ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Anchorage’s 2026 cruise ship season is officially underway Friday with the arrival of Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam.
It’s one of several vessels scheduled to call at the city’s port through late September, according to a cruise calendar published by Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska.
Passengers stepping off the ship Friday said they were eager to explore Anchorage and the rest of Alaska. One group of first-time visitors from Ontario said the trip had been a long time coming.
“Oh, it’s on our bucket list,” passenger Andy Bos said.
Another traveler, Joanne Faber, said the scenery stood out immediately.
“Everywhere you look is a beautiful mountain,” she said.
Anchorage cruise ship schedule
The Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska calendar lists the following cruise ship calls for Anchorage in 2026:
Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam — Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9Holland America’s Noordam — Thursday, June 25 and Friday, June 26World of Residensea — Wednesday, Aug. 5 (10 a.m.), Thursday, Aug. 6 (10 a.m.), and Friday, Aug. 7 (10 a.m.)Holland America’s Noordam — Thursday, Aug. 27Seabourn Venture — Saturday, Aug. 29Holland America’s Noordam — Monday, Sept. 14 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)Holland America’s Zaandam — Thursday, Sept. 24 and Friday, Sept. 25
Some passengers said they planned to spend their Anchorage stop visiting local attractions, including downtown museums.
“We’re going to go to the museum for sure, and then we’re just going to see what life brings about,” said passenger Lisa Martinez.
Another visitor said friends had recommended the Anchorage Museum.
“They said the museum, that four-story museum downtown … is supposed to be amazing,” Boss said.
Martinez said she and her husband have made multiple trips north.
“Oh, gosh, we love coming to Alaska,” she said.
For some, the ship itself was part of the appeal.
“We’re first-time cruisers, and so far it’s been amazing,” Faber said, adding: “Food good, service is good, entertainment’s been great.”
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