Holland America Line launches new era of onboard entertainment - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Guests can expect more live music, reimagined World Stage shows, enhanced cultural programming, and a newly structured entertainment team. Six ships already feature these updates, with more to follow by the end of 2025.

“We’re responding to guest demand for more vibrant and diverse entertainment,” said Michael Smith, Senior Vice President of Guest Experience and Product Development. “Our goal is to elevate every sailing by offering more authentic music, dynamic performances, and engaging activities—making each journey even more memorable.”

Live music and revitalized shows take center stage

Passengers aboard Nieuw Statendam, Zaandam, Zuiderdam, Volendam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Eurodam are already experiencing the return of classical music with Vivace, a new onboard string duo or trio. These ships also debut The Dam Band, a live group supporting both production shows and guest performers on the World Stage. Entertainment now runs nightly, with expanded World Stage lineups and surprise performances in venues like the Crow’s Nest, Lido Pool, and Ocean Bar.

A new regional soloist program adds cultural flavor to each itinerary—folk guitar in Alaska, steel pan in the Caribbean, and mariachi in Mexico. On Canada and New England cruises aboard Volendam and Zuiderdam, the popular Breton Thunder returns in an expanded format, performing on the World Stage and in pop-up appearances throughout the ship.

New entertainment team structure enhances guest interaction

A revitalized entertainment and enrichment team is being introduced across the fleet. By August 1, over half of Holland America Line’s ships will feature an enhanced Cruise Director role—more visible, interactive, and central to the onboard atmosphere. Supported by an Assistant Cruise Director and an expanded team, this new structure brings a greater variety of onboard activities, including themed parties, cooking demos, game shows, and hands-on workshops.

Later this year, Travel Guides will return to offer destination briefings, Q&A sessions, and local insights. An expanded Activities Crew will lead trivia, art classes, and culinary events. The full entertainment team is expected to be in place fleetwide by the end of 2025.

“Welcome Aboard” show sets the tone for each cruise

In June, Eurodam premiered a brand-new “Welcome Aboard” show on the first night of each sailing. This high-energy performance previews the entertainment and enrichment options ahead—from dazzling stage productions to Port Talks, cultural showcases, and the popular Orange Party. The show will debut on more ships throughout 2025 and is expected fleetwide by summer 2026.

Signature stage shows return by popular demand

Volendam, Zaandam, and Nieuw Amsterdam reintroduce guest-favorite shows from the 2025 Grand Voyages:

·         Curtain Up – A musical journey from Broadway to the West End with hits from “Jersey Boys,” “West Side Story,” “Hairspray,” and more

·         Dance! – A celebration of dance from around the world, featuring tango, rumba, Charleston, and cha-cha

·         Rock Britannia – A tribute to legendary British rock from the ’60s to the ’80s with music by Rod Stewart, the Rolling Stones, the Kinks, and others

·         Solid Gold – A ’70s showcase of classic hits by Fleetwood Mac, Donna Summer, Elton John, and more

·         Crossroads – A soulful mix of country and folk favorites by artists like Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash

·         It’s a Swing Thing – A toe-tapping swing show with timeless numbers like “The Lady Is a Tramp” and “Feeling Good”

A deeper connection to each destination

Beyond entertainment, Holland America Line enriches each journey with cultural immersion and practical guidance. Live music venues such as Billboard Onboard, Rolling Stone Lounge, and B.B. King’s Blues Club remain guest favorites. “Up Close” presentations spotlight local stories and heritage, while port briefings provide tips for shore excursions. On Alaska cruises, guests benefit from wildlife experts and real-time narration by National Park Service rangers in Glacier Bay.

For more information, visit hollandamerica.com, speak to your travel advisor, or call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425).

Image Credit: © Holland America Line