As you board Holland America Line's 1,380-passenger Amsterdam, you'll be greeted by a dazzling, three-storey atrium which has as its centrepiece a suspended PlanetoAstrolabium, a stunning sculpture that tracks constellations, the planets, world time and ship time.

Dutch heritage and tradition aboard this elegant, traditional ship is clearly displayed in original Art Deco pieces that once graced the 1938 vessel Nieuw Amsterdam.

There are 17 categories of accommodation aboard Amsterdam. These range from 182 sqft Inside Staterooms; 197 sqft Outside Staterooms (voted 'best standard-sized cabins afloat' by the American magazine, Porthole); through to suites. In these top-of-the-range accommodations there's also a veranda, dressing room, whirlpool bath, personalised stationery, daily hors d'oeuvres and other perks. The lavish Penthouse Suites boast a bedroom with king-size bed and master bathroom including whirlpool tub.

Amsterdam offers plenty of diversions by day. Guests will be able to share their cruise memories through the Digital Workshop, which offers free classes in the art of social media and blogging. You can also sign up for interactive gourmet cooking lessons in the state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen at the Culinary Arts Centre presented by Food & Wine Magazine. In the Greenhouse Spa & Salon you can enjoy a facial, hot stone massage as well as relaxing in the thermal suite.

Holland America Line is known for its excellent food. In Amsterdam's La Fontaine Dining Room, five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options as well as an extensive wine list. The more casual Lido Restaurant is buffet style but also has a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialities. The intimate, reservations-only Pinnacle Grill serves fine cuts of beef, from filet mignon to New York Strip Steak and inspired seafood dishes (don't miss the Alaskan King Crab) on distinctive Bulgari china.