There’s a decidedly serene and restful atmosphere during the day on board the Volendam.

You may decide to spend a few hours lazing by the pool, one of which has a retractable roof so you can lounge, swim or take a dip in a whirlpool whatever the weather. You can also grab a bite to eat at the poolside grill, or a drink or two from the bar to sip as you soak up the sun.

Perhaps you’ll meander through the attractive atrium to browse boutiques or sit and people-watch while reading a newspaper and listening to some soothing classical music played by a string quartet.

Regular activities like fascinating talks about upcoming ports of call, dance lessons or the chance to learn new computer skills at a free digital workshop might also appeal to you.

And the Volendam features a great Holland America favourite, the Culinary Arts Centre – an exciting TV-kitchen style studio where guest chefs show you how to prepare fantastic gourmet dishes to delight your dinner guests when you get back home.

You can enjoy a relaxing health therapy or expert beauty treatments in the luxurious surroundings of the Greenhouse Spa or, for those feeling a bit more energetic, there’s a modern gym with amazing ocean views or a multi-sports deck for a game of tennis, volleyball or basketball with fellow passengers.

As the evening draws in Volendam’s bars and lounges come alive with a wide variety of excellent entertainment options – just take your pick according to your mood.

The glitzy main Franz Hals Showroom at Sea is a plush cabaret-style venue where talented singers, dancers, comedians and speciality acts thrill their audiences night after night.

Up at the delightful Crow’s Nest you can take advantage of stunning, panoramic sea views by day and at night it becomes a lively show lounge and, later, the dance floor fills as the DJ spins classic disco tracks.

Big money slot machines and all your favourite card and roulette tables are available in the vibrant casino if you fancy a holiday flutter.

Party bands, classical and cool jazz music sets the tone for the ambience in venues throughout the ship, while other lounges offer a more tranquil setting for a late night chat as you unwind with friends over a drink or two.

The elegant and beautifully-furnished main two-tier Rotterdam restaurant is where many guests enjoy most of their evening meals in traditional cruising style at set-time sittings with fellow guests. Here you can also opt for a more flexible arrangement, turning up to be seated any time between 5.30pm and 9pm.

Whichever you choose you’ll find the waiters are charming and efficient and the international cuisine of a very high quality.

More casual dining is available day and night at eateries throughout the ship, including the popular Lido Restaurant which has stations for grilled foods and internationals specialities, buffet selections and a more informal table service for dinner. There’s also a separate Italian restaurant area, the Canaletto.

Premium cuts of prime Sterling Silver beef and succulent seafood dishes are a hallmark of the exciting menu at the exclusive fine dining alternative restaurant, the Pinnacle Grill where you can enjoy as romantic evening or two with loved ones in a sophisticated setting.

*Selected restaurants on many ships require reservations and may carry an additional charge.

All the Volendam’s cabins are stylishly designed and spacious with twin beds convertible to a queen-size bed, private bathroom with shower, bathrobes, flat-screen TVs and DVD players, hairdryers, complimentary fresh fruit on request, daily ice service, shoeshine and nightly turndown offered as standard.

You can choose from inside, outside and balcony cabins or various categories of suite.