Once on board we were welcomed by the ever smiling, enthusiastic and warm Cruise Director, Ross. Over the next seven days Ross was outstanding, engaging us in the entertainment and activities, and providing hints and tips on what to do both at sea and ashore.
The entertainment was fantastic. A range of different performances each night provided real variety, and each show was packed with serious talent, from a guitar duo and violin virtuoso to Amber and the house band, plus the superb Quest singers. All the different performances came together at Seabourn's iconic 'Rock the Boat' party halfway through the cruise: singing and dancing on the pool deck, with Champagne and cocktails flowing, as the sun didn't quite set on another fabulous day in Norway.
The food was exceptional. Consistently tasty, with numerous 'wow' dishes in The Restaurant and themed delights in The Colonnade, though our highlight meal was in Seabourn's new and exclusive Thomas Keller restaurant, The Grill. The waiters and waitresses explain your dining experience in an introduction before you order, setting the stage for the treats you're about to enjoy. If you pick the right dishes, you'll see them being made to order right in front of you. The Grill's signature cocktails are a must, especially as you can't try them anywhere else on board - they are rather yummy though, so take it easy!
Our Veranda Suite on Deck 7 was a fantastic size with his and hers sinks, plus a bathtub and separate shower stall in the bathroom. The large balcony holds two sun loungers and a table, perfect for chillaxing as we cruised through the fjords. Our steward was so attentive, providing all the toiletries two girls could wish for, and when they're Molton Brown and L'Occitane, who's going to turn them down?!
At the start of your cruise, make sure you head along to the introductory talk at the spa, as there is a raffle to win spa credit and complimentary treatments. This introduction also allows you to opt for the 'Manager's Special', which on this sailing was four treatments for the price of one!
Seabourn offer all guests the chance to take a galley tour and a bridge tour during their cruise. The most interesting thing I learned on the galley tour is the fact that none of the kitchens aboard Quest have hot plates, all food is cooked à la minute. Also, all meals for the Thomas Keller restaurant are precisely measured ashore and prepared and cooked in their very own galley in order to meet the chef's exacting standards.
There was one afternoon of 'Team Trivia', attended by a large number of very competitive Americans, so when I was the only person to correctly answer the bonus question and win the quiz for my team, I was rather pleased with myself!
If a cruise with quality is what you're looking for, I recommend you consider this elegant cruise line. Although Seabourn appeals to a sophisticated clientele, it also manages to be welcoming and cosy at the same time.
Find out more: Request a Seabourn brochure
