11-day California to Alaska: shores, fjords & glaciers

Departures & Pricing

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Zaandam

Details · Holland America Line

Zaandam

Zaandam is a Holland America Line ship that entered service in 2000, carrying around 1,430 guests. Music-themed throughout — her collection includes instruments signed by Queen and the Rolling Stones — she is one of the fleet's smaller ships, well suited to longer voyages.

Guests

1,837

Crew

647

Gross tonnage

61,396

Speed

26 knots

Length

237.7 m

Launched

2000

Deck plans

10

Zaandam · Deck plans

Deck 10 — Sky Deck

− + Fit

Source: Holland America Line, captured 5 August 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.

Itinerary

1. 1

   San Diego, California

   Departs 04:00 pm.

   Known as a place of infinite beauty, affectionate locals and endless sunshine, San Diego has become one of America's favorite cities. Located in the southwest corner of California, close to the border of Mexico, San Diego has a distinct cross-cultural feel, part sun-drenched Mediterranean atmosphere, part south-of-the-border zest and part quintessential California beach town.The history of San Diego is rooted in its Spanish and Mexican past. San Diego was declared the capital of upper and lower Baja only four years after Mexico gained its independence in 1821. Less than thirty years later, the United States declared war on Mexico and within two years the Treaty of Guadalupe Hildalgo was signed creating the current borders between Mexico and the United States.The city continues to prosper with a population exceeding one million. World-renowned attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, the Salk Institute, Sea World, La Jolla and the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge have created a strong tourism industry for the area. But undoubtedly what attracts visitors from around the world is the city's breathtaking natural beauty, superb coastline and near-perfect weather.

2. 2

   At Sea

3. 3

   At Sea

4. 4

   At Sea

5. 5

   Klawock, Alaska, USA

   Arrives 12:00 pm, departs 06:00 pm.

6. 6

   Juneau, Alaska

   Arrives 10:00 am, departs 10:00 pm.

   In 1880, it was slow going for Joe Juneau and Richard Harris as they searched for gold with the help of Native guides. After climbing mountains, forging streams and facing countless difficulties, they found nuggets "as large as beans." From their discovery came three of the largest gold mines in the world. By the end of World War II, more than $150 million in gold had been mined. Eventually the mines closed, but the town Joe Juneau founded became the capital of Alaska and the business of gold was replaced by the business of government. Some 30,000 people live in Juneau. Its total area makes it one of the biggest towns, in size, in the world. Only Kiruna, Sweden, and Sitka, Alaska, exceed Juneau's 3,248 square miles. Today Juneau is famous not only for gold and government but also for its breathtakingly beautiful glaciers and stunning views of both water and mountains.

7. 7

   Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising), Alaska

   Arrives 06:00 am, departs 03:30 pm.

   Princess is one of a select few cruise lines permitted to cruise the pristine waters of Glacier Bay, the highlight of our 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. Just west of Juneau, this breathtaking national park and preserve boasts some of the world's most spectacular tidewater glaciers, such as Margerie Glacier, which often drops colossal chunks of ice into the sea. Not surprisingly, Glacier Bay National Park and its epic ice giants are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising Alaska's magnificent park system. During your scenic cruise, friendly Park Rangers will join the ship to share their knowledge of this amazing place and host a fun Junior Ranger program for kids. They may even be able to help you identify Glacier Bay's abundant wildlife, including humpback whales, sea otters, porpoises, harbor seals, black bears, mountain goats, bald eagles and large colonies of seabirds. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery as you enjoy an unforgettable day of sailing through this dazzling park, where you'll glide along emerald waters and past calving icebergs, and can breathe in the crisp, fresh air to your heart's content.

8. 8

   Wrangell, Alaska

   Arrives 08:00 am, departs 05:00 pm.

   Nestled in the heart of southeast Alaska, Wrangell is a town rich in history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Established as a Russian fur trading post in 1834, it later became a key stop during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, Wrangell seamlessly blends its Tlingit heritage with its pioneer past, offering you a glimpse of Alaska's rugged spirit. For history enthusiasts, Chief Shakes Tribal House on Shakes Island showcases Tlingit artistry and traditions, while the Wrangell Museum brings the past to life with exhibits on the gold rush, fur trade, and native culture. Adventurers can explore the Stikine River, one of North America's last truly wild rivers, where jet boat tours skim through glacier-fed waters teeming with wildlife. LeConte Glacier, the southernmost tidewater glacier on the continent, stuns visitors with its massive calving icebergs and brilliant blue hues. Nature lovers won't want to miss the Anan Wildlife Observatory, one of the best places in Alaska to observe black and brown bears up close as they fish for salmon. Birdwatchers flock to Wrangell in spring for the Stikine River Birding Festival, when thousands of bald eagles and migrating birds fill the skies. Whether hiking to Rainbow Falls, kayaking among icebergs, or searching for ancient rock carvings at Petroglyph Beach, Wrangell is a destination where history, culture, and adventure come together in a breathtaking Alaskan setting.

9. 9

   Ketchikan, Alaska

   Arrives 08:00 am, departs 06:00 pm.

   Ketchikan is known as Alaska's "First City" because it's the first major community travelers come to as they journey north. Located on an island, Ketchikan began life as an Indian fishing camp. The name Ketchikan comes from a Tlingit phrase that means "eagle with spread-out wings," a reference to a waterfall near town. In the early 1900s, when gold was Alaska's claim to fame, fishing and timber industries were established in Ketchikan. The growth of these industries helped make this Inside Passage port Alaska's fourth-largest city. Visitors to Ketchikan will be intrigued by its rich Native heritage, which includes the world's oldest collection of totem poles at Totem Heritage Center. The Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian are all a part of the city's colorful history. Ketchikan, with its abundance of salmon, is also a sport-fishing paradise. Sightseers will be impressed with both the scenic town and its surroundings, especially Misty Fjords National Monument.

10. 10

    Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

    Arrives 07:00 am, departs 06:00 pm.

    Historic Prince Rupert captivates both mind and heart with its maritime history and awe-inspiring scenery. Located near the Alaska panhandle, Prince Rupert was established in 1910 as the intersection of commerce and trade for First Nations people and continued to develop as a town when selected as the western terminus for the Grand Turk Pacific Railway. Nestled within a temperate rainforest, it experiences 220 days of rain each year, earning it the poetic nickname "The City of Rainbows." But from within the raindrops, Prince Rupert shines with heritage charms best seen in its Kwinitsa Railway Station Museum, The Museum of Northern British Columbia and the historic North Pacific Cannery compound. Its stunning vistas captured in flight from the window of a seaplane adventure amaze travelers. Abundant wildlife can be observed on land at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. And seen from the deck of a wildlife cruise on the chilly waters, breeching humpback whales and soaring eagles inspire. Hike through the Butze Rainforest or the Exchamsiks River Provincial Park, then end the day with a stroll among the colorful gift shops stopping in a charming bistro to sample the freshest catch of the day.

11. 11

    Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage

12. 12

    Vancouver, Canada

    Arrives 07:00 am.

    Vancouver is one of the world’s most stunning cities, where scenic beauty meets vibrant city life. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this dynamic destination offers a unique blend of cultures, flavors, and experiences. From the historic charm of Gastown—with its cobblestone streets, heritage architecture, and cozy cafés—to the bustling waterfront of the Port of Vancouver, the city invites exploration at every turn. Named after British explorer Captain George Vancouver, who charted the region’s coastline in 1792, the city carries a legacy of discovery and connection. As Canada’s third-largest city, Vancouver boasts a rich cultural tapestry, including the second-largest Chinatown in North America, world-class parks, and a distinctly European feel. Whether you're strolling through Stanley Park, enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, biking along the coastline, or exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods, this beautiful waterfront city delivers unforgettable moments for every traveler.

Accommodation

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