MS Noordam

The youngest member of the Vista class of vessels operated by Holland America Cruises, the MS Noordam was launched in 2006.

It has three sister ships - the Oosterdam, Westerdam and Zuiderdam. All four are named after the points on a compass (noord, for example, means north in Dutch). Another sister, the MS Arcadia, was originally built for Holland America, but was subsequently sold to P&O.

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The Noordam encompasses the classic style of cruising, while also taking advantage of the latest advances in modern technology and amenities. This is all part of Holland America's Signature of Excellence programme, which was launched in 2003 to bring the company's entire fleet up-to-date with industry trends.

For example, the plush decor throughout the ship is reminiscent of the golden era of cruising - with sumptuous, rich fabrics and comfortable furnishings. In addition, the bedrooms are all fitted with flat-screen televisions, while bathrooms include high-pressure showers. Plus, there are some top-quality entertainment and enrichment programmes that take into consideration the vast age range of holidaymakers.

The Noordam spends the summer months in the Mediterranean, with popular ports of call including Rome, Monaco, Barcelona, Naples, Dubrovnik, Santorini and Athens. In the autumn, it makes a transatlantic crossing and is then based in Fort Lauderdale for the winter, offering Caribbean tours to places like Grand Turk, Curacao, Aruba, St Maarten, St Lucia, Barbados and Bonaire.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,457
Year entered service: 2006
Beam (ship width): 105.6 feet
Draught (ship depth): 25.5 feet
Length: 935.0 feet
Tonnage: 92,300
Crew: 820
Maximum speed: 24 knots
Number of passenger decks: 11
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 3
Number of cabins: 959

Food, cuisine and dining

The Vista Dining Room is the main restaurant on the Noordam. It has 1,045 seats spread over two decks and offers a fairly traditional cruise dining experience, with candlelight and fine table linens, as well as top-quality service.

This venue offers three meals a day and, while there are two set dinner services, passengers can also opt for the As You Wish programme, which allows for open seating.

Other restaurant options include Pinnacle Grill and the Lido Cafe. There's also a fast-food stand on the pool deck, which serves burgers and hot dogs.

During meal times you can arrange for meals from the main restaurant to be delivered to your room, giving you the chance to enjoy your meal in privacy.

In addition, afternoon tea is offered every day, with a Royal Dutch High Tea at least once on every voyage.

On-board entertainment and activities

The Vista Lounge is an 867-seat venue that hosts Las Vegas-style productions like cabaret and comedy. Live music is performed in many of the public spaces, bars and lounges throughout the vessel.

Some of the most popular activities on the Noordam can be found in the Culinary Arts Centre, where guests can learn the secrets to creating delectable meals, as well as watching master chefs at work.

In addition, the ship showcases museum-quality works of art, with a multimillion-dollar collection of paintings, contemporary art and historic furniture.

Other options include the casino, various lectures and enrichment programmes, as well as a large library. There's also an extensive kids' programme, which incorporates edutainment, arts and crafts workshops and movies, as well as a play area and dedicated space for teenagers.

Spas and fitness facilities

Cruising should be all about relaxation and the best way to achieve this is with a trip to the Greenhouse Spa. This peaceful venue is spread over two decks and offers everything you need to feel completely rejuvenated by the time you leave.

Facilities include a laconium and a hammam, as well as an aromatherapy steam room with the scent of chamomile. There's also a hydrotherapy pool and a number of treatment rooms where you can enjoy a massage, body wrap or acupuncture session. Meanwhile, a full-service beauty salon offers treatments like facials, manicures and hair styling.

And if you prefer to get your stress out with some vigorous exercise, the Noordam is also home to a state-of-the-art gym and above-deck activities like a swimming pool and jogging track.

Cabins

The Noordam has nearly 1,000 rooms, which span 24 different price categories. This means that if you're looking to book a holiday you'll have plenty of options to choose from - whether you're seeking cruise deals or the plushest accommodation available.

Most rooms have space for two occupants, although suites can generally sleep additional guests and some of the standard rooms can also take three or four people. Other rooms have interconnecting doors, which can be useful for families or groups of friends who are travelling together.

Booking a suite means that you'll not only enjoy larger quarters but also a higher level of service. Complimentary concierge is provided, as well as priority embarkation/disembarkation and quick luggage delivery. You'll also gain access to the Neptune Lounge, an exclusive area with plenty of comfortable seating, as well as a private mini bar, television and reading area.

Of course, no matter which level of accommodation you choose, your room will be stocked with luxurious linens, soft bathrobes and top-quality soaps and shampoos. Plus, each cabin incorporates a private bathroom and a secure safe.