Holland America Line has announced changes to the Zaandam cruise ship’s 35-day “Legendary Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas” sailing departing Thursday, October 15, 2026. The itinerary adjustments address operational requirements related to the ship’s planned operating speed during parts of the voyage.
Port call rearrangements and removals
The original schedule had Zaandam visiting Bora Bora on November 3 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Raiatea on November 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. These were switched so that Raiatea is now the port of call on November 3 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Bora Bora on November 4 from 8 a.m. to
6 p.m. The cruise line noted this change makes Zaandam the only ship in port during both visits, enhancing access to local transportation, shore excursions, and onshore experiences.
Zaandam’s revised schedule removes the call at Tabuaeran (Fanning Island), Kiribati, originally set for Thursday, October 29. Holland America Line communicated this change in an email to guests, citing the need for adjustments in operating speed as the cause.
Additional port time and guest compensation
To offset the removal of Tabuaeran, two extra hours have been added to Zaandam’s visits to Kahului on October 24 and Moorea on November 6. Guests booked on the October 15 departure will
receive a $100 USD non-refundable onboard credit, applicable towards retail, spa treatments, specialty dining, shore tours, and other onboard expenses.
Operational reasons and prior propulsion issues
The itinerary modifications are tied to necessary adjustments in Zaandam’s planned operating speed during sections of the voyage. While Holland America has not detailed the technical causes, prior propulsion difficulties forced itinerary changes on Zaandam’s Alaska cruises in June 2026. On that occasion, the ship missed Skagway, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay sailing segments due to technical problems affecting propulsion systems.
Passenger impact and cruise line statements
The changes affect guest schedules by altering port durations and removing a Kiribati visit. The cruise line stated, “These revised
dates mean Zaandam will be the only ship in port during both visits, providing greater access to local transportation, shore excursions, and experiences ashore. An earlier departure time from Bora Bora will also offer the opportunity to enjoy a memorable sunset sailaway.” Some guests have expressed concerns about possible mechanical issues crossing the Pacific, a route spanning over 9,400 miles through remote areas.
Voyage length and previous disruptions context
The 35-day itinerary covers diverse and distant Pacific locations, including Hawaii, Tahiti, and the Marquesas Islands. Given Zaandam’s previous technical challenges during its 2026 Alaska season, the current itinerary adjustments reflect ongoing operational considerations. The route’s remoteness
complicates repairs and reinforces the need for flexible scheduling.
