MS Nieuw Amsterdam

Launched in 2010, the MS Nieuw Amsterdam is the newest and largest vessel in the Holland America Cruises fleet. It's a Signature class vessel, very similar to its sister ship the MS Eurodam, and was designed to reflect the premium brand image of its parent cruise line.

The ship combines the traditional luxury and comfort of cruising with the most modern technology and the amenities desired by today's cruise passengers. And there's no doubt that the ship does exactly that, with highlights including a premium wine-tasting lounge, an innovative pan-Asian restaurant and a luxury jewellery boutique to name just a few.

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Usually, the Nieuw Amsterdam splits its time between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. In the winter months, it's based in Fort Lauderdale and travels to destinations like Grand Turk, San Juan and St Maarten.

During the summer, the ship's home port is typically Venice or Barcelona, with stops in places like Dubrovnik, Santorini, Rome, Florence, Monaco, Athens and Istanbul.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,106
Year entered service: 2010
Beam (ship width): 32 feet
Draught (ship depth): 25.5 feet
Length: 285 feet
Tonnage: 86,700
Crew: 929
Maximum speed: 23.9 knots
Number of passenger decks: 11
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 3
Number of cabins: 1,052

Food, cuisine and dining

Meal times are truly treats on the Nieuw Amsterdam and with eight different venues to choose from, there's sure to be something to satiate any desire.

The main dining room is the Manhattan, which spans two decks and is elegantly decorated with vibrant red fabrics. There's also a stunning spiral staircase that connects the two levels.

Meanwhile, Tamarind is an Asian restaurant with a menu inspired by the cuisine of countries such as China, Japan and Thailand. Decorated in dark colours, with plenty of bamboo and rice paper lanterns, this is an elegant and intimate dining area that's extremely popular.

Another option is Canaletto, an Italian restaurant that made its debut on the Eurodam. Menu items include a variety of Italian favourites like veal, lasagne, linguini, smoked salmon and fusilli. A number of mouth-watering desserts are also on offer, like tiramisu, mille-feuille and gelato.

Other restaurants include:
• Pinnacle Grill
• Explorations Cafe
• Le Cirque
• Terrace Grill
• The Lido

Complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day and high tea is offered in the afternoons.

On-board entertainment and activities

There's a wealth of activities to keep passengers busy, no matter what their age or preferences. For those who enjoy Las Vegas-style shows, the Showroom at Sea is the place to go. With 890 seats, it plays host to cabaret acts and musical numbers, as well as comedy performances and other entertainment.

For foodies, the Culinary Arts Center is a great option. Presented by Food & Wine Magazine, this comprises a number of high-quality show kitchens, where live cooking presentations and classes are held. Guests can learn the best methods for cooking, baking and otherwise preparing fine meals, while wine tastings are also offered.

If you fancy a bit of retail therapy, there are a number of shops perfect for you to pick up a treat for yourself, or some souvenirs to take to friends and family back home. Options include a stunning jewellery boutique, as well as clothing outlets and duty free shops.

The ship is home to a multimillion-dollar art collection and those interested in learning more about the works on display can take a self-guided audio tour. If you're feeling lucky, you could spend some time at the casino. Alternatively, other options include a well-stocked library and some comfortable public spaces, perfect for a quiet conversation or sitting back and enjoying your favourite cocktail or coffee drink.

Children's facilities are also available, including play rooms, teen hangout areas and club activities for different age groups - like arts and crafts sessions, movies, games, competitions and edutainment.

Spas and fitness facilities

The Greenhouse Spa and Salon is a tranquil and comfortable setting where passengers can go to get away from it all. Whether you want to be pampered with a rejuvenating facial or massage, spend some time in the thermal suite, or get a completely new look with a makeover, this facility will be able to provide the services you require.

There's a heated ceramic lounge, where you can bask in the peaceful surroundings while drinking herbal teas or fresh juices. There's also a hydrotherapy pool filled with warm sea water - perfect if you want to try the healing powers of thalassotherapy.

Alternatively, head off to the fully equipped gym for a bit of exercise. The cardio machines and weight lifting equipment will help you to work out all of your stress, or you can opt for an exercise class or an above-deck activity to get your blood pumping.

Cabins

Whether you want to find great cruise deals, or prefer to splash out on an extremely plush room, the Nieuw Amsterdam is sure to have accommodation that matches your requirements. With more than 1,000 rooms spanning several price ranges, you can choose from three types of suites, as well as ocean view rooms with and without balconies and interior rooms with no view.

Approximately 86 per cent of the cabins have views, while the majority of these have balconies, meaning that you won't find it too difficult to get the type of room you desire. No matter what you select, you'll have a small sitting area, a private bathroom, a mini bar and plenty of storage space.