Holland America Line and Crane Stationery Honor America's 250th with Veteran-Designed Cards

Celebrating a Legacy: Veteran-Designed Cards by Holland America Line and Crane Stationery

As America gears up for a monumental 250th anniversary celebration, Holland America Line has teamed up with the esteemed Crane, a traditional American stationery brand, to honor this historic milestone. In a collaboration that exemplifies craftsmanship and cultural significance, they are set to unveil an exclusive collection of cards designed by veteran artists through the U.S. Veterans' Artists Alliance (USVAA).

The collection consists of 12 original cards, with each design reflecting the rich heritage and artistic talent of the selected veteran artists: Lindsay "Bones" Cordero, Amy R. Roberts, and Jen LaVita. Each of these artists has created four unique cards, with themes celebrating the iconic Holland America Line fleet. The cards will be crafted using Crane's iconic American-made paper, which means that purchasers are also embracing a slice of American history with each card.

This collaboration is more than just a product launch; it signifies the deep-rooted values both Holland America Line and Crane stand for: authenticity, quality, and the power of storytelling. As Kacy Cole, the chief marketing officer for Holland America Line, states, "There is power in bringing together two brands with such deep roots. This collaboration allows us to translate that heritage into a tangible experience our guests can truly connect with."

Crane has a long-standing legacy that traces back centuries, having been chosen by influential figures throughout American history. The paper was famously utilized to print significant documents, such as the nation’s first paper money, invitations for the Golden Gate Bridge inauguration, and even Christmas cards for the Roosevelts. By using Crane’s products, Holland America Line is embracing this lineage, creating a bond between its own storied past and the shared experiences of its customers.

In this era of technology where digital communication sometimes overshadows traditional means, these cards serve a noble purpose: they honor the written word and encourage connections through personalized messages. This initiative aims not only to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary but also to create a platform where veterans can share their perspectives and stories, reinforcing a sense of community.

The artists featured in this collection reflect a diverse pool of talent and creativity. Lindsay "Bones" Cordero, a former U.S. Air Force officer turned author-illustrator, believes her art can bring joy and possibility to others. Amy R. Roberts, inspired by the natural world around her, uses unique tools to create her vibrant paintings of landscapes and cityscapes, and Jen LaVita, a former Army officer, infuses her work with experiences from her time in service, using unexpected hues and acrylics to create striking landscapes and portraits.

As part of the experience aboard Holland America Line vessels, a unique event known as the "veterans meet-up" will be hosted during the 2026 Grand World Voyage on the MS Volendam. This gathering will welcome veterans traveling on board, culminating in a heartfelt messaging campaign where well-wishes are penned on these specialty cards, fostering a spirit of camaraderie while honoring their sacrifices.

Further enriching America's 250th commemorations, Holland America Line has other partnerships in the pipeline. One such collaboration with Pendleton Woolen Mills will see a custom-designed throw blanket, steeped in Alaskan culture, made available on ships cruising this exquisite region. This limited-edition item promises to be another tangible piece of the shared heritage between the United States and its travelers.

For guests interested in marking America's milestone anniversary in a unique manner, Holland America Line offers the "America's 250th Celebration Stars and Stripes Cruise," setting sail from Boston on July 4, 2026. The voyage will include breathtaking views of fireworks over the historic skyline, themed festivities, and stops in historically significant cities like Norfolk, Virginia, and New York.

In conclusion, Holland America Line’s partnership with Crane Stationery and the USVAA brings to light a powerful narrative of service, artistry, and heritage. This initiative not only pays homage to America’s storied past but also builds connections between travelers and the stories that define them, creating lasting memories aboard the great vessels of Holland America. This is just one of many ways the cruise line aims to celebrate this landmark anniversary, ensuring a meaningful tribute to America’s enduring legacy through maritime adventures and heartfelt reflection.