Seabourn Cruises offer a luxury experience at sea without the nickel and dimming that is rampant on the other cruise lines. As my first time actually on Seabourn, I can now say that my initial impressions is leaving me 222% impressed. From the friendly staff to the elevated service, sailing with Seabourn is like flying first class on Singapore Airlines. After just a few days on board with Seabourn in Alaska, I am now even more excited for my upcoming expedition to Antarctica.
Seabourn Cruises -WOW
My Grandma and I are on the Seabourn Odyssey and wow! From the minute we boarded the ship we’ve been nothing but pampered. Within seconds of getting to our room, we were greeted with a champagne toast. We also had an additional bottle of champagne waiting for us in our room. Welcome aboard, cheers!
Over the last 48 hours we’ve ate at the main restaurant, the buffet, and partook in room service. Everything has been delicious! Room service offers a NY sirloin 24 hours a day, along with other delicious options from Shrimp cocktails to Cheesesteak. Dinner in the main dining room has included Lobster, Beef wellington, rack of lamb and more. Even one last’s night appetizer option was caviar!
I’ve sailed on the larger ships, and nothing has ever been this nice when it comes to dining options. Even the specialty restaurant is complimentary! No upcharges for a better experience!
The drinks are free flowing and of high quality. Walk to any bar (there are several) and order a drink. Complimentary drinks are included in every Seabourn cruise. Tito’s, Stoli, Woodford, Tanqueray 10 to name a few. All complimentary. Wine, beer, etc. Also, complimentary. There are no lines for drinks or worries about swiping your key card. Drinks are free and tips are not required nor expected. It’s the Seabourn way.
Why Choose a Small Ship
Sailing with Seabourn I’ve recognized why people choose small ships. With only 333 people aboard, the ship offers an intimate atmosphere. Guests interact with each other and there’s as many staff ready to help as there are customers. People strike up conversation with each other as the ship is small enough that you know you will run into each other again. Plus, when drinks are free, there’s never the worry about who is picking up the tab.
Another plus, for those of us who can no longer walk long distances, a small ship is perfect for you. The ship is small enough that my 90 year grandmother can walk the entire length without needing to stop to catch her breath. The small ships are only about 200 yards in length. Making it easy to explore the ship and get from point A to B.
Despite being so small, the ship has nearly everything the larger ships have to offer. First, know that nearly every room has a balcony and a couch in the area. Something Royal Caribbean could never boast. There’s no inside cabins on these ships. Enjoy a larger room and be comfortable while on vacation!
There are also multiple dining venues and bars. Two pool and five hot tubs spread throughout the ship. Including a jacuzzi on the bow and two aft. There’s plenty of space on this ship to enjoy and it’s not crowded like the larger ships. Each person has nearly 3x the amount of personal space on a small ship vs the large ships that hold 3,000 to 7,000 guests. Despite being small, this ship still offers live music, a night club, casino, a game room with a ps5, and even a show venue.
Last night I was treated to a comedy show and tonight there was full musical in the grand salon. Nightly entertainment is abundant.
Small ships have a larger price tag, but everything is worth it. The experience is elevated and it’s so great to know that everything in included. Unlike the larger ships, there’s little to no upcharges. Once you’ve paid for your cruise, you’re done. The upfront cost might be more than Holland America or Norwegian, but once you’ve paid, you’re not shelling out $7-$12 for a cocktail. Espresso, coffee, alcohol, all included. No $5 lattes. Even specialty dinning free. Room service, also free. There’s also no mandatory tipping or hidden fees. Heck, even on the Seabourn expedition ships, your excursion are complimentary!
Bottom line
Why anyone would choose the large ships now behooves me. After just a short time aboard, I don’t want to get off. It reminds of flying Emirates First class. Can I stay here forever? Choosing a small ship on a luxury operator is the smartest way to travel. Yes, the initial cost is slightly more, but you’re going to get more space and a better experience. Plus most travel agents can get onboard credit or other deals. Just one perk of working with a travel advisor.
When all is said and done, the actual final cost is not really much higher than the larger operator. Stop being nickeled and dimed by Carnival or RCI. Pay more upfront and stop worrying about costs on the ship. This is the benefit of the luxury liners. When you’re ready to book your next vacation, reach out to my agency at Scott & Thomas. We have not only the best rates, but promotional onboard credit available on many sailings.
Treat yourself to a better experience, book a luxury cruise. There’s several options from Viking to Silver Seas and many options in between. Some cost more than others, but at the end of the day you can really have an elevated lux experience without breaking the bank. Email me today to plan your vacation!
