HAL-Holland America is introducing a new addition to its collection of extended cruises departing from convenient gateways. The "42-day Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage" aboard ms Volendam is set to depart on November 9th, 2024. Inspired by a voyage operated by HAL almost a century ago, this cruise is tailor-made for modern travelers. The 2024 journey will be roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale/Port Everglades (Florida USA), offering an opportunity for guests to explore 16 different ports across 9 countries, all without the need for international air travel.
The idea for the "42-day Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage" was inspired by a historic voyage that took place on February 4th, 1925. The original trip, which carried 550 guests, departed from NYC New York aboard Rotterdam IV and explored many of the same ports included in the 2024 itinerary. These ports encompass Portugal, Morocco, Italy, Greece, Israel, Egypt, Tunisia, Gibraltar (UK), and Spain.
The cruise will commence with visits to Horta and Ponta Delgada in the Azores after crossing the Atlantic Ocean. Subsequently, the ship will call at Tangier, Morocco, followed by overnight stays in Livorno and Civitavecchia-Rome, Italy. From Livorno, guests can explore Florence or Pisa, while Rome is easily accessible from Civitavecchia. The voyage continues to Naples, Italy, and Catania, Sicily, before reaching Piraeus (Athens), Greece.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the Holy Land with visits to Haifa (Tel Aviv) and Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel, followed by Port Said and Alexandria (Cairo) in Egypt. The final ports on the journey include La Goulette (Tunis), Tunisia; Gibraltar; Cadiz (Seville), Spain; and Casablanca, Morocco. The cruise concludes on December 21st in Fort Lauderdale.
These longer cruises, ranging from 25 to 59 days, combine the grandeur of HAL's Grand Voyages with a focus on a specific region, allowing guests to delve deeply into the destinations visited. Onboard programming is thoughtfully curated to provide insights into the history and culture of these locales.
Most of HAL's Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, making it convenient for travelers to explore the world with a domestic flight and easy embarkation. These itineraries are offered on a selection of the line's perfectly sized ships, ensuring guests can enjoy the "best of" Grand Voyages onboard programming, including iconic theme parties, memorable sailaways, and classic activities to enhance the overall travel experience.