Demonstrating its commitment to Alaska, Holland America Line is expanding and enhancing its popular Denali Lodge as well as its land-and-sea cruisetours with a US$70-million capital investment that will roll out over the next three seasons.

The cruise company says it will expand guest capacity while providing guests with more opportunities for glacier viewing and “more ways to see Alaska’s wildlife than any other cruise line.”

Expansion highlights

• 2025: The project will begin with enhancements to the riverside interpretive trail with scenic viewpoints, improved on-site wayfinding, refined menu offerings for restaurants, and public space improvements for the Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge guest room buildings.
• 2026: The project will continue with 48 remodeled rooms in the Holland America Denali Lodge, a new coffee shop, and a remodeled Karstens Public House with expanded indoor and outdoor seating to provide a more immersive experience.
• 2027: The project will continue with a new building with 120 suite and standard rooms as well as a main lodge renovation that will include a new restaurant concept, a new lobby bar, and an enhanced coffee experience.

Wildlife

HAL notes that it carries a wildlife expert on board to help guests witness the majestic animals found in Alaska, including whales, eagles, bears, moose, otters, seals, sea lions, and more. A wildlife spotting guide points out the native animals found along the cruise route and a map with the best places to see each species is included. Between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., wildlife sightings are announced for guest viewing.

The wildlife experience continues ashore with 180 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing opportunities.

Cruisetours

Holland America a series of 17-plus Cruisetour itineraries can now be booked for 2025 and 2026.

“It’s truly special that we can bring guests to a lodge at the doorstep of Denali National Park,” says Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “This investment is a win for Alaska, our guests, and Holland America Line. Enhancing and expanding the Holland America Denali Lodge will help meet the growing interest in combined land and sea Cruisetours for our 49^th state and further support the Alaska tourism industry.” 

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