Holland America presents 'Alaska Up Close' programming

'We want our guests to be immersed in Alaska from the moment they step on board, and as we celebrate 75 years of exploring Alaska in 2022, we tapped into our unparalleled expertise to craft memorable and exclusive programming,' said Beth Bodensteiner, SVP and chief commercial officer, Holland America Line.

'Alaska Up Close' features local experts and personalities leading workshops and lectures, Explorations Central (EXC) Talks revealing the stories of real Alaskans, tours highlighting the best of each destination, 'Port to Table' culinary immersion and local cuisine served in dining venues throughout the ships.

EXC Talks

Among the EXC Talks are 'Breaking the Ice Ceiling,' stories of Alaskan women working in fields traditionally dominated by men; 'Ancestral Memories,' telling the stories of native Alaskans keeping their culture and language alive; and 'Iditarod — The Last Great Race,' sharing what it’s like to ride in the sled of this amazing Alaskan adventure.

Passengers will be able to learn the science and history of Alaska’s splendors from naturalist-led workshops and wildlife-spotting on deck. Itineraries that include Glacier Bay National Park will feature a park ranger and a member of the Huna Tlingit Tribe to share their insights, offer commentary and answer questions.

BBC Earth

Passengers on all Alaska cruises get to experience BBC Earth’s 'Alaska in Concert' multimedia performance on the main stage. A live orchestra plays the stirring soundtrack against a backdrop of dramatic footage from the BBC Earth television series 'Wild Alaska.'

Eat like a local

Through 'Port to Table' programming, passengers can learn about Alaska's culinary traditions and how to eat like a local at live cooking demonstrations.

Via exclusive 'Food & Wine' excursions developed in partnership with the magazine, participants can dine on fresh seafood, sample Anchorage’s craft beer, taste fire-warmed sourdough rolls and attend an authentic crab feast or salmon bake.

Other shore excursions include a helicopter landing on a glacier, spying on whales in their natural habitat, whitewater rafting or kayaking, panning for gold and sailing on a real crabbing boat featured in 'Deadliest Catch.'

Passengers who reel in a big one on select fishing-focused shore excursions can have Holland America chefs prepare it to eat on board, while select tours participants to ship their bounty home.

Raptor encounters

Westerdam cruisers will have the opportunity to meet and learn about raptors during calls at Sitka through presentations and interactions at Alaska Raptor Center.

Six Holland America ships will be in Alaska this season and ‘The Ultimate Upgrade Event’ promotion through March 31 gives passengers booking the 'Have it All' premium package on select cruises (also in 2023) a free stateroom upgrade, 50% reduced deposits and $75 fares for kids.