Holland America Line Expands Mexico Program in 2016-17 with More Cruises and a Larger, Vista-Class Ship

ms Westerdam sets sail on 14 cruises from October through February

SEATTLE, March 23, 2016 /CNW/ -- Holland America Line is strengthening its presence in Mexico for the 2016-17 season by increasing the number of departures and returning a larger Vista-class ship to the region. From October 2016 through February 2017, the 1,916-guest ms Westerdam will sail a series of 13 seven-day cruises roundtrip from San Diego, California, including two special holiday departures in December.

To kick off the season, the ship will depart from Vancouver, British Columbia, Oct. 18, 2016, on an 11-day itinerary. Boasting sun-kissed skies, golden beaches and azure seas, the Mexican Riviera is an ideal getaway for travelers looking to visit a destination that's rich in culture, color and cuisine.

"We're looking forward to the 2016-17 Mexico cruise season, and with increased sailings and a larger ship we'll have the opportunity to show more of our guests what makes Mexico such a vibrant destination," said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. "Mexico has it all, and with convenient roundtrip San Diego cruises, we know that these itineraries are going to attract a lot of cruisers looking for a unique warm-weather vacation."

An 11-Day Mexican Riviera Cruise Opens the Season
Departing Oct. 18, ms Westerdam sails from Vancouver to San Diego on an 11-day Mexican Riviera itinerary. The ship visits Santa Barbara, California, before calling at San Diego the first time, then continues on to make calls at the Mexican ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta before returning to San Diego at the end of the voyage. Guests who want to take a seven-day portion can embark Oct. 22 in San Diego following the call at Santa Barbara.

Seven-Day Mexican Riviera Itinerary Sails Roundtrip from San Diego
For the remainder of the season, Westerdam sails a series of 13 seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises where guests will get a great feel for the country and all that it has to offer. Sailing roundtrip from San Diego through Feb. 7, 2017, the itinerary calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta. Three days at sea allow plenty of time to relax and explore the abundance of amenities offered on board.

Popular Ports Highlight the Itinerary
During the sail into San Diego, guests are treated to scenic cruising past Coronado Island, Cabrillo National Monument and Point Loma. Westerdam conveniently docks near downtown, so guests can walk on Coronado Island's sandy beach, take in the Old Town or have a wild time at the famous San Diego Zoo, time permitting.

At the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico's most recognizable ports of call thanks to its unique rock arch formation. Whether lounging on a powdery beach, exploring on a four-wheel-drive adventure or taking to the sea in search of a gray whale, guests will find Cabo (as it is affectionately called) offers something for every type of traveler.

Mazatlán, known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," is where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet, creating an incredible sportfishing environment. It's also a haven for watersports, historic sites and nature. Locals treat visitors like amigos, making it a coastal city with plenty of allure.

Puerto Vallarta has it all — from gorgeous beaches and activities galore to chic shops and stylish restaurants. The quaint Old Town greets visitors with an enticing mix of red-tiled buildings, cobbled streets and bustling open markets, while eco-adventures show off Mexico's flora and fauna in this paradise on earth. 

'On Location' Brings Mexican Culture on Board
Throughout the voyage, "On Location" programming brings Mexico's local traditions, culinary tastes and cultural experiences to life on board. A mariachi band will perform throughout the voyage, while a barbecue on Lido Deck features authentic Mexican dishes. Guests who want to learn more about the country can attend a destination presentation or head to the Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food and Wine magazine, for a cooking demonstration, cooking class or themed mixology class featuring local fare. The main dining room and Lido Market also will showcase the flavors of Mexico.

Sea Days Offer a Variety of Onboard Activities
With an abundance of activities, days at sea can move at a leisurely pace or pick up speed with a packed, fun-filled schedule. Guests can get pampered at Greenhouse Spa; learn how to share cruise photos at a Digital Workshop powered by Windows; enhance their cooking skills at the Culinary Arts Center; lounge by the pool and get lost in a good book; browse the latest news at the Explorations Café powered by The New York Times; indulge in tea time; enhance their knowledge at a lecture; attend a dance class; and much more.

For more information about Holland America Line and Mexico Riviera cruises, consult a travel professional, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.

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About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)]
Holland America Line's fleet of 13 ships offers more than 500 cruises to more than 400 ports in 98 countries, territories or dependencies around the world. From shorter getaways to 115-day itineraries, the company's cruises visit all seven continents with highlights including Antarctica explorations, South America circumnavigations and exotic Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; four annual Grand Voyages; and popular sailings to the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Bermuda, Europe and the Panama Canal. The line currently has a new 2,650-guest ship, ms Koningsdam, on order for delivery in April 2016, as well as a second Pinnacle Class ship due for delivery in November 2018.

The company recently announced $300 million in brand enhancements to secure its position at the leader in premium cruising. Fleetwide, the ships feature innovative initiatives and a diverse range of enriching experiences focused on destination immersion and personalized travel. Guests can expand their knowledge on board at the Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine; Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times; and Digital Workshop powered by Windows. Outstanding entertainment fills each evening at venues including Lincoln Center Stage, Billboard Onboard and B.B. King's Blues Club. The dining experience can be savored at a variety of restaurants with menus that feature selections from Holland America Line's esteemed Culinary Council that comprises world-famous chefs who design dishes exclusively for our guests.

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SOURCE Holland America Line