Seven Seas Voyager
This past June, I had the pleasure of travelling aboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ all-suite, all-balcony luxurious Seven Seas Voyager. I have to say, the worst part about Regent is that you eventually have to get off the ship and go home.
We arrived in Amsterdam July 29th to board the brand-new ms Avalon Luminary for my very first River Cruise. This was a great experience and a wonderful way to cruise along the Rhine River - with so much history and countryside to see. Most of the towns and villages we toured were hundreds or thousands of years old.
In July I had the pleasure of sailing aboard the all-new Seabourn Sojourn. Wow is all I can say - the ship is absolutely wonderful! It is amazing to me that this was only the third sailing for the Sojourn as the crew worked together like a well-oiled machine. The entire staff called you by name and they would bend over backwards to get you anything you needed. The wait staff easily remembered your preferences, for example if you ordered a drink while out by the pool; later in the lounges they would ask if you would like the same. Everyone had smiles on their faces at all times and looked to really enjoy what they were doing.
Diana & the Stateroom Window
My wife Diana and I recently travelled through Europe on an Avalon Waterways river cruise along the Danube River and the Black Sea. We had a most enjoyable time sailing from Vienna to Bucharest.
Prior to the cruise we stayed in a hotel in Vienna. Our initial transfer from our pre-cruise hotel to the ship was a little chaotic, but was amusing for us to watch at least. Between over enthusiastic guests, luggage and guides there was a little mass confusion. Eventually someone figured it all out and we were on our way. We arrived at Avalon Waterways Artistry in about 45 minutes and went directly on board.
It has been 15 years since I first cruised aboard Crystal Cruises and I love it. It has been nearly ten years since I’ve been on Regent Seven Seas Cruises and I loved that even more. Last month I sailed with seven family members aboard Oceania Cruises Insignia and I think I’m in love all over again! Our itinerary was “Yacht Haven” and it featured the French and Italian Rivera’s. This itinerary is very port intensive, visiting ten ports in ten days – but very well worth it.
The ship has attractive glass, photography, paintings, and murals throughout the vessel.
Glass bubbles at the champagne bar
Artwork at the Garden Café Entrance
Tom & Deann Baumann
Boarding the ship at Venice shipyard where the ms Nieuw Amsterdam was built and sailing to the docks in Venice was an incredible experience. The captain took the ship out into open waters and then before returning to the docks in Venice, sailed the ship down the Grand Canal, right past St. Marks square…it was truly a magical moment to be a part of.
Celebration aboard Sojourn
The fanfare all began with a wonderful cocktail reception where Pam Conover, the President of Seabourn introduced the Seabourn Sojourn’s godmother, Twiggy. Twiggy then “pushed the button” to have the customary bottle of champagne break against the side of the ship, thus christening the ship.
Aghios Nikolaos
I joined the Crystal Serenity on May 11, 2010 for the Seaways of Antiquity cruise sailing from Rome to Athens via Sorrento, Taormina, Aghios Nikolaos, Kusadasi, and Mykonos! My friend and I were able to board early in Civitavecchia (port for Rome) and leave our carry-on bags with an attendant while we enjoyed lunch in the dining room with welcome glasses of champagne. Off to a good start!
Main Pool with TV
On May 11, 2010 I ventured down to San Francisco on a warm sunny day and visited the Golden Princess. The recent refurbishment of this ship definitely shines through in every turn. Overall I was very impressed with her open space and refreshing décor of light browns and creams. It gave me a very nice sense of calm and peacefulness.
Pools
Terrace Pool & Decks
