One of the ships that allows it to be a Signature Excellence, Holland America has committed to pouring more than half a billion dollars into its fleet of 13 ships since 2003, upgrading cabins, public spaces and shore excursions. Amsterdam shows how the line has fused the old with the new. Along with new services, Amsterdam has a certain royal note. Holland America passengers still have the option of seated lunch. The ship maintains the tradition of serving cups of hot Dutch pea soup on the bundle-up deck. And the decor of many of the public spaces is anything but understated. An ornate clock in the three-level atrium is a truly impressive piece of art as it is a way to get the current time around the world. It is one of the first features you glimpse on the ship, it is in the most crossed part of the ship, it is in the promenade that reminds Holland America of its roots. Built in 2000, it is one of Holland America's smallest ships carrying 700 fewer passengers than Eurodam, the compa...