Beyond expectations

1 of 1 people found this review informative
 
Reviewed By: Knighton, York on 30th Jun 2009
Cruise Line: Seabourn Times cruised before: 10+
Cruise Ship: Seabourn Spirit Sailed: June, 2009
Destination: Mediterranean Age: 56-65
Cabin: Balcony
Small cruise vessels have always been our preferred favourites and over the past few years the name of Seabourn Cruises has kept on coming up as being one of the best - and so it was that we made our way to Rome to embark onboard Seabourn Spirit for the 7 night cruise to Venice. From the moment we embarked we were enveloped in wonderful hospitality and were rather taken aback to be addressed by name right from the outset. With only a maximum of 206 passengers we were quickly shown to our Suite - oh why is this American term used as really it is a cabin - which was very well appointed with a lounge area, walk-in closet and bathroom with a bath. We were glad that we had gone for a cabin with balcony as the sliding glass doors give a lovely feeling of openness - but be warned - these are not true balconies ... just a narrow platform on which to stand. The public rooms were a delight and even with the ship full there was always plenty of room. All meals were very professionally served and nothing was ever too much trouble - the choice of food and quality was exceptionally good. One very nice aspect was that all passengers were nicely dressed in the evenings and on the 'formal' night many gentlemen wore black tie. Entertainment on such a small vessel is always rather restrictive but this was made up by a varied and enjoyable programme led by Nick Hale - a true professional entertainer who quickly won over the audience. Thought that the shore excursions were expensive and therefore did our 'own thing' at each port. So, overall, a geat experience and certainly exceeded all our expectations. One last point, what a joy to be able to leave the vessel on arrival in Venice as and when we wanted to with no hassles - sums up Seabourn so well.
Quality of Food5
Breakfast and lunch outdoors Verandah Restaurant - Dinner in the Dining Room Food throughout was of a very high standard and always varied
Entertainment4
As such a small vessel the entertainment was fairly restricted but Nick Hale the Entertainment Director was excellent and ensured a varied programme which was mainly musical
Shore Excursionsn/a
Did not take any - thought they were expensive and enjoyed doing ur own thing
Staff5
All staff were exceedingly smart and professional. Restaurant staff always very helpful
Children's Facilitiesn/a
Onboard Activities3
Fairly restricted due to size of vessel- a marina is created in a quiet, calm bay so that one can participate in water sports - great idea
Cabins4
Overall Rating5
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Question by Sewell, Coventry (28 Aug 09 18:19) about this REVIEW
can you tell me what category of suite you had we are thinking of using this ship next year thanks Julie
Answer by Knighton, York (29 Aug 09 11:03) to a QUESTION by Sewell (28 Aug 09 18:19)
Hello ... we opted for a category B2 cabin in Deck 5 and found it perfect - size wise and position. It had a french balcony which means you can open the sliding doors for fresh air / view but they is no room for a chair. Cabins without fench doors are of the same size but have sealed windows instead - these are lower priced and represent a good saving. Hope this helps - John
Comment by Sewell, Coventry (30 Aug 09 13:10) about an ANSWER by Knighton (29 Aug 09 11:03)
thanks ,that was I needed to know Julie
Comment by Sewell, Coventry (30 Aug 09 13:10) about an ANSWER by Knighton (29 Aug 09 11:03)
thanks ,that was I needed to know Julie
Question by Sewell, Coventry (28 Aug 09 18:19) about this REVIEW
can you tell me what category of suite you had we are thinking of using this ship next year thanks Julie

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