VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY

The 14 ships in the Holland America fleet will carry you, in classic style and sumptuous five-star comfort, to the four corners of the globe

Although the name – Holland America – may imply that there are only two countries on the cruise company’s radar, nothing could be further from the truth. From ‘doorstep’ destinations such as the Baltic and the Mediterranean to the deep reaches of the Amazon, the legendary, glacial wonderland of Alaska’s Inside Passage, the exotic cultures of South East Asia and the balmy, sandy shores of the Caribbean, Holland America Line will show you some of the most enthralling destinations on the planet.

Whichever icons are on your wish list, from natural sites such as the astounding limestone islands of Halong Bay in Vietnam or South America’s Iguazu Falls, or man-made creations like Sydney’s Opera House or the Mayan temples of Mexico, you’ll find an itinerary to take you there.

Holland America’s ships are mid-size, spacious and super elegant, with artworks and antiques that would not look out of place in a major gallery. Think floating five-star hotel rather than cruise ship, and you’ll get more of a feel for the experience.

Time to dine? In addition to the elegant main salons, where you can sit beneath crystal chandeliers and dine when you want and with whom you want, you can also choose eateries serving Surf and Turf, authentic Italian or delicious snacks. When you step aboard Holland America’s newest arrival, the Koningsdam, boutique restaurants include Sel de Mer, a seafood brasserie, and the Asianfusion Tamarind.

In between ports of call you can, of course, lie back and do as little as you like beside the pool or on the teak promenade deck, in one of the lounges, on your private balcony or in the spa.

Or you can acquire a whole set of new skills – learning about regional specialities in the Culinary Arts Centre, for example, or honing your tech knowhow at the Microsoft-sponsored Digital Workshops. Depending on where you sail, your ship will also ‘import’ experiences from local cultures – tai chi, perhaps, when sailing in Asia, or vodka tastings in Russia. And to further enhance the travel experience, Holland America has teamed up with both BBC Earth and AFAR online guides to provide background programmes on the countries you’re passing.

Find out more

For more information, visit your travel professional, call 0843 374 2300* or visit hollandamerica.co.uk *Calls cost 4p a minute, plus your telephone company’s network access charge

MAIN IMAGE: Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia INSET: A traditional waterside structure CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Chinese lantems; a Holland America Line ship cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage; the intimate Pinnacle Grill for sumptuous food;...