MS Rotterdam

As part of the eponymous Rotterdam class of ships, the MS Rotterdam was built in 1997. Although it is by no means the largest ship in the Holland America Cruises fleet, it is a spacious and artfully appointed vessel that certainly has plenty to offer even the most demanding of passengers.

One of the main focal points of the liner can be found in the elaborately decorated central atrium, which is generally a fabulous spot for a quiet drink, an intimate conversation or simply some people watching. An enormous and ornate clock sculpture - towering over three decks - dominates the space and is based on an antique Flemish design.

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The Rotterdam can typically be found in the Mediterranean, although it also offers voyages across the Atlantic, around the Caribbean and to destinations in South America.

Starting in 2012, the ship will be exclusively based in its namesake city, offering voyages around the Baltic and North Sea, with ports of call including Copenhagen, Oslo, Edinburgh, the Shetland Islands, Helsinki, St Petersburg and Hamburg.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 1,668
Year entered service: 1997
Beam (ship width): 105.8 feet
Draught (ship depth): 25.5 feet
Length: 777.5 feet
Tonnage: 59,652
Crew: 593
Maximum speed: 25 knots
Number of passenger decks: 12
Number of lifts: 12
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 660

Food, cuisine and dining

La Fontaine is the main dining room on the Rotterdam and it seats 747 people. In this venue, you can enjoy three meals a day and dinner is generally provided in two set services, although open seating is available as part of the As You Wish dining programme.

Menus are varied, ranging from steak and chicken dishes to pasta and international fare. In addition, most special requirements can be catered for, including kosher and vegetarian meals.

If you prefer something a bit more casual, then the Lido Restaurant is the place to go. Three meals a day are served there, with a wide range of breakfast items like eggs, French toast, cold meats and cereals. Lunch consists of options like sandwiches, soups and salads, as well as burgers, pizza and tacos. Dinner menus are similar to the main restaurant and there's always a delightful selection of desserts.

In the evenings, one section of the Lido becomes Canaletto, an Italian eatery with delicious options including angel hair pasta, Veal Milanese and roasted salmon.

Other options include Slice - an outdoor space where you can pick up a tasty piece of pizza - and the Pinnacle Grill, a steakhouse that also serves some delicious seafood items like lobster tail, crab cakes and black cod.

Room service is available 24 hours a day and afternoon tea is offered every day - with a Dutch formal high tea once during every cruise.

On-board entertainment and activities

For passengers who want to learn something during their voyage, the Rotterdam is chock-full of options.

There are presentations about the ports of calls, a culinary arts programme that will teach cooking skills and host wine tastings, technology workshops ranging from computer basics to digital photography and webpage design and wellbeing consultations covering nutrition, weight loss and dealing with stress.

If you want to take in a bit of culture, there's a collection of historic art and antiques, dating to as far back as the 17th century, as well as more contemporary items valued at more than £1 million.

The works are mainly Dutch and Japanese in origin and many have a nautical theme. Indeed, as guests walk through the ship, they may at times feel like they're in a maritime museum, rather than a cruise ship.

Of course, the Rotterdam is also home to a variety of performances and the 577-seat Showlounge at Sea is the place to go for a bit of cabaret.

To keep track of all the goings-on, passengers should be sure to consult the daily newsletter that's distributed to cabins every night. This will provide schedules and show times to help you plan your day and ensure you don't miss a thing.

Spas and fitness facilities

Cruises are all about relaxing and that's why a visit to the luxurious Greenhouse spa and salon is a must. This soothing space is decorated in rich tones and offers a restful atmosphere perfect for rejuvenating your mind and body. The space is equipped with a sauna and steam room, and you can also book a specialist treatment like a massage or facial.

Depending on how you like to unwind, the well-equipped gym or fitness studio might be a better option. Meanwhile, above-deck activities like swimming, jogging or basketball will also get your blood pumping.

Cabins

The Rotterdam has more than 600 cabins, spanning 17 price categories, so there is plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation.

If you're looking for cruise deals, the standard inside and outside cabins might be the perfect solution. They measure around 160 square feet and provide enough space for comfort.

Alternatively, there are various grades of suites on offer. The 36 Deluxe Verandah Suites, as well as the four Penthouse Suites share access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, which includes private concierge, as well as complimentary drinks and snacks.