The recent announcement that Seabourn has teamed up with one of the world’s greatest chefs came as no surprise to cruise enthusiasts.
In the past two years the quality of the dining aboard Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest have earned the title of Best Culinary Cruise Line in the Saveur Culinary Travel Awards.
Now USA’s Thomas Keller, known for his superb offerings over many years at the his Michelin-starred French Laundry, Per Se and Bouchon, will be raising the enjoyment levels on those ships even higher.
Example of the award-winning dining onboard Seabourn. Image: Seabourn
Anyone who has dined on Seabourn over a week or so will tell you Thomas is starting from a very high base. From the lunchtime snack on the pool deck…
Oh wait, lets go back to the beginning.
Breakfast. What a line up! Eggs any way you please. Three kinds of bacon. All the healthy options too. Fruits familiar and exotic. Nuts, seeds, grains, yogurt, special milks. More fresh breads and pastries than you can poke a butter knife at.
Enjoy canapes with friends alfresco-style on your ship's veranda. Image: Seabourn
Now, where were we? Back on the pool deck. Lunchtime on the high seas. A glass of champagne? Why not? This is a holiday, isn’t it. Chardonnay, shiraz, riesling, merlot with that? Gelato in many varieties, delicious as an Italian piazza.
A lot to choose from.
But nothing like the choice at dinner.
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The Restaurant is your main event. It could seat everyone on the ship if necessary. And never feel crowded. No reservations, sit where you like, with or without new friends, depending on your mood or the occasion. But why not extend your experiences further?
Inside The Restaurant onboard Seabourn's luxury ships. Image: Seabourn
One night you could reserve a table at Restaurant 2. Fine dining in many small servings, smart modern cooking matched to a great winelist showcasing glasses from many countries. Nothing too strict, a jacket for gentlemen will do. But if dressing up is on your mind and in your wardrobe, there will be at least one formal evening.
Mingle with the magnificent life or if you prefer stay in your suite.
In these corridors they don’t just leave a tray at the door, but introduce you to a butler who returns and serves every course at your own dining table.
I think we mentioned wine. Your ensuite bar will be stocked with whatever you have pre chosen and will be topped up when necessary during your voyage. There are some very fine wines to choose from on board.
Relax and dine in your suite, with butler service on all Seabourn ships. Image: Seabourn
Your Seabourn ship has six bars and you’ll try them all and maybe pick a regular haunt. Your barman will likely remember your favourite tipple and pour or mix it as you settle in. The snacks at your elbow are worth a mention too. Everything you taste on board has been carefully thought about.
Yes there is a gym and decks for promenading and you’ll do some walking on shore, but there’s no shame in indulging a little more than you would at home. Even if you lived with Thomas Keller you may not have these plated delights laid before you every day.
