Oosterdam will join Westerdam to offer a combined total of 11 cruises to three ports
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Holland America Line is to add a second Vista-Class ship to its Mexico itineraries in the 2017-2018 season.
Joining sister ship Westerdam, the 1,964-guest Oosterdam will sail seven-day cruises from San Diego, California to Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico between September 2017 and February 2018.
Oosterdam will sail her first Mexico cruise on 30 September, offering two back-to-back seven-day sailings. She will sail two similar cruises on 20 and 27 December, then again on 3 and 10 January, and 4, 11 and 25 January.
Westerdam will depart on 24 November for the first of two seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises. The ship's other cruise departs on 1 December.
“Holland America Line’s last season in Mexico was very popular so we are adding capacity for the next season so that more of our guests can enjoy these itineraries that truly showcase the allure of the destination,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Our Mexico cruises offer convenience and ease, especially for a multigenerational family looking for a unique vacation. By calling at three ports, we’re able to fully immerse our guests in the culture, history, entertainment, recreation and cuisine of the country.”
Onboard the ships, Holland America’s Explorations Central programme will enable guests to enjoy Mexican-themed entertainment, regional dishes in the main dining room and Lido Market, and various Mexican liquors in the bars.
Guests can attend end an EXC Talk by an EXC Guide to learn more about Mexico, or head to America's Test Kitchen for a cooking demonstration, cooking class or themed mixology class featuring local ingredients. In addition, local cultural ambassadors will teach local crafts, language and dance lessons throughout the voyage. A mariachi band will perform for guests at one of the ports of call.
The EXC Team will also help guests to plan onshore activities, while the online EXC Port Planner offers online and printable destination maps, and tips and information from AFAR Media to provide exclusive handbooks for each destination. The in-stateroom EXC Channel will feature a selection of curated films, documentaries and TV shows exploring destinations on the ship's itinerary.