Add Row

Add Element

update

Bay Retirement Guide

update

Add Element

Home
Categories
Travel

September 14.2025

2 Minutes Read

Experience Unmatched Adventure on Westerdam's Glaciers & Volcanoes Cruise

Holland America Glacier and Volcanoes Cruise ship near glacier and mountain

The Westerdam Begins Its Epic Journey

Setting sail from the stunning shores of Vancouver, the Westerdam embarks on Holland America Line’s much-anticipated "Glaciers & Volcanoes" cruise. This unique voyage offers an incredible 27-night itinerary that is part of the cruise line's Legendary Voyages program, designed for those eager to delve deeper into both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Exploring Breathtaking Destinations

The Westerdam's route includes breathtaking views and exciting stops such as Anchorage and Valdez, where travelers can take in the majestic sights of the Hubbard Glacier. The month-long journey also allows guests to explore Dutch Harbor and Kodiak, with the adventure culminated by a tranquil period at sea en route to Hawaii.

Arriving in Hawaii: A Blend of Cultures

After a fulfilling six days at sea, the Westerdam will arrive at the enchanting Hawaiian islands. Ports of call include Nawiliwili, Kailua-Kona, and Hilo, with an overnight stay in Honolulu — giving guests ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of these islands.

A Transition to Asian Waters

Following this scenic cruise, the Westerdam plans to reposition to Asia, welcoming holiday travelers eager to experience the wonders of Japan, the Far East, and Southeast Asia during the upcoming winter season of 2025-26.

Why Choose Holland America’s Legendary Voyages?

Holland America emphasizes that its Legendary Voyages offer a chance for guests to explore their destinations intensively, making stops in various ports to better understand the history and culture of each location. Activities during these voyages range from destination-themed parties to enriching onboard educational sessions, making the journey as rewarding as the destinations themselves.

Looking Ahead: Continued Adventures

Excitingly, Holland America has announced another edition of the "Glaciers & Volcanoes" cruise for 2026, with a similar itinerary planned aboard the Noordam. This reflects the cruise line's commitment to providing travelers with memorable, in-depth travel experiences that connect them with diverse locales.

Conclusion

Whether you seek exploration of majestic glaciers or the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, the Westerdam’s "Glaciers & Volcanoes" cruise promises an unforgettable journey through some of the most striking sights in North America and beyond. Travel aficionados, families, and individual adventurers alike will find much to love in this unique cruising experience.

Travel

0 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

09.14.2025

Tips to Cruise with Friends Without Ruining Your Relationships

Update Why Cruising with Friends Can Strengthen BondsAs retirees seek adventure on the open seas, the question often arises: How can we enjoy a cruise with friends without jeopardizing these treasured relationships? While a shared cruise can enhance camaraderie, it also comes with unique challenges. Preparation is key to ensuring that shared memories don’t turn sour.Setting the Right Expectations Before You SailThe essence of a successful group cruise lies in setting clear expectations from the start. Just because you’re all cruising together doesn’t mean you need to spend every waking moment in each other’s company. The joy of a cruise is the variety of experiences it offers. Prior conversations about the need for personal space can set a positive tone, motivating everyone to explore the ship independently while still coming together for meals and social activities.Choosing the Right Friends for the VoyageNot all friendships translate well to the cruising environment. Friends who share compatible travel personalities are crucial in avoiding potential blow-ups at sea. It’s important to consider dynamics such as compatibility with schedules, noise tolerances, and overall travel habits. By being selective about travel companions, you can enjoy smooth sailing and laughs rather than tensions.Utilizing Travel Agents for a Seamless ExperienceAnother pro tip is to book through the same travel agent. This not only simplifies logistics but can also unlock group discounts or perks. You won’t need to worry about final payments or billing questions; your agent handles that, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience with your friends.Engaging Everyone in the Planning ProcessLastly, group planning is essential for crucial aspects such as dining and excursions. Starting a group conversation early on can foster unity and ensure everyone has a say in the plans, making your cruise a collaborative and enjoyable experience. All in all, with thoughtful planning, cruising with friends can be a rewarding adventure that strengthens bonds rather than stresses them.

09.14.2025

Aurora's First Biofuel Trial Marks a Milestone for Sustainable Travel

Update A New Frontier: Aurora's Biofuel Journey Begins Aurora Expeditions has successfully completed its inaugural biofuel trial, taking a significant step towards its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the maritime sector. This trial, conducted in May 2025, featured the Sylvia Earle, the first ship in the Infinity class to explore the potential of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) - a sustainable biofuel formulated from used cooking oil. The Trial: A Smooth Operation The trial occurred off the picturesque Spanish coastline after the ship bunkered HVO in Valencia. For several days, the Sylvia Earle operated entirely on this biofuel, resulting in an impressive 90 percent reduction in fuel-related greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional marine fuels, according to the fuel’s Proof of Sustainability certification. Insights from the Biofuel Trial “These results are promising not just for Aurora, but for the entire maritime industry as we explore more sustainable fuel options,” stated Sasha Buch, sustainability manager at Aurora. The successful execution of the trial involved meticulous preparations, from cleaning the fuel tanks to ensuring seamless engine performance during the switch to HVO. This effort underscores Aurora’s proactive approach to climate responsibility, especially as the company operates in delicate ecosystems. The Future of Sustainable Fuels As the demand for greener maritime solutions escalates, Aurora Expeditions is poised to lead the way. While the global supply of alternative fuels like HVO remains limited, the company is keen on expanding future trials as its fleet returns to Europe in 2026. The insights gleaned from this current trial will be instrumental in refining their processes and promoting broader adoption of sustainable fuels in the industry. Why This Matters to You The implications of Aurora’s commitment to sustainable maritime travel extend beyond environmental benefits; they resonate with the values of travelers concerned about their ecological footprint. As cruise enthusiasts seek more responsible travel options, companies like Aurora are setting new standards, encouraging travelers to engage with and demand sustainability within the cruise industry. Taking Action: Join the Movement As we witness a shift towards sustainable practices in various sectors, staying informed and encouraging positive change is crucial. Consider supporting companies dedicated to reducing their environmental impacts, like Aurora Expeditions. By choosing sustainable travel options, you actively contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.

09.13.2025

Cruise Update: Ovation of the Seas Rerouted to Avoid Tropical Storm Mario

Update Royal Caribbean Adjusts Course Amid Tropical Storm ThreatAs the winds of Tropical Storm Mario swirl in the Pacific, Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas has taken precautionary measures to ensure passenger safety by rerouting its itinerary away from Cabo San Lucas. The recent tropical disturbance prompted the captain to announce to guests on board that their travel plans had changed. Instead of visiting Cabo San Lucas as intended, the cruise will now feature two days at sea, followed by an overnight stay in Ensenada, Mexico.While a few passengers expressed disappointment at the unexpected change, many maintain a positive outlook. One cruiser shared, "On Ovation preparing to leave Los Angeles…The captain just announced due to Tropical Storm Mario forming near Cabo, our ship’s itinerary has changed. We have 2 days at sea now and 2 days in Ensenada (overnight). Really wanted to go to Cabo, but oh well. As long as we’re on a ship, who cares!!!" Another guest commented on Reddit, reinforcing the understanding that safety came first, saying the storm's conditions made it impossible to use the small tender boats required to reach Cabo.Understanding the Impact of Tropical Storm MarioThe formation of Tropical Storm Mario has raised concerns among meteorologists, with sustained winds reaching 40 mph and a potential for intensification in the coming days. Although categorized as a "tiny" storm, its forecasted path could lead to significant rainfall and gusty winds affecting coastal regions.What This Means for Future TravelersFor those looking to embark on future cruises, the shifting itinerary offers a crucial insight into how cruise lines prioritize passenger safety. Travelers can expect more proactive measures in similar situations. The National Hurricane Center provides up-to-date reports as storms develop, encouraging travelers to stay informed about weather conditions affecting their voyages.Final Thoughts: Embracing the Unexpected at SeaWhile the rerouting to Ensenada may not have been part of passengers' original plans, there are always opportunities to create memorable experiences at sea. For seniors especially, the culture and community found in ports like Ensenada can foster connection and adventure. Adapting to these changes is part of the journey.