Holland America Line Invests $70 Million in Denali Lodge and Alaska Cruisetour Enhancements to Strengthen Wildlife Experience Leadership

Holland America Line, a cruise line renowned for its extensive Alaska exploration history, is embarking on a significant $70 million investment to enhance its Denali land and sea Cruisetours. This substantial investment aims to expand guest capacity, elevate the Denali lodge experience, and reinforce the company’s position as the leading provider of Alaskan glacier viewing and wildlife encounters. The project, slated for completion in phases over the next few years, underscores Holland America’s commitment to providing immersive Alaskan adventures for its guests and supporting the growth of the Alaskan tourism industry.

The multi-year expansion project will unfold in stages, beginning in 2025 with enhancements to the riverside interpretive trail, incorporating scenic viewpoints and improved wayfinding. This initial phase will also focus on refining restaurant menu offerings and upgrading public spaces within the existing Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge guest room buildings. These improvements aim to create a more engaging and comfortable experience for guests from the moment they arrive at the Denali Lodge.

In 2026, the project will continue with the remodeling of 48 rooms within the Holland America Denali Lodge. A new coffee shop will be added, providing guests with a convenient and welcoming space to enjoy their morning brew. Additionally, the Karstens Public House will undergo renovations, expanding both indoor and outdoor seating areas to accommodate more guests and offer a richer, more immersive dining experience. These renovations will modernize the lodge’s facilities and enhance the overall guest experience.

The final phase, scheduled for 2027, will introduce a new guest-room building featuring 120 suites and standard rooms, significantly expanding the lodge’s capacity. Simultaneously, the main lodge will undergo a comprehensive renovation, introducing a new restaurant concept, a redesigned lobby bar, and an upgraded coffee experience. These enhancements will provide guests with a wider variety of dining and relaxation options and further elevate the lodge’s overall ambiance.

Anticipating the enhanced offerings, Holland America Line has already opened bookings for its 2025 and 2026 Cruisetours. These comprehensive travel packages combine an Alaskan cruise with an overland journey into Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory. With a selection of over 17 itineraries, travelers can choose the experience that best suits their interests, with options ranging from exploring glaciers and observing wildlife to embarking on wilderness tours. The Cruisetours are designed to provide unparalleled access to Alaska’s natural wonders and offer a diverse range of experiences.

Holland America Line’s ownership of motorcoaches, railcars, and hotels allows for preferential scheduling and seamless transitions for Cruisetour guests. Every itinerary incorporates a scenic ride on the luxurious glass-domed McKinley Explorer train, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Select itineraries also include visits to Dawson City and memorable rides through the historic White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from Skagway. For those eager to immerse themselves in Denali’s splendor, certain itineraries offer direct-to-Denali service, transporting guests directly from the ship to their Denali hotel room on the same day, maximizing their time in the park.

Beyond its comprehensive itineraries, Holland America Line distinguishes itself with an unparalleled focus on Alaskan wildlife. Recognizing the importance of these encounters, the cruise line employs a dedicated wildlife expert onboard to guide guests in spotting the majestic creatures that inhabit the region. From whales and eagles to bears, moose, otters, seals, and sea lions, the expert provides insights into the behavior and habitats of these animals. A comprehensive wildlife spotting guide, along with a map indicating the best viewing locations for each species, ensures that guests have the optimal opportunity to witness Alaska’s rich biodiversity. Furthermore, regular announcements of wildlife sightings are made throughout the day, between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., allowing guests to maximize their chances of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This commitment extends ashore, with Holland America Line offering access to nearly 180 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing opportunities, solidifying its position as a leader in Alaskan wildlife and wilderness tours. The company’s dedication to creating impactful wildlife experiences underscores its commitment to showcasing the natural wonders of Alaska. Coupled with its extensive Cruisetour options and lodge enhancements, Holland America Line continues to refine its offerings, providing travelers with an unforgettable Alaskan experience.