As I said in my previous blog, it’s only taken me 14 years to visit a six star ship, so you can imagine my excitement when the day finally arrived.  Ok, we had a couple of mishaps going and coming back.  For us to board the ship we had to take either our passport or driving licence, about 15 minutes into our journey I asked if everyone had their passports where one of us (will not mention names) shouted that they hadn’t, fortunately we were not too far away from  home so we turned around and started again.

The yacht (as they are called) was docked in the Thames near Canary Wharf so we had to make our way to the Four Seasons Hotel at Canary Wharf.  Well, what a first impression. The hotel was fantastic, but what really stood out for me was the amount of Seabourn staff assisting with check in.  It ran very smoothly and must make a very good first impression for clients boarding. We then had to board a tender to take us to the yacht, where we met our tour guide who I have to say was very informative and a joy to listen to. 

I wasn’t too sure what to expect,  but my first impression was nice, but where is the WOW factor. It very quickly becomes obvious it is all about the cruising experience, sampling fine wine, food, the facilities the ship has to offer and the personal touches, being escorted to your table by a very fine waiter and being treated like a person and not a number.  

The tour started in one of the three restaurants, the main restaurant which can seat all 450 passengers was a nice light area with fantastic chandeliers,designed for Seabourn, and this is where we had our 7 course lunch, which was something out of this world.  Our menu consisted of Black Pepper Sauteed Salmon,  followed by white asparagus Cappuccino, Warm Potato Ravioli, Grilled Hanger Steak & Guinness Braised short rib, Sweet Chocolate Souffle, Petit Fours and coffee, served with a very fine bottle of white wine.  Most Evenings, attire is “Jacket required” however on longer cruises special nights feature candlelit black tie optional Dining.  We were then led into “The Colonnade” – which is an open style kitchen so guests can enjoy watching their meals being prepared.   “Restaurant 2” – was our next stop which is an Avant-garde dining experience serving carefully selected food and wine.  Crossing the pool deck you can see the “Patio Grill” – which serves breakfast, lunch and Dinner (weather permitting).

Onto the public areas – The bar and pool areas were very nice, having candles around the pool for evening.  The Spa area was out of this world, I know I would love to spend a day in there.  The gym was a good size with all the up to date equipment.  The theatre was certainly big enough to cater for all passengers with nice comfy chairs.  I really liked the layout of the reception area.  It was designed into a square shape; the reception is one side, library the other, large seating area serving coffee and individual computer desks.  They also have a plack on the wall with all the names of the passengers that would be taking the Maiden Voyage!

We were also shown a selection of Suites, including the “Wintergarden Suite”, where I have to say this was my favourite.  All of the suites were of a good size, with a good size bathroom with products by Molton Brown , a walk in wardrobe provided lots of space and the balconies were again a good size with nice furniture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I know I only had a day on the ship but I hope this blog gives you a good insight into what six star cruising is all about.  The yacht is big considering she only takes 450 passengers, so I know that the public areas would never feel busy.  The staff will get to know you on a personal level after your first day onboard and I know that I would love to sample this personal touch.   I would certainly recommend this to someone who is after a six star cruising experience and would love to hear from anyone who was lucky enough to be on her maiden voyage.