Rich, glistening glass and gold-coloured decor sets a sophisticated scene in the main atrium making way to plush walkways from where you can explore this elegant ship, getting to know its boutiques, bars and lounges as you plan your days.

Artworks reflect Dutch influences throughout the world and feature historic paintings, artefacts from South America and contemporary pieces by celebrated figures including Andy Warhol.

You can find out more about the various works of art by downloading a narrated ‘tour’ to your portable media player before you embark on your cruise.

And if you have any trouble coping with new technology but always fancied learning more then you can take part in one of the free digital workshops on the Westerdam where experts show you how best to use cameras and computers for sharing your amazing holiday experiences with friends and family back home.

You can learn how to cook up some exciting treats for future dinner guests at the entertaining demonstrations delivered by guest chefs at the TV-kitchen style Culinary Arts Centre, a highlight venue for many Westerdam cruise passengers.

There’s also a spacious fitness centre with exercise equipment positioned to offer amazing ocean views, as well as volleyball and basketball courts for those feeling a bit more energetic.

But many days all you’ll want to do is relax and unwind - and there are plenty of serene spaces to enjoy doing that in real style on this lovely ship with two attractive pool areas, one with an all-weather retractable roof, and the gorgeous Greenhouse Spa offering all the latest health therapies and a full hair and beauty salon.

There’s a swish internet cafe and cosy lounges and reading areas where you can spend an hour or two of peace and quiet.

Those guests travelling with children can enjoy their adult time safe in the knowledge that the kids are having fun making new friends while attending regular parties, games and competitions run by experienced Club HAL youth staff in colourful separate play areas.

Teenagers have their own trendy Oasis deck area as well as The Loft – a cool lounge for hanging out with people of their own age.

Evening entertainment ranges from the lively and lavish, with polished performances from singers, dancers, comedians and speciality acts in the glittering main Vista show lounge, to soothing classical music in the Explorer’s Bar.

Other venues like the popular Crow’s Nest lounge, Ocean Bar and Piano Bar, offer a musical vibe to suit your every mood and those who enjoy a boogie can head for the dazzling Northern Lights Nightclub.

You can chat over a quiet drink in other more tranquil lounges or, if you fancy trying your luck at slot machines and gaming tables, the Westerdam has a large, classy casino open until late at night.

The Westerdam’s magnificent main Vista restaurant Dining Room offers set-time sittings for those guests who enjoy the friendly cruising tradition of dining each night with fellow guests. Through Holland America’s ‘As You Wish’ option you can also turn up to be seated at a time of your own choosing between 5.30pm and 9pm.

Your five course dinners feature the finest international cuisine prepared by creative chefs and served by charming and efficient waiters.

Many passengers like the more informal atmosphere of the lovely Lido Restaurant where separate food stations present an amazing array of buffet selections; speciality dishes from all over the world and made to order favourites throughout the day and late into the night. There’s also a more laid-back table service for dinner and the Canaletto Italian Restaurant area.

Grilled and barbecued foods, pizza, snacks and sandwiches are also available at casual eateries throughout the ship.

If you have a special occasion to celebrate, or you merely fancy a more exclusive change of scenery for your evening meal then you may want to reserve a table at the luxurious and intimate Pinnacle Grill whose wonderful a la carte menu features prime cuts of Sterling Silver beef and mouth-watering seafood dishes.

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

Westerdam’s are all smartly designed and spacious, offering 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 as standard.

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