Luxury Cruise News Editor, Author at Luxury Cruise News

Seabourn’s Newest Ultra Luxe Expedition Ship

Imagine sharing tales of Adelie penguins, ice-blue glaciers and the world beneath the ocean’s surface. Expedition travel, journeying to the most coveted and remote destinations in the world, is by far one of the most prestigious trips one can take. Now imagine traveling in first-class accommodations akin to a five-star floating hotel with ocean views and anticipatory service. If this bucket-worthy trip is on the horizon, take heed. The ultra-luxury cruise line, Seabourn is creating two new purpose-built expedition ships, taking adventure to new heights.

Seabourn’s new ships are built explicitly with expedition travel in mind, meaning they are constructed to Polar Class standards, making them capable of summer and autumn travel to Antarctica, the Arctic, and other exotic destinations. Couple the building standards with Seabourn’s ability to operate with a high level of autonomy, and you will be traveling farther than most ships sailing today.

Some of the ships newest features specifically take full advantage of the itineraries. Two onboard submarines let guests plunge deep beneath the ocean for an up-close look at the world that lies beneath. Kayaks offer the rare opportunity to paddle along lush greenery and explore the spectacular wildlife. Beyond simply basking in the beauty of the land, Seabourn’s well-traveled 26-person expedition team will be available to not only provide insight into your adventures but also share in-depth knowledge into the history, ecology, and culture of the destinations either through formal presentations or over casual dinner conversations.

For those accustomed to Seabourn’s well-appointed suites, exceptional dining, and award-winning service, you can expect the same level of quality to roll over into their expedition ships. Each ship will feature 132 beautiful, oceanfront veranda suites.

Pampering and exceptional service begin the moment you step on board. Greeted with champagne, you will be escorted to your suite to find an in-suite bar stocked with your personal selection of drinks. While shore excursions are undoubtably the highlight of expedition cruises, on board adventures will leave you relaxed, restored and ready to conquer the world which awaits. Epicureans will delight in exquisitely prepared dishes such as carved lamb loin & crisp spring rolls with vegetable gratin and rosemary jus. Rejuvenate your mind and body after a long day with a soothing bamboo massage at the exclusive Spa & Wellness by Dr. Andrew Weil before settling into your quarters, only to begin the adventures again the next day.

As we anxiously await the debut of the ships in June 2021 and May 2022, Seabourn will be releasing specific details regarding itineraries and booking in Spring 2019.

Our Favorite Bars in Northern Europe

If you’re cruising to the Baltic and Northern Europe, you’ll get to explore several ports of call along the way. From the busy Oslo Harbor in Norway to the bustling city center of Helsinki in Finland, you can enjoy some good drinks and great food at some of the top-rated bars in the region. Here are some of the top picks for bars in Northern Europe.

Akkurat in Stockholm, Sweden

One of the top-rated pubs in Sweden, this bar serves up a variety of malt whiskies and ales. It hosts live music throughout the week and is always bustling with activity. The venue also serves food so it’s the perfect place to enjoy some Swedish specialties and taste some local flavors. It’s not a dive bar by any means but is always bustling with activity. If you head here on a Thursday night, you can enjoy ‘German nights’ with cask lagers straight from Germany and German-style food. Sundays are another popular night for live music and performances.

Leskinen in Oulu, Finland

Another highly-rated pub in northern Europe serves up 750 different types of beer and 20 different draughts. It’s a crowd favorite by locals and visitors alike. Since it’s close to the water, many travelers on a cruise or boat excursions end up here during their journey. You can settle in at the patio out front and spend some time people watching in downtown Oulu. It’s the perfect location when you’re exploring the rest of the city and want to get at taste of life as a local.

AleBrowar Gydnia, Poland

A popular bar near the water is a haven for craft beer lovers, a brewery that releases Polish favorites and regularly. The Gydnia location is the official brewpub of the Ale Browar brewery and has become a mecca for beer fans from around the globe. You can sample all types of beer and take a few favorites back to the ship to enjoy as you continue your cruise through Northern Europe.

Best Pools Across the Seas

Enjoy a relaxing and exciting adventure along the Atlantic coasts to discover the beautiful cities and legendary sites of the Caribbean Islands, Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Several Transatlantic cruises take you to world-renowned landmarks, national parks, and stunning beaches. Since it’s a long journey to the final destination, you can spend some time soaking up the sun from some of the pools on deck. Here’s where you’ll find some of the best pools on Transatlantic cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Boasting the deepest high dive pool to ever set sail, the Oasis of the Seas features pools in its Pool and Sports Zone as well as its Vitality at Seas Spa and Fitness Center. You’ll find four unique pools in the main area, including two FlowRider surf simulators. The main deck is also home to an adults-only Solarium and the first Beach Pool at sea where you can wade in the water with a sloped entry into the ocean. Two whirlpools are also available around the Beach Pool.

Princess Cruises Regal Princess

The Regal Princess deck plan includes two swimming pools and eight jacuzzis so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy some sun on your voyage. The Sanctuary area with its private cabanas and Retreat Pool and Bar is an adults-only part of the ship where you can enjoy an outdoor massage, pool time, and your favorite drinks. You’ll also find a hydrotherapy pool and waterbeds in the Lotus Spa. It’s no wonder this cruise ship is a popular choice among couples —you’ll find lots of opportunities to relax and enjoy some quiet time before you head off on your next adventure.

Cunard Queen Mary 2

You’ll find five pools aboard the Cunard Queen Mary 2, including the famous Pavilion Pool that’s enclosed with a glass ceiling and retractable roof. A dedicated pool for children, The Minnows Pool, is located on Deck 9. The main swimming pool also features two whirlpools and is the perfect spot to enjoy poolside drinks by the bar. An adults-only Terrace Pool is a popular venue for Sailaway parties and gatherings. Head here to enjoy a swim in the heated pool or relax in one of the two whirlpools with your favorite drink in hand.

Ponant continues Art, Culinary, Culture, History Theme Cruises as Part of “Quintessential Collection”

PONANT, a leader in luxury polar expeditions and the only cruise line carrying the French flag, has announced the “Quintessential Collection,” a series of themed cruises designed to inspire travelers in destinations. The sailings include speakers and performances aboard the ship, and excursions ashore that embrace the local culture and theme.

Among the offerings are:

Green and Gentle Lands: Exploring Gardens and Historic Sites, : Guest speaker, Holly Shimizu, retired Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden and internationally recognized horticulturist for more than four decades will lead discussions onboard while sailing to the British Isles, Belgium, and Norway. Guests will enjoy special access at Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to more than 40,000 plants; Chelsea Physic Garden, London’s oldest botanical garden founded in 1621; and the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, for a gala luncheon hosted by the grounds’ director.

Sicilian Food and Wine Experience (pictured above), Embark on a circumnavigation of Sicily joined by guest lecturer, Mary Taylor Simeti, travel and food writer for The New York Times and the Financial Times, who has lived in the region for more than five decades. Meander through the outdoor markets and enjoy the street food of Palmero, famous for its specialties including focaccia; and see ancient Greek Temples from 3600-2500 BC. Guests will enjoy dishes paired with wines carefully chosen by Wine Spectator – all under the guidance of local wine ambassador and educator, Marco Scapagnini.

Treasures of the Mediterranean World: A Family Learning Adventure, : While traveling from Rome to Athens, Kathleen M. Lynch, Professor of Classics at the University of Cincinnati and Greek archaeology/mythology expert; and Jason Weiser, host of “Myths & Legends” podcast will lead discussions designed for all generations about the region’s history, literature and culture. Flexible cabins are available to accommodate families, and activities including photo workshops and a mock Olympics competition on the original grounds are also on offer as part of the Young Explorers children’s program.

A Musical Odyssey in the Mediterranean, Explore Greece’s landmark sites along the Aegean, Ionian, and Tyrrhenian Seas. Visit Delphi, an archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site; and see the third-century Ancient Theater in Taormina aboard the new Le Bougainville. Michael Parloff, former principal flutist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra for more than 30 years will lead a series of private recitals from world-class musicians, including flutist Jasmine Choi, cellist Nicholas Canellakis, and pianist and composer, Michael Brown.

World War II History – From Hong Kong to Japan’s Inland Sea, Follow in the footsteps of American General Douglas MacArthur, who sailed from China to Japan to accept the Japanese surrender at the conclusion of the war. Walk along Okinawa’s beaches; hike the snow-capped Mount Fuji; and see the “floating” torii gate as part of the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima. James Bradley, expert World War II historian and son of John Bradley, who raised the flag on Iwo Jima, will lead discussions onboard.

World Affairs Cruise – Origins of Greek Civilizations, Travel into the heart of the ancient Greek world with ports of call in Athens, to roam the ruins of the Acropolis and Parthenon; and Crete, home to the earliest recorded civilization in Europe. The voyage will be accompanied by Fareed Zakaria, CNN host and Washington Post columnist; Michael V. Hayden, retired US Air Force general and former Director of the CIA; and Daniel Mendelsohn, internationally best-selling author and columnist for Harper’s.

PONANT, www.ponant.com

Luxury Residence at Sea

Imagine traveling the world without ever leaving your home. That’s the reality for residents of Blue World Voyages; the first active lifestyle cruise line. If you want in on the action, Blue World Voyages is accepting registration for Owners Club residences onboard its first-ever private residential community-at sea ship.

“We are pushing boundaries in the luxury travel market with these Owners Residences to provide an entirely new experience for global travelers,” said Fredy Dellis, co-founder, Blue World Voyages and former president and CEO of The World at ResidenSea. “As interest in niche cruises surges, along with the continued rise of the healthy lifestyle market, we expect this unique combination to appeal to sophisticated travelers who would want to own a home at sea.”

Luxury one and two-bedroom apartments on the ship’s two upper deck will be available exclusively for Owners Club. The units, designed and styled by renowned marine design architects Tomas Tillberg International and Juan Poggi Designs, feature two designs styles for the fully-furnished homes: Classic or Contemporary.
Unlike cramped cruise cabins, the two-bedroom apartments feature 1,200 square feet of living space; featuring a split-level design with a spacious living area that opens to a large balcony. The second level will include master and guest bedrooms, both with walk-in closets and luxurious bathrooms. And, if you’ve ever dreamt of sleeping under the stars, the master bedroom features a private balcony, accommodating an outdoor bed just for that purpose. The one-bedroom apartments boast 850 square feet on a single level also with a private balcony. So just what does living at sea cost? Two-bedroom units run $3,350,000 while one-bedroom apartments cost $2,350,000.

Exuding luxury, all residences will feature exclusive amenities including private butler service, concierge service, and access to the Owners Club private lounge and bar, in addition to full access to state-of-the-art wellness facilities, healthy gourmet dining, and onboard sports experts. With a focus on a healthy, active lifestyle the ship features two full decks entirely dedicated to sports, wellness and spa amenities, including a functional training and strength conditioning center, Hank
Haney Golf School, soccer simulators, batting cages, plus the largest per guest spa afloat with a relaxing therapy tub.

The ship includes three pools, and when docked, a seawater lap pool lowered directly into the ocean adjacent to the vessel for swimming in the deep blue depths. You just can’t find that in your gated community on land.

Locally-sourced farm-to-table cuisine and active shore excursions including snorkeling, scuba diving, golf, and more rounds out the guest experience. The ship’s itineraries will be unconventional, focusing on less-frequented ports of call in the Mediterranean before sailing west to explore the coasts of Ireland, England, and Scotland. During the winter, she will cruise the South American coast. Driven by shoreside activities related to physical activities; destinations focus on discovery, cultural, food, and wine. “As an owner or guests may want to stay on the ship for several weeks at a time, itineraries will be varied and fluid while allowing extended overnight stays in ports pending local interests and events, like the Rome Marathon or The Open Championship in Scotland” added Dellis.

Why limit your travels to a few short weeks when your entire life can be a vacation?

Making The Most Of Your Last Cruise Day

When your fun-filled cruise inevitably winds down, it is easy to feel a bit gloomy. But there’s plenty of time for one last hurrah once you’ve taken care of the details! Here’s what you need to know.

Prepare for Debarkation

Take care of the disembarkation details as soon as possible. That goes for you too, procrastinators! With a bit of preparation, your departure will be seamless and you can enjoy your last day to the fullest, knowing there’s nothing left to do. Here is what you can expect:

Participate in Briefing

The cruise ship will hold a presentation explaining all that you need to know about the disembarkation process. At least one member of your group should attend. You will also receive a letter in your room detailing departure and outlining the instructions. and colored luggage tags.

Pack

Unless you are in a room with a butler, you’re going to have to pack your bags and have them waiting outside your door in the evening. On the morning of your last day, pack as much as you can. Be sure to pack a separate day bag. This will be the only item you have access to on disembarkation day. Attach the color-coded luggage tags that you receive with your letter to your bags.

Settle On Board Accounts

Review the charges on your account. If there are discrepancies, visit guest relations as soon as possible. The line on disembarkation day is exceptionally long.

Gratuities

Your last day is a great time to recognize crew members who went above and beyond. Hand out thank you notes with gratuities to those staff members.

Shop

If you are purchasing your photos, don’t wait until the evening when the lines are incredibly long. Likewise, many of the shops put merchandise on sale. Now is a great time to make any last-minute purchases.

Have Fun

You’ve taken care of the details now it’s time for fun! Here are a few suggestions for an epic last day at sea!

Relax

If your trip has been full of excursions, now is the time to get that final bit of rest. Sit by the pool, sip a cocktail, go for a run, whatever recharges you, now is the time to do it. When planning your cruise, we suggest setting up a spa appointment for your last day on board. What better way to reinvigorate!

Visit the Casino

If you’ve been to the casino, cash in your chips now. Casino’s typically aren’t open the morning of debarkation. You may even try for one last lucky win.

Specialty Dining

Like the spa, booking specialty restaurants for the last day of your cruise gives you something special to look forward to as your cruise winds down.

Do Something Extra

Indulge in that piece of cake. Let the kids stay up late. Order pizza and beer to your room. Say yes on your last day!

Schedule an Excursion

That’s right! There are companies and even cruise lines which offer excursions upon arriving into port. They also drop off at hotels and airports. Exploring the city is an excellent alternative to sitting at the airport. Even better? Extend your cruise with one night in the port city, to ease into the end of your trip!