Cruise

Holland America Replaces Russian Ports

Holland America Line said in a statement that: “In light of the recent attacks by Russia in Ukraine, Holland America Line is modifying six cruise itineraries that were originally scheduled to visit Russian ports this year. We stand for peace and our thoughts are with those who are in harm’s way.”

The cruise line advises that replacement ports vary by itinerary, and the five sailings that would have visited St. Petersburg, Russia, will instead call on Baltic ports such as Riga, Latvia; Klaipeda, Lithuania; and Visby, Sweden, while also adding an overnight stay in Stockholm, Sweden. The cruise that was scheduled to visit Vladivostok, Russia, will instead visit Busan (Pusan), South Korea.

Holland America said that booked guests and their travel advisors will receive notice of the changes as soon as that process is complete.

It also said in the statement that its security department continuously monitors worldwide security alerts and other assessments in close contact with governments, law enforcement and private sources. The cruise line will continue to monitor this situation and make additional changes, if needed.

In closing, Holland America said: “We appreciate the patience and understanding of our guests as we make these changes while delivering the premium cruise experience they have come to expect with Holland America Line.”