Cruise ships will soon return to Japan for the first time in two-and-a-half-years. That means Holland America Line’s Westerdam can continue its preparations for a series of itineraries in early 2023.

The Japanese government reported on November 15 that it is ready to start receiving international cruise ships again to allow tourists to enjoy the wonders of cruising to the country’s many ports.

“We’re grateful for the work that the Japanese authorities have done to allow for a return to cruising,” said Gus Antorcha, president, Holland America Line. “Holland America Line’s guests love longer voyages to unique parts of the world, and we’ll be sailing to some incredible locations as our season in Japan and the rest of Asia begins.”

Westerdam, currently sailing in Australia and New Zealand, will commence the Asia season following a January drydock in Singapore. Beginning February 3, the ship will sail a series of Far East voyages showcasing the diversity of countries visited while celebrating histories that have been thousands of years in the making.

Sailing roundtrip from Yokohama, Japan, or Singapore, or between Yokohama and Singapore, cruises are 11 to 14 days and can be combined to form non-repeating Collectors’ Voyages.

Countries explored include Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia. Five different itineraries are offered including “Indonesian Discovery,” “Japan, Taiwan & The Philippines,” “Japan Explorer,” "Japan Discovery" and “Southern Japan.”

Overnight calls include Singapore; Kobe and Osaka, Japan; and Phuket, Thailand. The season concludes April 24 with a 14-day “North Pacific Crossing” from Yokohama to Seattle, Washington where Westerdam will homeport for its Alaska season.

As protocols for cruising in Asia are finalized, each departure will be added to Holland America Line’s Voyage Lookup tool, which allows guests to see any specific health protocols for their cruise.