Stay current with our cruise news coverage.
Immersive, Sustainable Experiences in Italy, Greece, Spain, and Turkey Make Waves in the Cruise Industry
Holland America Line is turning the tide in immersive travel, introducing a wave of 'National Geographic Day Tours' to their Mediterranean cruises, offering guests deeper, more sustainable encounters with history, culture, and the natural world. The new, exclusive shore excursions, developed in collaboration with National Geographic, allow for a transformative exploration of destinations in Greece, Spain, Italy, and Turkey.
"We are continually looking for enriching and transformative experiences for our guests, and the new National Geographic Day Tours are not only immersive, but provide exclusive access and hands-on experiences," said Carole Biencourt, vice president overseeing shore tour experience for Holland America Line.
Starting this summer, travelers aboard the Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam can immerse themselves in the Mediterranean like never before, including:
- Discovering the influence of powerful female figures in Kusadasi, Turkey,
- Experiencing a day in the life of a marine biologist in Naples, Italy,
- Exploring organic honeybee farms in Rhodes, Greece,
- Meeting local families in Santorini, Greece.
Each tour will be led by a National Geographic-trained guide, making these tours an adventure and educational journey.
Among the tour offerings, you can expect to "Meet the Locals in Santorini," where you'll get to hear the stories of two local families while tasting regional wines, cheese, and more. In Naples, "A Day in the Life of a Marine Biologist" lets you dive into marine biology conservation projects and explore Europe's oldest aquarium and the world's first marine biodiversity research laboratory.
These National Geographic Day Tours will be offered on seven to 14-day itineraries departing from Trieste (Venice), Italy; Piraeus (Athens), Greece and Barcelona, Spain, with stops in Rhodes, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Santorini, and Naples.
In addition to these exclusive National Geographic offerings, Holland America Line's nearly 6,500 unique shore excursions continue to provide guests with in-depth connections to the places they visit. From adventurous zip-lining or serene horse-riding to conquering fears while scaling Sydney Harbour Bridge, these expertly curated tours offer a wide variety of experiences to enjoy at each port of call.
In partnership with FOOD & WINE magazine, Holland America Line also features culinary-focused shore excursions around the globe. These gastronomical tours combine food, culture, and unique experiences, from crafting authentic Italian pizza in Naples to tasting wines at New Zealand's oldest winery.
For more information about Holland America Line, visit hollandamerica.com.
Source: Holland America Line
More travel news
Holland America Unveils 100 Plus Alaska Voyages
SEATTLE, Wash. - Holland America Line returns to Alaska with over 100 voyages, enhanced programming, and two dozen new shore excursions designed to deepen guest connections with the Great Land.
Holland America Unveils Epic 26-Day Inca Coast Voyage
VANCOUVER, Canada — Holland America Line unveils a 26-day Pacific voyage connecting North and South America's cultural treasures, departing October 2027.
Holland America Unveils Senior-Focused Cruise Routes
ESTERO, Fla. — Holland America Line emphasizes its 150-year tradition of welcoming mature travelers with refined experiences, accessible ships, and thoughtful service designed for guests 65 and older.
Holland America Shatters US Booking Record on Black Friday
Seattle-based Holland America Line posts record U.S. bookings over Black Friday weekend, signaling rising demand for cruise travel.
About the Author
Bob Vidra
Bob Vidra, based in scenic Tahoe, is an esteemed tech editor known for his deep understanding of the dynamic intersection of technology, travel, and the outdoors.
