Because of her bright colors and cheery aspect, and because of the large standard staterooms (some connecting) and abundance of suites, Volendam is ideally suited for a family vacation. There were several families aboard during my cruise, and while there may not be rock-climbing walls or ice-skating rinks on this ship, there were plenty of activities for the young folk to enjoy.
Club HAL, Holland America's "kid's camp," operates daily, with age-appropriate activities and a space to call its own -- the Sky Room -- located aft on the Sports Deck. Arts and crafts, computer classes, games, sing-alongs and sea lore are all part of the program, which is complimentary for all families. Evening babysitting can be arranged for an additional fee if available (it's best to inquire as soon as possible to reserve your preferred times).
Teens enjoy the movies, pools, video arcade and the unlimited pizza, hot dogs and ice cream available during most of the day; special activities are set aside for those in the teen group when there are enough of them on board.
