Holland America Line Far East: 14 nights from Hong Kong with Westerdam
Feb 1, 2026

Puerto Princesa

Boracay

Boracay is a tropical island surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches about an hour's flight from Cebu to Manila or just off the largest island in the Philippines, Panay. It is well known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia.

The beaches can compete with those of the most popular destinations. The most active will appreciate water sports and activities such as sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, and water skiing.

White Beach - This is what most people are here for. Not only is it a beautiful stretch of white sand against the blue water, it is also the commercial center of the island. The long beach is divided into three sections, Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. The first is the northernmost and has the widest beach, where the main hotels and resorts are located. The accommodations are more expensive, but the quality is generally the best. Station 2 is the commercial and geographic center of White Beach. This is the center of everything for shopping, eating, and partying. The beach here is also the busiest, and the noisiest area. Station 3 is the southernmost section, so you can relax or swim quietly. Puka Beach is the image of what most people expect on a tropical island. A quiet stretch of white sand along the northern tip of the island. The water tends to be a little rougher on this side of the island but is much quieter than the others. Baling Hai Beach - This is a small and quiet cove north of Diniwid Beach, where you can enjoy some breathtaking views on top of the cliff. The fun in Boracay doesn't end when the sun goes down because here the nightlife pulsates with many bars and restaurants that serve food, drinks, and entertainment until dawn.

Manila

Located in Manila Bay, at the mouth of the Pasig River, which divides the city in two, it is one of the most populous nations in the world. Its colonial history has left deep marks that are still visible today in the splendid 17th-century architecture.

The capital of the Philippines, Manila is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with 43,079 inhabitants per km². Located on the west coast of Luzon Island, the country was colonized by the Spanish, also represented by the monumental remains of colonial architecture. The name Manila, of Spanish origin, derives from the mangrove plant called Nilad.

Some famous sites are also located in the historic center. Stroll through the famous Rizal Park, damaged during the fighting in the Second World War. This agglomeration, inhabited by about ten million people, now seems to have redeemed itself from the turbulent past.
The climate is idyllic, with an average temperature of 30° C, and you can relax near the sea throughout the year. Heavy rains occur between July and November. The best time for a trip to Manila is between the end of December and the end of March.
Colonial houses and architectural beauties of the seventeenth century await you in the center of Manila. Take a walk along the coast and visit its port. Visit the Binondo area, or if you prefer Chinatown, get to know its particular cemetery, the Catholic Church, the beaches, and the market. The country is also rich in bridges that cross the river. Numerous clubs are available in the old city. Manila offers the greatest cultural and festive life in the region. For a fun day, you can visit Cowboy grill in Edsa or even the pleasant Stardust showbar. Here gourmets can go in search of the best restaurants and traditional foods offered by the city.

The Intramuros district offers a much more western luxury. Populated by a variety of bars, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Tourists appreciate the endless sandy beaches. Surfers love the coast more than the city thanks to its beaches that give sensational waves.
The local currency is the Philippine Peso. For €1 you will have about 60 pesos. No visa is required if your trip to Manila does not exceed 21 days.

Kaohsiung

Keelung

Keelung is an important port city in Taiwan, the second after Kaohsiung. The name means “rooster's cage” and it is said to come from the local mountain whose shape resembles that of a rooster's cage or from the early inhabitants of the region.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the city in all its glory and taste the local cuisine inside the famous Miaokou night market. If you are a nature lover and you want to enjoy breathtaking views, Heping Island GeoPark is the place for you! Located on the Keelung seashore and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts of a wide range of unique flora and fauna. Choose a cruise that stops in Keelung and enjoy the visit of this beautiful city thanks to one of the many excursions available.

Set sail from Keelung, Taiwan's bustling northern port city, and embark on an exciting cruise adventure across Asia. Surrounded by lush mountains and the vibrant Pacific, Keelung offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and urban energy. Before you depart, explore its famous night market for local delicacies, visit the majestic Miaokou Temple, or take in the panoramic views from Chung Cheng Park. Keelung provides a fascinating glimpse into Taiwanese culture, making it a unique and convenient starting point for your oriental voyage.

Cruises departing from Keelung open up a world of rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes across East and Southeast Asia. Whether you dream of the futuristic cities of Japan, the historical treasures of South Korea, or the pristine beaches of the Philippines, Keelung serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Taiwan to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Each journey from Keelung promises a deep dive into diverse cultures and breathtaking scenery, leaving you with lasting memories.

Ishigaki

Ishigaki is a city in Japan, known to the world for the beauty of its beaches and its crystal clear sea. Among the many unmissable attractions, a visit to the Shinto shrines of Gongen Do and Fuzaki Kannon Do is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and culture. If instead you want to relax and enjoy a day at the sea, Kabira Bay is the right place for you!

Not only will you be able to relax, but also to carry out various activities including snorkeling and why not, take a lot of photos to update your social profiles! Choose a cruise that has Ishigaki as a stop and enjoy not missing the opportunity to take part in one of the many excursions available.

Naha

Naha is a city in Japan, known worldwide as the “blue zone” of longevity for its natural environment and peaceful lifestyle. There are many must-see attractions, Shurijo Castle is undoubtedly one of them.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the ancient residence of the rulers as well as theancient religious seat of the kingdom stands in the hills east of the city center. A visit to the castle offersthe opportunity to take a walk surrounded by nature and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Also not tobe missed are the various food markets and typical restaurants where you can taste various local dishes.
Very beautiful destinations are the various gardens that include all the characteristic elements of Japanese gardens. There it is possible to immerse oneself in a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere.

Set sail from Naha, the vibrant capital of Okinawa, Japan, and embark on an exciting cruise across the East China Sea. This subtropical island city offers a unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences, providing a captivating starting point for your voyage. Before stepping aboard, explore Shuri Castle, stroll along Kokusai Dori, and savor the distinct Okinawan cuisine. Naha promises a fascinating cultural prelude to your Asian adventure.

Cruises departing from Naha open up a world of diverse cultural experiences and stunning island landscapes. Whether you dream of discovering the historical richness of Taiwan, the bustling cities of mainland China, or the serene beauty of other Japanese islands, Naha serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Okinawa to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Each journey from Naha promises breathtaking scenery and a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Asian cultures, leaving you with lasting memories.

Osaka

In Osaka, an ideal stop is the city's Castle, a historical symbol that offers a panoramic view and a taste of Japanese history. Afterwards, a walk in the Dotonbori district allows you to immerse yourself in the lively local atmosphere, between bright signs, typical restaurants and street food shops where you can taste specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Not to be missed is a visit to the Shitenno-ji temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, for a moment of peace and spirituality in the heart of Osaka.

Set sail from Osaka, Japan's bustling and vibrant metropolis, known as the nation's kitchen and a hub of dynamic culture. This exciting port city offers a captivating blend of modern marvels, historical landmarks, and exquisite culinary experiences. Before embarking, explore Osaka Castle, wander through Dotonbori's neon-lit streets, and indulge in its famous street food. Osaka provides a stimulating and culturally rich starting point for your East Asian cruise adventure.

Cruises departing from Osaka open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling waters of East Asia. Whether you dream of discovering the ancient temples of South Korea, the futuristic cities of mainland China, or the serene beauty of other Japanese islands, Osaka serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the energetic streets of Japan to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Osaka promises breathtaking scenery and a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Asian cultures, leaving you with lasting memories.

Yokohama

Yokohama, Japan's second largest city by population, is a vibrant port city where history, typical cuisine, culture and entertainment come together in a perfect combination.

If you are looking for an alternative holiday away from the frenetic life of the big metropolises, Yokohama is what you are looking for! The port has played a crucial role for the city since its opening in 1859. Its importance is mainly linked to its proximity to the Japanese capital and its being the gateway to international trade in a historical period in which a policy of isolation prevailed in the country. This aspect is still visible today in the different districts scattered throughout the city where the descendants of the ancient communities that reached these places are located.

Emblematic in this sense is the presence of one of the largest Chinatowns in the world and an entire area that resembles, due to its architecture and buildings, the typical Western metropolises. If you want to admire the typically Japanese style up close, a visit to the Sankeien garden is what you are looking for! Inside there are various historical buildings, paths immersed in greenery and a unique vegetation that will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Always to enjoy some moments of relaxation surrounded by greenery, one of the most interesting destinations is also the Yamashita park. Located in an area once destroyed by one of the devastating earthquakes that have repeatedly hit the country over the years, it is the ideal place for a walk or to sit on one of the many benches having the city's bay as a panorama. Near the park is the Yokohama Marine Tower, a tower over 100 meters high from which you can enjoy a unique view of the entire city.

After spending a few hours in this place, given the proximity, you cannot miss a visit to the Yokohama waterfront. The area, in constant evolution, is known all over the world for its skyline in which huge skyscrapers and the Cosmo World amusement park with the huge Ferris wheel are the masters.

Relaxation, fun but also lots of culture! In the city, there are many museums such as: the Museum of Contemporary Art that holds works of art by internationally renowned artists such as Cézanne and Picasso, the Museum that traces the history of the port, and finally an entire museum dedicated to the history of instant noodles.

In addition to the museums, you will have the opportunity to try local cuisine at the various typical restaurants and stalls in the cities. Considering that this is just a taste of what the city has to offer, what are you waiting for? Choose a cruise that departs from Yokohama or that has the city as a stopover in order to enjoy its beautiful sights or discover Japan and South Korea!