Holland America Line will sail a full season of cruises out of Dover in summer 2025 – the first time it will homeport a ship in the UK in 10 years.

The cruise line is basing Pinnacle-class ship Nieuw Statendam out of Dover for 10 departures, demonstrating its “commitment to the UK market”, a statement said.

The ship will sail itineraries ranging from 14 to 42 days, to the Canary Islands, British Isles, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Iberia and the eastern Mediterranean.

In addition to Dover, the cruise line will depart from nine homeports throughout Europe, with an increase in cruises of more than 10 days, as well as more sailings to Iceland and a combined 62 overnight calls or late-night departures in leading cities.

Holland America Line thanks agent partners

Holland America Line UK director of sales and marketing Karen Farndell said: “We’re really excited about Nieuw Statendam homeporting in Dover for a whole season in 2025 and the additional opportunities this provides to the trade, as well as our guests.

“The itineraries look incredible and varied, offering something for everyone.

“Beyond Dover, our 10 homeports span Europe, and in 2025 we’re offering the most diverse range of itineraries that include everything from weeklong holidays to the Med to month-long explorations up to the Arctic.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our travel agent partners for their continued support and commitment throughout our milestone 150^th year and we look forward to our relationship with the trade going from strength to strength.”

Port of Dover head of cruise Sonia Limbrick added: “We are thrilled to be a homeport for the Holland America Line for the 2025 season.

“The Port of Dover is already looking forward to welcoming the Nieuw Statendam and her passengers to our world-class cruise port as they take in such a wide range of exciting itineraries.

“With our stunning waterfront, including a new marina and iconic views of Dover’s dramatic white cliffs and castle, it provides the perfect send-off and welcome home.”

In July, HAL reported its best sales week for the UK market since 2019.

The majority of bookings for the UK sales success were for cruises departing in 2024 and 2025, with the most popular destinations being Alaska, Asia and Europe.