The government of Japan reported on 15NOV that it is ready to start receiving international cruise ships again, after lifting its two and a half year pandemic-driven restriction on cruises.
Following this announcement, Holland America Line’s MS Westerdam is preparing for a series of itineraries in early 2023 that will let guests explore Asian destinations.
“We’re grateful for the work that the Japanese authorities have done to allow for a return to cruising,” said Gus Antorcha, president, Holland America Line. “Holland America Line’s guests love longer voyages to unique parts of the world, and we’ll be sailing to some incredible locations as our season in Japan and the rest of Asia begins.”
The Westerdam, currently sailing in Australia and New Zealand, starts the Asia season following a JAN drydock in Singapore. Beginning 03FEB, the ship sails a series of Far East voyages.
Sailing roundtrip from Yokohama, Japan, or Singapore, or between Yokohama and Singapore, cruises are 11 to 14 days and can be combined to form nonrepeating Collectors’ Voyages. Countries explored include Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia. Five different itineraries are offered including “Indonesian Discovery,” “Japan, Taiwan & The Philippines,” “Japan Explorer,” "Japan Discovery" and “Southern Japan.”
Overnight calls include Singapore; Kobe and Osaka, Japan; and Phuket, Thailand. The season concludes 24APR with a 14-day “North Pacific Crossing” from Yokohama to Seattle, Washington where Westerdam will homeport for its Alaska season.
As protocols for cruising in Asia are finalized, each departure will be added to Holland America Line’s Voyage Lookup tool, which allows guests to see any specific health protocols for their cruise.
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