- Holland America Line is introducing a Cultural Ambassador program with two native Mexicans aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam‘s 2025–2026 Mexico cruises to provide authentic cultural immersion.
- The onboard enrichment includes presentations on Mayan history, Tequila heritage, and Day of the Dead traditions, along with classes in Mexican dances and Spanish language.
- Guests can participate in hands-on arts and crafts workshops to create traditional Mexican items like Papel Picado, Ojo de Dios, and piñatas.
- The culinary offerings are enhanced with locally sourced fresh fish through the Global Fresh Fish Program and exclusive Tequila tastings in partnership with Corazón Tequila
Holland America Line is expanding its Cultural Ambassador program to all Mexico cruises aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam during the 2025–2026 season. This initiative is designed to immerse guests in Mexican culture by featuring two native Mexican individuals who will share their country’s traditions, stories, and artistry directly on board. The program is an effort to enhance the guest experience with authentic cultural and educational content, complementing the cruise line’s existing Destination Dining and shore excursion offerings.
The onboard cultural activities will include a variety of exclusive lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions. Guests can attend cultural presentations on topics such as The Mayans’ Legacy and All About Tequila, as well as a presentation on The Day of the Dead that incorporates live dance and storytelling. Interactive sessions will feature dance instruction in the traditional Mexican Mambo, Cha-Cha-Chá, and Salsa, alongside practical Spanish lessons for travelers, including common greetings and restaurant phrases.
For hands-on engagement, guests can participate in arts and crafts workshops to learn how to create traditional items like Papel Picado banners and the spiritual symbol known as the Ojo de Dios (God’s Eye), as well as a Mexican Piñata Workshop. Cultural Game Night will feature Lotería, a traditional Mexican game similar to bingo.
The program also includes special culinary and beverage experiences. The ship’s Global Fresh Fish Program will feature locally sourced Mexican fish such as grouper and yellowfin tuna, served in Destination Dining dishes like Grouper Salsa Picante and Azteca Grilled Shrimp. Additionally, Holland America Line is collaborating with Corazón Tequila to offer special tastings and unique Corazón Single Barrel expressions aged in former Weller Bourbon Barrels. The Nieuw Amsterdam‘s Mexico season will run from October 2025 through March 2026, offering roundtrip cruises from San Diego to ports including Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas.
