This year, Holland America will celebrate its 70th year in Alaska, and to mark the milestone there are some special events planned for every Alaskan voyage.
In addition to exclusive entertainment that was created especially for the anniversary that falls in the same year as Denali National Park’s centennial, the cruise line will showcase a new Alaska-centric menu with dishes created by the line’s own Culinary Council, two anniversary Alaska beers, commemorative gifts, and more.
Onboard Entertainment
Holland America has a partnership with BBC Earth, and for the 70th anniversary, a new Alaska in Concert multimedia production will be debuting. Â Combining live music set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring footage from the BBC Earth television series, Wild Alaska, audiences will experience the cycle of four seasons and see that the Last Frontier is as unforgiving as it is beautiful.
Dining, Drinks, and Culinary Shows
This season, America’s Test Kitchen will turn up the heat with its Every Salmon onboard coking show featuring tips to select and prepare the favorite Alaskan fish. Â Guests will also be able to enjoy the Midnight Sun cocktail created by Master Mixologist Dale DeGroff.
The main dining room will showcase special décor and custom menus that celebrate Holland America’s heritage with new dishes created by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin and the company’s Culinary Council.  A 70th anniversary Baked Alaska will be the culmination of the celebratory meal.
Brewing beer in Alaska isn’t easy, but it’s growing in reputation and has become a favorite among Holland America guests. Â The line currently features beers by Alaska Brewing Co., both on menus and during tastings. Â This year, the selection will expand by introducing an exclusive Holland America Line Pale Ale. Â Another exclusive anniversary beer by Denali Brewing Company will be available at Denali for guests on Land+Sea Journeys.
Special Touches & Departure Details
Other special touches during this 70th anniversary season will include a themed sail away party and 70th anniversary toast on every cruise. Â Before or after embarking, Land+Sea guests will enjoy special menu items and other anniversary touches on the land portion of their adventure, and receive a commemorative backpack with a special native-designed logo by Tlingit and Athabascan artist Crystal Worl that will be presented at Denali.
To make it possible for even more guests to experience Alaska this year, a seventh ship has been added to the region.  Beginning this spring, Amsterdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Volendam, and Zaandam will offer a total of 135 Alaska departures – more than any other line.
Land+Sea Journeys
Holland America’s award-winning Land+Sea Journeys combine a 3, 4, or 7-day Inside Passage or Glacier Discovery cruise with in-depth overland tours to the Yukon and Alaska’s interior. Â Offering up to three days at Denali National Park for wildlife viewing and gorgeous scenery, Land+Sea Journeys are designed to highlight the best of Alaska’s wilderness, wildlife, native culture, and history.
