Alaska seems to be on almost everyone’s bucket list as one of the most sought-after cruise destinations. Holland America Line, the cruise line with the longest history of exploring Alaska, has announced a $70 million investment into the Denali Lodge which will significantly enhance its popular land and sea Cruisetours. Denali Lodge, previously known as McKinley Chalet Resort, is located at the entrance of the Denali National Park.
Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said, “It’s truly special that we can bring guests to a lodge at the doorstep of Denali National Park. This investment is a win for Alaska, our guests, and Holland America Line. Enhancing and expanding the Holland America Denali Lodge will help meet the growing interest in combined land and sea Cruisetours for our 49th state and further support the Alaska tourism industry.”
The 3-year project will begin in 2025 and continue through 2027. In 2025, the project will begin with improvements to the lodge’s riverside trail, updated signage for wayfinders, refining the menu choices at restaurants, and public space upgrades to the Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge accommodations.
In 2026, the project will include a new coffee shop, remodeling 48 rooms in the lodge, and the Karstens Public House restaurant which will consist of expanded indoor and outdoor seating.
In 2027, the project will conclude by adding 120 rooms and suites to the Denali Lodge as well as a full renovation to the main lodge that will include a new restaurant, bar and coffee shop.
Four Holland America Line ships–Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam and Zaandam–are offering more than 17 unique cruisetours in 2025. Cruisetours allow guests to enjoy a combination of an Alaskan cruise and land exploration into Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory.
Holland America Line’s 2025 and 2026 cruisetours are currently available for booking.