For the first time in two and a half years, cruising will return to Japan, with its government reporting that it is ready to start receiving international ships again. Following the news, Holland America Line announced that Westerdam is preparing for a series of itineraries in early 2023 that will let guests explore lands where ancient temples and cultures steeped in tradition mix with soaring skyscrapers and bustling capitals.
“We’re grateful for the work that the Japanese authorities have done to allow for a return to cruising,” said Gus Antorcha, president, Holland America Line. “Holland America Line’s guests love longer voyages to unique parts of the world, and we’ll be sailing to some incredible locations as our season in Japan and the rest of Asia begins.”
Westerdam, currently sailing in Australia and New Zealand, will start the Asia season following a drydock in Singapore in January 2023. Beginning February 3, the ship will sail a series of "Far East" voyages showcasing the diversity of countries visited while celebrating histories that have been thousands of years in the making.
Sailing roundtrip from Yokohama, or Singapore, or between Yokohama and Singapore, cruises span 11 to 14 days and can be combined to form non-repeating “Collectors’ Voyages.” Countries explored include Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia. Five different itineraries are offered including “Indonesian Discovery,” “Japan, Taiwan & The Philippines,” “Japan Explorer,” “Japan Discovery” and “Southern Japan.” Overnight calls include Singapore; Kobe and Osaka; and Phuket. The season concludes on April 24 with a 14-day “North Pacific Crossing” from Yokohama to Seattle, where Westerdam will homeport for its Alaska season.
As protocols for cruising in Asia are finalized, each departure will be added to Holland America Line’s Voyage Lookup tool, which allows guests to see specific health protocols for their cruise.
For more information, visit hollandamerica.com.
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