Holland America Line, a cruise operator that is part of Carnival Corporation, has announced a capital investment programme of USD 70 million to expand capacity and elevate its Denali Lodge as well as enhance its land and sea cruisetours.

In a press statement, Holland America Line says that the investment will build on its position with more opportunities for glacier viewing and more ways to see Alaska’s wildlife than any other cruise line.

“It is truly special that we can bring guests to a lodge at the doorstep of Denali National Park. This investment is a win for Alaska, our guests, and Holland America Line. Enhancing and expanding the Holland America Denali Lodge will help meet the growing interest in combined land and sea cruisetours for our 49^th state and further support the Alaska tourism industry,” says Beth Bodensteiner, President, Holland America Line.

The statement adds that in 2025, the project will begin with enhancements to the riverside interpretive trail with scenic viewpoints, improved on-site wayfinding, refined menu offerings for restaurants, and public space improvements for the Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge guest room buildings.

In 2026, it will continue with 48 remodelled rooms in the Holland America Denali Lodge, a new coffee shop, and a remodelled Karstens Public House with expanded indoor and outdoor seating to provide a more immersive experience.

Beth Bodensteiner

And in 2027, the project will continue with a new building with 120 suite and standard rooms as well as a main lodge renovation that will include a new restaurant concept, a new lobby bar, and an enhanced coffee experience.

The statement adds that the for the years 2025 and 2026, cruise tours are available for booking, allowing customers to combine an Alaska cruise with a journey into Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory. A series of 17 itineraries will combine a cruise with an overland journey, offering more access to Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and wilderness tours.

Holland America Line says it owns motorcoaches, railcars, and hotels, providing preferential schedules for cruisetour passengers. Each itinerary includes a scenic ride on the luxury glass-domed McKinley Explorer train, and select itineraries visit Dawson and rides through the historic White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from Skagway. Other select itineraries offer direct-to-Denali service, taking guests from the ship to their Denali hotel room on the same day.

The company claims that it offers more ways to see the wildlife of Alaska. Holland America Line says it carries a wildlife expert on board to help guests witness the majestic animals found in Alaska, including whales, eagles, bears, moose, otters, seals, sea lions, and more. A wildlife spotting guide points out the native animals found along the cruise route and a map with the best places to see each species is included. Between 08:00 and 17:30, wildlife sightings are announced for viewing.

The wildlife experience continues ashore. With nearly 180 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing opportunities, Holland America Line is leader in Alaska wildlife and wilderness tours.