Holland America Line announced multiple itinerary changes to its Zaandam cruise ship for the 35-day “Legendary Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas” sailing departing on October 15, 2026. The adjustments affect port calls and times between October and November 2026 along the ship’s Pacific route.
Swapped Port Calls and Exclusive Visits to French Polynesia
The updated itinerary reverses the order of visits to Raiatea and Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Zaandam now calls at Raiatea 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. Previously, Bora Bora was scheduled for November 3 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., followed
by Raiatea on November 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This change makes Zaandam the only ship in port at both destinations on these dates, increasing access to shore excursions and local transportation. Holland America Line contrasted Zaandam’s guest capacity of 1,432 with the smaller Silver Whisper, which accommodates 388 guests and was originally planned to visit Raiatea and Bora Bora on the initial dates alongside Zaandam.
Port Call Cancellation and Additional Time at Key Stops
The cruise will no longer call at Tabuaeran (Fanning Island), Kiribati, on October 29, 2026. Holland America attributed this cancellation to necessary adjustments to Zaandam’s operating speed during parts of the voyage.
To partially offset the skipped port, two additional hours have been added to calls at Kahului on October 24 and Moorea on November 6. Passengers on the October 15 sailing will receive a $100 non-refundable shipboard credit for onboard use, including retail, dining, spa services, and shore tours.
Background: Technical Issues Influence New Schedule
The October-November itinerary changes follow earlier propulsion difficulties experienced by Zaandam in June 2026. Those issues prompted cancellation of Alaska itinerary stops and required repairs while the ship was docked in Juneau. Holland America acknowledged that the ship cannot operate at normal speeds on the upcoming voyage, necessitating the port adjustments. The
exact technical cause has not been disclosed.
Passenger Impact and Official Statements
The cruise line’s official statement emphasized that the revised French Polynesian port dates allow Zaandam to be the sole vessel in port, enhancing passenger access to shore activities. The earlier departure from Bora Bora was also described as enabling a memorable sunset sailaway. Holland America noted that operating speed adjustments forced the removal of the Tabuaeran port call and required reallocating time at other ports. Passengers have been advised to review updated itinerary details from Holland America. Some guests have voiced concern about the potential for further technical issues during the long Pacific
crossing, which spans over 9,400 miles.
