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Alaskan Explorer

8 Days Seattle Return
Alaskan Explorer
Alaskan Explorer
Alaskan Explorer
Cruising At Sea
Cruising At Sea
Victoria
Victoria
Seattle
Seattle
Ketchikan
Ketchikan
Sitka
Sitka
Ketchikan
Ketchikan
Seattle
Seattle
Juneau
Juneau
Cruising At Sea
Cruising At Sea
Seattle
Seattle

Overview

Begin and end your 8 day (7 night) cruise in Seattle onboard Westerdam and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with Holland America and Global Journeys.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Trip Length
Cruise Length

8 Days

Trip Starts
Cruise Starts

Seattle

Trip Ends
Cruise Ends

Seattle

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Cruise Line
Cruise Line
Holland America
Cruise Shi
Cruise Ship
Westerdam
Ship Reviews
5 Ship Reviews
Avg. Rating: 4.6/5
Ship Class
Ship Class

Vista Class

Passengers
Passengers

1,916

Crew
Crew

800

Ship Launch
Launched

2004

Ship Refurbished
Refurbished

2026

Cruise Code
Cruise Code

A4E07B

Itinerary

Departs: 15:00

Seattle is a dynamic, urban city, located in the Northwest region of the United States on Puget Sound. Being surrounded by water and unmatched natural beauty, outdoor activities have become a popular aspect of this area. This city is also home to modern architecture, captivating art, and their famously prominent coffee culture.

Top Things to Do in Seattle:

  • shop at the longest-running farmers markets in the US, the Pike Place Market
  • visit ‘The Seattle Spheres’, an indoor rainforest
  • explore the Starbucks Reserve and Tasting Room
  • visit the iconic ‘Space Needle’

Puget Sound cruises offer incredible Pacific Northwest scenery, making Seattle a prime departure port for Alaska. Expect to see ice-capped mountains, remote islands with gigantic Douglas firs, and Mount Rainier towering behind Seattle’s skyscrapers.

As you cruise the San Juan Islands from Seattle, you’ll be reminded of nature’s dominance. This wildlife-rich archipelago is popular among locals for its stunning views and diverse fauna. From your cruise, watch for soaring eagles, harbor seals, and humpback and orca whales. Whale sightings are common between March and October, especially the resident orcas of the J, K, and L pods. Even without whale sightings, the landscape’s beauty, from rocky outcrops to forested mounds, is unforgettable.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 13:00 Departs: 21:00

Juno, commonly known as Juneau, is the capital city of Alaska. Only accessible by sea or air, Juneau's history, culture, and topography have resulted in many interesting activities for visitors to enjoy, all in the heart of Alaska's majestic mountains, rivers, glaciers, and forests.

Top Things to Do in and around Juneau:

  • dog sledding
  • explore the gorgeous Mendenhall Glacier
  • whale watching
  • Alaskan Halibut fishing

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 13:00

Cruising through the Darwin Channel in the Chilean Fjords offers breathtaking views of pristine landscapes. This remote waterway, named after Charles Darwin, is surrounded by majestic mountains, dense forests, and stunning glaciers. As you navigate through this natural wonder, you'll witness spectacular fjords carved by ancient ice, creating dramatic scenery that seems untouched by time.

Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting marine life such as dolphins, sea lions, and various bird species. The channel also provides access to some of the most beautiful and isolated areas of Patagonia, making it a prime location for nature photography and serene contemplation.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 16:00

Sitka is nestled on the west side of Baranof Island. As the east is covered with snowcapped mountains and the west is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, recreational fishing and hiking have become what Sitka is most famous for. As well as their historical landmarks, picturesque views and authentic dining experiences.

Top Things to Do in Sitka:

  • visit Sitka Totem Park, home to authentic Tlingit and Haida totem poles nestled in a rainforest of giant Sitka spruce trees 
  • hike through the Starrigavan with plenty of bird and wildlife viewing opportunities
  • explore Sitka via kayak 

Arrives: 7:00 Departs: 13:00

Ketchikan sits at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage -  the canned salmon capital of the world, it’s a hub for fishing and outdoor sports. It’s also home to three tribes of Northwest Coast Indians, making it a great place to get a taste for the local culture.

Top Things to Do in Ketchikan:

  • visit Totem Bight State Park
  • venture past the town limits into Tongass National Forest
  • visit Ketchikan's own Saxman Native Village
  • a myriad of outdoor adventures from fishing to zip-lining!

Arrives: 20:00

Victoria, capital of British Columbia, sits on the southern end of Vancouver Island, framed by an attractive harbour and surrounded by grand buildings.

With abundant parkland, it’s known for outdoor activities. The city's British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion. Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, plus statuary, water features and a carousel, is one of many formal gardens in the city.

Arrives: 7:00

Seattle is a dynamic, urban city, located in the Northwest region of the United States on Puget Sound. Being surrounded by water and unmatched natural beauty, outdoor activities have become a popular aspect of this area. This city is also home to modern architecture, captivating art, and their famously prominent coffee culture.

Top Things to Do in Seattle:

  • shop at the longest-running farmers markets in the US, the Pike Place Market
  • visit ‘The Seattle Spheres’, an indoor rainforest
  • explore the Starbucks Reserve and Tasting Room
  • visit the iconic ‘Space Needle’
Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life On Board

Holland America
 (23) Reviews
Total No. of Cruises 558
For 150 years, Holland America Line has been a recognized leader in cruising. If you are looking for some of the most spacious and comfortable ships at sea, award-winning service, exquisite dining, extensive activities and enrichment programs and compelling worldwide itineraries, you've come to the right place. Balance. more Depth. Authenticity. These are the elements we bring to more than 500 itineraries, stopping in 100 countries, the world over.
Westerdam
Westerdam

Feel at home with understated yet attentive service from the moment you board when you cruise on Westerdam. Read more

Delicious Onboard Dining
Delicious Onboard Dining

Whether you choose complimentary or specialty dining you are going to love the range of cuisine at every meal. Read more

Explorations Central
Explorations Central

Immerse more deeply in the destinations you visit with the program of activities offered by Explorations Central. Read more

Billboard on Board
Billboard on Board

Tap your toes and sing along to the greatest hits of your lifetime, played by a duet of pianos in Billboard on Board. Read more

Shore Excursions for All
Shore Excursions for All

From excursions for families, city tours or adventures for nature lovers, there is an excursion in each port for everyone. Read more

Refresh, Relax, Rejuvenate
Refresh, Relax, Rejuvenate

Take in the breathtaking views from your treatment room as you indulge in a relaxing treatment in the heavenly spa. Read more

Ship Reviews (5)

Holland America Reviews
Reviews 5 Reviews
Average Rating 4.6 out of 5
5 Star
60%
4 Star
40%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Wonderful cruise   1 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2025
We were hesitant about being on a ship for 28 days but it was wonderful. The Westerdam is a good size ship with plenty of spaces to spend a quiet moment if you want. Our cabin on deck 5 aft was in a good location to navigate easily around the ship. The crew were fantastic! Always very friendly and keeping our cabin and ship clean. The Captain and his read more team did a great job of navigating the ship across the Arctic Circle and close to the glaciers. The onboard talks by the coast guard, geologist and naturalist were excellent. Loved visiting the ports that don’t see many ships. The residents were very welcoming and set up activities to welcome us.

Booking with Global Journeys was once again a great experience. Tracey answered our questions quickly and we appreciate her great work. Can highly recommend a cruise on the Westerdam, the Arctic Circle Solstice cruise and booking with Global Journeys. Looking forward to our next adventure.
Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice 0 , QLD, Australia, Jun 2025
Tracey was helpful all along the planning for our trip, hoping to talk with her in the future about another cruise.
Holland America is a great company to cruise with, the crew, staff, food and accommodation were wonderful and would definitely sail with them again.
Alaska in Spring 2 , QLD, Australia, Apr 2025
Great adventure through Alaskan pristine wilderness seeing wildlife in Spring. The Holland America ship was good and provided good service especially their speciality restaurants. The trip was just too short and the weather was a bit cold and wet.
Beautiful cruise around Japan 10 , QLD, Australia, Apr 2024
Once again a lovely cruise with HAL. So much to see in Japan. Not very many sea days which suited us. Was nice then, when we had one and could takes a breather. Our travel organiser Tracey was again very helpful. Thank you.
Cherry blossom season in Japan with Holland America 17 , WA, Australia, Mar 2023
We are staunch Holland America supporters and this cruise did not disappoint. The food on this cruise was top notch and we loved the ports and many opportunities to see cherry blossom trees!

Download Brochure

Holland America Legendary Voyages (2026-27) Brochure

Holland America Legendary Voyages (2026-27)

Holland America is celebrated worldwide for its expertise in extended voyages. In tribute to our rich maritime legacy, we are proud to present a distinctive cruise collection that blends the grandeur and tradition of Grand Voyages with deeply immersive itineraries ranging from 25 to 59 days. Each journey is thoughtfully curated to ensure that every more moment enhances your connection to the destinations explored.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Holland America. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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