The ms Zuiderdam began her inaugural season in 2002 as the first ship in our Vista-class series. As with all ships in the Vista-class, the ms Zuiderdam embraces the latest industry and environmental technologies such as her use of a full-scale diesel-electric power plant for optimal energy efficiency and an Azipod propulsion system that maximizes maneuverability. Forward-looking in both design and spirit, the ms Zuiderdam was also the first ship to offer data ports in every stateroom for Internet and email access.

At the heart of the ms Zuiderdam, suspended in a three-story atrium, a Waterford® Crystal Seahorse sets the mood for exquisite pieces of art to be seen throughout this elegant ship. On board the ms Zuiderdam, marvelous nooks and crannies contain priceless works of art. Guests will find a recurring Venetian theme throughout the ship; the most dazzling features figures in the time of Carnival in Venice, created by Daniel Ogier. Guests can also expect signature Holland America touches, such as a gracious and unobtrusive staff, gourmet meals, spacious accommodations and the very best in entertainment and activities. The ms Zuiderdam completed all Signature of Excellence enhancements to her public rooms and staterooms in Fall 2005.

Join her in 2006-2007 on a Caribbean cruise vacation, transit the Panama Canal, take an exotic Hawaiian Island cruise or discover the stunning natural beauty of Alaska's Inside Passage and Glacier Bay.

Signature features include:

• 85 percent of all staterooms have ocean views, 67 percent of all staterooms have verandahs and 28 staterooms are wheelchair accessible
• The two-tier Vista Dining Room features impeccable service and an extensive wine list, and offers five-course menus, from continental cuisine to vegetarian and low-carb options
• The intimate reservations-only Pinnacle Grill offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience and features premium hand-selected cuts of Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated "Excellent" by Wine Spectator - as well as distinctive Bvlgari® china, Riedel® stemware and Frette® linens
• The Lido Restaurant offers a relaxed ambiance for all three meals and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties
• The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, is the setting for gourmet cooking demonstrations and interactive classes
• The Greenhouse Spa & Salon features thermal suites, a hydrotherapy and thalassotherapy pool, heated ceramic lounges and more
• The Vista Show Lounge features Las Vegas-style productions, talented vocalists, illusionists, comedians and variety acts
• The Crow's Nest, where sweeping views make this observation lounge a top choice for relaxing during the day, and in the evening transforms into a hip, fashionable nightclub features top-notch DJs and live bands
• Club HAL®, dedicated youth facilities and activities for kids ages 3 to 12
• The Loft, designed exclusively for teens to have fun, socialize and hang out with people their own age