop in Manaus, Brazil.

You'll also visit Devil's Island and make stops in South America before crossing the Atlantic Ocean to explore the northwest coast of Africa.

A mix of ports in Africa, including overnight stops, will be followed by a journey through the Mediterranean, starting with an overnight in Barcelona, Spain.

The European leg of the journey includes stops in Portugal, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

After cruising through northern Norway, the ship will cross the north Atlantic to Iceland with an overnight stop in Reykjavik, and then visit several stops in Greenland.

The final leg of the journey takes you west and south to Canada, New England, and then back down the coast of the United States, returning to Fort Lauderdale, Florida after 133 days at sea.

Day 7: Sea Cruising

Credit: youtube.com, The Worlds Biggest Cruise Ships: 7 Days Onboard

You can start your day on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views.

The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, you can delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at pickleball, or if you're looking to relax, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon is a great place to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment.

Day 35: Drake Passage Crossing

The Drake Passage is a notorious stretch of water between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands in Antarctica.

It's where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern seas converge, making it some of the choppiest waters in the world.

A Cruise Ship on Sea
Credit: pexels.com, A Cruise Ship on Sea

If you're prone to seasickness, it's a good idea to see your doctor before you sail.

The Drake Passage is about 500 miles wide and takes the average cruise ship about 48 hours to sail from one end to the other.

Some days the water will be surprisingly calm, while others will present your cruise with sizable swells.

There's a good chance the Drake Passage will test even the most iron-stomached travelers.

Day 101: Amsterdam

As we dock at IJmuiden, get ready to experience the best of Amsterdam. The vibrant capital of the Netherlands is just a 30-45 minute drive or shuttle bus ride away.

Amsterdam's city centre is famous for its picturesque canals and historic charm. Start your visit with a leisurely canal cruise to see the city's stunning 17th-century architecture from a unique perspective.

The Anne Frank House, located on Prinsengracht, is a must-see landmark that provides a poignant glimpse into history. You can also explore the Museum Quarter, home to the renowned Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum.

Scenic view of Amsterdam canal with historic Dutch buildings and canal cruise boats under a clear sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Scenic view of Amsterdam canal with historic Dutch buildings and canal cruise boats under a clear sky.

For a local experience, wander through the lively Jordaan district, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Be sure to stop by the Albert Cuyp Market to sample Dutch treats like stroopwafels and fresh herring.

IJmuiden itself offers attractions like the expansive Zuid-Kennemerland National Park and the historic Forteiland, providing a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What's Included

On a Holland America 133-day cruise, you'll find a wide range of included amenities to enhance your journey.

You'll receive several pillow gifts throughout the voyage, including external chargers, customized plates and wall hangings, small duffle bags, custom bowls, and luggage tags.

Dinner in the main dining room, buffet area, basic teas, coffees, iced tea, and lemonade are all included in the base fare. You'll also enjoy an afternoon tea service on days at sea and a Sunday brunch when the ship is at sea.

There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including live music, games, and expanded activities from traditional Holland America Line cruises.

What's Included on a Grand Journey?

A serene cruise ship sailing on a calm sea with a bright horizon in the background.
Credit: pexels.com, A serene cruise ship sailing on a calm sea with a bright horizon in the background.

A Grand Journey with Holland America Line is a treat. You'll receive several pillow gifts throughout the voyage, ranging from external chargers to customized plates and wall hangings.

Luggage shipping is also included in some fares, making it convenient to travel without lugging your bags around. Your luggage will be sent to the ship before you leave home and shipped back through a service like Fed Ex when you disembark.

In the base fare, you'll enjoy dinner in the main dining room, buffet area, and afternoon tea service on days at sea. You'll also have access to basic teas, coffees, iced tea, and lemonade.

Expect a lively entertainment scene with 15 new production shows coming to the theater, as well as live music, games, and activities. Some activities are expanded from traditional offerings, including book clubs, choir, and Port-to-Table cooking demonstrations.

You may also have the opportunity to participate in activities provided by supplemental staff, which can include bridge instructors, arts & craft instructors, knitting clubs, and more. These activities are subject to change depending on the specific Grand Voyage.

Holland America's Nearly All-Inclusive Cruising: Worth It?

White Cruise Ship on the Sea
Credit: pexels.com, White Cruise Ship on the Sea

Holland America's Have It All package makes for nearly all-inclusive cruising. This premium package is among the best deals in cruising for the right guest.

It's worth noting that this package isn't for everyone. It's specifically designed for the right passengers who can get the most out of its benefits.

The package includes a range of perks, such as a drink package, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi. It's a great value for those who plan to take advantage of these extras.

However, if you're a light drinker or don't plan to dine at specialty restaurants, the package might not be worth it. It's essential to weigh the costs and benefits before deciding.

For the right passengers, the Have It All package can be a game-changer. It can save you money in the long run and provide a more relaxed and enjoyable cruise experience.

Cruising Options

A day at sea on Holland America's 133-day cruise is a treat you won't want to miss. You can start your morning with a game of pickleball on the top-level decks, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views.

A large cruise ship gliding through clear blue ocean waters on a sunny day.
Credit: pexels.com, A large cruise ship gliding through clear blue ocean waters on a sunny day.

The Greenhouse Spa & Salon offers a range of therapeutic spa treatments to rejuvenate your mind and body. The Kids Club keeps younger guests entertained with fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or take a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

Evening entertainment options abound, including world-class performances at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the ship's restaurants, followed by a show.

If you're looking for some exercise, you can take a Pilates class at the Fitness Center. The Greenhouse Spa & Salon also offers a range of spa treatments to help you relax and unwind.

The ship's restaurants offer a variety of meal options, including a meal at one of the ship's restaurants. Evening entertainment options include a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage.

Life Onboard

Life onboard a Holland America 133 day cruise is a unique experience. You'll be surrounded by less than 1500 guests, allowing for a more intimate cruising experience.

White Cruise Ship on Sea
Credit: pexels.com, White Cruise Ship on Sea

One of the highlights is the attentive service, which ensures that your every need is met. You'll feel right at home in your stateroom suite, where you can enjoy relaxed dining.

Fine dining and casual dining options are available onboard, with some options even being complimentary. You can also indulge in specialty dining for a unique culinary experience.

From wine tasting to city tours, there's no shortage of exciting activities to choose from. Zip-lining and photography tours are also on the agenda, offering a thrilling way to explore new destinations.

Similar Cruises

If you're looking for more epic cruise experiences, consider these similar options.

Holland America's 133-day cruise is a record-breaker, but other lines offer extended voyages.

The 128-day World Cruise on Crystal Cruises offers 65 ports in 24 countries.

Cunard's 66-night Queen Mary 2 World Cruise features 15 overnight stays in port, giving you ample time to explore each destination.

Princess Cruises' 111-day Grand World Tour includes a scenic ride through the Panama Canal.

Royal Caribbean's 274-night Ultimate World Cruise is a behemoth of a journey, but it's not for the faint of heart.

Here's an interesting read: Viking River Cruises Germany

Suites

Stormy clouds with dramatic sky above smooth lake made with long exposure photography, Province, Friesland, Holland
Credit: pexels.com, Stormy clouds with dramatic sky above smooth lake made with long exposure photography, Province, Friesland, Holland

The suites on Holland America's 133-day cruise are truly fit for royalty. Many of these spacious accommodations feature a private verandah for taking in the breathtaking ocean views.

You'll find suites ranging from 300 to 1,236 square feet in size, offering ample space to relax and unwind. Some suites even come with a separate living room and dining area.

The Vista Suite, for example, measures 1,142 square feet and features a private verandah, a separate living room, and a marble-lined bathroom. Other suites, like the Neptune Suite, offer a more intimate setting with a private balcony and a spacious bathroom.

Whether you choose a suite with a private verandah or a more intimate setting, you'll enjoy luxurious amenities like a marble-lined bathroom, a sitting area, and a private balcony. Some suites also come with a concierge service to help you plan your cruise.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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