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HAL’s Westerdam set to be first cruise ship in Samoa since COVID, Sydney maiden voyage ahead

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Holland America Line’s Westerdam is en route to Australasia for its maiden season
On Tuesday, Holland America Line’s Westerdam becomes the first cruise ship to visit Apia, Samoa since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Westerdam is making its maiden call at the port on a repositioning voyage from Vancouver to Sydney.

Big welcome

The Samoa Tourism Authority, in conjunction with the Samoa Ports Authority and shore excursion agents, are planning a big welcome for the 1,964-passenger ship.

‘Apia will be a popular port call for Westerdam’s guests because of its natural coastal beauty and culture,’ said Ryan Taibel, Carnival Australia VP of Sales.

Taibel said they will have the opportunity to visit the Museum of Samoa, the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and vanilla farms.

Maiden visit to Australasia

Westerdam is also making its maiden voyage to Sydney where it arrives November 8 to be home-ported until January 3.

The ship will sail seven itineraries around Australia and New Zealand, ranging from 13 to 30 days.