A Review of My Time on the Seabourn Sojourn – Inauguration and Maiden Voyage

I have now had time to digest and reflect upon the Inauguration of the Seabourn Sojourn and the Maiden Voyage of the Seabourn Sojourn. So it is time to discuss things a bit.  (For an overview of the ship itself, please refer to my Cruise Review of the Seabourn Odyssey located on the Goldring Travel website. )

I was going to entitle this article, “Seabourn Sojourn: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly”, but there honestly was nothing “bad” or “ugly”.

Then I was thinking, “Seabourn Sojourn: Hits and Misses”, but that would probably be overwhelmed with “hits”, so it would be repeating that which I have already discussed.

I also thought about comparing various aspects of the Seabourn Sojourn to the other luxury lines (as many people find this blog by googling “Seabourn vs. Silversea” or similar, but this is not about comparing this ship to any other ship.

And then I figured why not just call it was it is, “A Review of My Time on the Seabourn Sojourn – Inauguration and Maiden Voyage”.

Having been at the Inauguration of the Seabourn Odyssey I knew that when I arrived in London for the Inauguration of the Seabourn Sojourn things would be better. The shipyard, T. Mariotti, would not be permitted to pull the stunts it pulled on the first ship (Carnival Corp. would make sure of that). Seabourn would be sure that its crew and staff would have plenty of time to get onboard and organize themselves and things as they should be…in the proper Seabourn way. And, of course, this is the second ship of her class, so the lessons learned on the Seabourn Odyssey gave Seabourn a running start.

Arriving early, I could tell there was a quiet confidence from everyone from management on down. Yes, there was the frenetic pace caused by trying to prepare and board travel agents and dignitaries (two distinct groups!) in an orchestrated manner while keeping things on, as they say, an even keel and with the surprises to come being kept secret. But I could tell Seabourn was ready to put on “The Show”. [To read about “The Show” please read my blog posts earlier this month.]

For me the best part was that there were so many faces I recognized. Some from the Seabourn Odyssey, some from the Seabourn Spirit, some from I am not sure and a few from other luxury cruise lines. Different from before, there was a blending of souls rather than an “Oh, I remember you.” While I knew Shannon from the Seabourn Spirit (my favorite concierge nee purser) the others played right off of that relationship to form new ones with me. The same in the bars, with Stephie and Garrett leading the way for others, and in the restaurants (Arnold, Virginia and others). Chef Bjoern, Hotel Manager Guenther, Captain Buer, etc. It was more like “family” than “favorites”.

I really did not have a concern about the service, because you could just tell it would be “that good”. Service was excellent from the instant I stepped onboard. Whether at the Sky Bar or The Club, my Glennfiddich was ready for me almost before I arrived. And each esoteric drink my wife or her friends ordered was poured without hesitation. Service in the dining venues was excellent. Whether it was perfectly fried eggs in the Colonnade (presented faster than eggs could possibly be cooked) or a long dinner in The Restaurant or a fun dinner in Restaurant 2, it didn’t matter who was serving us…it was outstanding. So outstanding that I was shocked one morning when a waitress from Restaurant 2 apologized for somewhat slow service the evening before…and I thought the service was perfectly timed.

Over and above the regular service were the VIP efforts. I am not talking about when I dined with Howard Frank, the Chief Financial Officer for Carnival Corp. (the service during that important dinner was not distinctly different from any other dinner service we had…It was that good.) I am talking about things like:

     - A private wine, cured meat and cheese tasting Chef Bjoern and Head Sommelier Timor held just for me and my wife in the Main Galley. It was, without question, an awesome experience with some pretty special cheeses and some nice pairings.

     - A private Haggis tasting at lunch. Chef Bjoern prepared five different types of haggis for us to try…elegantly prepared, of course. We did have one complaint: Vegetarian haggis is just wrong!

However, there was one (and only one) notable miss was my stewardess. She was pleasant enough and did keep the suite clean, but there were too many little misses (one day it was failing to replenish the shower gel, another the ear buds, another tissues) and responding to a request took too long. The good news is that the other stewardesses on my deck were so nice and on top of things, they were quick to make things right…and always with a smile and with speed.

As for hardware, the Seabourn Sojourn was presented in fantastic and pristine condition. (No patches, or “that’ll work for now’s”.) About the ship I did not see much other than perfection. Everything had a place and it was in its place. Having seen where T. Mariotti had let Seabourn down with the delivery of the Seabourn Odyssey, I had my eyes looking for anywhere Seabourn had to catch up or make a quick repair. Honestly, I didn’t see any such thing. It was pretty much all good. My inspection did not disclose any areas of concern.

There were a few improvements over the Seabourn Odyssey (which will receive the same treatments in November): The silver banquets in the Grand Salon have been made lower, so it blends with the décor and are more functional; the under-utilized high tables in The Restaurant have been removed and normal tables put in their place, and one Spa Villa was replaced with a relaxation area for anyone having a spa treatment. I liked the execution of all of these changes.

The extent I have to go to find a miss: I found (as did others) the frosting on some of the glass toilet stall doors to be insufficient; making them a bit too translucent. In the Observation Lounge the gasket to the outside deck (port side) was not quite tight enough, so that in a stiff wind there was a whistle.) And one thing I would like to see changed (and, alas, it is just personal taste thing): I would like the lights a bit dimmer at the Sky Bar in the evening and I would like to see the back wall behind the bar totally covered in teak. I think the white metal bulkhead just doesn’t look as finished as I think it should be. (So much of the ship is “that finished” that this one area stands out for me.) Yep, that was about it in “flaws”.

I was compelled to test out the forward hot tub (on the bow). It was in the low 50’s in the Faroe Islands and the sun was shining. After a great high speed RIB tour and a walk around town, it was time to supervise the sail away. I was prepared not to like the hot tub as much as I do on the triplets, but I actually like it better. You sit higher, so you have a better view of what is happening off the ship, while still being pretty private. I assume someone came to take my drink order, but am not sure…because I promptly fell asleep floating away for about 45 minutes.

Similarly, my suite, which I went over from top to bottom was in great shape and fully stocked. Two very minor flaws: a single cabinet latch was defective and one foot was missing from a veranda ottoman. But from overstuffed pillows to a warm blanket for sitting out in cool weather to great bathrobes to the sewing kit and Molton Brown toiletries, it was all there…in its place and as it should be. Once again, I found by turning the showerhead just a few degrees to the right, the water flow was to the larger portion of the shower and it was more comfortable (as I do find the showers to be just a bit tight.) Other than that, the bathrooms are the nicest at sea by a long measure.

I will pause to note that Ralph Grizzle, the Avid Cruiser, made a negative comment about the size of the televisions in the suites. I, personally, found the television (pondering his criticism) to be just about the right size. (OK, possibly it could have been about 3 inches higher…because my wife kept sleeping with her knees bent!) I don’t really spend a lot of time watching it and I like the fact that it tucks away in the cabinet, not to be seen or reminded of. The selection of movies was great. I enjoyed the travelogues and documentaries (I watched the one on Heinz) and the accurate information on tours…which you can book from your suite.) The iPod dock was fine, but it is not for critical listening as the television speakers (which are pretty good for tv speakers) are used.

The internet was quite good, weather and northerly location issues aside (as you can’t blame them on the ship). I did have a problem logging on in my suite (Suite 622 – slightly forward on the ship). The problem was, however, only logging on…which makes me believe it is a software tweak, not a hardware problem. All I did when I found the issue was walk with my laptop to Seabourn Square, log on and then walk back to my suite with my laptop open. Then hours of uninterrupted internet was the rule.

The lunch and dinner cuisine was phenomenal. I have detailed a number of the menus from the Restaurant and Restaurant 2 in my prior posts, so you can refer to them if you have further interest. The overall impression was one of multiple choices where I was struggling if I should go with one starter/main or another. Or if one canapé was the best I ever had or one I just enjoyed. I would note that there is a mantra from a few that it is time for Charley Palmer to take a step back. I strongly disagree, for what I see is Seabourn allowing its chefs to play off the Charley Palmer inspired menu…for it is not a text book, but a guide from an outstanding chef.

I did have a unique chance to sample consistency. Because I was a guest for the Inauguration, and the charity event the next evening I was able to compare the execution of the same menu on two different nights and, lo and behold, it was prepared identically. Consistency is very important and impressive when done well.

The downside of consistency is that I found Seabourn was not pouring enough variety in its offered wines. I generally was offered two different reds and two different whites throughout my time onboard. While Seabourn is quick to offer complimentary alternatives, I found the need to know what wines complimented the cuisine not quite as it should be. This is the first time I have experienced this on Seabourn, so I am assuming it was a provisioning issue. I will see how things go on my November Goldring Travel Food & Wine Cruise.

I wish I had more time in The Colonnade. It was fine for breakfast and I did try something other than a basic breakfast, but even though the Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon were very good, it was just too heavy for my liking…but it was very good. I am more impressed with the fact that my eggs (sunny side up, poached or medium boiled…I had different eggs each day) were perfectly prepared.

My efforts to have lunch or dinner in The Colonnade was frustrated by my busy schedule off the ship, my haggis tasting, a nice formal lunch and, alas, just being full and skipping lunch. Dinner was also missed due to a number of special dinners, Restaurant 2, and a wonderful lamb curry specially ordered in The Restaurant by some friends of ours. That dinner is worth of note because it was the real deal in every respect: saffron rice, pompadoms and more …Outstanding. (And far more elaborate than a ‘mere” special order course or two!)

I did have a chance to sample…just sample…the food at The Patio Grill. Aside from a lack of hunger and time (ever get the feeling I need more than seven days for a cruise), the cool temperatures limited my time outdoors on deck during its opening hours. What I tasted, in an ever changing menu of offerings – which highlighted grill standards of hamburgers, etc. and pizza – was quite good, if not memorable. I did try the pizza under the most unfair of conditions: 50 degrees and windy doesn’t give any pizza a fair chance when tasted by a guy from New Jersey. The French fries were, as always, memorable.

It would not be appropriate to end this review without mentioning again the way Seabourn ended my time on the Seabourn Sojourn: with Seabourn Style. As I mentioned in my prior posts (which you can read for the details), when the port I was going to disembark in (Heimay Island, Iceland) was bypassed because of rough seas, Seabourn literally turned the ship around and ordered a pilot boat for me. It is true that on Seabourn there is no such thing as “no”!

In summary, and not considering the Inaugural and Maiden Voyage festivities, I was very impressed with the Seabourn Sojourn and its staff and crew. I have been on a number of Seabourn cruises…and I am comparing this cruise only to my previous Seabourn cruises and my expectations…and the Seabourn Sojourn exceeded my expectations; and not just expectations for a maiden voyage, but for any voyage.

Seabourn Sojourn Inaugural and Maiden Voyage - Part X (Seabourn Never Says "No"...and You Can't Make This Stuff Up!)

As I noted in my last post, the day was not over and Seabourn had time to wow me some more...and it did.  (Trust me on this:  I do not get paid to say everything is wonderful.  I get really offended if anyone tells me to say everything is wonderful.  I couldn't sleep if I said something was wonderful if it wasn't.  The Seabourn Sojourn, its staff and crew are just that darn good.  Amazing!)

We had a second dinner at Restaurant 2 with some friends.  I won't bore you with the menu, but suffice it to say the menu won't bore you because it changes frequently.  Dinner was excellent and the service was great.  (What amazed me was a quiet "apology" the next morning that the service wasn't 100% perfect.  It wasn't?  I must be slipping...or Seabourn keeps raising the bar!)

After dinner I slipped in to see a bit of the Seabourn singers, having been my one comment of concern.  What I saw as much better, if still not my cup of tea.  But was of very promising note were the comments made to me and overheard (nah, I don't do that) that there was huge improvement in the show.  Possibly the first night was a matter of jitters.

OK, so now I am all set for Heimay Island, Iceland.  We have a boat tour organized, then a leisurely lunch, pack up and fly to Reykjavik for the evening and next day.  The plans came to a crashing halt when it was announced:  DUE TO ROUGH SEAS, HEIMAY ISLAND WAS BEING PASSED BY.  And with three sea days the next chance I had to fly home to the kids and pressing business would have been four days later.  I told Seabourn the world would not come to an end, but getting off would have been a much better option for me.

So what did Seabourn do?  Pam Conover, luckily onboard, gave the order:  The Seabourn Sojourn was to turn around and head back to Heimay Island...and had a pilot boat come out for me and my wife!  (And, no, I didn't ask for such treatment...It just happened!)

Talk about being embarrassed!  So we packed up in a hurry, the excitement spread around the ship, in typical Seabourn fashion, we had time to enjoy a last cup of coffee in the Seabourn Square with some friends and clients...very civilized.  Civilized right up to when they put life vests on us and passed us, while still underway, from the Seabourn Sojourn to the local pilot boat!  My embarrassment continued when I saw guests on their balconies supervising the operation!  (At least it gave the remaining guests something to do and talk about after the port was canceled.)  NOTE:  Seabourn does have a policy of never saying "No".  That policy may not apply to a request for a mid-cruise custom disembarkation on a small volcanic island in the middle of the North Sea.  As your travel agent I prefer you do not ask me to arrange same.

But of course Seabourn also had its port agent waiting for us and assisted in getting our day reorganized.  (And this is why I love travel.)  Having already done the partial circumnavigation of Heimay Island, seeing the nesting kittiwakes and puffins, the place the reacclimated the orca known as Free Willy and the spectacular scenery and cliffs...and the rough seas...we decided to give our 11:30 a.m. boat tour a miss.  This left us with lots of time to kill on a pretty rainy day before a 5:20 p.m. flight to the mainland.

We plunked ourselves down in Café Kro, where we were to pick up our boat tour tickets.  The owner, a lovely woman, named Unnur (pronounced almost like it looks!), was making up place settings and began to chat with us.  She told us about her family, her trip on a motorcycle riding down Route 66 (and showed us the local paper's article about it), life on the island, how she got married, the wonders of how only one of her children has blond hair (the others being ginger)...all over a cup of coffee and a bowl of soup.  And then she said that we could exchange the boat tour tickets for bus tour tickets as she owned the café, her husband, Capt. Simmi owned the boat and one of her sons operated the tour bus!  Who knew we would cozy up to the mogul of Heimay Island!

As we waited for the 1:30 p.m. tour Unnur showed us a video of the truly devastating volcanic eruption on the island in 1973 which consumed over 200 homes.  Heimay Island is a very small island and you can literally see the lava flows just outside the harbour - where they fought to stop the lava flows with millions of gallons of cooling sea water.  It gave a whole different perspective to this place and a much greater respect for those who live there.

After a nice freshly caught cod lunch it was time for our bus tour...with about 10 other people.  Unnur and Capt. Simmi's son was quite funny with a dry sense of humor.  I am glad we took the bus trip, not only because we were able to see this wonderful little island, but because it was more like spending time with new friends than your typical tour.  BTW, Heimay Island is supposedly one of three windiest places on earth.  Note to self:  Find out the other two and don't go there!  The wind was absolutely incredible when you left the harbour.

A cold beer and some fries at Café Kro and it was time for our flight to Reykjavik.  We made our flight without issue (no security, no luggage tags, and they served chocolates on the 20 minute flight...are you jealous?) and started the end of our adventure.  But, alas, our trip is not over!

Seabourn Sojourn Inaugural and Maiden Voyage - Part IX

Today, which is not over, has been a great day.  It started with my Icelandic horseback riding adventure and has, so far, ended with a fantastic and creative Seabourn Experience.  (Isn't it great to know at it is after 5:00 PM and there is still great opportunity to be wowed on a Seabourn cruise?!)

Today started with a 30 minute drive where my wife and I arrived at a horse stable for the long anticipated ride on Icelandic horses.  The weather was perfect:  Beautiful blue skies, light wispy clouds, a very slight wind and 60 degree temperature. (Yes, its true.  What I write is always true!).  My mount was a large, handsome, incredibly well behaved and responsive horse with an Icelandic name I do not have the slightest clue how to pronounce.  (In Iceland you just get used to it...and there is nothing you can do to pick the language up in a day or two.)  Our group was small (only four people), but unfortunately one person just should not have been there so it slowed us down.  In the end - as you will shortly understand - that just might have been a good thing.

Off we rode into some truly beautiful landscape with high peaks, green valleys, yellow, white and purple wildflowers, clear streams, all sorts of birds flying by and singing.  It was storybook...except for the riding thing.

All that stuff you read and hear about how smooth the ride on an Icelandic horse is, I think, fantasy....or possibly fraud!  After having things bounced that were never intended to be so treated, our guide explained there are two kinds of Icelandic horses, four gate and five gate horses.  The five gate are the ones that have the great ride (though my wife - riding by my side - will dispute this).  I, of course, was saddled with (sorry about the pun) a four gater.  My horse's transmission was, it seems, faulty!  Sore bits aside, he started, stopped, increased speed (and my pain) and slowed down on command.  He went left, right, uphill, downhill...even in a circle.  He allowed me to feel for those two hours of actual riding time that I actually had a clue what I was doing.

After our truly beautiful ride we were given a light lunch and then taken directly back to the ship so that we would not be late for the Seabourn Experience.  I would highly recommend this private experience, but will make this blog post required reading so you know what you are getting into!

After a quick dash onto the Seabourn Sojourn to change clothes we were lead onto a bus to an event  never held in Iceland (or anywhere I am aware of) and something no other cruise line could pull off:  The Land of Fire and Ice - A Journey Through Time.

We were first taken to the past: a recreated Viking Village where there were all sorts of tents and activities set up with actors in full costume engaging in blacksmithing, sword fighting, guarding the jail (complete with prisoners), engaging in games (participation encouraged!) and, of course, a taste of the local Icelandic aquavit (I didn't catch the name, but went back for seconds in a valiant but futile effort to remember the name).

We were than ushered past 1,000 year old Icelandic glacier ice into the largest tent available in Iceland where we were treated to both ancient and modern Icelandic music performed by the local star, Ragnhildur Gisladottir (see what I mean about the names) and in between was a wonderful folkloric tale acted out and told by a truly talented and funny Icelandic actress, Thorunn Clausen.

Being Seabourn, we were treated to - yes, can you believe it? - another fantastic meal (you know, the one between lunch and dinner).  I noted that the menu was in error...because there was more offered than what was on the menu.  It was modern Icelandic cuisine including:

- Monkfish with Chili and Ginger
- Pan Seared Reindeer with Sesame
- Grilled Lobster
- Smoked Salmon, Cottage Cheese and Asparagus
- Prawns, Butterflied and Fried.

Desserts included Fresh Strawberries dipped in Praline, Icelandic "Sorur" (which I think was a really good chocolate puff pastry/tart thing) and two other chocolate offerings with a marzipan cookie.  It sort of felt like a Restaurant 2 "Lite".

After the show we were back to the busses and given a small piece of Icelandic lava as a gift.  That kitsch, however, wasn't the real gift but rather a memory of the actual gift.  The recent volcanic eruptions have killed thousands of trees in a country that is, for the post part, devoid of them.  In honor of this Icelandic event, Seabourn donated one tree to Iceland for every guest on the Seabourn Sojourn's Maiden Voyage.  It was a very touching moment which the lava will remind me of.

A funny thing (at least for me) I am reading a book now which I will review later which gave me some insight into the Swiss approach to life.  When we were back on the bus heading to the ship I asked the man sitting next to me if he liked the event.  He said it was "just long enough".  I asked him if he was Swiss, which lead to an interesting conversation as to how I knew.  A quick, but interesting, international travel bonus.

Not done, we arrived back to the ship with the staff and crew lined up with the Seabourn Welcome Home banner not only before the gangway, but into the ship, past security and down the hall.  I guess with so many more staff onboard the Seabourn Sojourn than the little sisters, it takes that much more room to have everyone welcome you home!

But of course being Seabourn, while we waited the 2 minutes to board, we were offered Hot Chocolate with Bailey's.  The perfect setup for a late afternoon nap!

Seabourn Inaugural and Maiden Voyage - Part VIII

I took the time yesterday to speak with John Barron, the cruise director.  I knew John and his wife from another cruise line, but he now makes Seabourn his ‘home”.  John has a wonderful dry sense of humor that I truly enjoy along with an upbeat persona that is fun…rather than the prototypical cruise director of “always happy”.

For example, the other day during the middle of a Scottish folkloric dance Captain Buer came on with his scheduled 4:30 pm pre-departure announcements.  The dancers were literally in midair when the music stopped and the typically slow Norwegian talk began.  They didn’t know what to do, everyone was laughing (with them, of course)…and then John came racing through the Grand Salon towards them – with a plate of cookies.  It was perfect.

John can and does, on occasion, sing.  And he can sing.  Seabourn, at least on the bigger ships, has the cruise directors do more directing and less entertaining.  John may do a few weeks on one of the little sisters and it will be interesting to see how he likes doing double duty.

The venue entertainment has been really good.  The woman who plays piano and sings has been so good that my wife, who tends to be a bit shy, actually stopped the singer to let her know how wonderful she was and that it was a pleasure to sit and listen to her.  The female singer in The Club is a real talent as well.  It seems that on cruise ships there is an affinity for singing ABBA songs; something this aging rock-n-roller doesn’t care for.  Last evening the singer put a personal spin on an ABBA son g that (heaven forbid) was such that I actually enjoyed it.  The “house band” is also good and is able to play a wide variety of music for all tastes…with taste.

It is great that the old days on Seabourn where there was really not very good entertainment are near gone.  At least this is one man’s opinion.

With the internet access quite poor in this part of the world due to weather (which, by the way, has been quite good – relatively speaking) and location, it can be a bit of a frustration.  With our shipboard adventure almost coming to a close (we disembark on Heimay Island, Iceland tomorrow) I will try to post at least one more time.  Why?  Because today we are supposed to go riding on Icelandic horses…and I don’t know how to ride!  Wish me luck.

Seabourn Sojourn Inaugural and Maiden Voyage - Part VI

Today is a sea day; thankfully so! Last evening was the Maiden Voyage celebration.

After an early dinner, we had to be on deck by 8:45 p.m. for the sailaway. Seabourn surprised the guests with the British Royal Marine Band followed by a fireworks display. Considering the large British contingent onboard and Pamela Conover’s British heritage, it was quite touching.

The evening progressed into a bit too much champagne with friends and then the sharing of some reserve whisky that Seabourn arranged as a surprise for another guest until far too late into the night.

But I now digress. It was extremely interesting to be onboard with no other guests. I walked the ship observing the Seabourn crew confidently, but excitedly, getting ready for the Seabourn Sojourn’s first real guests. There were some butterflies obvious, but things proceeded with a very “We know our jobs. We can do this with Seabourn style.” Because there are so many crew from the other ships, and the lessons learned on the Seabourn Odyssey having been integrated, things proceeded almost flawlessly. (I wasn’t given Glenfiddich, but vodka. I mean really!Hahaha.)

Probably the most telling of how well things are going was the Q&A session this morning with Pam Conover. There was not a single complaint…other than wanting Seabourn to some itineraries they don’t do or the discontinuation of others that are loved. Quite a testament indeed. Honestly, I think Pam Conover was presently shocked that not a single negative was uttered.

This afternoon I was treated to a private wine, cured meat and cheese tasting in the Seabourn Sojourn’s main galley. Executive Chef Bjoern Wassmuth and Sommelier Tilmar Pfefferkorn put on quite a show. I am not sure I have them all or are noted correctly, but here goes:

Wines – Barolo DOCG, Cancello del Barone Barolo (2000); Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Antinori; and Graham’s Late Vintage Port.

Meats – Parma ham; salamini mignon (3 types), salami feline, spinata calabra

Cheeses – Taleggio; pecorino paglia fieno, local cow’s milk cheese, an unlabeled cheese wrapped in vine leaves, a wonderful local sheep’s milk cheese; pulgia(?)

It was quite a fun and enjoyable experience among friends.

Tonight is the first formal night. As I have enjoyed the menu on a previous night (the Inaugural), I am dining in Restaurant 2 . I will let you know how it goes.

The Quest of the Seabourn Sojourn - The Inaugural & Maiden Voyage Travelogue - Part IV - The Naming and Inauguration

I am aboard the Seabourn Sojourn and I am happy to report the ship is, well…Ship Shape!

The staff is smiling and on their game with friendly and familiar faces greeting us at the gangway after our short tender ride from the Four Seasons Canary Wharf – the staging area for the very quick boarding process.

The champagne is flowing, the stewardess arrived promptly with more champagne, canapés and a choice of Hermes, L’Occitane or Essence soaps. Our suite (No. 622) is perfectly completed…as is the rest of the ship.

No crew rushing around. No apologies. No making things work. No, the issues with the delivery of the Odyssey are pretty much non-existent. Even the little things, like the deck on my balcony is clean and the trim freshly painted. All the furniture is not only in place, it is all perfectly staged with towels, cushions, awnings, etc.

My stewardess was literally bragging that within four days of arriving in Genoa from the Seabourn Pride the crew area was complete and she was able to move onboard. That allowed her, and the rest of the staff, to get into their routines early and consistently. So they confidently present a polished product right from the start.

I guess I must ask myself, “Why am I even mentioning the problems with the delivery of the Seabourn Odyssey?” And I guess the answer is because the delivery of the Seabourn Sojourn shows, once again, why I am such a believer in Seabourn. Seabourn may not be perfect, but the people of Seabourn will do everything they can to make it so.

I have notice a few changes/improvements; most of which are quite subtle (such as the elimination of the large silver “walls” at the rear of the Grand Salon – what a difference!), but the Spa has really been improved in a few significant ways. I will discuss these in a later post – with specifics – but the focus has been on delivering a consistent product at the highest levels of quality.

I was going to delay in describing the Inaugural Events because I don't want to ruin anything for those attending the charity event tonight or the Maiden Voyage events, but I have been told that other in the UK have published some of the details.  Soooo, with the preface that it is pretty hard to get Iamboatman to tear up, there were quite a few watery eyes last night.  It started with a wonderful cocktail party on deck in 75 degree weather which included beautiful flower arrangements everywhere...including the center of the pool....a huge martini ice bar (complete with Seabourn insignia) and wonderful passed tastes. 

Twiggy was announced and made her grand entrance, followed by her brief and very classy speech including the requisite, "This is My Yacht" and a bottle of champagne ran on a line running from the forward mast to a plague christening the Seabourn Sojourn.

After a wonderful dinner - flawless service and with great cuisine (my halibut was perfect, but Bjoern is the chef!), it was back to the pool deck for the big event.  A quartet of beautiful women played some incredible upbeat classical music that was mesmerizing.  Then, with the strings in full crescendo...Fireworks.  And the fireworks were seemingly times to the music.  It was, without question, very emotional.

It was, without question, very Seabourn.  A new, more energized and youthful Seabourn.

As I dine, drink and am entertained I will write more. But for now, if you are booked on the Sojourn you can rest easy (and with positive excitement). If you have been waiting to book because you were concerned about the shape of the ship on delivery…wait no more.  I feel like I am on one of my flawless Seabourn cruises and that the Quest has been very, very successful.

Seabourn Sojourn - She Is Ready For Her Close-Up!

I have heard from the Seabourn Sojourn and have been advised she is beautiful and "completely ready"!

For any of you considering a Northern European cruise this summer, but were afraid to consider the Sojourn after the problems associated with the delivery of the Seabourn Odyssey, you may want to consider booking now.

I have some incredible fares available with my Private Sale that are very limited and extraordinary values.  Don't complain when you wait and there is no availability. But if you are still not sure, think about it for a couple of days and I will let you know from my personal observations as I board her on June 4th for nine days.

You know me:  I am always available!

The Quest of the Seabourn Sojourn - The Inaugural & Maiden Voyage Travelogue - Part II

I just returned from Newport, Rhode Island and the American Superyacht Forum.  While it was, as always, good for business and good for a bit of fun, it was also rather depressing because of the state of the industry.  There was significant discussion about yacht chartering and, truth be told, I was quite consistent in discussing The Yachts of Seabourn in relation to product delivery, marketing and potential client base. 

A room full of skeptical (and a few jaded) yachties eventually...slowly...started to get it.  Then a well known yacht broker brought up SeaDream Yacht Club in relation to the charter market.  And that, in turn, lead to some talk between professionals about the differences between Seabourn and SeaDream...and the overall impressive nature of the Seabourn product.

But then the skeptics were more of the "Goldring can't be a yacht lawyer, because he is a travel agent!" mindset...right up until I explained who I would be dining with on the Seabourn Sojourn during the Inaugural events.  You will have to wait to hear who it is :-)   Instant credibility...Well, I actually already had that.  Better:  silence of the skeptics!

So today, in typical Seabourn fashion, my Cruise Documents were waiting for me as were the confirmations for my  private transfer and day room at the Four Seasons Canary Wharf, the schedule of events, etc. And the confirmations for my private adventures in Iceland were also delivered.  Icelandic horseback riding, a boat tour to observe the puffins, flight back to the mainland from Heimay Island, a stay at Radison Blu 1919, dinner reservations at Sjavarkjallarinn (The Seafood Cellar) and more also arrived.

This caused me to reflect back to yesterday when I was at Derecktor Shipyard in Connecticut, where I toured M/Y Cakewalk, a 281 foot superyacht being built there and, while nice, actually doesn't have the style of the Seabourn Sojourn or Odyssey.  While the design has nothing to do with the shipyard, but rather then owner's designer, the design did make me think about how "brown" the Silversea Silver Spirit is. 

In short, the superyacht made me look forward to the maiden voyage of the Seabourn Sojourn and to be even more impressed with Seabourn's focus on style and detail...detail that exceeds that found on a 281 foot superyacht....a very nice 281 foot superyacht.

Iamboatman's Favorite Restaurant: Doris & Ed's...Now Refreshed and Impressing Anew

Back in 1979, in the summer before law school, a musician friend of mine told me about a bartending job in a restaurant near the humble shack where he lived:  Doris & Ed's Seafood Restaurant.  The new owner, Jim Filip, and his then wife bought the lobster and clam joint from Doris after her husband, Ed, had died.

Working for Jim was no picnic.  He had big plans to upscale this previously "locals only" restaurant, so I needed to learn the menu, learn how to make then chic drinks like frozen strawberry daiquiris and Frozen Grasshoppers. 

And, thankfully, I had to learn about wines. Jim, you see, is truly a wine lover and expert.  So me, a long-haired college graduate hanging out on the Jersey Shore, saw what it was to have a passion about wine...and to appreciate it...and how to grow and nurture it in others.  But, also thankfully, we're talkin' the Jersey Shore here...so it had to remain fun and approachable.

Do you think that summer on the Jersey Shore hanging with my musician friends, bartending and learning how to appreciate and understand food and wine had an impact on me?  Silly question, huh!

With the suffering economy, upscale hidden treasures, like this James Beard Award winning, Wine Spectator noted, restaurant had to find a way to keep true to itself, yet reinvent itself at the same time, for being someone's favorite just isn't enough.  Well, Jim jumped in with both feet, both arms and a wing and a prayer.  The result has been incredible...remembering he had established a pretty high mark for many years.

New Jersey's major newspaper, The Star Ledger, recently wrote a review of Doris & Ed's, which I copy here.  It speaks for itself:

Legendary shore spot starts summer afresh

By Cody Kendall/For The Star-Ledger
May 14, 2010, 6:51PM


Doris & Ed’s. 348 Shore Drive, Highlands, (732) 872-1565 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (732) 872-1565 . DorisandEds.com. Hours: 5-10 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, 5-11 p.m. Saturdays, 3-10 p.m. Sundays. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays except July and August, when it’s open on Tuesdays. THREE STARS

Shore fixture Doris & Ed’s is keeping up with the times while remembering the past. That’s a balancing act, but owner Jim Filip pulls it off with aplomb via two separate menus and a complete redo of his iconic restaurant.

Everything’s fresh, from the seafood to the paint and the linens. It’s a perfect setting for new chef Thomas Donohoe to reference “The Shore Today” — that menu develops complex dishes such as butter-poached lobster ($36) with truffle honey-glazed sunchokes, celery root, red ribbon sorrel and English cucumbers.

In contrast, “The Shore Yesterday” sticks to old faves, among them stuffed flounder ($30) and the predictable litany of unadorned fried and broiled seafood choices.

Both variety and execution are awesome in each category. Masterful balance is achieved in the grilled Washington State Quinault River sturgeon ($33), its essence elevated by a Madras curry jus that mixes dusky undertones artfully with the slightly sweet backstory of sautéed apples and turnips. Those seeking cool refreshment in the summer can indulge in the salad that jumbles Maine lobster with rock shrimp and littleneck clams ($19). High, low and mellow notes come courtesy of citrus, avocado and shaved fennel.

Traditionalists likely will revel in the regal jumbo lump crabmeat “Virginia style” ($31), unadulterated except for a soft veil of butter, parsley and vermouth that subtly boosts the enjoyment level. It comes with fries that thankfully are both hot and crisp, unlike the limp and cool versions we’ve suffered through elsewhere recently.

Lobster bisque ($9, cup; $15, bowl) has a gentle and flavorful soul that will please fans of either menu. Fish is the highlight here, yet there are sufficient choices of meat and fowl to satisfy those in your party who disdain seafood.

Donohoe, most recently of the Rainbow Ranch Lodge in Montana, trained with chefs Thomas Keller of the French Laundry in California and Jonathan Waxman at Barbuto in New York. His feeling for the food guides him with a touch that is light enough to assure the integrity of the ingredients, yet sufficiently creative to let them speak in different ways.


After a seafood supper, some prefer a low-profile dessert, such as the house-made sorbets and ice creams ($9), but my choice often is the classic Key lime pie ($8). For the trendy, there’s the strawberry-rhubarb tart ($9) with excitement provided by the black pepper and honey yogurt for a mini-rainbow of exclamation point flavors.

The spirit of Doris & Ed’s has been instilled in those who work there. Taking care of the patrons is a mission, not a duty, and even on a busy night we never lacked for attention.

This is definitely a high-end establishment, but there are some breaks available. The possibilities for kids 12 and under include a $7 burger platter (as well as a $15 lobster tail for budding gourmets). A three-course prix fixe option ($33) offers hearty eating with good, if limited, choices. The wine list presents excellent selections from around the world, but there are always five wines for $25 that should work with anything that comes out of the kitchen, though one can also indulge in bottles with dizzying prices.

Filip, who bought the restaurant in 1978 from its original owners (Doris and Ed, of course), is to be congratulated for risking reinvention and not being satisfied with the status quo. He went just far enough. That’s exemplified by the decision to drop the all-white interior for pale camel-colored walls that glow in the sunset looking out over Sandy Hook.

During the season, Saturday night reservations are a must. Try to call at least a week before you plan to go; otherwise, you might not get your favored time slot. This place has always been in demand, but it should be even more popular this summer. Doris & Ed’s is keeping up with the trendy new spots in Long Branch and Asbury Park while indulging its longtime patrons with their traditional choices. It doesn’t get better than that.

Cody Kendall may be contacted at CodyDine@aim.com.

You may recall that Goldring Travel hosts a Food & Wine Cruise every year on The Yachts of Seabourn.  Jim Filip co-hosted on and, hopefully, will co-host another.  In the meantime, if you are interested in the November 13, 2010 Food & Wine Cruise hosted by Jim's former bartender (that would be me), you can read about it here...or call or email me.

The Quest of the Seabourn Sojourn - The Inaugural & Maiden Voyage Travelogue

Last year I was fortunate enough to be honored by The Yachts of Seabourn with a trip to Venice for the Inauguration of the Seabourn Odyssey.  I was further honored by dining with Captain Buer on the first formal night ever on the ship...and by dining with Carnival Corp.'s Chief Financial Officer the other night.

This year I have been invited not only the Seabourn Sojourn's Inaugural, but the black tie charity event for Breast Cancer Haven (a very worthwhile British charity) and, last but most certainly not least, to sail on the Maiden Voyage.

Unfortunately, I will not be able to sail for the entire Maiden Voyage, as I must get back to work, but on the upside, I will be spending three days in Iceland (a definite "A" on my Life List) and have integrated the visit with the Seabourn Sojourn's itinerary.

My wife and I will be arriving in London on June 4, 2010 for the Inaugural Celebration.  I understand that only five travel agents from the United States will be in attendance, so while both an earned honor, it is also going to be interesting to see how the British travel agents react to the Seabourn Sojourn.

The next day will be spent with some very dear friends wreaking havoc in London and, quite possibly, inspecting a superyacht which is scheduled to be berthed close by, before attending the evening's charity event.

After another fun day in London, the afternoon of June 6th will begin the Maiden Voyage events.  I am sworn to secrecy, but I understand they will be quite spectacular...and a fitting send-off for Seabourn's newest ship.

After a day at sea, June 8th will have the Seabourn Sojourn visiting my wife's homeland, Scotland, where I have every intension of doing most things Scottish; though donning a kilt is probably not going to happen this time.  Some nice whisky and possibly some haggis in a good pub sounds about right.

The next day is a brief stop in the Faroe Islands on June 9th, which has me a bit fascinated and wondering if seeing means doing something or just being there.  I am still working on that.

After a second day at sea (what a great way to truly enjoy the Seabourn Sojourn), June 11th
bring the ship to Reykjavik, Iceland where I have scheduled a half day of riding the famous Icelandic horses and a countryside lunch to start things off.

The ship will then make the short sailing to Heimay Island which I understand is an Icelandic treasure.  Small fishing villages coupled with a very nice boat tour of the cliffs filled with puffins and other birds, and visits into its caves, followed by a traditional lunch at whatever place just looks good. 

I will then say goodbye to the Seabourn Sojourn and fly back to Reykjavik where we will spend our final night.  I have dinner reservations at a very unique restaurant called Sjávarkjallarinn (The Seafood Cellar) which is supposed to a truly creative place where fish is elevated to a new level.

As those who know me know I do plan, but I leave lots of free time to "wing it" and see what moves me at the moment, what the locals do, and take it from there.

If you have questions, or want to comment on my writings, I will be starting a thread on The Gold Standard Luxury Travel Forum.  Feel free to stop by and ask or comment.

In the meantime, there is much to do before I depart...like attend the American Superyacht Forum in Newport, Rhode Island which starts on Sunday!

Thinking of Cruising in Asia? Here is a Great Travelogue From the Seabourn Pride

The Gold Standard Luxury Travel Forum has some fantastic information and some excellent cruise reviews.

Presently one of my clients is visiting Japan, Korea, China and more on the Seabourn Pride.  You can read his candid comments and impressions here. 

Very interesting and entertaining reading.

Seabourn Private Sale For May 20, 2010

I can't tell you what the pricing is here, but I have truly outstanding values on close in Seabourn sailings on all five ships.  All are either oceanview or veranda guarantees.  It is well worth an email or call if you haven't made your summer plans as of yet.

Goldring Travel Offers Exclusive Close-In Fares on Seabourn - Seriously Great Pricing and Values!

I have been given access to weekly special pricing on close-in sailings on The Yachts of Seabourn that are, in fact, so low that I am not allowed to publish the prices.   Every Monday afternoon I will have a new set of offerings, so please get in touch with me early each week to find out what I can offer you.

This week's offerings include some spectacular pricing on the Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Spirit, Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Odyssey in June and July. 

My weekly offerings are for only limited number of sailings and, of course, vary by sailing, but are very aggressively priced. 

Unless you have real flexibility as to ship, itinerary, and category I would not wait to see if a cruise you are interested in has a weekly special price because you may wind up with a great deal on a higher category than you otherwise would have booked (so you aren't saving any money) or the itinerary is not exactly what you desire.

But if you just want to get away, or haven't figured out what to do with the summer approaching, or consider this a great way to try moving up to the luxury experience of The Yachts of Seabourn, my weekly specials will provide you with some fantastic opportunities.

Call me at (877) 2GO-LUXURY or email me at eric@goldringtravel.com .

Seabourn's Marketing Misses: Let Me Tell You Why To Cruise With The Yachts of Seabourn.

As I prepare for my attendance at the Seabourn Sojourn's Inaugural and Maiden Voyage (which I will discuss in detail and will be blogging from), I am frustrated by Seabourn's silence...and, honestly, Seabourn's overall marketing efforts.

Over the past months, and over my complaints, Seabourn has focused on discount pricing as the way to drive business to its ships.  That has caused a few things negative to happen: 

1.  The cache of Seabourn has, to my mind, been diminished.  Seabourn is a special cruise product.  It is not about getting from Point A to Point B, nor is it about getting the cheapest price.  The highly discounted fare business has actually perverted some of Seabourn's loyal guests to think of "lowest price" rather than Seabourn's hallmark:  Service; that is until they get onboard.  [You would be amazed how many of my former/future clients come back to me after they couldn't pass up the "lowest price"...and then suffered the service lapses of the true discount travel agency.]

2.  What separates Seabourn from other cruise lines has been lost.  It is amazing to me that after all these years I need to explain to people that spending $X on Holland America or Oceania vs. $X on Seabourn is a comparison that cannot be made...because there just isn't any comparison.  Whether it is the quality of the accommodations or the cuisine or the service or the classier and more open public spaces, less people, free flowing champagne and caviar, etc., I am well and truly frustrated that the conversation needs to be had.

But I am not frustrated by my clients, but rather Seabourn.  Seabourn marketing is so poor and so out of touch that Seabourn's message is all but lost.  And I remained baffled by how Seabourn pumps out all of the brochures and mailers...which it sends to its past guests...like that is going to make them take a cruise. 

Seriously, Seabourn has gone from a small line to a midsized line, from constantly full ships to triple its capacity almost overnight...but its marketing has not changed...except for volume and discounted pricing.

So for all of you who have heard of Seabourn, but really don't know what Seabourn is about...and cannot tell from Seabourn's marketing materials, let me explain it a bit...and I will do it comparing it to some other quality lines.

Service - I do not care what cruise line you prefer, one thing you will never hear is that its service is "better than Seabourn".  You may hear "as good as Seabourn", but never better.  Let's take a look at that for a moment.  Regent Seven Seas Cruises has a following that says, "Be sure to ask for Z as your waiter.  He is great."  On Seabourn that concept does not exist.  Service is consistent in the dining room.  I do not know of a single person that must dine with Waiter X.  But service is far more than dinner service. 

Seabourn has intuitive service.  What does that mean?  In September I was on the Seabourn Spirit and was talking with some friends at breakfast, mentioning I would meet them at the forward whirlpool at 3:30 pm.  At 3:30 pm a Seabourn bar waiter arrived with a bottle of champagne and four glasses stating, "Mr. Goldring, I am glad you were able to make it on time."  Think I made that up, how about the chief editor of Cruise Critic's story in her review of the Seabourn Legend:

Standing at the deserted stern, away from the hullabaloo of the pool deck on our first sea day, watching Montserrat pass by, I started to think that "it would be nice to sit here all afternoon in a lounge chair," when Ian, one of the most attentive of an already attentive crew, called out to me: "May I set you up here?" Within minutes I had a fancy tropical drink , a lounge chair pulled up to the railing, and even a little table on which to rest my book. He would have brought me lunch from the Sky Grill, too, but I declined.

So as you fight for a lounge chair by the pool on another cruise line, or struggle to muster excitement to enter the buffet for lunch, imagine sitting poolside on Seabourn with a lovely glass of Chardonnay...and knowing something good is going to happen.

Or, possibly return from a long day and have your bath drawn for you or have a one of the staff perfectly prepare a cigar for you...or possibly even go Shopping with the Chef.  (I mean, you could have your group tour's included in an inflated price or tender tickets with an hour wait to get off the ship, but alas that is the Seabourn service difference.)

Cuisine - Seabourn really doesn't tell you much about its cuisine other than that Charley Palmer has designed its menus. I am not sure why.  Oceania really markets its butter, its flour and now its Wine Spectator affiliation.  But the fact is that the cuisine on Seabourn - as many Seabourn guests who have cruised with Oceania have confirmed - is far superior.  Butter and flour are wonderful things, but you must have a totality of quality ingredients, great recipes and, here is that personal thing again, the staff and chefs to put them together not only to taste excellent but to look appetizing.  And the, of course, waitstaff able to serve the cuisine with sufficient flair that it becomes part of an experience, rather than just a time to eat.

A typical Chef's Menu on a seven day Seabourn cruise may be as one I recently enjoyed:

Cream of Foie Gras with fresh mango, aged Balsamic and brioche
Celery Cream Soup with vanilla foam
Sautéed Quail Breast with pumpkin puree, maple syrup, port wine reduction
Passion Fruit Shot sorbet
Pan Fried Fresh Local Sea Bass Fillet with roasted blue potatoes, Mediterranean vegetables, noilly prat sauce
Tournedo Rossini - fillet of beef, seared foie gras, glazed vegetables, truffle sauce
Sweet Pastry Impressions
Grand Marnier Flavored Truffles

Would you like lamb chops with your eggs in the morning?  How about smoked salmon?  A cup of true espresso?

How about an elegant cheese plate with gourmet cheeses?

A wine steward that actually knows about wines...and has the confidence to say, "Let me get the sommelier for you.  He can better assist?"

Sophisticated, but Not Stuffy, Social Experience   -  Some people love big shows and loud music, but others prefer conversation or a Quiet after dinner drink under the stars.  Some prefer pool games while other prefer an afternoon of reading a book or "supervising" a sail away from a hidden whirlpool.  If you prefer the latter concepts, Seabourn is for you. But do not think it is all about being quiet and stuffy.  There are many fun activities...just not with cannonball dives into the pool, giant screens with music videos and huge production shows.

Everyone is Treated as Equals - One of my favorite aspects of Seabourn is that everyone is an equal.  No different colored room cards to show who is in a suite (everyone is).  No preferential treatment for the top suites (other than possibly a dinner reservation in Restaurant 2).  No tender priority.  No check-in priority.  No special disembarkation lounge.  Everyone gets everything.

Ports - While there are some cruise lines that are visiting more unique ports (such as Oceania), most hit the main ports and thousands of people disembark from your and other cruise ships rendering the experience a bit less satisfying than you may have imagined.  On Seabourn you visit more smaller ports, stay later or overnight, visit when other ships aren't present or simply dock in town rather than out in a commercial dock.  (St. Petersburg is one great example:  Walk off the ship and you are there versus taking a bus for an hour.)

Think of this:  If I was hyping Seabourn, how many of you would come back disappointed and complain to me?  I am, however, simply and confidently telling you the truth!  I am not concerned.  You shouldn't be either.

So if you want to look at prices, go right ahead.  (BTW, I have some special prices on close in cruises that are not available everywhere and are too low to publish, so call me if you are interested!) 

But remember, Seabourn's marketing may not be the best, but it has a truly fantastic product that will WOW you in ways that you probably won't expect.

Oceania Cruises Fined and Silversea Re-Writes Brochures - As I Said, "Free Air" Ain't "Free"

Over the past months, including virtually every person who has called or emailed me about all the "free air" promotions that have been tossed about by the cruise lines...from Oceania to Seabourn to Silversea to, well you've got the picture, I have been saying "There is no such thing as free air."

In fact, I had some rather heated discussions with Seabourn marketing department - which were successful!!! - demanding that only lazy travel agents and uneducated clients would be duped into believing the air was "free", so don't insult us.  Call it "Air Inclusive", but not free. See my article:  Seabourn Offering Free Air.  Is it Time?  Does it Matter?  Is it Free?

Similarly, I warned all that while you might think the credits for the "free air" told the whole story, you would be very wrong.  That is because on top of the air price/credit are all those air-related taxes; hundreds of dollars of additional taxes.

It is this latter point that - as I knew would be the case - Oceania Cruises was just fined for omitting from its marketing materials.  According to U.S. Department of Transportation, "The 'free' air fares, as advertised, do not provide adequate notice that certain taxes and fees, which properly may be stated separately from the advertised fare, must be paid by the traveler in order to obtain the 'free' air fare, nor of the amount of such taxes and fees".

Silversea Cruises had a similar practice addressed on the other side of the Atlantic and it was required to pull all of its freshly printed brochures to correct a very similar situation.

You will note that Regent Seven Seas also changed from its sickening mantra of "free", "free", "free" to "inclusive".  And as so many of you have complained to me - regardless of the still lackluster quality of the line - its "inclusive" prices are simply outrageous.  But, at least, it is correctly noting that nothing on a Regent cruise is "free", but rather is "included".

Now it seems that Iamboatman's comments over the past months, both publicly (here) and privately (with the cruise lines) were spot on.   And, while it created substantially more work for me as a travel agent - I refused to pitch the improper "free air" line that so many lazy travel agents did (and, alas, were actually the ones pressuring Seabourn- as an example - to offer it to combat Regent's now known to be unlawful approach) - I continued to make sure my clients received the best value.

BTW, there are some excellent values in some of the "Air Inclusive" promotions - such as Seabourn's Asia itineraries on the Seabourn Pride - but unless you utilize a travel agent that actually is working for you and has the ability to do it properly, you may well be spending thousands of dollars more than you need to...all because of being pitched "free air" that just isn't "free".

As for Oceania:  I still believe it is a wonderful product with great itineraries and a fantastic new ship, Marina, on the horizon.  I endorse the product and am pleased that its marketing is now in line with the consumer receiving accurate information in addition to a solid product.

Seabourn Sojourn - Two Subtle Changes from Seabourn Odyssey

Up until now I have not been able to tell anyone of any changes being made the Seabourn Sojourn from the Seabourn Odyssey.  Now, as it has been reported by Seatrade, I can let you in on two of the subtle changes:

The ship will have two new features: a Kneipp Pool (in place of the spa’s thalassotherapy pool) and a Spa Cabana (replacing one of the two Spa Villas).

The Kneipp Pool is a shallow treading basin with warm and cold water channels that are said to improve circulation.  I do not know what the design of the Kneipp Pool on the Sojourn will look like, as there are many designs for same, but this photo gives you an idea of one:

The new Spa Cabana will provide a shaded outdoor area of lounge chairs and sofas for spa clients to relax before or after their treatments. My impression is that feedback from guests and the amount of use (or less intensive use) has caused the change.  The area is really a nice place to relax and my guess is that rarely were two of the villas booked at the same time, so why leave one vacant when it could be put to good (if not modified) use. 

As for the Seabourn Sojourn's construction schedule, it is far ahead of where the Seabourn Odyssey was at the same point, only three months prior to delivery.  This was the result of the shipyard doing many things better and, it seems, learning from its mistakes.  (Though I do not personally know this, I have a strong feeling that Carnival Corp. applied a bit of pressure and insisted on certain changes.)

More specifically, the most significant change was that the engines were ready and installed much earlier, while the hull was still being constructed off-site. I am not sure how much of this was related to engine manufacturers having a bit more free time on their hands in this economy, or better cash flow within T. Mariotti or just better planning. 

You may also recall that the Seabourn Odyssey class ships are built in blocks elsewhere, joined together to a point and then towed to T. Mariotti in Genoa, Italy.  The Seabourn Sojourn’s blocks joined off-site continued up to the superstructure on Deck 9 instead of merely to Deck 5 on the Seabourn Odyssey...with the additional work completed at T. Mariotti.

Now, however, is when the real push comes.  Over the next weeks it will be nothing short of organized chaos with all the various parts coming together.

Obviously I will keep you posted.

How Sick Am I Reading About Seabourn Dress Code Changes? Formal Equals Not Elegance!

Not nearly as much as I am about the failure of most (not all) to realize that putting lipstick on a pig doesn't make it beautiful (unless, of course, you are another pig).

Yesterday I received an email from one of my clients on the Seabourn Odyssey's World Cruise that I thought was spot on.  He wrote: 

"Concerning the dress code: there is an older group of people who want the formal nights and everything around it. For us, it is not necessary. I have my tux with me and I wear it on formal nights.

We always follow the dress code, nothing more, nothing less.  It would be a good thing when everybody did that.  People who are calling for formal nights appear in the dining room on casual nights with a shirt, tie and jacket....

What we like on Seabourn is the elegance and that is not the same as 'black tie'. Times are changing...."

There are two interesting observations:  (1) Elegance and formal are not one-and-the-same; and (2) There are those who insist on formality even when it is contrary to the dress code.

To be brief, because truly that is all that is required, a hideous gown is not elegant, a tux that is three sizes to small is not elegant.  Elegant is elegant.  We all have seen elegance...and you know it when you see it.

A dare any person to say that Christy Turlington showing up in The Restaurant dressed without a single piece of jewelry and this simply cut dress would not be the height of elegance.  Alas she is not dressed "formal".

After the men picked their jaws up off the floor (if actually possible) and the women marvel at her appearance, they turn to the gentleman sitting at her same table in a very expensive tuxedo that is two sizes too small and is a bit crumpled at the lapel who fails to rise as she approaches the table.  This gent is dressed "formal", but has no elegance.

On the flip side, I truly do not believe that a couple that dresses rather formally on a "casual" evening (i.e. not an "elegant causal" evening would truly have a problem enjoying themselves dressed to the nines on an elegant causal evening. 

But then again, I must ask, "Is it appropriate for them to impose their formality when it is contrary to the ship's announced dress code?"  Isn't there the possibility that doing so makes those around them as uncomfortable as when they are well dressed (though not formally) and someone arrives at the restaurant in jeans and a tennis shirt?

Seabourn is maintaining its elegance and continues to be more formal than most every other cruise line, but just not as formal.  As another client (who lives and works in a toney part of a major international city) wrote to me yesterday upon hearing of the end of formal nights on seven night Seabourn cruises, "My husband is so excited to see on the website itinerary that there are no black tie evenings scheduled on these two weeks. Is that really the case? If so, that is less packing to do for sure! We’re all for dropping the black tie dress up night. I think that is terrific! That formal night in summer is such a pain in the you know what. Summer night elegant dress is so much better! Yeay!"

Do many of you see the silliness of it all...yet? The clothes do not make the man/woman...the elegance of being well-dressed and well-mannered does.

Seabourn's 2011 - Early 2012 Itineraries Will Be Here March 23rd

Just a quick FYI that Seabourn's 2011 and Early 2012 itineraries will be released on March 23, 2010. 

The benefits to booking early are

1.  You secure the suite you want.
2.  You are assured the best price, because if you or Goldring Travel finds lower fare I do whatever I can to get you that fare.
3.  No matter where in the world you live Goldring Travel will never charge you a booking or cancellation fee if you change your mind.  (If you cancel during Seabourn's penalty period those charges apply.)
4.  Goldring Travel will discount your Seabourn cruise.
5.  Goldring Travel will provide you with exceptional service and advice.

Basically, you will be treated by Goldring Travel as you will be onboard...with the added benefit of great pricing in addition to the great value a Seabourn cruise offers you.

Peter Cox - THE Man Creating Exotic Itineraries Retires

If you have ever been on a cruise to an exotic port...or one that used to be exotic...the chances are that it was discovered, examined and, truth be told, sometimes created by Peter Cox. 

For the past 17 years of his long career, Peter Cox has been the genius behind Seabourn's offerings of small ports that normal cruise ships cannot visit. 

Listening to Peter can be overwhelming and inspiring at the same time.  He speaks not only with an encyclopedic knowledge, but with the passion of a child that just found his new favorite toy (port).  And, truth be told, speaking or just listening to Peter Cox humbles a guy like me, who many think has vast travel experience.  This soft spoken, incredibly polite, gentleman has such incredible experience that he easily reminds me that I have but scratched the surface of visiting our world. 

He taught me that there is so much more than finding an off-the-beaten-path place.  There not only needs to be infrastructure for the ship, but a diversity of opportunities for the guests and reliable ways to get them there, feed them and provide a safe experience.  Oh, yes, and also be able to tie it into an itinerary that provides for ports to fly into and out of.  In July 2008 I wrote It's Like a Sandwich! Seabourn Spirit - New Ports for 2009 which was inspired by a talk Peter Cox gave for the top Seabourn travel agents.

Pamela Conover, the President of Seabourn said of his retirement, "‘I can't overstate the important role Peter has played in shaping not just Seabourn's itineraries, but those of many other lines as well...He has literally created an inbound travel business for quite a number of ports that had never been on the radar for cruise companies until Peter showed them to us. Peter is the complete package: intelligence, humor, deep knowledge and a passion for helping people explore the world. He started as a guide, and in a sense he has never stopped being one...He is a true gentleman and will be missed by us all." (You can read more at Seatrade Insider free subscription required)

Seabourn and Some Long Time Guests - What is Old Is New Again

As you may know, some of Seabourn's guests are not happy about the elimination of formal night on 7 night cruises.  They believe it will be the ruination of the Seabourn experience because, apparently, the rest of the Seabourn experience is irrelevant.  The tuxedo, it seems, is allegedly the gatekeeper that keeps away the "other" people and children.

That said, this vocal minority is now stamping its feet and claiming the loyalty is now gone.  It reminded me of when Seabourn said it was going to stop sending its smaller ships on transatlantic voyages, so I sought out my blog article on that subject.  What is kind of freaky is that I wrote it literally one year ago to the day this controversy became public. 

On February 19, 2010 I wrote Seabourn's 2010-2011 Itineraries:  You Got What You Asked For....And Didn't.

No need to repeat myself yet again.

What do you think?  Join the discussion on the Yahoo!  A Dress Code Thread - Seabourn on The Gold Standard Luxury Travel Forum.