It has been over two and a half years since cruising returned to Japan, and Holland America Line’s Westerdam is currently preparing for a series of itineraries that will begin in the early part of 2023. These itineraries will allow guests to explore lands where ancient temples and cultures steeped in tradition coexist with towering skyscrapers and bustling capitals.
The Japanese government said on November 15 that it is prepared to resume welcoming foreign cruise ships, which will enable visitors to once again experience the joys of sailing to Japan’s various ports and marvel at the country’s natural beauty.
“We’re appreciative for the effort that the Japanese authorities have done to enable for a return to cruising,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “We’re looking forward to seeing our guests back on board in the coming months.” “The passengers of Holland America Line really like going on extended trips to unusual regions of the globe, and as soon as the season starts in Japan and the rest of Asia, we’ll be sailing to some amazing destinations.”
After finishing its dry dock in Singapore in January, the Westerdam will begin its Asia season. The ship is presently operating between Australia and New Zealand. Beginning on February 3, the ship will embark on a number of excursions to the Far East during which it will celebrate the rich historical and cultural traditions of the many nations it visits. These traditions often date back thousands of years.
Cruises range from 11 to 14 days in length and depart either roundtrip from Yokohama, Japan or Singapore, or sail between Yokohama and Singapore. These cruises may be joined to construct unique, nonrepeating Collectors’ Voyages. Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia are among the countries that have been investigated. Itineraries such as “Indonesian Discovery,” “Japan, Taiwan & The Philippines,” “Japan Explorer,” “Japan Discovery,” and “Southern Japan” are among the options available to passengers. Singapore, Kobe, and Osaka, Japan, as well as Phuket, Thailand, are among the cities that we will visit overnight. The season will come to a close on April 24 with a “North Pacific Crossing” that will take the ship from Yokohama, Japan to Seattle, Washington, which will serve as the homeport for the Westerdam for the Alaska season.
Holland America Line is in the process of finalising the protocols for sailing in Asia. Once these protocols are finished, each departure will be uploaded to the Voyage Lookup feature, which enables customers to see any particular health standards that apply to their voyage.