Holland America Line’s ms Volendam will head for Asian waters in 2013. In total she will offer guests a choice of nine two-week cruises featuring Hong Kong, Singapore and Kobe, Japan.

Passengers will get the chance to explore the wonders of countries such as South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia. Visiting the Great Wall of China will be one of the optional overland tours on offer.

The nine cruises on board the 61,000-ton Volendam will include a 15-night Great Barrier journey departing from Sydney and proceeding to Singapore via Indonesia. This cruise starts on the 22nd December next year. There will also be a 16-night transpacific journey starting in Kobe and ending in Vancouver. Other exciting destinations that will feature on these cruises are Xingang (Beijing) and Shanghai in China, Yokohama in Japan and Bangkok in Thailand.

It will also be possible to combine itineraries to create longer cruises. This will allow guests to create their own customised itineraries for a deeper understanding of Asia and its many landmarks.

A number of optional shore excursions will be on offer, including a cultural experience at either Tongdosa or Beomeosa Temple, a visit to Ho Chi Minh City and exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels near Phu My.

Richard Meadows, Holland America Line’s Executive Vice President, says “Interest in the Far East is rising and Asia explorations remain on the wish lists of our guests. Our Asia itineraries offer everything, from interesting shore excursions and cultural encounters to ports with deep historical roots and unique experiences.”