Key Aspects:
- Zaandam is still dealing with the propulsion issue that surfaced during her previous Alaska sailing.
- The next cruise will be delayed by at least one day to accommodate the repairs.
- Holland America Line will issue a revised itinerary for the June 10 departure.
The technical troubles are continuing for Holland America Line’s Zaandam, with both the June 3 voyage and the subsequent June 10 sailing now derailed by propulsion issues.
Cruise Hive previously reported that the 61,396-gross ton ship was forced to extend its call in Juneau on June 5, 2026, into an overnight visit due to emergency repairs on the ship’s propulsion system.
The ship then had to head straight back to its homeport, Vancouver, Canada, for additional repairs. Unfortunately, the calls to Skagway, Glacier Bay, and Ketchikan had to be skipped.
Zaandam’s speed was limited by the propulsion issues, and per cruise tracking data, she didn’t actually arrive in Vancouver until the evening of Tuesday, June 9.
With more time needed for repairs, Holland America Line has also now been forced to delay the June 10, 2026, departure.
Next Sailing Delayed By Repairs
According to an update issued by the cruise line on June 9, the 1,432-guest ship will remain in Vancouver for an extra night instead of setting sail at 4 p.m. on June 10.
It’s unclear what time she will be ready to go on June 11, or if an additional delay may still be in the cards.
But on the bright side, guests will be able to be onboard while repairs are in progress, so they won’t need to scramble to find somewhere to stay for their extra night in Vancouver.
“Zaandam experienced a technical issue with her port-side propulsion system…To conduct repairs, we will remain in the Port of Vancouver for the first night of your cruise,” Holland America Line stated.
“You will be able to board Zaandam as scheduled Wednesday, enjoying the amenities on board as well as exploring the Vancouver area if you desire,” the update continued.
During the delay, all of the normal onboard amenities will be available for guests to enjoy, aside from the ship’s casino and shops (which can only be opened at sea).
Details about compensation to make up for the inconvenience are also forthcoming.
Next Itinerary Remains Uncertain
Just like the previous cruise, the 7-night sailing to Alaska was supposed to visit Endicott Arm Fjord, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, and Ketchikan.
But because of the delayed start, the itinerary will definitely be adjusted. Holland America was waiting to verify the scope of the repairs and check for ongoing impacts to speed before confirming a new itinerary. Cruise Hive has already confirmed that the call to Juneau on June 12 is already cancelled.
“We regret the delay will require us to amend your trip and likely not operate the full itinerary as originally planned. We hope to know more, including a revised port schedule, after the ship arrives in Vancouver Tuesday night,” the cruise line wrote.
Itinerary adjustments will also depend on port availability, which can be challenging given it’s now the peak Alaska season. Cruise Hive will continue to monitor for additional updates and will share if and when more information becomes available.
