There are few travel experiences as extraordinary as a world cruise—and even fewer opportunities to step onboard mid-journey. When Holland America Line’s Volendam called on Seattle’s Pier 66 during her 2026 Grand World Voyage, Cruise Specialists staff had the privilege to do just that.
After nearly four months at sea, Volendam arrived downtown to spectacular Pacific Northwest sunshine—a fitting welcome for a voyage that has circled the globe. We greeted our beloved host, Tom Mullen, who warmly welcomed us aboard.
A First Look On Board
With time to explore, our team took advantage of the opportunity to tour the ship. From the classic design touches to the inviting public spaces that have hosted events and activities for our guests, it was a chance to glimpse life on board after more than 130 days at sea.
An Exclusive Lunch with Guests and Partners
The highlight of the visit was an intimate, multi-course lunch in the main dining room. We joined our valued clients alongside Seattle-based Holland America staff for a shared culinary experience that reflected the elevated yet welcoming style of the Grand World Voyage.
Holland America Line President Beth Bodensteiner stopped by to personally greet us, sharing that she would be joining the voyage for a few days. Her presence underscored the importance Holland America places on this iconic sailing.
The afternoon felt celebratory, enhanced by beautiful weather, great conversation, and the unique bond formed among world cruise travelers. We were especially grateful to spend time with our guests and hear firsthand about their journey.
A Journey Around the World
The 2026 Grand World Voyage departed Fort Lauderdale on January 4 and spans 133 days, visiting an extraordinary range of destinations across five continents.
Highlights of the itinerary include:
- The Caribbean and South America, including Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and the Falkland Islands
- A rare four-day Antarctic Experience
- Chilean fjords, Easter Island, and the islands of French Polynesia
- Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia—including Bali and Komodo Island
- Southeast Asia and East Asia, with extended calls in Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan
- A transpacific crossing to Alaska before arriving in Seattle on April 29
- A final journey through the Panama Canal, concluding in Fort Lauderdale on May 17, 2026.
From crossing the Equator (twice) to traversing the International Dateline and sailing the Panama Canal, this voyage offers guests a true circumnavigation filled with immersive cultural experiences and unforgettable scenery.
A Special Moment in the Journey
Seattle marked a meaningful milestone on this global itinerary—both a pause for reflection and a launch point for the voyage’s final chapter. As guests prepared to continue south toward San Diego, Mexico, Central America, and ultimately through the Panama Canal, there was a sense of excitement mixed with appreciation for all they had already experienced.
Spending even a few hours on board gave us a deeper connection to the journey our clients are taking. It reinforced what makes a Holland America Line Grand World Voyage so special: not just the destinations, but the people, the service, and the shared sense of discovery.
We left the ship inspired—and already dreaming about the next world voyage.
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