Holland America Line unveiled the inaugural itineraries for its upcoming Nieuw Statendam, as well as additional Mexico sailings.

Sister to the Koningsdam, the second Pinnacle Class ship is set for delivery Dec. 1, 2018, departing on its premiere voyage Dec. 5. After leaving the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the inaugural voyage will leave from Rome on a 14-day trans-Atlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The premier voyage will first call on Cartagena and Malaga, Spain, as well as Madeira before seven sea days and a final overnight in Fort Lauderdale prior to disembarkation.

“Holland America Line’s last season in Mexico was very popular so we are adding capacity for the next season so that more of our guests can enjoy these itineraries that truly showcase the allure of the destination,” said Orlando Ashford, president, Holland America Line. “Our Mexico cruises offer convenience and ease, especially for a multigenerational family looking for a unique vacation. By calling at three ports, we’re able to fully immerse our guests in the culture, history, entertainment, recreation and cuisine of the country.”

From Florida, the Nieuw Statendam will sail the 2018-19 winter season heading to the Caribbean on weeklong routes with three-, four- and 10-day variants in between. All will feature the company’s private island of Half Moon Cay, with other destinations to include Key West, Fla.; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Nassau, Bahamas; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Cozumel, Mexico.

The 2017-18 Mexico cruise season will begin with a Vista Class ship departing from San Diego, Calif., to the Mexican Riviera. Between the two ships, there will be 11 weeklong cruises.

Mexican on-board experiences will include local craft teaching, language and dance courses and a mariachi band performance. EXC programming at Explorations Central will host an EXC Talk for cultural information, and present a regional cooking demo, class or mixology course. The ship ambiance will be enhanced with regional floral varieties and towel creations.