While this year’s July 4 celebrations are over, cruise fans who are history buffs can certainly look forward to a spectacular cruising celebration next summer. Holland America Line just unveiled a landmark cruise honoring America’s 250th birthday. Sailing roundtrip from Boston, where much of the American Revolution took root, this seven-day “America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage” will depart July 4, 2026.
As Zuiderdam departs from Boston, the ship plans to position in Boston Harbor. There, guests will gaze at the city’s iconic Fourth of July fireworks from a distance. Now, that’s sure to be an unforgettable sail-away celebration!
Other highlights? The 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam will visit Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. Most notably, the ship will make a special call at Norfolk, Virginia. So, guests can head out to explore two iconic historic destinations — Colonial Williamsburg and historic Jamestown.
In addition, guests will enjoy the ship’s overnight stay in New York City before returning to Boston. Definitely chat with a professional travel advisor if you are interested in finding out more. From our perspective, America’s 250th Celebration sailing should be quite the historic deep dive with plenty of celebratory elements.
(Shown above, the Statue of Liberty is an iconic site in New York Harbor. Photo by Holland America Line.)
Holland America Celebrates: A Singular Milestone
“America’s 250th anniversary is a singular milestone,” emphasizes Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America’s president. “We’re excited to mark this historic occasion with a cruise that brings our guests closer to the places where our nation was born,”
She continues: “From walking the grounds of Williamsburg and visiting Ellis Island to exploring Boston’s Freedom Trail, this voyage offers an unforgettable journey through American history.”
Special events are planned to celebrate this Fourth of July in true patriotic style. “We believe this voyage will be a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone on board,” emphasizes Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel.
America’s 250th Celebration: Tours in Norfolk
New and notable? During the America’s 250th Celebration, Holland America will offer in-depth shore excursions in Norfolk. They’ll take cruisers to important historical sites — those that focus on Revolutionary War ties, U.S. naval legacy and semi-quincentennial celebrations.
During the Norfolk call, for instance, guests can choose from shore excursions to three Virginia towns. Let’s just say that they’re among the most important in American history: Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown.
For example, a “Colonial Williamsburg & Governor’s Palace” shore excursion will take guests to Virginia’s historic peninsula, home to that trio of towns. Separately, a “Jamestown Settlement & American Revolution Museum at Yorktown” tour will visit the Colonial National Historic Park. That park connects Jamestown and Yorktown.
New York City and Tall Ships
The overnight stay in New York City will nicely coincide with the conclusion of the “Sail 4th 250” visit of tall ships. That’s planned for July 3-8, 2026. “The world’s largest fleet of tall ships and gray-hull ships are expected to assemble in New York Harbor for the week,” explains Pavlus’ Steudle.
So, when Zuiderdam cruises into New York on July 8, it will sail past Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. And guests will see Sail 4th 250’s “Farewell to the Fleet” as the tall ships depart for Boston.
Holland America’s “Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island” shore excursion will take travelers to visit both those iconic locales. And on the “New York City by Land & Sea” tour, guests will take a boat cruise on the city’s waterways for views of top landmarks.
Given the overnight visit, Holland America’s guests will also have more time to explore New York. It’s a great opportunity to see historic and modern sites, plus experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. Sounds as though it’s the perfect scenario for a night out on the town! Dinner and a show, anyone?
America’s 250th Celebration Details
At press time, fares for the seven-day “America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage” started at $1,459 per person, double occupancy. Those fares include both port fees and taxes.
“This cruise is a fabulous opportunity for those who love history to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in the U.S. cities where our country’s journey began,” says Pavlus‘ Steudle. “But given that this is a one-time opportunity, it’s prudent to start planning for this celebration now.”
So, talk with your personal travel planner and ask questions. Secure the right stateroom or suite for your needs with a deposit. Then, get ready to celebrate in summer 2026. “We believe this special journey will sell out quickly,” acknowledges Pavlus’ Steudle.
But if you prefer a cruise next summer to “The Great Land” instead, then consider booking one of Holland America’s 2026 Alaska voyages. The premium line has significant Alaska experience. It’s also the only major cruise line offering cruise tours that encompass not only Alaska but Canada’s Yukon Territory as well. Check our previous blog.
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