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Holland America Zaandam

One of Holland America’s most intimate, exciting experiences is right onboard the MS Zaandam This smaller ship holds 1,432 passengers while still feeling spacious inside staterooms and public areas. Verandas offer stunning views of the surroundings, no matter whether you’re taking it out to the Hawaiian Islands, the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, South America, or the Antarctic. Holland America debuted the MS Zaandam in 2000 with a musical theme. Here, artifacts and memorabilia cover a range of genres. As you walk around, you’ll spot instruments, including guitars signed by members of the Rolling Stones, Carlos Santana, and Queen, and a saxophone from former President Bill Clinton. However, the literal centerpiece is a grand Dutch pipe organ, inspired by the barrel organs seen around the country, in the three-story atrium.

Accommodations

Even the standard accommodations onboard the MS Zaandam present a luxurious, elegant experience. Travelers can sit back and sleep on Euro-top mattresses, all while enjoying a television with a DVD collection. In the morning, get ready with a massaging shower head and salon-quality hair tools, all while fresh fruit is available upon request. The next level up – in the Vista and Neptune Suites – begins here but takes it several steps further. Travelers can put together notes on custom stationery or make a call with a one-touch telephone. During your time at sea, as well, serve yourself a drink in the mini-bar or socialize in the exclusive Neptune Lounge. When it comes time for meals, the Rotterdam Dining Room features traditional five-course continental dishes. Those seeking something vegetarian or low-carb have options, while all can select the perfect pairing from an extensive wine list. But as specialty dining continues to be a draw, the MS Zaandam offers variety. Get a delicious Italian meal at Canaletto, or taste something cooked-to-order at the relaxed Lido Restaurant. The Pinnacle Grill aims to be the most intimate place onboard, where you’ll be served seafood, quality meats, and wine on fine china. To relax or start your day, Explorations Café serves up coffee and other beverages, all while providing access to a library and Wi-Fi.

Activities

Are you looking to refresh about a long day in port? Head over to the Greenhouse Spa and Salon to rejuvenate – with a massage or a new haircut. Or after you’ve taken many photographs, preserve the memories the way you remember them with the Digital Workshop. There, Microsoft-certified instructors provide tips on taking good pictures and movies and later editing them. For another instructive experience, head over to the Culinary Arts Center. Professional chefs put on elaborate displays at sea, so get some cooking tips to take back home. Kids, too, will have something to do at Club HAL, for those 3 to 12, or The Loft and The Oasis, for those 13 to 17. Drop them off for age-appropriate activities as you go about exploring the ship. Nights are full of fun and entertainment. The Mandriaan Show Lounge is the perfect spot for seeing acrobats, singers, or comedians put on a performance. Or if hanging out and dancing is more your thing, head up to the Crow’s Nest, Holland America’s nightclub with a 27-degree view. As you decide to explore an intimate corner of the world, do it on the MS Zaandam. To schedule your trip, browse through Direct Line Cruises and then make reservations today.