As an avid traveller with a penchant for luxury, I’ve always been curious about the allure of Seabourn Cruises. Their promise of exceptional service, intimate ships, and unforgettable experiences seemed too good to pass up. So, I finally booked a 12-day Mediterranean cruise aboard the Seabourn Ovation. Here’s my detailed account of the good and the bad of my experience.
Updated review by Veronica Shine – June 2024
Pre-Departure and Embarkation
From the moment I decided to book the cruise, Seabourn’s customer service was impeccable. The booking process was smooth, and I received detailed information about my itinerary, packing tips, and shore excursions well in advance. The embarkation process in Dover was efficient and stress-free, with friendly staff guiding me every step of the way.
Pros:
- Efficient and well-organized embarkation process.
- Excellent pre-departure communication.
Cons:
- None at this stage.
🛳️ Pro Tip: Caviar in the Surf
One of the coolest and most unique things I found on Seabourn cruises is the “Caviar in the Surf” event. It happens on select cruises at a secluded beach where crew members serve champagne and caviar right in the surf. It’s a super fun and luxurious surprise that you won’t find on other cruises.
Accommodation
I stayed in a Veranda Suite, which was beautifully appointed with elegant furnishings, a spacious living area, and a private veranda. The walk-in closet was a pleasant surprise, offering ample space for my luggage. The marble bathroom with a full-size bathtub and shower added a touch of luxury.
Pros:
- Spacious and well-designed suite.
- Luxurious bathroom and ample storage space.
- Private veranda with stunning views.
Cons:
- Occasionally, noise from neighboring suites could be heard.
Dining Experience
Seabourn Ovation has loads of dining options, all included in the fare which I really enjoyed. The Restaurant provided a fine dining experience with gourmet dishes, while The Colonnade offered a more casual setting with themed buffet nights. The highlight, however, was dining at The Grill by Thomas Keller, where I had some of the best meals of my life.
Pros:
- Diverse dining options with high-quality food.
- All dining included in the fare.
- Exceptional culinary experience at The Grill by Thomas Keller.
Cons:
- Difficulty securing reservations for The Grill by Thomas Keller on certain nights.
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
I attended several guest lectures that were both informative and engaging. The spa facilities were top-notch, and I indulged in a relaxing massage. The casino was small but provided a fun diversion when I got bored, which wasn’t often! Evening entertainment included live performances and dancing at The Club.
Pros:
- Variety of activities and entertainment options.
- High-quality spa and wellness facilities.
- Engaging guest lectures.
Cons:
- Limited entertainment options compared to larger cruise ships.
- Small casino with fewer game options.
🛳️ Pro Tip: Ventures
I always make sure to join the “Ventures by Seabourn” excursions. These special shore trips are led by experts like marine biologists and historians. They have hands-on, adventurous experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, it can be really amazing, I learn so much on these.
Shore Excursions
The shore excursions were well-organized, offering a mix of cultural, adventurous, and culinary experiences. I particularly enjoyed the guided tour of the Amalfi Coast and the wine tasting in Tuscany. However, some excursions felt a bit rushed, and I wished for more time to explore certain destinations.
Pros:
- Well-organized and diverse shore excursions.
- Knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Cons:
- Some excursions felt rushed.
- Limited time at certain destinations.
Service and Staff
The service on Seabourn Ovation was exceptional. The crew-to-passenger ratio meant that my every need was met promptly and with a smile. My suite stewardess was really good, often anticipating my needs before I even asked. The overall atmosphere was warm and welcoming.
Pros:
- High crew-to-passenger ratio.
- Attentive and friendly staff.
- Personalized service.
Cons:
- None.
Disembarkation
The disembarkation process in Venice was just as smooth as the embarkation. However, I felt a bit rushed to leave the ship, as the process started quite early in the morning.
Pros:
- Efficient disembarkation process.
Cons:
- Early disembarkation felt rushed.
Final Thoughts
My experience with Seabourn Cruises was overwhelmingly positive. The luxurious accommodations, amazing dining & food, and great service made for an unforgettable cruise.
While there were minor drawbacks, such as the occasional noise from neighbouring suites and the rushed shore excursions, these were far outweighed by the overall quality of the experience.
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