Holland America Line will deploy ms Volendam and ms Zaandam in Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the South Pacific in 2011-12, marking the first time the line will have two ships sailing a series of itineraries in the region simultaneously.
Guests will be able to select from a variety of itineraries ranging from 13 to 26 days, with calls at various ports throughout the Pacific. Travelers looking for a longer exploration will be able to sail a Collectors' Voyage from 27 to 39 days long that combines two back-to-back itineraries, allowing for an in-depth experience while visiting multiple regions.
14-day Explorations Highlight Australia and New Zealand
Volendam will sail a series of 14-day cruises roundtrip from Sydney or between Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand, that explore both the North and South Islands. The nine departures from October 2011 thorough March 2012 feature extensive scenic cruising opportunities in Fiordland National Park— a UNESCO World Heritage Site— as well as Milford, Dusky and Queen Charlotte Sounds. Calls at some of the most popular ports like Wellington, Napier and Tauranga highlight the itineraries, along with several evening departures.
Following the same itinerary as Volendam, Zaandam also sails a 14-day roundtrip Sydney cruise departing November 25.
South Pacific Itineraries Feature Exotic Islands
From December 2011 through February 2012, Volendam and Zaandam will sail three 13- or 14-day roundtrip Sydney itineraries to islands in the South Pacific. The ships visit lesser-known tropical ports in New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji.