The Cruise Report With Cruise Specialists Cruise Reporter Ralph Grizzle

We are at sea off the coast of Mexico, and expecting lots of rain when we get to San Pedro. Depending on where we tie up, getting our baggage to the Limo will be a soggy schlep.

This 16-day voyage aboard Odyssey has been a wonderful experience. What is interesting is, that on a high-end luxury cruise ship, the little quirks are magnified. Some of them are just not what is expected on such a splendid ship, but they happen. It is how, and if they are corrected, that is significant.  Read more... (667 words, 3 images, estimated 2:40 mins reading time)

I have watched Cabo grow, and grow, and grow from dirt streets to a hotel, condo, and mansion paradise. A once bare hill is now filling up,

but, even with growth, the entry to Cabo is unchangeable.

All cruise ships must anchor in the bay and tender passengers into the port area.

 Read more... (619 words, 15 images, estimated 2:29 mins reading time)

Clouds, a bit of misty drizzle, but otherwise warm weather greeted us as we docked.

There was, as in any port area, floating debris, but not for long. A crew assigned to pick up the trash was on duty.

I was first in Acapulco aboard a Greek ship, the Jason. A semi-regular on Petticoat Junction, I was traveling with Linda Kaye Henning and Mike Minor, stars of the series. After a late dinner at a hilltop restaurant, we hailed a taxi.  Read more... (517 words, 9 images, estimated 2:04 mins reading time)

It’s back !!

Sonette thought it belonged to Room Service. Room Service had no idea what it was and why it was in their kitchen. She found all by itself on an out-of-the-way kitchen shelf.

The sun shown on smooth water as we sailed to Acapulco. Even when we reached the area of Tehuantepec, which if the wind is up can cause large waves, it was calm. So calm that Michael twice saw sea turtles floating on the surface; a bird standing on its shell top.  Read more... (432 words, 9 images, estimated 1:44 mins reading time)

We are now in one of the busiest and most modern ports in Central America. It is certainly not the prettiest. Vendors are set up on the freight dock.

The hawkers know which ship is which and, which is rich. The prices are set accordingly. One frog made of “jade” was $450 dollars. Another piece of nondescript jewelry was $250.

Let the haggling begin.  Read more... (288 words, 8 images, estimated 1:09 mins reading time)

Last night was formal, but even though my robe is luxurious, I didn’t’ have a bow tie to go with it.

Caviar was on the main menu, and also on my plate in our room. On Odyssey, the same dinner on The Restaurant menu can be ordered for cabin consumption. The attendant who answered our Room Service call actually tried to talk Michael to have dinner delivered dish by dish. Being wary of a wait between each course she opted for all to come at once. The waiter was ringing our bell in what seemed like minutes. My suggestion, do course by course. Oh the food? Scrumptious  Read more... (543 words, 5 images, estimated 2:10 mins reading time)

For those who follow such developments, Silversea’s newest vessel begs the question: How will it compare to the other luxury launch of the year, Seabourn Odyssey?

The short answer is “favorably.” For the explanation, read on.

I’ve been on both vessels in the past couple of months, cruising in late July for seven days on Odyssey from Athens to Venice. My accommodation: Veranda Suite 622, measuring 365 square feet with the 65-square-foot veranda included in that measurement.  Read more... (818 words, 2 images, estimated 3:16 mins reading time)

I thoroughly enjoyed my week on Seabourn Odyssey last month. No doubt that the fine ship delivers one of the industry’s best luxury cruise vacations.

But, of course, as I am often reminded, there is always room for improvement. Based on my experience and conversations with other guests, here are a few areas that I believe Seabourn could improve on Odyssey.

 Read more... (584 words, 4 images, estimated 2:20 mins reading time)

If you’ve been contemplating a luxury cruise but haven’t quite pulled the trigger, this may just decide the issue. The Yachts of Seabourn, recently recognized by readers of Conde Nast Traveler as the Best Small-Ship Cruise Line, is in the middle of a weeklong sale on 10 itineraries this winter and next spring. To qualify for fares from $1,349 per person, travelers must make reservations by the end of next Monday, July 20.  Read more... (248 words, estimated 60 secs reading time)