Photo: Shutterstock The international cruise company Holland America Line is revealing new details about a large-scale project in Alaska, investing about $70 million to upgrade and expand the Holland America Denali Lodge accommodation complex near Denali National Park and Preserve, one of North America's most famous natural sites.
The renovated complex is expected to welcome its guests in May 2027, with the opening of the Alaska tourist season, and offer a hospitality experience that combines wild nature, dramatic landscapes, local cuisine and excursions throughout the region.
The project is part of the company's preparations to mark 80 years of operations in Alaska, after it began operating trips in the region in 1947.
As part of the investment, two new guest buildings were built, totaling 192 rooms. In addition, the main building of the complex, existing guest rooms, public areas and additional facilities were renovated.
The renovated main building was inspired by the Alaskan landscape, with high ceilings supported by wooden beams, a fireplace built of river stones, and large floor-to-ceiling windows that let guests enjoy the surrounding scenery.
The open spaces have also been upgraded, including walking trails along the Nenana River, new lookout points, and improved signage to help visitors get to know the area.
The goal is to give guests a richer stay experience, allowing them to enjoy Alaska's nature and landscapes even outside organized tourist routes.
Along with expanding accommodation options, Holland America is also upgrading the dining experience on the complex, with new menus developed in collaboration with Chef Ethan Stowell, who serves as the company's culinary ambassador.
The menus are based on ingredients associated with Alaska and the Northwestern United States, and offer a combination of local culinary tradition and contemporary hospitality.
At the Karstens Public House restaurant, where the number of seats has been expanded, guests will be able to enjoy dishes such as red salmon, fish tacos and rich breakfasts.
Canyon Ridge Grill, overlooking the Nenana River, will offer dishes such as Dungeness crab, oysters, king crab and aged cuts of meat, among others.
The coffee shops are also getting a makeover. The Basecamp Coffee cafe has undergone a comprehensive renovation, and alongside it will be a new concept called Outpost Coffee + Provisions, with sandwiches, pastries, drinks, and products designed for travelers.
One of the most notable features of Holland America's operations in Alaska is the combination of cruises and land trips into the interior of the state.
As part of the company's Cruisetour programs, passengers can combine a cruise along the Alaskan coast with a ride on the McKinley Explorer train, which features panoramic glass-domed carriages, followed by a stay at the Denali Lodge complex.
The location near Denali National Park allows travelers to go on guided tours and be exposed to the nature reserves, animals, and landscapes that characterize the area.
For the 2027 season, the company offers 19 combined vacation itineraries lasting 9 to 17 nights, between May and September.
Some routes also include a visit to Canada's Yukon, allowing travelers to expand the experience beyond Alaska's borders.
Alongside investment in hospitality infrastructure, the company also emphasizes its activities for the local community.
Before the upgrade work began, furniture from about 115 guest rooms was donated to the Armed Services YMCA of Alaska, which assists military families in the area.
Donated items included beds, dressers, tables, chairs, and lamps, which were transferred to families in Anchorage for use.
The move is part of the company's policy to promote tourism that also considers local communities and the environment.
The renovated complex is expected to open to visitors in May 2027, with the start of the next tourist season in Alaska.