Holland America Line will expand its Norway itineraries in 2027, introducing stops at Flåm and Hellesylt on five seven-day cruises aboard the Rotterdam.
These additions provide passengers with direct access to two UNESCO-listed regions: the Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord, which the organization calls some of the most striking fjord areas globally.
Three of the revised cruises—departing May 30, June 27, and August 1—will include Oslo, Kristiansand, Sandnes (Stavanger), and Flåm, with scenic sailing through the Sognefjord and Oslofjord. The remaining two, scheduled for July 25 and August 8, will focus on fjord exploration, visiting Eidfjord, Hellesylt, Ålesund, and Bergen, along with cruising in the Hardangerfjord and Storfjorden.
Paul Grigsby, Holland America’s vice president of deployment and revenue planning, stated that Northern Europe remains one of the most popular destinations for the line. He noted that the new stops offer guests more ways to experience the area’s natural beauty, culture, and unique features.
Grigsby highlighted the dramatic waterfalls and viewpoints in the Storfjorden region, as well as the Flåmsbana Railway, a steep mountain train ride often part of shore excursions.
The 2027 season will feature three Holland America ships—Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Zuiderdam—operating across Northern Europe on itineraries ranging from seven to 21 days. The company, established in Rotterdam in 1873, has long-standing connections to the region and promotes its cruises as a way to explore Viking heritage, Dutch history, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Bookings for the updated itineraries are now available, with prices and cabin options varying by departure date. Early demand is expected to be high for the new fjord-focused stops.
Though the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord remain the main attractions, Flåm and Hellesylt may appeal to travelers who have visited before and want quieter alternatives. The Flåmsbana Railway, in particular, has become a key selling point, offering a land-based excursion that still provides fjord views.
Holland America has not announced changes to onboard programming for these cruises. Previous Northern Europe sailings have included lectures on Viking history, Norwegian cooking demonstrations, and live folk music performances.
These routes reflect a broader trend in cruise travel, where passengers increasingly seek destinations that balance natural beauty with cultural depth.