Holland America Line celebrated National Moose Day by introducing a new exclusive Alaska shore excursion, the company announced in a press release.

The new tour offers guests a behind-the-scenes visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC), allowing them to see moose and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.

“Seeing wildlife is one of the top reasons guests choose to cruise Alaska,” said Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer for Holland America Line.

“This new shore excursion gives our guests an extraordinary opportunity to connect with moose in a way that is both unforgettable and responsible, working alongside conservation experts to support the animals and the environment they call home.”

Holland America said it is the number one cruise line for Alaska Wildlife and Wilderness Tours, with an expanding collection of more than 200 immersive Alaska experiences.

National Moose Day is observed annually on Jan. 25 and is dedicated to recognizing moose for their ecological importance and cultural significance, the company added.

Developed in collaboration with AWCC, the “Exclusive Eland & Friends Moose Discovery” tour will debut during the 2026 Alaska cruise season.

This new shore excursion includes a scenic drive along Alaska’s Seward Highway and a guided behind-the-scenes visit to the conservation center.

During the tour, guests learn how the AWCC team supports moose health and well-being through daily care such as enrichment activities, diet preparation, behavior observation and station training.

The excursion is said to reflect Holland America Line’s commitment to responsible wildlife encounters and conservation education.

“Partnerships like this allow us to deepen both care and connection,” said Sarah “Howie” Howard, executive director of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

“This shore excursion invites guests to experience moose up close in a thoughtful way while learning firsthand how exceptional animal care and conservation education support long-term wildlife protection.”

Highlights include close-up views of moose habitats and insights into daily care routines, along with a broader look at AWCC’s wildlife conservation, research and education work across Alaska.

Led by an AWCC naturalist, the experience is designed for visitors of all ages.

Among the moose guests may encounter during the excursion is Eland, who arrived at the conservation center in June 2025 after the closure of his previous facility.

His name, the Dutch word for “moose,” was selected by Holland America Line social media followers and reflects the cruise line’s Dutch heritage.

To further enhance guest engagement and support long-term moose care, Holland America Line donated $150,000 to AWCC.

The company said that the donation will support ongoing animal care initiatives and the development of the Holland America Moose Promenade, an elevated boardwalk overlooking the moose habitat.

Designed in partnership with the conservation center, the boardwalk will provide a safe, comfortable and accessible viewing area for both moose and guests.

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2026, with completion planned for the 2027 Alaska cruise season.

Holland America Line also donated repurposed wooden benches from the deck of the Noordam and reclaimed mooring ropes from the Westerdam, adding nautical elements from the company’s fleet to the conservation center.

Holland America said it partnered with AWCC in 2024 and continues to support the nonprofit sanctuary in several ways.

Guests on Alaska cruises can contribute through onboard purchases, including two exclusive cocktails: the Grizzly Bear Hugo’s Spritz and Pip & Jo’s Moscow Moose, which provide a $1 donation to AWCC for every drink ordered.

For guests wanting a keepsake from their Alaska adventure, $2 from every Eland plush moose sold onboard and at Holland America Denali Lodge goes directly to AWCC’s mission of preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research and quality animal care.