Cruise Line: Holland America

Length: 285m

Tonnage:82318

Passengers: 1918

Built: 2006

Review Date: 5 December 2015

Where: Sydney Harbour

On arriving at White Bay to inspect MS Noordam the first thing which struck me was the dedication to balconies. The balconies are complimented by the Cabana retreat with cabanas on deck for rent by the day or longer. These were offset by the main pool which had a retractable roof to cope with inclement weather.

On wandering around the ship I had a sense of space and importantly though the ship had many different spaces on board none felt too small. The finishes on the ship spoke of European cruising with a sense of luxury, the $4 million in artwork also contributed, even some chairs were pieces of art.

B.B. King’s Blues Club shines as a place to be. The Club has a eight piece band hailing from the B.B. King’s Blues Club in Memphis. The Explorers lounge provided an old school relaxing feel with a well stocked library, internet centre and coffee shop. At the top of the ship is the Crows Nest offering a relaxing and spacious observation lounge. Meanwhile the Oak room provided a traditional cigar room complete with a faux fireplace.

The cabins were well lit, felt fresh and allowed for easy navigation around the room. There was good hanging space in the cupboards. There was a flat screen television and DVD player in the rooms.