Philippines, Taiwan & Far East Collectors Voyage

Pricing is based on departure date: 4 January 2028

Journey through the heart of Asia on an enriching 26-day collector's voyage. Explore tropical coastlines, dynamic cities and centuries-old traditions across the Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong and beyond, while enjoying exceptional service, spacious accommodations and the refined onboard experience Holland America is renowned for.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan in the Philippines, is home to 250,000 people and offers a vastly different experience from Manila’s often overwhelming big-city dynamism. For many travelers, it’s simply a gateway to the resorts of El Nido, also on Palawan Island. Those who spend some time here, however, will discover a city that combines a laid-back vibe with beautiful sandy beaches and a wealth of marine life. Nearby, there are also lush mountains, rain forests, waterfalls and dramatic limestone cliffs. Among the most popular sights are the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, where visitors are welcome to celebrate Mass accompanied by choral singing; the Palawan Heritage Center, which displays local artworks and crafts; and the peaceful Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village. The city's biggest draws, however, are a boat trip through the limestone caves of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, and the beaches and islands scattered around scenic Honda Bay—perfect for snorkeling, sunbathing and picnics. Speaking of food, a visit to the most famous restaurant in the city, Kalui, is guaranteed to be a memorable experience for seafood fans; adventurous foodies can order crocodile sisig, a traditional—and delicious—stir-fry dish.

Boracay, Philippines
Discover the idyllic shores of Boracay on Holland America Asia cruises. Boracay is a small tropical island in the Philippines where visitors can relax under rustling palms or partake in thrilling water adventures, such as snorkeling its vibrant coral reefs. There’s more to Boracay than white-sand beaches and cerulean waters. Its most recognized landmark is Willy’s Rock, a tidal island topped with a Virgin Mary shrine. To gain insights into the Philippines pre-colonization, visit the Motag Living Museum, where you can play traditional games, learn rice farming methods, and make toys from coconut leaves.

Hualien, Taiwan
Most of the population of Taiwan is concentrated on the island’s west coast, where Taipei, Kaohsiung and the country’s other large cities are located. The east coast, however, is an entirely different world. Even with a population of only around 110,000, Hualien is the largest city in eastern Taiwan. Here, rugged, verdant mountains meet the deep-blue Pacific Ocean and you’ll find the most spectacular scenery on the island. Pebble and black-sand beaches sit next to cerulean seas, and there are big waves ideal for surfing. Numerous biking trails make it easy to explore the coastline as well as Hualien itself, which is home to many Tao and Buddhist temples and shrines. There's also a rich aboriginal culture thanks to several ethnic tribes that reside here, including the Ami. Watch them perform traditional dances and songs at the Ami Cultural Village, then peruse the handicrafts for sale. The city has several busy markets—perfect for tasting local specialties like coffin bread (a kind of potpie encased in toast) and the local variation of mochi, the famous rice flour sweet. But what most visitors come to see is the lush Taroko Gorge and its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and marble canyons.

Halong Bay, Vietnam
Like a combination of Thailand's famous limestone islanded Phang Nga Bay and old Hong Kong's harbor with its dragon-sailed junks, Vietnam's Halong Bay is fast making its way to the top of everyone's Asian must-see travel list. The bay and its almost two thousand islands were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 giving an official stamp of recognition to this natural wonder that has captivated painters and poets for centuries. Halong City has several markets and restaurants worth visiting, and is also a convenient base before setting out for places like Cat Ba Island and some of the smaller islets with their underground caves and biodiverse wildlife. As you sail the bay or look at it from the mainland, you may feel like you've stepped into a postcard or a painting from the classic era of Vietnamese art.

Da Nang (Hue), Vietnam
Located halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the port city of Da Nang has a small-town charm despite its lack of big-ticket attractions. It is home to a stunning 30-kilometer (18-mile) coastline that is popular for water sports such as waterskiing, paddleboarding and surfing. It’s also known for its great street food—and an extremely quirky bridge that you can't miss. The place was previously occupied by both the French and the Americans (this was the first place U.S. Marines landed in March 1965), and vestiges of both can be seen in the city, from the remnants of the vast U.S. air base and hospital to the city’s wide boulevards and old villas.

Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Cambodia’s certainly most famous for the temples of Angkor, but travelers seeking to wander farther are flocking to the small-yet-bustling coastal town of Sihanoukville. Renamed in 1964 for King Norodom Sihanouk, this provincial port is home to some of the nation’s most stunning coastline and a downtown that's a blend of local businesses and a lively expat scene centered on Serendipity Road.

You’ll find not one beach but several, each with its own personality: good for whether you want a relaxed day reading a novel or one full of activity, food and people-watching.

Often described as the Thailand of 20 years ago, this region is less touristy but still able to meet your expectations for a perfect beach getaway. In Sihanoukville, you can take a guided snorkeling trip, kayak through mangrove forests, hike through a national park or horseback ride on the beach. Visitors in the mood for less action can spend time exploring the local temples or shopping near the beach. Angkor’s certainly amazing, but Sihanoukville might just be Cambodia’s most perfect, still-secret stop.

   

Nathon (Koh Samui), Thailand
Koh Samui can feel like a screensaver landscape. As if designed by Mother Nature for posters, calendars and daydreams, it’s Thailand’s most famous island for a number of reasons. The beach-fringed coast is edged with vivid, blue water that’s a surf-and-sand playground for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, building sandcastles and simply lounging. Along with busy food stalls and restaurants where you can find a whole world of cuisine made with local produce and fresh seafood as well as authentic Thai dishes, the lively streets are lined with bars, boutiques, markets and spas.

By contrast, the island’s interior can provide moments of reflection and replenishing solitude. Enter the dense, hilly jungles for hikes to ancient temples and pristine waterfalls and quaint villages where you can experience true Thai hospitality.

With dreamy landscapes and island adventures from boat excursions to nature treks, you'll soon be enchanted by Koh Samui.

Your Ship: Noordam

Noordam combines Holland America Line's classic elegance with modern amenities, offering a refined and comfortable way to explore Asia. With spacious public areas, attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere, guests can enjoy a memorable journey both onboard and ashore.

Dining Experiences
Enjoy a variety of dining venues, from the elegant Dining Room serving expertly prepared cuisine to specialty restaurants featuring premium steaks, Italian favourites and fresh regional flavours. Casual cafés and lounges provide additional options for light meals and refreshments throughout the day.

Entertainment & Enrichment
Experience live music, stage performances and engaging entertainment designed to suit a range of interests. Destination-focused enrichment programs and cultural presentations provide deeper insights into the regions visited, enhancing your journey at every port of call.

Relaxation & Wellness
Take time to unwind at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, relax by one of the ship's pools or maintain your fitness routine in the well-equipped fitness centre. Comfortable lounges and expansive outdoor decks provide the perfect setting to enjoy ocean views and peaceful moments at sea.

Classic Holland America Experience
Known for its warm hospitality and attentive service, Noordam offers a welcoming mid-sized ship experience that balances comfort, enrichment and destination-focused cruising. Its elegant atmosphere and thoughtfully designed spaces make it ideal for discovering the diverse cultures and landscapes of Southeast Asia.

, At Sea, At Sea, Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Manila, Manila, At Sea, Kaohsiung Taiwan, Hualien, Keelung (Taipei), At Sea, Hong Kong, At Sea, Ha Long Bay, Ha Long Bay, At Sea, Da Nang, At Sea, Phu My, At Sea, Sihanoukville, Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Nathon, At Sea, Singapore

All fares are displayed in NZD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.