HAL-Holland America Line has entered a partnership with A+E Networks’ The HISTORY Channel to integrate destination-focused historical programming into its cruise itineraries.
The collaboration will feature curated voyages and shore excursions designed to emphasize the historical context of global destinations, aligning with Holland America’s existing emphasis on cultural immersion.
Select HAL voyages will incorporate destinations of historical significance, with itineraries co-developed by The HISTORY Channel’s research and production teams. Initial offerings include:
- 14-day Arctic Journey & Northern Lights: Tracing routes of polar exploration heritage.
- 7-day Mediterranean Marvels of Pompeii: Featuring archaeological sites of the Roman Empire.
- 7-day Norwegian Fjords with Hardangerfjord: Highlighting Viking-era landmarks.
Future itineraries, to be announced progressively, will focus on regions such as the eastern Mediterranean (ancient empires), northern Europe (Viking settlements), and Arctic exploration history. These voyages will be designated on Holland America Line’s booking platform for guest identification.
The partnership expands HAL’s existing portfolio of historically oriented shore excursions, which currently includes 3000+ global tours.
New co-developed excursions emphasize hands-on engagement with regional heritage, such as:
- Gold Panning & Underground Mine Exploration (Yukon, Canada).
- Giza Pyramids, Sphinx & Pyramid of Sakkara (Cairo, Egypt).
- Stavanger Old & New (Norway), examining maritime and industrial evolution.
Bookings for the initial 2024 itineraries and excursions are available under Holland America Line’s Start Your Journey promotional campaign. Additional voyages for 2025–2027 will be phased into the schedule, with further collaborative content - including onboard lectures and archival media - to be outlined in subsequent operational updates.
This initiative aligns with Holland America Line’s data indicating strong guest preference for destination-centric learning, particularly visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historically pivotal landmarks. The partnership does not alter the line’s existing excursion operations but augments its cultural programming framework.