Deluxe Verandah Suite
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Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
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Signature Spa Suite
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Ikon Penthouse
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Deluxe Verandah Suite
WAS £11865pp From £11390PP
Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
WAS £11908pp From £11431PP
Signature Spa Suite
WAS £16653pp From £15986PP
Ikon Penthouse
WAS £36617pp From £35152PP
Want to add a hotel stay or change your flights?

Just call our team of cruise specialists to help build your dream cruise holiday today!

call for free on 0808 202 6105
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Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Scenic Ocean Cruises under ATOL number 9294

Please click here to check the essential travel requirements before booking this cruise.

Itinerary

List Timeline

Barcelona

Welcome to Spain and the vibrant city of Barcelona. Renowned for its innovative cuisine, architectural wonders, edgy art scene and buzzing nightlife, it attracts travellers from across the globe.   Your journey begins as soon as you step aboard your next-generation Disc... Read More

Day 1
13 October 2028

Barcelona

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Day 2
14 October 2028

Palma de Mallorca

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Day 3
15 October 2028

Valencia

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Day 4
16 October 2028

Cartagena

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Day 5
17 October 2028

Almería

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Day 6
18 October 2028

Málaga

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Day 7
19 October 2028

Gibraltar

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Day 8
20 October 2028

Tangier

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Day 9
21 October 2028

Portimão

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Day 10
22 October 2028

Lisbon

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*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

Whats Included with
Scenic Ocean Cruises

Accommodation

Entertainment

Return flights included (UK airports)

WiFi

Gratuities included

Self-service laundry

Unlimited beverages

Butler service for every suite

Explore Scenic Ikon
Textura
Elements
Crustory
Lumière
The Yacht Club
Azure Café & Bar
Summa
Koko’s Asian Fusion, Sushi & Night Market
Chef’s Table
In-Suite Dining

Textura

Expertly prepared Italian classics, premium steaks, and fresh seafood in an elegant yet

relaxed atmosphere, with sweeping ocean views, exquisite flavours meet breathtaking scenery.

Scenic Neptune
Discovery Team
Helicopter Experiences
Zodiacs
Education Programs

Scenic Neptune

Scenic Neptune III Triton AVA certified up to 200m, dives up to 100m for the best viewing experience. Up to eight guests plus pilot. 360 degree panoramic views, acrylic sphere. Will operate in Antarctica on Scenic Ikon.

Theatre
Main Lounge
Unique Open Bridge
Scenic Lounge Bar
Observation Lounge

Theatre

Innovative In-The-Round Theatre
Seating for all 270 guests for bespoke shows, culinary masterclassesand Discovery Team presentations come to life.

Senses Power Gym
Pure Yoga & Pilates Studio
Pool and Terrace
The Marina
Senses Spa
Senses Spa Pool Deck

Senses Power Gym

Keep up your fitness during your voyage in the fully equipped, state-of-the-art gym. Raise your heart rate with a cardio or strength workout as you overlook spectacular ocean views. Train your way or opt for a personal training session with one of our qualified, onboard instructors#.

Deck 10

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 10.png

  • Smoking Area
  • Elevator
  • Cabanas
  • Sky Cocktail Bar
  • Sky Deck & Pool

Deck 9

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 9.png

  • Chairmans Club
  • Elevator
  • Ikon Penthouse
  • Scenic Yacht Suite
  • Horizon Suite
  • Signature Spa Suite
  • Deluxe Verandah Suite

Deck 8

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 8.png
  • Experience Pool
  • Senses Rejuvenation Spa
  • Strength & Endurance Gym
  • Elevator
  • Grand Terrace Suite
  • Master One Bedroom Suite
  • Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
  • Deluxe Verandah Suite

Deck 7

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 7.png

  • Spa Vitality Pool
  • Senses Rejuvenation Spa
  • Yoga & Pilates
  • Elevator
  • Balance & Flexibility Gym
  • Wheelhouse
  • Master One Bedroom Suite
  • Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
  • Deluxe Verandah Suite

Deck 6

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 6.png
  • Azure Dining Terrace
  • Crustory
  • Azure Bar & Cafe
  • Lumiere Dining
  • Alkemia
  • Elevator
  • Observation Lounge
  • Helideck
  • Observation Deck
  • Deluxe Verandah Suite
  • Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
  • Master One Bedroom Suite

Deck 5

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 5.png
  • Pool & Pool Terrace
  • Yacht Club Bar
  • Yacht Club
  • Elevator
  • Master One Bedroom Suite
  • Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
  • Deluxe Verandah Suite

Deck 4

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 4.png
  • Summa Dining
  • Textura Dining
  • Night Market @ Koko's
  • Elements Dining
  • Koko's
  • Chef’s Table
  • Sushi Bar @ Koko's
  • Elevator
  • Guest Service
  • Reception
  • Main Lounge
  • Scenic Bar
  • Boutique
  • Theatre

Deck 3

Scenic Ocean Cruises, Scenic Ikon Deck 3.png
  • Marina
  • Marina Lounge
  • Elevator
  • Discovery Centre

Scenic Ikon Cabins & Suites

Ikon Penthouse

Your own private residence at sea.

The lounge is thoughtfully appointed areas for relaxation, dining, and entertaining, with a fully appointed bar island: delight in anything your heart desires — from crafted cocktails to wellness-inspired refreshments and light dining — all served discreetly by your private butler. The suite features a master bedroom plus a wellness studio with in-suite ESPA spa services and private fitness amenities. Which can transform into a second bedroom for family or guests. The bathroom is enhanced with steam and infrared experiences for ultimate wellbeing and indulgence with full-size baths and double vanities, ensuring the utmost in comfort and indulgence. A spacious walk-in wardrobe and private Glam Bar, fully appointed with Dyson’s advanced hair care tools and elevated ESPA amenities, complete the suite, offering effortless luxury and the ultimate in oceanfront living. An expansive terrace with Jacuzzi, private cabana, and outdoor lounge and dining areas provides the perfect space to relax or entertain under open skies.

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Meet Our Luxury Cruise Concierge

Our luxury cruise concierge have been on board a vast array of the finest ships at sea and are always happy to share their first-hand experiences to help curate your dream ultra-luxury voyage. From advising you on the best cruise lines and ships to helping you select from a variety of phenomenal destinations and itineraries, your dedicated concierge is on hand to ensure booking your next cruise is as seamless, smooth and tailored to you as possible.

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Related Blogs

Is Crystal worth the money? An Honest Review of the Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line
31October 2025
31 October 2025

Is Crystal worth the money? An Honest Review of the Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line

My wife and I have recently returned from an eight-night sailing with Crystal. I wanted to share my honest thoughts on the ultra-luxury voyage, and address the all-important questions - is Crystal really worth the money and would we sail with them again? Well, we can honestly say it was one of the most enjoyable cruises we have been on for some time. There’s always a moment of nervousness before boarding a ship... Will it live up to expectations? As it turned out, we needn’t have worried - it absolutely did.                                    Crystal has long been known for operating two of the most refined ships at sea, often described as 'ultra-luxury'. Only a limited selected of ships qualify for that category, and Crystal has two of them. From the moment we stepped aboard, we knew the ship would suit us. Helped by the complimentary glass of champagne on arrival! It’s a combination of 'old world charm' meets understated elegance.  As you move around the ship, the ambience feels polished and calm, more like a private club at sea. It’s not fussy or ostentatious, just thoughtfully done. Unlike many modern cruise ships that can resemble shopping malls, or Las Vegas at Sea,  Crystal has held onto the timeless spirit of ocean travel, when space and service took precedence over spectacle. Part of Crystal’s appeal lies in what it doesn’t do. The ships aren’t filled with gimmicks or noisy distractions, and that restraint works in their favour. Though the vessels are older, they retain a sense of space and comfort that makes the experience relaxing, rather than hectic.                            Service is where Crystal truly stands out. The warmth of the Staff stood out from day one, and continued throughout the voyage. Many have been with the company for years, and that familiarity shows. They’re attentive without being intrusive, and seem genuinely proud of the product they deliver. Chatting with fellow guests, we quickly realised how strong Crystal’s following is. The two ships, Serenity and Symphony, have one of the highest repeat guest rates in the industry - around 94 per cent, according to reports. That level of loyalty is rare, and it helps explain the many awards Crystal has collected over the years, including the 'Best Cruiseline' award by Travel & Leisure World, for twenty consecutive years. Crystal operates on a fully all-inclusive basis, meaning drinks (both alcoholic and non), Wi-Fi, speciality dining (at least once per venue), gratuities and butler service in all suites are covered in the fare. A key distinction is that every section of the ship is open to everyone. There’s no 'ship within a ship' concept, or tiered access with restricted areas. This makes such a difference and creates a notably relaxed and enjoyable social atmosphere. For us, several aspects made Crystal feel genuinely special. The first is the dining. We can say, hand on heart, that it is amongst the best cuisine we have had at sea. The main restaurant, Waterside, delivers consistently excellent meals. You could dine there every night and still be delighted. Its standard is better than the many speciality restaurants on other lines. But it would be a mistake not to try the speciality options, and there are three of them.                             The first, and most famous, is Umi Uma by Nobu. It is a real coup for Crystal to get Nobu on their ships. The fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours is exquisite, with every dish beautifully presented. Next is the Italian venue, Osteria d’Ovidio. The menu blends traditional Italian favourites with dishes from Venice. It was one of the most enjoyable meals we have had anywhere, land or sea. The final speciality venue is Beef Bar, a Monaco-based concept focusing on fine cuts of meat and seafood. It was equally impressive. In short, Crystal is a cruise line for foodies. The variety and quality are excellent. Our Cabin was one of the newly expanded ‘Sapphire Suites’, created by combining two former cabins into one open-plan space. Decorated in soft blues with elegant lighting, it featured one of the most spacious bathrooms we have seen on a ship.  The itinerary was an eight-night voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon, visiting a string of beautiful European ports, including Ibiza, Cartagena, Malaga and the mystical Casablanca in Morocco. The route offered the perfect blend of Mediterranean charm and North African adventure, and we would highly recommend it.                             Reflecting on our time aboard, would we recommend Crystal? Wholeheartedly and without hesitation. From the moment you step on board, the all-inclusive concept makes the experience feel indulgent. Yes, Crystal is a higher price point than other luxury lines, but what you receive in return is exemplary. That is precisely what ultra-luxury cruising is meant to provide. Both ships were completely refurbished in 2023, and they feel beautifully maintained, polished, and cared for. Two brand-new vessels are also  planned, with the first expected to debut in 2028. Are Crystal the only ultra-luxury cruise line? No, there are others - Silversea, Regent and Seabourn to name but a few, but our latest trip with Crystal exceeded expectations. It is an indulgence, yes, but also a joy. For anyone seeking an exclusive, small-ship experience with just 650 to 780 passengers, Crystal should be at or near the top of your shortlist. ————————————————————————————————————————Bill is the creator behind Ritzy Travel Guide, a YouTube channel and travel platform. He shares honest impressions from the world’s most fascinating cruise ships and destinations. Known for his honest reviews, he offers a discerning look at modern luxury travel.

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Our experience on board the stunning Emerald Sakara
27October 2025
27 October 2025

Our experience on board the stunning Emerald Sakara

I have just returned from the most incredible sailing from Palma to Barcelona on the luxury yacht Emerald Sakara and wanted to share my highlights and experience. What were your first impressions on board Emerald Sakara? I embarked Sakara in Palma, and my first impressions of the ship was stunning! I was immediately greeted, of course, with a glass of champagne and warmly welcomed on board by the reception and crew. After a very smooth and efficient check in, I was shown my suite for the next three nights. What amazed me most was the space, although the Emerald Yachts carry 100 guests, you never felt that it was crowded. Never did we have to worry about getting a table, or a wonderful spot to sit up on the top deck to enjoy the Hot Tub pool area.   What was your suite like on Emerald Sakara? Both my bedroom and bathroom were incredibly spacious with had plenty of storage, as well as sockets which can allow all different country plugs (which I found very useful!) The balcony area and seating were so comfortable, although I tended to opt for the beautiful spaces around the ship to relax in. What were the public spaces like on Emerald Sakara? Sakara has a lovely lounge where guests can also relax in, where they inform you of the following days port excursions. The entertainment was also in the lounge after dining in the restaurant La Cucina. They did try to have ‘Boogie Night’ on the top deck, which is great, particularly in hotter destinations as you want to spend as much time as possible enjoying the sunsets and the night skies.   What was the dining like on Emerald Sakara? You can dine in La Cucina for breakfast and lunch either with buffet style cuisine or ordering from your table also. In the evening, the restaurant becomes A la Carte. They have plenty of outside space on offer to dine in, which we enjoyed immensely. The Aqua Bar Café offers light salads, sandwiches, pizzas and burgers, all to a delicious high standard. For those with a sweet tooth, there were plenty of desserts and cakes on offer that we adored! The drinks were free flowing, and the cocktails, some which were recommended by the crew, tasted fabulous!     What were the shore excursions like on board Emerald Sakara? The tour guides we had were very informative, funny, and made our three-hour walking tour of Ibiza and its history so interesting - I would highly recommend a trip there. I had never been have been put off by the reputation of Ibiza, but we docked so close to the old town, so it was perfect to explore and see the history of the island! Our second tour was on e-bikes. Other guests went off on a 28km cycle along the coast and had a wonderful time. It allowed me and my colleague to explore the lovely town and enjoy the local way of life. The markets and their fresh food is always something I love. Not that I needed to buy anything with the delicious food waiting for us back on board!   What did you love most about being on board Emerald Sakara? The ship is very sociable, and the crew were all so friendly, even amongst themselves - you could tell they enjoyed working on board. It was very much a family atmosphere. The captain was always visible, even dancing with guests and making sure they enjoyed their experience on board! One of the things I enjoyed as well while on board was that anyone can go and visit the bridge, if the door is not locked. It was so interesting to see the navigation screens and so many buttons (we were told not to push any, especially the red ones!) We were also able to visit the engine rooms, the galley and the marina platform – all absolutely fascinating. I have to say, when anchored offshore, this is when I can imagine the Emerald and Scenic Yachts come into their own. They open the railings, and you are so close to the sea, you can jump on their trampolines, kayak and snorkel – there’s even a slide you can use from the Aqua bar which looks so much fun. I really want to be on board when this is available; I am told the Caribbean is where this area gets most used! Their new Yacht Emerald Kaia is sailing next year, and this will have a further hot tub and bar area for guests to enjoy. This ship will be able to have 128 guests on board and will also have an additional dining for up to eight guests at the Market Grill, an Asian Teppanyaki experience where the food is cooked in front of you. If you would like more information, contact Elizabeth on 01484 912030 and I will be more than happy to assist you with booking an amazing trip on board one of their ships!

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The Top 4 Destinations to Visit on a Luxury Cruise in the Autumn
19September 2025
19 September 2025

The Top 4 Destinations to Visit on a Luxury Cruise in the Autumn

The Top 4 Destinations to Visit on a Luxury Cruise in the Autumn Autumn is upon us, and as the air grows crisp and the landscapes begin to evolve, there’s no need to halt your travels. In fact, there are plenty of incredible locations you can enjoy across the globe with a luxury cruise, some even more beautiful for visiting them in these colder months. Vicky Chapman reviews some destination highlights to consider as we welcome a new season. 1. Canada and New England Famed for its vibrant foliage, this beloved area is simply stunning during the Autumn season. With foggy mornings and cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect hiking weather, where you can marvel at the sea of red, orange and golden leaves flooding acres of land. If you’d like to extend your journey pre- or post-cruise, it’s highly recommended to drive one of the region’s iconic routes, like the Kancamagus Highway, Route 100 and Mohawk Trail. Embrace the festive spirit with apple picking, harvest festivals and pumpkin patches. Explore historic sites and discover the many restored 18th and 19th Century buildings. 2. Japan No autumnal destination inspiration would be complete without a mention of Japan. Whilst renowned for its infamous cherry blossom season, the destination is nothing short of breathtaking during the cooler season, boasting an array of foliage, from fiery reds and golden ginkgo to vivid maple leaves across temples, gardens and mountains. The country is home to an endless number of beautiful temples, from Kyoto to Nara and Mount Takao, which glow amongst the seasonal colours. The pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds make it a far more suitable time for sightseeing, hiking and exploring many of Japan’s spectacular cities like Osaka and Tokyo. You can also enjoy the outdoor hot springs whilst surrounded by the colourful scenery in Hakone, Kusatsu or the Japanese Alps. 3. Alaska A destination that is a common highlight of any frequent cruiser, Alaska is an astonishing part of the world, offering unrivalled views of its towering mountain ranges, pristine waters and fascinating wildlife. Aside from the alpine tundra and boreal forests exploding in deep reds, golds and oranges, the autumnal months are also a particularly active time for resident wildlife. Witness bears and moose in their natural habitats and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of whale-watching, so you can see these incredible creatures up close. Autumn also means clear, darker nights, which offers explorers a prime opportunity to witness the northern lights while they’re cruising. 4. Mediterranean While beautiful, the Mediterranean summer often involves rocketing temperatures and intensive crowds. Sailing along this part of the world during the autumn allows you to enjoy the iconic landmarks and sites in comfortable weather without the business. Enjoy less queueing and more exploring, whether you’re sailing around the west from Barcelona or Lisbon, or around the east from Athens or Rome (Civitavecchia). The autumnal season is also the perfect time for river cruising, where you’ll still enjoy lots of sunlight but a more serene, peaceful voyage. Explore the heartland of Europe, from the Rhine or the Seine in France or meandering through Vienna and Budapest down the Danube. If you’re interested in booking a last-minute cruise for this Autumn, or perhaps booking ahead, call our luxury cruise concierge today and let us secure your next dream cruise!

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Our experience on board Silver Ray
14May 2025
14 May 2025

Our experience on board Silver Ray

Our experience on board Silver Ray Revel in complete luxury on board Silversea's stunning Silver Ray. Our luxury product executive and Silversea Advocate Jo had the pleasure of sailing aboard for five nights, and she caught us up on what to expect from a day on board! Jo's experience on board Silver Ray   I've had the pleasure of sailing aboard several of their ships, so I had high expectations for the latest addition to the fleet, and I have to say that this experience exceeded all of them! I could go on for days about how much I enjoyed my time on board, but to paint the picture for you of how spectacular this ship truly is, I'll bring you along with me and run through what a day on board Silver Ray looks like... Discover all Silversea Sailings Jo's morning on board Silver Ray   I started my morning the same way I did each day, waking up in my stunning Medallion Suite and heading straight out onto my private veranda to take in the amazing views of wherever that day's adventures took me, on this occasion, Monte Carlo. I'm an early riser, so I headed down to the gym while it was nice and quiet. All of the equipment is spotless and the views from the treadmills are unmatched! After my workout, I stopped by the Arts Cafe for a smoothie to enjoy on the veranda before getting ready for the day. Silversea's suites are a dream to get ready in! The rain shower is heavenly, complete with complimentary Otium toiletries, the vanity space is very well-lit, and the walk-in wardrobe is extremely spacious. Destination Discovery with Silver Ray   I then headed down to La Terrazza for breakfast, where there was always a huge selection, whether you wanted to help yourself to fresh fruit, pastries and cooked options or have your favourites made to order. I went for poached eggs, which were cooked to perfection, on a toasted English muffin. After breakfast, we headed down to Deck 2 for the tender to take us to shore. We explored the old town, Monaco-Ville, which was a stunning walk with amazing sea views and spent some time meandering through the narrow streets before making our way to the palace to watch the changing of the guards. I paid a visit to the most amazing chocolate shop, Chocolaterie de Monaco, and picked up some treats to take home before we headed over to Monte Carlo itself. Whilst we were there, they were setting up for the Grand Prix, so we were able to walk along the track by the stands and then along the marina, where all the incredible yachts were moored. We made our way up to the famous Casino de Monte Carlo, took a look inside at the magnificent atrium and admired all of the supercars lined up outside. Relaxation on board Silver Ray   After an action-packed morning of exploring, it was time to head back to the ship for some much-needed lunch! I ate al fresco at The Marquee, which offers a relaxed atmosphere in the most stunning setting, and enjoyed a delicious salad with a side of sweet potato fries and onion rings. I spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the ship. I had the hot tub to myself and enjoyed a couple of delicious cocktails in the Dusk Bar, which is the perfect place to relax at the back of the ship as you watch the waves and the world go by. Before returning to my suite, I requested an in-suite Otium Bath experience, and I was blown away. I returned to my suite to find calming music playing in the bathroom, dimmed lights and a candlelit bath with incredible scents and a comfy bath pillow, a macaron and a glass of champagne. It's these special touches by your butler that really make the Silversea experience. Jo's evening on board Silver Ray   This evening was formal optional, so I got dressed up and ready to head down to Le Dolce Vita for some pre-dinner drinks. The lemon drop martini was the perfect apéritif before dinner at Atlantide, their signature fine dining venue, where I had the delicious lobster thermidor followed by the yummiest raspberry macaroon, which was beautifully presented. After dinner, we ended the night in the Venetian Lounge for the Captain's Welcome. He was very funny and engaging, and introduced the staff before the show began. Tonight's entertainment was 'An Evening with Roger Wright', an incredible performer who originated the role of Simba in The Lion King on the West End. He was mesmerising to watch as he performed a range of hits and recounted his impressive career. No two days on board a Silversea ship are the same, but you're guaranteed to experience an outstanding quality of food, service and destination immersion, wherever you are in the world. Press play on any of the videos below to watch my full five days on board be brought to life... Discover all Silversea Sailings If you have any questions about sailing with Silversea or would like to know more about what offers are available, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We provide personalised service, alongside our first-hand experiences and offers you won't find elsewhere. Simply call our Cruise Concierge today on 0808 278 3751.

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Our experience on board Azamara Quest
17April 2025
17 April 2025

Our experience on board Azamara Quest

Our experience on board Azamara Quest What is it like to sail on board Azamara Quest? Discover life on board this incredible ship first-hand from our luxury cruise expert Shirley, who sailed on a stunning itinerary from Nice to Rome. Shirley's experience on board Azamara Quest   I've recently returned from an incredible trip aboard Azamara Cruises' stunning ship, Azamara Quest, and wanted to give you an insight into what she has to offer, as well as share some of my highlights from my Mediterranean sailing. I hadn't sailed with Azamara prior to this trip and it's safe to say this sailing exceeded every expectation I had! Discover all Azamara Quest sailings   Cruising with Azamara   Offering a deluxe experience, Azamara is the perfect choice if you're looking for ultimate indulgence as you explore locations across the globe. During your time on board, you’ll experience fine cuisine and destination delights with plenty of overnight stays in off-the-beaten-path ports of call. Plus, with a guest capacity of just 800, you can expect to visit ports that larger ships can't reach and enjoy attentive service like no other. On Board Azamara Quest   Stepping aboard Azamara Quest, my colleague Elizabeth and I were met by warm, welcoming staff and clean, tasteful décor adorned with plenty of artwork and sculptures. We stayed in an Ocean View Stateroom, which was very well laid out with plenty of wardrobe space, a fabulous vanity area and a mini fridge. Outside of our stateroom, the onboard ambience was very relaxed and friendly. There were always plenty of sun loungers available around the pool and multiple areas to unwind with a cocktail or a coffee. There is a fantastic variety of dining venues to suit the different times of day. On arrival, we enjoyed a lighter lunch with panoramic views of Nice's picturesque port at Windows Café and on two of the evenings, we dined at Discoveries Restaurant, which offered a diverse selection of dishes each day from escargot to lobster to pad thai. My dining highlight has to be Aqualina, a stunning Italian restaurant with outstanding service. The Dover sole is a must-try; it was brought to the table whole, and we watched as the waiter skilfully removed the bones and skin before serving it all with a few sumptuous sides, all ready to eat. Destination Discovery   One thing that stands out about Azamara is that their ships are smaller than many other cruise lines, which allows you to dock in hidden gems and get closer to your destination. In Nice, we were docked within walking distance from all the shops, the beach, restaurants and bars, where we stopped to experience the local cuisine and beverages while looking out at the ocean and the palm tree promenade. We also visited Corsica's beautiful port, which is so colourful and scenic, with something new to admire at every turn. It was here that we went on an excursion up to the mountains to taste some food and wine, which was excellent! The tour guide was very knowledgeable and gave us some insightful information about Corsica. There is a fascinating contrast between snow-covered mountains and sun-soaked coastline, so you can go skiing, then drive an hour and a half in the other direction and find yourself at the beach! Overall, we had the most fabulous time and wouldn't hesitate to sail with Azamara in the future. If you have any questions about sailing with Azamara Cruises or would like to know more about what offers are available, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We provide personalised service, alongside our first-hand experiences and offers you won't find elsewhere. Simply call our Cruise Concierge today on 0808 163 9421. Discover all Azamara Quest sailings

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Our Expedition cruise on board Seabourn Venture
09July 2025
09 July 2025

Our Expedition cruise on board Seabourn Venture

Our Expedition on board Seabourn Venture Embark upon the adventure of a lifetime with Seabourn Venture! Designed for those curious to explore further and discover the intricate beauty of remote destinations, Seabourn expeditions are truly exceptional voyages that will create memories of a lifetime, one I was fortunate enough to experience. Discover all Seabourn Venture sailings Whether you're an adventure-seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about life on an expedition ship, here’s a glimpse into what awaits you... Steph's expedition cruise with Seabourn I recently had the chance to experience one of our expedition cruises first-hand aboard Seabourn Venture in a Veranda Suite around the Shetlands and Orkneys. One of the main things that drew me to an expedition cruise was the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors in harder to reach places and see incredible wildlife in their natural habitats and this certainly didn't disappoint. I started my journey in Lerwick in Shetland, where I enjoyed a coastal walk and an excursion to Jarlshof, an extraordinary archaeological site in Sumburgh. This prehistoric and Norse settlement offered a fascinating glimpse into thousands of years of human history, with remnants of Bronze Age, Iron Age, Viking, and medieval buildings all in one location. The guide brought the site to life with stories and historical context, making it a truly enriching experience. Our next port of call was Fair Isle, and it quickly became one of the highlights of the trip, marked by my first experience disembarking via zodiac. We began with a scenic hike up to a lighthouse, taking in sweeping views of the rugged coastline while accompanied by the calls of noisy oystercatchers. From there, we made our way to a spot known for puffin sightings and were lucky enough to observe these charming birds up close as they landed, interacted with one another, and caught fish. Before returning to the ship, I took a peaceful walk along a small beach with crystal-clear waters. On our zodiac ride back, we made a brief detour through a sea cave, where we were delighted to spot a playful seal swimming nearby - an unforgettable end to an incredible visit. While in port at Kirkwall, I had the chance to explore some of Orkney’s most fascinating cultural and historical landmarks. We began with a visit to St Magnus Cathedral, a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Following that, we took a shore excursion to the Ring of Brodgar, part of Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Neolithic stone circle is set in a dramatic landscape of lochs and rolling hills and our guide painted a vivid picture of the ancient rituals that may have taken place there. We concluded the tour in the charming fishing village of Stromness, where we enjoyed the highly recommended local ice cream. At Copinsay Island, we embarked on a zodiac cruise that offered an incredible opportunity to observe the island's rich birdlife and thriving grey seal population up close. The cliffs and shoreline were alive with seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, shags, and fulmars, while the seals basked on the rocks or bobbed curiously in the water nearby. As if that wasn’t memorable enough, I also had the chance to take part in a submersible dive—an unforgettable experience that took us 30 meters beneath the surface. From the comfort of the sub, we watched jellyfish drift silently by, surrounded by the peaceful, otherworldly atmosphere of the deep. This was a bucket-list moment and a true highlight of the expedition. On board Seabourn Venture   I would highly recommend Seabourn Venture to anyone looking to embark on an expedition cruise. The ship provided a stunning selection of elegant and comfortable spaces to relax in between explorations and the team on board really brought the journey to life, sharing expert knowledge on the surrounding areas and their fascinating history. There are four hot tubs, a small infinity pool, a gym and wellness spa facilities, as well as several bars and lounges on board. At meal times, Seabourn Venture offers dining excellence in terms of range, themed options and quality from The Colonnade, which provides informal dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner, to The Restaurant, a more formal venue, though relatively relaxed based on the Expedition environment. The service was exceptional - friendly, intuitive, and personal. Whether it was remembering your coffee order or keeping your wine glass full, the crew consistently went above and beyond. Discover all Seabourn Venture sailings If my experience has inspired you and you think you may like to embark on your own voyage, please get in touch with our expedition specialist concierge on 0808 163 3075. 

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