In winter 2012 and spring 2013 two Holland America Line ships – ms Oosterdam and ms Volendam – will sail a series of Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific cruises.

The vessels will visit more than 50 ports where guests can revel in the cosmopolitan attractions of Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland, and explore the exotic landscapes of Vanuatu and Fiji in the South Pacific.

The complete series of sailings ranges from ten- to 58-days and features for the first time one of the line’s larger Vista-class ships, ms Oosterdam.

This addition represents almost a 25 per cent capacity increase in the Australia/ South Pacific region for Holland America Line.

“Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands are among the top travel destinations in the world and we have developed our itineraries to showcase the best of what they offer from secluded ports to popular favorites,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, for Holland America Line.

“Holland America Line’s cruises highlight the region’s incredible wildlife on land and sea, including the legendary Outback, world-famous Great Barrier Reef and the opportunity of a lifetime to witness a solar eclipse while at sea.”

Guests can choose from a series of multiple departures ranging from ten- to 14-days sailing roundtrip from Sydney or one way to or from Auckland between October 2012 and March 2013.

New Zealand itineraries give guests a chance to experience some of the most amazing scenic cruising in the world, including the beautiful and dramatic Fiordland National Park and Bay of Plenty known for its beaches.

These itineraries also visit both the North and South Islands of New Zealand with calls at popular ports of Wellington, Napier and Tauranga.