The 2,670-passenger Diamond Princess has an intimate, cosy feel despite its size. Typical of all Princess Cruises' ships, there are plenty of hideaway nooks, ample deck space and multiple dining choices.

This ship features five main dining rooms, offering on most cruises a choice between fixed sittings and Anytime Dining (where you choose when you want to eat). The traditional dining rooms offer a luxurious experience complete with knowledgeable sommeliers, while sushi and gourmet steak are served at Kai Sushi and the highly acclaimed Sterling Steakhouse respectively. The informal Sabatini's, with an Italian theme, is home to eight-course meals and freshly made pasta.

The newly installed Japanese bath complex features sweeping ocean views from heated indoor and outdoor tubs recalling a traditional onsen. Elsewhere on Diamond Princess there are two lido pools - one with a giant outdoor cinema screen - as well as an exercise pool with its own current; six hot tubs complete the package. The adults-only Sanctuary is an oasis of calm and as the sun sets, eight different bars and lounges come into their own, including the Wake View Bar with a view to the stern, Explorer's Lounge for live performances and the glitzy Skywalkers Nightclub on the top deck. There's also an on-board wedding chapel, with a webcam for families back home.

More than 70% of Diamond Princess' cabins are exterior, and over three quarters of those feature private balconies. Each cabin sleeps at least two and includes a nightly turndown, as well as bathroom amenities and 100% Egyptian cotton sheets.

The ship is based in Japan with itineraries taking in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and Vietnam; a good pick for a romantic escape, or a family holiday with built-in time to unwind.