A mid-sized ship carrying 1,423, Volendam makes up for its smaller size in sheer beauty. The on-board art collection and interior decoration are themed around flowers, with fresh floral arrangements in every room, while original Italian Renaissance fountains add the finishing touch.

Cruising on this ship is a quietly glamorous experience with plenty of Holland America's trademark expert personal service. The four dining options offer comprehensive menus including low-carb and vegetarian options; there's gourmet steak at the Pinnacle Grill and Italian at Canaletto, both with high-quality wine lists. The more casual Lido Restaurant and Rotterdam dining room complete the set.

During the day, an internet centre and library offer indoor entertainment, or you can enjoy the two swimming pools and Greenhouse Spa. A games room, kids club and two teen hangouts will keep younger passengers safely occupied. As evening falls, the Frans Hals Show Lounge features variety acts, singers and comedians; the Crow's Nest lounge becomes a nightclub and the party continues at the Explorer Lounge and Seaview Bar.

Staterooms on Volendam are spacious and offer a wealth of well-chosen comforts. Each cabin features sumptuousSealy Premium Euro-Top mattresses; bathroom amenities from Elemis, Egyptian cotton towels, a flat-panel TV with a DVD player, and a nightly turndown service.

Itineraries focus on South-east Asia, with ports in Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore; also on the list is the USA's Pacific North-West region, Pacific coast and Alaskan glaciers. Further south, the ship covers the South Pacific, New Zealand and Australia.

We love Volendam for its exquisite design and that precise attention to detail that defines true luxury; it offers a truly special cruise.