Holland America Line Hosts First Professional Pickleball Invitational on Private Island

Holland America Line is set to host the first professional pickleball invitational on a private island, marking a significant milestone in the world of the sport. The event, scheduled for March 2027, will take place on the company’s private island, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, during a special Caribbean cruise. This invitational comes as Holland America Line celebrates the 30th anniversary of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, a testament to the company’s long-standing commitment to providing unique and memorable experiences for its guests.

The invitational will feature professional players competing on the island’s four new pickleball courts. Leading up to the event, Holland America Line will host four Countdown Cruises, each offering special onboard programming and island play opportunities. These cruises will include appearances by Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) players, giving guests the chance to interact with the sport’s top talent.

The first Countdown Cruise is set for November 20, 2026, aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam, followed by a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise on December 12, 2026, aboard the Zuiderdam. Two more Countdown Cruises will take place in January 2027, both 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries: one on January 2, 2027, and another on January 23, 2027, both aboard the Eurodam. Each of these cruises will feature exclusive pickleball experiences, including coffee chats with PPA pros, trivia, and meet-and-greets with the players.

Holland America Line has been exploring the world for more than 150 years, offering expertly crafted itineraries and extraordinary service. Its fleet of 11 vessels visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world, and has shared the thrill of Alaska for more than 75 years. The company’s commitment to providing unique experiences is evident in this innovative event, which combines the excitement of one of the world’s fastest-growing sports with the unmatched beauty of one of the Caribbean’s most extraordinary islands.

The Private Island Invitational at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay builds on Holland America Line’s popular onboard pickleball program, available across the fleet. Every ship features at least one pickleball court with ocean views, provided equipment, beginner instruction, and open play, giving guests of all skill levels the opportunity to enjoy one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.