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Volendam heads for the Far East for nine cruises in 2013

Holland America Line's ms Volendam heads to Asia in 2013 for a series of nine 14-day itineraries featuring Singapore, Hong Kong and Kobe (Japan).

Guests will have the opportunity to also visit the countries of Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand and Cambodia on the Far East explorations, including the option to take an overland tour to the Great Wall of China.

Volendam will be sailing nine voyages in the Far East

The nine voyages on the 61,000-ton Volendam - including a 16-day Great Barrier Holiday sailing Sydney to Singapore via Indonesia departing December 22, 2012, and a 17-day trans-Pacific crossing from Kobe to Vancouver, British Columbia - will sail from December to April and offer extended ports calls and overnight stays at some of the most historical and exciting cities in the region, including Bangkok, Thailand; Shanghai and Xingang (Beijing), China, and Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan.

“Travel research continues to indicate that interest in the Far East is rising and Asia explorations remain on the wish lists of our guests,” says HAL executive vice president Richard Meadows. “Our Asia itineraries offer everything, from interesting shore excursions and cultural encounters to ports with deep historical roots and unique experiences.”
Itineraries can be combined to form longer 28 or 31-day Collectors’ Voyages, enabling guests to experience a more in-depth exploration of Asia’s landmarks, as well as explore its mystical allure.

14-day Far East Explorer Voyages

Volendam’s three 14-day Far East Discovery voyages sail between Hong Kong and Singapore and feature port calls at Koh Samui and Bangkok (overnight), Thailand; Sihanoukville (Kampong Saom), Cambodia, and Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City), Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Halong Bay, Vietnam. Departure dates are January 7 and 21, and February 4.

14-day China and Japan Discovery Voyage

Four14-day China and Japan Discovery voyages sail between Hong Kong and Kobe (Osaka) and roundtrip Kobe, and include two overnight calls at Shangahi and Xingang, China. Additional ports of call include Dalian, China; Busan (Pusan), South Korea, and Nagasaki, Japan. Departure dates are February 18, March 4 and 18, and (roundtrip Kobe) April 1.

17-day Trans-Pacific Repositioning Voyage

The 17-day trans-Pacific repositioning voyage departs April 15 from Kobe and sails east to Vancouver. In addition to exotic ports of call, the itinerary features scenic cruising through Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage in Alaska, and relaxing days at sea. Following an overnight at Yokohama (Tokyo), the ship calls at Hakodate and Kushiro, Japan, and Kodiak and Ketchikan, Alaska, as it makes it way to Canada for the start of the Alaska sailing season.

Memorable Shore Excursions

Guests can maximise their experience in Asia by booking notable optional shore excursions including a visit to the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh to explore the major highlights or discovering the Cu Chi Tunnels Discovery near Phu My, Vietnam; enjoying a cultural-experience at either Beomeosa or Tongdosa Temple complete with tea ceremony outside o