Possessing one of the highest ratios of space per person in the Holland America fleet, the 1,848-passenger Zuiderdam is a modern ship with innovative, luxurious features. Expanded spa facilities — with 11 therapy rooms, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam and aromatherapy rooms —  pamper passengers in one of the cruise line’s most spacious spas. Elevators — two are glass-enclosed with panoramic ocean views —  give access to 11 passenger decks, including a covered promenade that encircles the entire vessel.

One of the most unique features is the Culinary Arts Center, a state-of-the-art show kitchen with plasma video screens and cooking display counters— a must-see for food and wine enthusiasts. Eighty-five percent of staterooms enjoy ocean views, and eighty percent of those have private balconies. Each stateroom is fitted with a data port for Web access, and there also is an Internet center and library.

When it comes to dining, the Zuiderdam offers a variety of options: gourmet meals in the two-tiered main dining room, fine Italian dining at the Odyssey restaurant, casual fare at the Lido restaurant and Terrace Grill and snacks at Round-the-Clock Cafe and 24-hour room service.

Entertainment is equally varied, with duty-free shops, casino, nightclubs and lounges, a sports deck, plus thrilling productions in the Vista Lounge showroom. Kidzone and Waverunner rooms provide younger passengers (ages 5-17) with their own places for supervised programs and hanging out.

Read ExpertCruiser’s Zuiderdam review.