Zaandam, launched in 2000, has been conceived by Holland America Line to offer the maximum possible space per guest. The ship is perfect for long-distance cruising and explores South America in winter and Alaska in summer, among other destinations.

The spacious public areas on this 1,432-passenger shipreflect a graceful combination of classic and modern features and have been inspired by music. Artefacts and memorabilia from a variety of musical genres decorate the ship, including such finds as as Bill Clinton's saxophone and signed guitars from Queen and the Rolling Stones. In the atrium is a Baroque-style pipe organ, inspired by traditional barrel organs still found on Dutch streets.

There are four major types of accommodation on Zaandamincluding inside cabins, those with a picture window, balcony cabins and suites, with all accommodation offering such luxuries as bathrobes, Elemis bath goodies and nightly turndown service.

The two-deck-high Rotterdam Dining Room on Zaandam serves lavish, five-course dinners nightly and is a sight to behold on formal nights, when everybody is in black tie. The more casual Lido Restaurant is buffet style. The intimate, reservations-only Pinnacle Grill serves acclaimed steaks and cuts of beef and inspired seafood dishes.

Every night, the two-tier Mondrian Show Lounge features Las Vegas-style productions, talented vocalists, illusionists, comedians and variety acts. Explorations Café is a comfortable lounge with a large library, comfortable music listening stations and Internet access, next to the Crow's Nest, an ideal spot for relaxing during the day, transforming into a hip nightclub after dark. Club HAL has youth facilities and activities for kids ages three to 12; the Loft and the Oasis are designed exclusively for teens escape.