In an age where travel is more than a journey, Holland America Line unveils its 2025-2026 South America and Antarctica cruise lineup, promising Australian travellers an expedition into the heart of iconic sites and UNESCO marvels. Spanning 14 to 22 days, these voyages chart a course from the historic Panama Canal to the pristine wilderness of Antarctica, setting a new benchmark in luxury cruising.
Launching bookings for the 2025-2026 season, Holland America Line’s ambition is crystal clear: to offer more than just a cruise, a passage through history, culture, and untouched natural beauty. The longer cruise durations, up to 22 days, are meticulously designed to immerse guests in the region’s vibrant cultural tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and historical richness. This includes exclusive visits to 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.
From November 2025 through March 2026, the Oosterdam, a jewel in Holland America Line’s crown, will traverse between San Antonio (Santiago), Chile, and Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Each itinerary is a masterstroke of travel planning, offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to witness South America’s iconic landmarks, such as Iguazu Falls, Machu Picchu, and Torres del Paine National Park, coupled with the unforgettable vistas of Antarctica.
Ryan Taibel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing in Australia and New Zealand at Holland America Line, articulates this vision with palpable excitement. “We are thrilled to present our Aussie guests with a rich palette of South America and Antarctica experiences. From tropical wonders to glacial majesties, from bustling metropolises to the world’s most isolated havens, our mid-sized ships navigate not just oceans, but deep cultural connections,” he says.
Highlights of the South America and Antarctica season aboard Oosterdam are spectacular. The 14-day “South America Passage” itineraries between San Antonio (Santiago) and Buenos Aires promise an intimate encounter with Buenos Aires during an overnight visit, allowing guests to indulge in the city’s famous tango shows and vibrant nightlife. The journey includes stops at Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabuco, and Punta Arenas in Chile; Ushuaia in Argentina, Stanley in the Falkland Islands; and Montevideo in Uruguay. The scenic splendour of the Chilean Fjords, Strait of Magellan, and Glacier Alley form the backdrop to this majestic voyage.
For those drawn to the mysteries of ancient civilizations, the 17-day “Panama Canal and Inca Discovery” cruises offer a unique blend of modern engineering marvels and ancient wonders. Sailing between Fort Lauderdale and San Antonio (Santiago), these cruises feature a two-night stay in Callao (Lima), Peru, granting ample time for an overland tour to the enigmatic Machu Picchu. The Galapagos Islands beckon as an optional excursion, adding another layer of awe to this journey.
The 22-day “South America and Antarctica” itineraries present the ultimate adventure, blending South American cities’ cultural vibrancy with Antarctica’s untouched beauty. Over four days, guests will be enthralled by the Antarctic landscape, guided by onboard naturalists highlighting the region’s unique wildlife, including penguin colonies and whale pods.
Holland America Line’s 2025–2026 South America cruises are not just about the destinations but also the journey. Onboard, guests can indulge in various authentic experiences, from sampling fresh, locally sourced delicacies to engaging in immersive shore excursions that bring local traditions to life. The “Have It All” early booking bonus enriches this experience, offering an array of amenities, including shore excursions, specialty dining, a beverage package, and Wi-Fi.
Priced from $3,129 per person, twin share, these cruises are more than vacations; they are a gateway to a world of discovery, comfort, and unparalleled adventure. For more information and to embark on this journey of a lifetime, travellers are invited to consult a travel advisor or visit hollandamerica.com.
Written by: Don Power
