Holland America Line is marking America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 with a commemorative cruise designed to take guests on a journey through the nation’s most historic ports. The seven-day “America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage” departs July 4, 2026, aboard Zuiderdam, sailing roundtrip from Boston.
This special itinerary includes calls at Saint John, New Brunswick; Norfolk, Virginia; and an overnight visit to New York City. Guests will have the unique opportunity to explore iconic landmarks and historical sites tied to America’s birth and legacy.
A Patriotic Sailaway From Boston
As the voyage begins in Boston, the cradle of the American Revolution, Zuiderdam will position in Boston Harbor during departure. Guests can enjoy a view of the city’s renowned Fourth of July fireworks from the comfort of the ship, creating a festive and memorable sailaway experience.
Exploring America’s Historic Heartlands
The itinerary features a call at Norfolk, Virginia, providing access to three of the most important towns in American history: Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown.
Colonial Williamsburg & Governor’s Palace Excursion
This tour takes guests to Virginia’s historic peninsula, where they can walk the streets of Colonial Williamsburg and visit the beautifully restored Governor’s Palace.
Jamestown Settlement & American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Guests will also have the opportunity to explore Colonial National Historic Park, which connects two pivotal sites of the nation’s founding—Jamestown and Yorktown.
Overnight in New York City During Sail 4th 250
Zuiderdam’s overnight stay in New York coincides with the “Sail 4th 250” celebration. The event brings the world’s largest fleet of tall ships and naval vessels to New York Harbor from July 3–8, 2026.
As Zuiderdam arrives on July 8, guests may witness the “Farewell to the Fleet,” when the tall ships depart for Boston, offering a unique spectacle against the backdrop of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Shore Excursions in New York
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Explore two of America’s most iconic landmarks.
- New York City by Land & Sea: Experience Manhattan with a guided city tour and a harbor cruise showcasing the skyline and historic sites.
A Voyage Through History
“Holland America Line is honored to commemorate this historic milestone with a cruise that brings our guests closer to the places where America’s story began,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “From walking the Freedom Trail in Boston to visiting Ellis Island, this itinerary offers a meaningful journey through our nation’s past, paired with special events to celebrate the Fourth of July in true patriotic style.”
According to Holland America, fares for the seven-day “America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage” start at $1,459 per person, based on double occupancy. Prices include port fees and taxes.
For more details or to book this special sailing, contact a travel agent or visit hollandamerica.com.
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