Nieuw Amsterdam, Holland America Line

Spent Christmas onboard this beautiful ship, in the Caribbean with our two children, 11 and 15. Our 15 year old said it was his best holiday yet. The teen club was brilliant, loads to do and plenty of friends to make. The entertainment was great, the food excellent. Although we sampled the extra charge restaurants, the main dining room was so good, we dined there most often. The staff are impeccable in both appearance and service and the ship was really clean and beautifully appointed. We had two cabins which were a good size, both with balconies. Lovely public rooms, some with excellent views. The family pool has a cover that can be closed in inclement weather, which is a plus and our daughter was in it every day. The adult pool and hot tub are on the back deck and very civilised! We had breakfast out there most mornings. Christmas day was spent on Holland America's private island and again we had excellent service, along with some great shoreside activities. Would definitely recommend this ship.

Our first cruising experience and I think we chose well. Lovely ship - only 18 months old. Plenty to do onboard - theatre with musical shows, comedians, magicians, etc, gym, spa, numerous restaurants, bars, casino, shops, library, etc Two pools - one for adults only - lovely Food was superb. The ship was a bit American - geared up to the 50% American guests on our cruise of the Med and Adriatic. However the crew and all 900+ staff couldn't do enough for you at all times. The only thing I would say was that as the average age of the 2000 holiday makers was only 39 - there were quite a few kids and teenagers and there wasn't much organised in the way of activities for kids. There was an enclosed court so could have had basketball, mini football etc and the organised putting competition was a bit of a joke. However the ship itself and all it had to offer was overall fantastic