Home > Cruises > Caribbean Cruises > Legendary Amazon Explorer

Legendary Amazon Explorer

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Inside
$8,846
Oceanview
$9,440
Balcony
$17,479
Suite
$30,824
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
28 Days
 Cruise Starts
Fort Lauderdale
 Cruise Finishes
Fort Lauderdale
28 Day Legendary Amazon Explorer Itinerary (Holland America)
Countries Explored: USA, Saint Martin, Martinique, Barbados, Brazil, French Guiana, Curacao
Ship
Ship Class
R Class
Departures
Passengers
1432
Crew
604
Launched
1999
Refurbished
2017
Cruise Code
S6X27A

Overview

Begin and end your 28 day (27 night) cruise in Fort Lauderdale onboard the Volendam and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with Holland America and Global Journeys.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 17:00

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches, arts, culture and events. More than just an arrival and departure port, the city offers cruise guests an abundance of activities. From shopping on Las Olas Boulevard, to gondola rides on the canals, to a historic riverfront.

Nature enthusiasts head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for walking and biking trails, travel down to the Florida Everglades for an airboat tour, or beat the heat with a trip to the Museum of Science and Discovery.

Ships will dock at one of the biggest cruise ports in the world, Port Everglades.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 16:00

Sint Martin, a gem in the Caribbean, is renowned for its dual French and Dutch heritage. This unique blend offers travelers a diverse cultural experience. In the French capital, Marigot, visit the bustling open-air markets and savor gourmet dining, while in Philipsburg on the Dutch side, indulge in duty-free shopping and lively beach bars. Maho Beach, famous for its low-flying planes, is a must-see spectacle.

For nature lovers, the island offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Loterie Farm provides an adventurous escape with zip-lining and hiking trails. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies like conch fritters and guavaberry liqueur, which reflect the island’s rich culinary traditions.

Port:Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten and it's port is conveniently located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from downtown Philipsburg, taking roughly 5 minutes by car or a leisurely 20-minute walk. Visitors can explore the vibrant Front Street, known for its duty-free shopping, colorful boutiques, and lively cafes. Transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and water taxis. Don’t miss a visit to the Great Bay Beach, just steps from the main shopping area, or venture to Maho Beach to watch planes land dramatically close to the shore.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Fort-de-France, located on Martinique is the largest city in the French West Indies and it has personality to match. Life here is vibrant and fast-paced, and the culture is as colourful as the brightly painted shops that line the city’s cobblestone streets. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Fort-de-France:

  • visit the Botanical Gardens
  • join a rainforest hike to Absalon
  • visit the Rum Distillery
  • explore a banana plantation
  • see the ruins of Chateau Dubuc
  • take a helicopter flight over Martinique

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:

  • ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
  • look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
  • relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
  • visit the George Washington House
  • go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

The Amazon is a river, and a region, of superlatives. It's the world's largest river when measured by volume. With 209,000 cubic meters (55 million gallons) of water flowing into the Pacific each second, it's five times the size of the Congo, the next largest river. The basin it drains is some 7 million square kilometers (2.7 million square miles), making it the largest drainage basin in the world.

What most impresses visitors to the Amazon, however, is rarely these numbers. Instead it's the area's cultural and natural riches and the experience of seeing the rain forest extend in every direction. As you travel along the length of the Amazon, you'll call at villages that are not just geographically remote, but are far from contemporary culture as well.

Some 400 indigenous peoples live in the Amazon, as they have for centuries. On the same journey, you can visit the 19th-century opera house at Manaus and the colonial-era churches in Santarém, Macapá and other cities. Biologically the basin is home to some 10 percent of all the world's known animal and plant species. From jaguars to macaws and pink dolphins to glass frogs, the Amazon is an area of astounding and unique biodiversity.

After traveling some 6,400 kilometers (4,000 miles), the Amazon River finally arrives at the Atlantic Ocean. (The word some may sound unnecessarily imprecise, but geographers measure the length of the river from different points.) This section of the world’s largest river measured by volume is often referred to as its “bar,” a name used to describe the mouths of other rivers as well. The delta here is a maze of islands, formed by the sediment that accumulates when the Amazon enters the ocean.

The largest island in this area is Ilha de Marajó, which measures 40,100 square kilometers (15,500 square miles). That’s roughly equivalent to three Connecticuts or one Switzerland. The region is fascinating to naturalists, though much of what is of interest is impossible to see from a ship, namely, the variety of aquatic life that can exist where freshwater and ocean water meet. What is visible, though, is the remarkable diversity of birds above the water’s surface - around 540 different species, including a profusion of egrets and herons - and the palm trees that cover many of the islands. You are also likely to see cattle and water buffalo, a cause of concern, as ranching has threatened the habitats of many native species, both plants and animals.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 11:00

Found in the Amazon delta where the river greets the Atlantic, Macapá, the capital of Brazil's Amapá state, is a city with a unique geographical distinction. Straddling the equator, it is home to the impressive 98-foot Marco Zero monument, where guests can symbolically stand in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres simultaneously.

Macapá's history is etched in its landscape, with remnants from Portuguese settlers dating back to the early 18th century. The Fortaleza de São José, a symbol of the city's colonial past, stands as one of Brazil's best-preserved military structures, echoing tales of a bygone era. Accessible only by boat or plane, Macapá also serves as a sanctuary for migrating birds who share the region's lush wetlands with flamingos, ibises, and other local species.

As you navigate through the labyrinth of waterways, marvel at the diverse array of wildlife and rich flora and fauna. This scenic journey provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the vastness and biodiversity of one of the world's most incredible natural wonders from the comfort of your ship.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

The Amazon is a river, and a region, of superlatives. It's the world's largest river when measured by volume. With 209,000 cubic meters (55 million gallons) of water flowing into the Pacific each second, it's five times the size of the Congo, the next largest river. The basin it drains is some 7 million square kilometers (2.7 million square miles), making it the largest drainage basin in the world.

What most impresses visitors to the Amazon, however, is rarely these numbers. Instead it's the area's cultural and natural riches and the experience of seeing the rain forest extend in every direction. As you travel along the length of the Amazon, you'll call at villages that are not just geographically remote, but are far from contemporary culture as well.

Some 400 indigenous peoples live in the Amazon, as they have for centuries. On the same journey, you can visit the 19th-century opera house at Manaus and the colonial-era churches in Santarém, Macapá and other cities. Biologically the basin is home to some 10 percent of all the world's known animal and plant species. From jaguars to macaws and pink dolphins to glass frogs, the Amazon is an area of astounding and unique biodiversity.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Santarem is one of the Amazon's most important trading centres, and is rich in legend and nature. Best known for its location, it is surrounded by two rivers: the Amazon, of muddy water, and Tapajós, of clear, green water, forming a beautiful meeting of different waters that do not mix for several kilometres. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Santarem:

  • join a river cruise that takes you to the 'meeting of the waters'
  • hike a Tapajós National Forest trail
  • visit Casa da Farinha

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 15:00

The Indian Village of Boca Da Valeria is nestled on a 400 ft hill overlooking the Amazon. With less than 100 people, the village boasts no tourism infrastructure. Yet it lures travellers by offering an authentic glimpse of the simple river life that the Amerindians have followed for centuries.

Ashore, you will find log canoes, grass huts, and a life of hunting and fishing unchanged since the time of the early explorers. Meaning "Mouth of the Valeria River," the remote fishing and trading village sits at the convergence of the Amazon and the Rio da Valeria.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 16:00

Manaus, the 'Paris of the Jungle,' is the capital of Brazil’s state of Amazonas and offers a rich variety of culture, art, dining and nature. The former river village rests along the left bank of the Rio Negro. Ships will dock at the Porto Flutuante (floating docks).

Top Things to Do in Manaus:

  • visit the Rubber Museum
  • cruise Lake January to admire the giant Victoria water lilies
  • visit Acajatuba to interact with Pink Dolphins
  • wander the Military Zoo, a haven for endangered animals

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

This isolated island town in the Amazon River, has rich biodiversity, with river beaches that emerge during the period of low water level of the Amazon and Uaicurapá rivers.

Steeped in centuries-old Indian culture, this village celebrates an annual 'Boi Bumba' festival. The yearly folkloric festival, celebrates cultural diversity in the Amazon and is held in June but the townspeople reenact the festival for visitors throughout the year. The city is divided into two groups that compete against each other: the 'Caprichosos' in blue and the 'Garantidos' in red.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 16:00

Alter do Chão is a charming riverside village located on the Rio Tapajos, it offers quaint cottages along white-sand beaches lined with leafy palm trees. Home to Ilha do Amor, one of the most photographed white sand islands in the entire world.

Explore Lago Verde, a grand lagoon that can be viewed from rented canoes, or take a boat tour along the Rio Tapajós or the Amazon. You’ll see a number of bird species and might even spot a crocodile or a sloth. Try Serra Pelada if you seek the perfect place for a short but breathtaking hike.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

As you navigate through the labyrinth of waterways, marvel at the diverse array of wildlife and rich flora and fauna. This scenic journey provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the vastness and biodiversity of one of the world's most incredible natural wonders from the comfort of your ship.

After traveling some 6,400 kilometers (4,000 miles), the Amazon River finally arrives at the Atlantic Ocean. (The word some may sound unnecessarily imprecise, but geographers measure the length of the river from different points.) This section of the world’s largest river measured by volume is often referred to as its “bar,” a name used to describe the mouths of other rivers as well. The delta here is a maze of islands, formed by the sediment that accumulates when the Amazon enters the ocean.

The largest island in this area is Ilha de Marajó, which measures 40,100 square kilometers (15,500 square miles). That’s roughly equivalent to three Connecticuts or one Switzerland. The region is fascinating to naturalists, though much of what is of interest is impossible to see from a ship, namely, the variety of aquatic life that can exist where freshwater and ocean water meet. What is visible, though, is the remarkable diversity of birds above the water’s surface - around 540 different species, including a profusion of egrets and herons - and the palm trees that cover many of the islands. You are also likely to see cattle and water buffalo, a cause of concern, as ranching has threatened the habitats of many native species, both plants and animals.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Belem, the gateway to the Amazon, captivates with its lush greenery and vibrant street life. The city is famed for its historical district of Cidade Velha, showcasing colonial architecture alongside modern street art. Here, the Ver-o-Peso Market offers a sensory overload with stalls brimming with Amazonian fruits, spices, and freshly caught fish.

For a touch of nature, Mangal das Garças, a riverside botanical garden and aviary, provides a serene escape with its native flora and fauna. Belem also thrives on its culinary scene, where dishes like "tacacá" and "açaí" provide a taste of local traditions, perfect for those eager to explore the rich flavours of Brazil.

Port:Icoaraci

Icoaraci, nestled within Belem, stands out with its rich craft heritage and serene river views. Known for its traditional pottery, this district thrives on the skills of artisans who create intricate ceramics inspired by indigenous motifs. These crafts are showcased in local shops and lively markets, drawing both art enthusiasts and casual visitors.

The waterfront in Icoaraci offers a peaceful setting for leisurely walks, providing picturesque views of the river and passing boats. For those interested in deeper cultural immersion, boat tours frequently depart here to explore the nearby islands, offering a closer look at the diverse ecosystems of the Amazon Basin.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Devil's Island, part of French Guiana's Îles du Salut, is steeped in history and intrigue. Once a notorious French penal colony, it housed political prisoners like Captain Alfred Dreyfus. The island's dense jungle and treacherous waters made escape nearly impossible, adding to its eerie reputation. Visitors can explore remnants of the prison buildings, including cells and administration offices, which offer a sobering glimpse into the harsh conditions endured by inmates.

Beyond its grim past, Devil's Island boasts stunning natural beauty. The lush tropical vegetation and surrounding azure waters create a stark contrast to the island's history. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the island's diverse wildlife, including exotic birds and playful monkeys. A trip to Devil's Island is a journey through history and nature, offering a unique and hauntingly beautiful experience.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 8:00 Departs: 17:00

Discover a touch of old Amsterdam transported to an island paradise. The capital of the Caribbean island Curacao, Willemstad is famous for its technicolour UNESCO World Heritage Site city centre. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Willemstad:

  • explore Christoffel National Park
  • snorkel in Caracas Bay
  • ride the trolley train through Willemstad
  • relax on Cas Abao Beach
  • visit the Hato Caves
  • join an underwater tour in a semi-submarine

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Arrives: 7:00

Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beaches, arts, culture and events. More than just an arrival and departure port, the city offers cruise guests an abundance of activities. From shopping on Las Olas Boulevard, to gondola rides on the canals, to a historic riverfront.

Nature enthusiasts head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park for walking and biking trails, travel down to the Florida Everglades for an airboat tour, or beat the heat with a trip to the Museum of Science and Discovery.

Ships will dock at one of the biggest cruise ports in the world, Port Everglades.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Volendam

Volendam
Volendam

Enjoy more intimate cruising with less than 1500 guests and the attentive service and comfort on Volendam. Read more

Delicious Onboard Dining
Delicious Onboard Dining

Savour complimentary and specialty dining, fine dining or casual dining and relaxed dining in your stateroom suite. Read more

Explorations Central
Explorations Central

Deepen your understanding of the destinations you visit with the immersive experiences offered by Explorations Central. Read more

Billboard on Board
Billboard on Board

Tap your toes and sing along to the greatest hits of your lifetime, played by a duet of pianos in Billboard on Board. Read more

Shore Excursions for All
Shore Excursions for All

Choose from an exciting range activities from wine tasting to city tours to zip-lining to photography tours and more. Read more

Refresh, Relax, Rejuvenate
Refresh, Relax, Rejuvenate

Rejuvenate every aspect of your wellbeing when you enter the heavenly retreat of the Greenhouse Spa and Salon. Read more

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Exclusive Deal
Wednesday 25 Nov 2026
Tuesday 22 Dec 2026
Ship Volendam
Inside
$8,846
View Cabins
Oceanview
$9,440
View Cabins
Balcony
$17,479
View Cabins
Suite
$30,824
View Cabins
Exclusive Savings
Wednesday 25 Nov 2026
Tuesday 22 Dec 2026
Ship Volendam
Inside
$7,224
View Cabins
Oceanview
$7,868
View Cabins
Balcony
$13,078
View Cabins
Suite
$21,975
View Cabins
Exclusive Savings
Wednesday 25 Nov 2026
Tuesday 22 Dec 2026
Ship Volendam
Inside
$6,413
View Cabins
Oceanview
$6,933
View Cabins
Balcony
SOLD OUT
Unavailable
Suite
$17,551
View Cabins
Exclusive Savings
Wednesday 25 Nov 2026
Tuesday 22 Dec 2026
Ship Volendam
Inside
$16,617
View Cabins
Oceanview
$17,805
View Cabins
Balcony
$33,882
View Cabins
Suite
$60,573
View Cabins
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Holland America. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Holland America. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar Cruises

29 Day Far East, The Philippines & Malaysia Collector (Holland America)

29 Days Hong Kong Hong Kong

Operated By: Holland America

From 6,528
Save 51
29 Day Far East & Indonesian Holiday Collector (Holland America)

29 Days Hong Kong Singapore

Operated By: Holland America

From 5,264
Save 35
29 Day Southeast Asia, The Philippines, Taiwan & Japan (Holland America)

29 Days Singapore Tokyo

Operated By: Holland America

From 5,262
Save 37
29 Day Canary Islands & British Isles Collectors' Voyage (Holland America)

29 Days Rotterdam Rotterdam

Operated By: Holland America

From 6,772
Save 47