New Inca Coast cruise offers bucket-list journey to South America
In response to growing demand for South America cruises, cruise lines are rolling out new and enhanced ways to explore the adventurous travel region rich in dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and fascinating cultures.
Premium cruise line Holland America Line recently increased its cruise capacity in South America for the 2027/2028 season, deploying its popular Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship to sail in the region for the first time to accommodate more travelers and elevate the passenger experience.
Nieuw Amsterdam's move to South America also sets the stage for the cruise line to introduce an epic journey across the Americas to kick off the newly upgraded season.
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The chance to visit Machu Picchu in Peru is a highlight of Holland America Line's Inca Coast cruise.Holland America Line
Holland America Line adds Legendary Voyage along Pacific Coast
Holland America Line unveiled a new addition to its collection of Legendary Voyages , long-duration cruises designed for deeper cultural immersion, that invites travelers on a rare journey to discover much of the Pacific Coast from North America, through Central America, and into South America.
The 26-day "Inca Coast: Mexico & Latin America Legendary Voyage" departs Oct. 7, 2027 from Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam. Ending in San Antonio (Santiago), Chile, the itinerary features overnights in Manta (Quito), Ecuador, and Callao (Lima), Peru, along with calls across California, Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.
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Designed to immerse passengers in the natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant cultures of the Inca Coast, the voyage offers extended time in port and access to bucket-list experiences like crossing the Equator and visiting Machu Picchu. Throughout the journey, passengers can not only explore ancient civilizations, but discover rainforests, volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and sought-after cities.
"We know our guests want experiences that allow them to connect deeply with the places they visit—through history, culture and wildlife. The Inca Coast is one of the most captivating regions on the planet, and we shaped this itinerary to offer guests a meaningful way to explore it," said Paul Grigsby, Holland America Line's vice president of itinerary planning and deployment.
"For centuries, sailors have traveled this storied coastline, and we're proud to bring its beauty and heritage to our guests today. Whether they're discovering Machu Picchu, venturing into the Costa Rican rainforest or relaxing on a beach day, this voyage offers an extraordinary immersion into the rich character of the Inca Coast," he added.
Inca Coast cruise offers exploration across the Americas
Highlights of the 26-day Inca Coast Legendary Voyage include:
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Scenic cruising down the California coast with stops in San Francisco and San Diego before heading south to Cabo San Lucas and Huatulco in Mexico.
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A call to Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala — gateway to Mayan ruins, colonial Antigua, and the Pacaya volcano.
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A visit to Puntarenas (Puerto Caldera), Costa Rica, followed by an Equator crossing en route to Ecuador.
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An overnight in Manta (Quito), Ecuador, offering opportunities to explore the Amazon, Galápagos, or the Ecuadorian rainforest.
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An overnight in Callao (Lima), Peru — gateway to the Inca Empire— plus calls at Salaverry (Trujillo) and General San Martín (Pisco).
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A chance to enjoy stargazing off the coast of Arica and the coastal beauty of Coquimbo (La Serena), Chile.
Each stop of the journey will be complemented by onboard enrichment programs, regional entertainment, and menu offerings that showcase the flavors of the Pacific Coast.
Related: 3 cruise lines offering special voyages for America's 250th
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This story was originally published by TravelHost on Feb 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the Come Cruise With Me section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
