Princess Cruises and Holland America Line Donate Funds to Rebuild Ketchikan American Legion Post Destroyed by Arson
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are donating $175,000 to help rebuild the Joseph T. Craig American Legion Post in Ketchikan, Alaska.
The state’s oldest American Legion post was destroyed by arson in September 2023. After more than 85 years at the same location, the post was founded in 1919 and has long been a cornerstone support for Ketchikan’s veterans, their families and the broader community.
“This generous support from Princess Cruises and Holland America Line is a meaningful step forward in our rebuilding journey,” Bill Bolling, American Legion Post 3, said in a press release.
“While the loss of our building was devastating, this partnership helps ensure our mission will continue for generations,” Bolling said. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment to honoring veterans and strengthening our community.”
Princess Cruises will contribute $100,000 through the Princess Foundation. Holland America has committed to $75,000 including contributions from its On Deck for a Cause program in Alaska.
Both brands have also pledged ongoing support for the rebuilding effort in the years ahead, with additional details to be announced in 2027.
Supporting Alaska Communities
“At Princess Cruises, we are deeply connected to the communities we visit, and Ketchikan holds a special place in our Alaska program,” Gus Antorcha, Princess Cruises President, said in a press release.
“We are honored to support the rebuilding of American Legion Post 3 and to stand alongside the veterans and families who rely on it as a place of connection, remembrance, and service,” Antorcha said.
The American Legion’s mission is rooted in service to veterans, their families, and communities – fostering patriotism, promoting national security, and supporting the well-being of those who have served.
This mission is guided by values including selfless service, family and community engagement, and honoring those who came before.
“American Legion Post 3 represents resilience, service, and community—values that deeply align with Holland America Line,” Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America President, said in a press release.
“We are proud along with our guests to support the rebuilding of this historic post and to help ensure it remains a place of connection and support for Ketchikan’s veterans and families for generations to come,” she said.
Princess Cruises 2026 Alaska Season
Princess Cruises will sail its largest Alaska season ever in 2026, highlighted by the debut of its newest ship in the fleet, Star Princess. The expanded program features eight ships, 180 departures and visits to 19 destinations, giving travelers an unparalleled range of Alaska adventures by sea or through combined land-and-sea cruisetours.
The 2026 season will feature visits to iconic destinations including Ketchikan, where guests will have opportunities to engage with local communities and learn more about the region’s history and resilience.
Holland America Line 2026 Alaska Season
Holland America Line will once again feature six ships in Alaska, offering guests frequent opportunities for glacier viewing, abundant access to Alaska wildlife, immersive cultural experiences and destination-driven dining inspired by the region.
From April through September, Holland America Line will give guests the option to sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington; roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; or between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska.
Itineraries range from seven to 28 days and include the popular month-long “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” sailing and a new 14-day option roundtrip from Seattle.
For guests seeking an even deeper exploration of The Great Land, Holland America Line Cruisetours combine an Alaska cruise with an unforgettable overland journey into Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory.
In 2026, a series of 18 Cruisetour itineraries pair a cruise with scenic rail travel and wilderness adventures, offering expanded access to Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife and iconic landscapes.
Photo courtesy of Holland America Line and Princess Cruises
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