MS Ryndam

The third vessel to be built in Holland America Cruises' Statendam class, the MS Ryndam was specifically designed to carry fewer passengers than its sister ships the Statendam and Maasdam. This means that guests can enjoy a feeling of extra spaciousness and luxury on their voyage.

Constructed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and named after a dam on the Rhine River, the Ryndam was launched in 1994. Through the years, it has undergone a number of refurbishments to keep it up-to-date with the rest of the fast-moving cruise industry.

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One such project included fitting the vessel out with the amenities required for Holland America's Signature of Excellence enhancement concept. This involved a complete redesign of the pool area and the inclusion of spa class staterooms, as well as more luxurious decor throughout the ship and an improved enrichment programme.

During the summer, the Ryndam generally travels around the Mediterranean, with popular ports of call including Barcelona, Monaco, Rome and Ibiza. It also makes trips to the Canary Islands, stopping in Madeira and Casablanca on the way.

For the winter, the ship heads across the Atlantic to Tampa, Florida. From there, it cruises around the Caribbean and stops in destinations like Key West, Grand Cayman and Costa Maya.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 1,627
Year entered service: 1994
Beam (ship width): 101 feet
Draught (ship depth): 24.6 feet
Length: 719.3 feet
Tonnage: 55,451
Crew: 557
Maximum speed: 22 knots
Number of passenger decks: 10
Number of lifts: 8
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 633

Food, cuisine and dining

Going hungry should never be a problem on the Ryndam and the most popular place to eat is the Rotterdam Dining Room. It spans two decks and is surrounded by large windows that afford gorgeous views and give the area an added sense of spaciousness.

For passengers who like the traditional dining experience, there are two set dinner times. Alternatively, As You Wish Dining gives passengers the opportunity to be more flexible with their meal schedule. Breakfast and lunch are served on an open seating basis. Casual dress is acceptable, no matter what you choose.

Other options include the Lido Cafe, a casual buffet, as well as the Canaletto and the Pinnacle Grill. Afternoon tea is held every day, while a formal high tea is offered once on each voyage. Room service is also available 24 hours a day.

On-board entertainment and activities

Holland America has worked hard to fill its ships with fine art and artefacts from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Many of the works have a nautical theme and wandering around the ship can sometimes feel like you're browsing a Dutch maritime museum, with so many pieces on display.

For a quiet place to sit down, enjoy a drink or do a bit of reading, the central atrium is a wonderful choice. It's also a great spot for people watching and there's often live music playing in the background.

The main focal point of this grand space is a showpiece sculpture that spans three decks in height. Created by Italian artist Gilbert Lebigre, it is a stunning fountain with intertwined fish that is truly monumental in scale.

Of course, the ship is also home to plenty of other activities. From cabaret acts and comedians in the Showroom at Sea theatre to bingo, karaoke, a casino and enrichment programmes like the Culinary Arts Centre, there's sure to be something to keep anyone's interest piqued.

A kids' club is also available, as well as babysitting services.

Spas and fitness facilities

The Greenhouse Spa is operated on a concessionary basis by Steiner, a company famous for its high-quality beauty and skincare products.

It is a serene location where passengers can go for a bit of pampering and indulgence. Features include a relaxation area, a hydrotherapy pool, a sauna and steam rooms. Specialist treatments like massages and body wraps can be provided and beauty salon services are also available.

Other options include the main pool area. With a retractable roof, it is a fabulous location, no matter what the weather and there are also two whirlpools to help work out any muscle tension.

Facilities are available for basketball and ping-pong, while a jogging track can be found on the sports deck. And if you prefer to get your exercise in a gym setting, the fitness area has numerous cardio and resistance machines, as well as a space for aerobics, Pilates and yoga classes.

Cabins

With more then 600 rooms on the Ryndam and 17 different price categories, the ship offers plenty of choice for potential passengers seeking to book a fabulous holiday at sea. Options range from interior cabins - ideal for those seeking low-cost cruise deals - through to the large and luxurious penthouse suite.

Most standard rooms are designed to sleep two passengers and have two single-size beds that can be pushed together to make a queen. Some cabins can accommodate additional passengers - perfect for families, while another option is to get two cabins with interconnecting doors.

All rooms include a private bathroom and a separate sitting area with a television and DVD player. Bathrobes and soaps are provided, as well as a hairdryer and personal safe.