There are three types, and five price categories (depending on location, size and grade): Yacht Club (standard) Cabin, Commodore Club Suite, and Owner’s Suite.

Yacht Club Cabins: Incorrectly called “suites” in the brochure, the standard cabins are, more correctly, fully equipped “mini-suites” with an outside view through windows or portholes (depending on the deck and price category you choose). Each measures 195 sq. ft (18.1 sq. meters), which is not large by today’s cruise ship standards – however, it is large compared to cabins aboard many private motor yachts, and extremely large when compared to ocean-going racing yachts. The sleeping area has twin beds (these can be put together to form a queen-sized configuration); beds are positioned next to the window (or porthole) so that you can entertain in the living area without going past the sleeping area (as you must aboard the slightly larger Seabourn or Silversea ships, for example); a curtain separates the sleeping and lounge areas. All cabinetry and furniture is of thick blond wood, with nicely rounded edges.

A long vanity desk in the sleeping area has a large mirror above it (however, there is no three-sided mirror for women to check the back of their hair) and two small drawers for cosmetic items; there is also a brass clock located on one wall. Note that feng shui advises against placing a mirror opposite your bed, as happens here. In the lounge area, a long desk has six drawers, plus a vertical cupboard unit that houses a sensible safe, refrigerator and drinks cabinet (stocked with your choice of drinks). There is also a 20-inch (51.5-mm) flat-screen television, CD and DVD player, and an MP3 audio player (with a choice of more than 100 selections). The beds have the finest linens, including thick cotton duvets, and non-allergenic pillows (and duvets) are also available. There’s little room under the beds for luggage, although this can be taken away and stored for you.

One drawback is the fact that the insulation between cabins is not as good as it could be, although rarely does this present a problem, as most passengers aboard the two SeaDreams are generally extremely quiet, considerate types who are allergic to noise. Incidentally, a sleep suit (pyjama) is supplied in case you want to sleep out on deck under the stars in one of the on-deck two-person beds – but more of those later.

Since the ship became SeaDream I, all bathrooms have been totally refurbished. The old tiling has been discarded and replaced by a new decor that is more hip and trendy, with softer colors and larger (beige) marble tiles. The former (tiny) sit-in bathtubs have been taken out (these will be missed by many regular European passengers) and replaced by a multi-jet power glassed-in shower enclosure. A new washbasin set in a marble-look surround and two glass shelves make up the facilities, while an under-sink cupboard provides further space for larger personal toiletry items. Bulgari personal toiletry amenities are provided. Gorgeously thick, plush, 100% cotton SeaDream-logo bathrobes and towels are also supplied.

However, the bathrooms are small (particularly for those who are of larger than average build), despite their having been completely rebuilt (although the doors still open inward), so space inside really is at a premium. The toilet is located in a rather awkward position, and, unless you close the door, you can see yourself in the mirror facing of the closets, opposite the bathroom door.

Commodore Club Suites: For larger accommodation, choose one of 16 Commodore Club Suites. These consist of two standard cabins with an interconnecting door, thus providing you with a healthy 380 sq. ft (36 sq. meters) of living space. One cabin is made into a lounge and dining room (with table and up to four chairs), while the other becomes your sleeping area. The advantage is that you get two bathrooms (his and hers).

Owner’s Suite: For the largest living space aboard this ship, go for the Owner’s Suite. This measures a grand 490 sq. ft (45.5 sq. meters). It’s the only accommodation with a bathroom that incorporates a real full-sized bathtub; there’s also a separate shower enclosure and lots of space for personal toiletries. All passengers receive personalized stationery, a personal email address, a sleep suit, Bulgari personal toiletry amenities, 24-hour room service, and “sweet dreams” chocolates.

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008