HAL-Holland America Line has opted to cancel 2 scheduled visits to Yorktown (Virginia USA) in 2025, citing concerns expressed by local residents.
The decision comes in response to heightened sensitivity towards cruise ships in Yorktown, which became evident after Princess Cruises announced stops at the small port for the 2024 season.
Community groups in Yorktown raised objections following Princess Cruises' plans for the Island Princess to make 3 stops in Yorktown in 2024, with the possibility of increasing to 5 times in 2025. The ship would anchor in the York River and ferry passengers to shore. Notably, Island Princess has a capacity of 2,200 passengers, while Yorktown has a population of only a few hundred.
In response to community concerns, HAL decided to change the two scheduled calls for Yorktown in 2025 to two alternate locations.
The cruise line emphasized that they did not intend to cause any issues with the port or the local community and saw an opportunity to explore alternative calls based on Princess Cruises opening the port for their sailings in the region.