Zaandam

Its Manageable Size: Zaandam has just 716 cabins, appealing to those who want to avoid a ship overrun with several thousand passengers. It's a throwback to vessels of an earlier era and offers a more intimate, low-key ambience. And when in port, the ship’s population does not overwhelm islands and small towns.

Wining and Dining: The Pinnacle Grill, the extra-tariff specialty restaurant, is an ideal setting to celebrate a birthday or anniversary — especially for anyone who enjoys a big juicy steak, fine wine, and attentive service. Guests can also try the Le Cirque menu offered at Pinnacle Grill once every cruise.

A Grown-Up Vibe: Holland America has a reputation for having a relaxed and more sedate atmosphere than other cruise lines with livelier, more party-centric clientele — especially around the pools and in the bars. Explorations, which combines a café, Internet center, and library, is a popular gathering place on Zaandam.

Room to Roam: The ship's wide teak Lower Promenade Deck draws those who enjoy daily walks when at sea or simply hanging out in a deck chair and reading while watching the ocean waves. 

Mature Cruisers: Zaandam attracts a sedate Middle America crowd looking to cruise at their own pace — without being overwhelmed by the energy of larger, flashier ships. Passengers on the longer South America cruises will be older than those sailing to Alaska.

Menus Can Be Bland: The food in the Rotterdam Dining Room is middle of the road, so don’t expect especially creative or fancy dishes. Most passengers like it that way, while gourmands will not.