Holland America Line is immersing guests in the heart of Mexican culture with the addition of Cultural Ambassadors who will join all Mexico cruises aboard Nieuw Amsterdam during the 2025–2026 season. The program brings Mexico’s vibrant traditions, flavors, and artistry to life at sea through authentic onboard experiences — from engaging lectures to interactive workshops around dance, art, and language.
The Cultural Ambassador program places two people native to Mexico on board to connect with guests while sharing the stories and traditions that define Mexico’s colorful identity. By highlighting regional culture on board, the Cultural Ambassadors complement the impact of Holland America Line’s Destination Dining™ and shore excursions that bring each port of call to life.
“From the moment guests step ashore in Mexico, they are immersed in a culture full of vibrant traditions and a deep sense of heritage, and we’re thrilled to bring that same spirit to life on board in a way that feels both authentic and immersive,” said Joe Chantry, vice president of entertainment and enrichment for Holland America Line. “Our Cultural Ambassadors are popular on our Alaska cruises, and Mexico was an ideal region to expand the program and offer our guests another chance to connect more deeply with the people, traditions, and heritage of the country before they even step ashore.”
Throughout every cruise to Mexico, guests can enjoy a lineup of exclusive lectures, workshops and interactive activities curated by the Cultural Ambassadors, including:
Cultural Presentations and Talks
- “The Mayans’ Legacy: Mysteries and Knowledge” — Explore the fascinating world of the Mayan civilization, uncovering their wisdom and enduring mysteries.
- “All About Tequila” — Discover the heritage and craft behind Mexico’s iconic spirit, from the agave fields to the aging barrels.
- “The Day of the Dead: A Fusion of Dance and Stories” — Experience Mexico’s most celebrated tradition through a mix of storytelling, visuals and live dance.
Dance and Language Classes
- Learn the traditional Mexican Mambo, Cha-Cha-Chá, and Salsa — Feel the rhythm and energy of Mexico through fun, beginner-friendly classes.
- Spanish Lessons for Travelers — Guests can join interactive language sessions, including “Greetings and Directions” and “Phrases for Restaurants.”
Arts & Crafts Workshops
- Papel Picado Workshop — Learn how to create the vibrant paper banners used in traditional Mexican celebrations.
- Ojo de Dios (God’s Eye) — Craft this meaningful symbol of protection, intention and cultural heritage using colorful yarn.
- Mexican Piñata Workshop — Build and decorate a festive piñata with authentic materials and techniques.
Cultural Game Night
- Lotería (Mexican Lottery) — Guests can play this traditional Mexican game, similar to bingo, featuring colorful cards that showcase the country’s rich heritage, folklore and daily life.
Destination Dining Highlights Local Flavors
Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Program sources and serves fresh ingredients from more than 60 ports across the world, going from port to plate in under 48 hours. In Mexico, fresh fish served on board includes cobia, grouper, Pacific mahi-mahi, red snapper, and yellowfin tuna.
Holland America Line’s Destination Dining indulges guests in the tastes and traditions of every region visited. Destination Dining dishes — which feature seasonal, locally sourced ingredients — on Mexico cruises include:
- Global Fresh Fish dish: Grouper Salsa Picante with olives, capers, tomatoes, pilaf rice, and zucchini.
- Azteca Grilled Shrimp with chipotle pepper, scallion polenta, and bell peppers.
- Oaxacan Lamb Leg Barbacoa with chipotle, orange, red cabbage slaw and warm tortilla.
- Fajitas de Pollo with tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and tomato-cilantro rice.
- Smoked Carne Asada with rice, black beans, guacamole, and warm flour tortillas.
Tequila Tastings and Special Barrels
Tequila is the national spirit of Mexico, and Holland America Line is bringing special tastings and barrels on board in collaboration with award-winning Corazón Tequila, distilled in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.
The ship will be getting Corazón Single Barrel expressions that have been aged in unique former Weller Bourbon Barrels. Additionally, Reposado, Anejo, and Extra Anejo barrels will be offered by the pour and featured in an exceptional Corazón Tequila Tasting experience, which will also offer the regular blended Corazón Reposado and Anejo to demonstrate the difference in finishing expressions.
2025-2026 Mexico Cruise Season
Nieuw Amsterdam’s 2025–2026 Mexico season sails from October 2025 through March 2026. Guests on the round-trip cruises from San Diego, California, will have the opportunity to explore vibrant ports, including Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, Loreto, Manzanillo, and Pichilingue (near La Paz). Itineraries range from seven to 11 days, with longer 14-day Collectors’ Voyages that combine back-to-back non-repeating itineraries also available.
For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425), or visit hollandamerica.com.
