by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:10 PM ET, Mon November 10, 2025
Holland America Line is launching a new cultural ambassadors program for Mexico cruises aboard Nieuw Amsterdam during the 2025-2026 season.
Two individuals who are native to Mexico will join each voyage, sharing stories and traditions via engaging lectures and interactive workshops. They’re intended to complement the line’s Destination Dining program and shore excursions.
“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,” says Joe Chantry, vice president of entertainment and enrichment for Holland America Line.
Holland America Line already has cultural ambassadors on its Alaska cruises, and Mexico seemed like an ideal region to expand the program.
Guests will be able to participate in language and dance classes, including those exploring the traditional Mexican mambo, cha-cha-chá and salsa. They’ll also enjoy arts and crafts workshops centered around traditions like piñatas and papel picado, or vibrant paper banners used in traditional celebrations.
Talks and cultural presentations will explore subjects like the legacy of the Maya civilization, tequila and the Day of the Dead. A cultural game night featuring the Mexican lottery, lotería, will also be available.
As part of the line’s Global Fresh Fish Program, travelers will be able to feast on fresh fish like cobia, grouper, pacific mahi-mahi, red snapper and yellowfin tuna. And through Destination Dining, they’ll be able to enjoy dishes like Azteca grilled shrimp and Oaxacan lamb leg barbacoa.
Tequila tastings will also be offered in collaboration with Corazón Tequila, based 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.
Nieuw Amsterdam’s 2025-2026 Mexico season runs from October 2025 through March 2026, taking guests to ports like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, Loreto, Manzanillo and Pichilingue (La Paz). Itineraries range from seven to 11 days.
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