You know I consistently rave about the quality of Seabourn's cuisine and have found it to be of even higher quality on the Seabourn Odyssey.
While I was onboard the Odyssey I had the opportunity to chat with Charley Palmer about the new and enhanced menus, his galley setups and his philosophies. H explained that with the truly purpose build galleys on the Odyssey he has much more latitude both in the menu possibilities and in the ease of the chefs and cooks providing the cuisine at a consistently high quality.
The triplets are, of course, much older ships and the galleys were, before modification, much older in equipment and design...and created with a philosophy of cuisine that has changed dramatically since the 1970s. As the present cuisine proves, it not to say that the triplets suffer from a lesser quality cuisine, but rather the chefs and cooks have a greater challenge in preparing that high quality product.
As far as quality control, there is not a cruise line that performs at a higher level. There is another blogger/author, Ralph Grizzle, who maintains the Avid Cruiser website. He provides some nice photos, and limited commentary, on the various cruise lines. Presently he is on the Seabourn Odyssey and posted on YouTube a great video of Seabourn (actually Executive Graeme Cockburn) going thought one of his daily reviews of the evening's offerings to assure the highest of quality. Hopefully without offending the Avid Cruiser I am providing it here rather than merely a link to his site:
You know when the cruise line and chef allows you to truly see what is going on in the galley and to allow the critiquing to be videoed it is very confident not only of the product, but its production. That is not hype of "Six Star Luxury" or gourmet cuisine. It is, in fact, pride and a desire to show it off...with confidence.
That confidence translates to your cruise. You can, with confidence, enter into any dining venue on a Seabourn ship knowing you will be receiving truly exceptional cuisine...brochures and emails be damned!
Bon Appetit!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Regent Seven Seas v. Seabourn: Philosophy, Pricing and Practice
Frank Del Rio, President and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings, owner of Regent Seven Seas, recently was interviewed by Travel Weekly Magazine. The article was about sales and marketing of Oceania and, to a much lesser extent, Regent.
There was an interesting exchange:
Q: With Regent, you chose to include shore excursions rather than lower prices. Did that stimulate sales?
A: Like nothing you've seen. It's one of the reasons why our business is stronger than most right now. This industry is one of lemmings. There is too much copying going on. Everyone lowers prices to stimulate sales. It works, but it hurts the travel agents. Every week I hear that half a dozen agencies are going out of business. We said, we don't want to hurt travel agents, and knocking $60 off our cruise won't motivate a sale the way it might at [a mass-market line]. Including shore excursions makes them commissionable.
I recently spoke with Mr. Del Rio at an Oceania event and let him know that I was not fond of the inclusive shore excursions. He questioned me as to why and I told him because it is not a luxury amenity. I explained that in the luxury market most people do not take cruise ship tours, but rather private tours. So, to my way of thinking, the inclusion not only doesn't add real value, it brings in a way of cruising that while positive for the cruise line's immediate bottom line is not necessarily so for the overall luxury cruise experience. (I offer complimentary Ensemble Travel tours on many of the cruises I book for clients. As a new alternative, I am able to offer a $150 per person onboard credit if they don't want to take the tours. This came about for the very same reason: Luxury clients tend not to take the group tours.)
There was an interesting exchange:
Q: With Regent, you chose to include shore excursions rather than lower prices. Did that stimulate sales?
A: Like nothing you've seen. It's one of the reasons why our business is stronger than most right now. This industry is one of lemmings. There is too much copying going on. Everyone lowers prices to stimulate sales. It works, but it hurts the travel agents. Every week I hear that half a dozen agencies are going out of business. We said, we don't want to hurt travel agents, and knocking $60 off our cruise won't motivate a sale the way it might at [a mass-market line]. Including shore excursions makes them commissionable.
I recently spoke with Mr. Del Rio at an Oceania event and let him know that I was not fond of the inclusive shore excursions. He questioned me as to why and I told him because it is not a luxury amenity. I explained that in the luxury market most people do not take cruise ship tours, but rather private tours. So, to my way of thinking, the inclusion not only doesn't add real value, it brings in a way of cruising that while positive for the cruise line's immediate bottom line is not necessarily so for the overall luxury cruise experience. (I offer complimentary Ensemble Travel tours on many of the cruises I book for clients. As a new alternative, I am able to offer a $150 per person onboard credit if they don't want to take the tours. This came about for the very same reason: Luxury clients tend not to take the group tours.)
There have been some recent articles on the internet about dissatisfaction on the Regent Voyager due to cutbacks in food quality (I struggle with the quality of the product, it may be the preparation or menu descriptions/marketing) and service. The issues with Regent Mariner being literally overrun with children with 125+ on its Alaska sailings may look positive to Regent's immediate bottom line, the negatives of poor service, an overwhelmed dining room, crowds and a very non-luxury experience...even at embarkation. (I will leave the Regent Navigator out of the mix...anxiously awaiting the major refit upcoming in January!)
Seabourn, on the other hand, has taken the approach which Mr. Del Rio has criticized: Seriously cutting its prices. I, too, believe that is the wrong thing to do as far as long term benefit. However, that is where we part company. As anyone who as recently been on Seabourn, including the new Seabourn Odyssey, will tell you, the service and cuisine is as good - or in the case of the Odyssey: better - than it was before the cut rate pricing.
The result I am seeing the most of is clients who were booked for 2 or 3 weeks in 2010 not looking to benefit from the reduced pricing, but rather to extend their cruise to 3 or 4 weeks for the same, or in some instances, less money. Yes, there are those that have never tried Seabourn that are coming onboard, but it is not with an expectation of anything other than it being more of a "privilege" than a "bargain"...event though the bargain has drawn them in.
So, if you believe getting more stuff equals more "value", Regent may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for more "value" in a true luxury experience, there is no question that Seabourn consistently provides that.
And if you still want some included tours...you never know, I just might be able to provide that for you as well.
Monday, July 27, 2009
LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLE - LUXURIOUS Boats
Lazzara's LSX Ninety Two for that enviable and glamorous yacht experience
If you don’t own a luxury yacht yet, you don’t deserve to be called cool and happening enough. And if you want to experience the best the world of yachting has to offer, you must consider trying Lazzara Yachts new model, the US$8.5 million LSX Ninety Two.
Luxurious boats
Being a follow up to the earlier LSX Seventy Five, the LSX Ninety Two might appear like the big sibling of the Seventy Five, but it is not just that. The Ninety Two scores high in terms of functionality, comfort and performance. You could stretch yourself on the sprawling flybridge and relax in the private water-level terrace close to the master stateroom. If you are still feeling laid back enough, you could change places to sun yourself at the retractable aft sun deck.
And if you plan to hang around the aft, why not have some great fun at the large teak swim platform and turn that into a shaded area for cooling yourself?
Diana Yacht Design shows new Hakvoort's YN 246 luxury yacht
The new Hakvoort’s YN 246 luxury yacht from the renowned house of Diana Yacht Design reminds of the famed Diana yacht’s of the 80’s like Jamaica Bay and Rio Rita. Hakvoort’s YN 246 is an exceptionally professional piece of work with a very beguiling interior that entertains her owner and his guests a high standard of luxury.
Luxurious Yachts
The steel displacement hull, in combination with classic lines and a beautiful canoe stern, makes for comfortable cruising performance. It has a range of 5,000 nm and maximum speed of 14 knots. The most striking feature of the Hakvoort is the owner’s deck with the luxurious master stateroom at the foreside with a 270-degrees panoramic view. Along with four VIP staterooms on the lower deck, the yacht can accommodate a total of 10 guests. Other on-board lavish amenities include Jacuzzi, three Sunbathing areas, outside shower, and a small bar. The fold-out swimming platform on the aft deck allows you to get in close contact with the sea.There are four double guest quarters, each with bathroom.
The open aft deck has stairways that lead up to the owner’s deck, main salon, dining room, on portside galley, powder room and nanny’s cabin with bathroom. Hakvoort’s YN 246 yacht is meant to offer its owner luxury, first class maneuverability and sea kindliness.
LUXURIOUS THING - LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLE
Ken Freivokh's Tiger sailing yacht offered for €4.5 million
Ken Freivokh, who designed both the interior and exterior of Maltese Falcon luxury yacht, has a new state-of-the-art 38m sailing yacht dubbed ‘Tiger,’ which will be sold through Luxury Yacht Group.
Luxurious Yachts
This luxe yacht offers a blend of top pedigree design and revolutionary features for extraordinary value. Featuring large interior and exterior accommodation, this stunning go-anywhere superyacht with inviting black steel hull is being touted to outclass in the vibrant and growing Mediterranean charter market. After Maltese Falcon, the Tiger is the latest in innovative yacht design from the talented Freivokh team. Offering accommodation for ten guests and five crew, the luxury yacht comes with either a single master stateroom or two separate suites.The glossy teak and mahogany aft deck boasts a 12-person dining table and Bose sound system.
Princess Mariana, the luxury yacht that moves at $1 per second
Princess Mariana, one of the most impressive mega yachts in the world, was launched in 2003, but it was available for charter, after a $12 million refurbishment in 2006. The 258 feet luxury yacht has been reported by CNNMoney as one of the most desirable charters, which rents for a whopping $606,500 a week. The figure comes out to about $1 per second. Now, that’s the ultimate in luxury yachting.
Luxurious Boats
Princess Mariana is done with every luxury possible you would expect on a mega yacht. It boasts a spacious master stateroom, two double VIP staterooms, two double staterooms, twin stateroom 13-seat cinema, a fully equipped gym, a helipad, and a golf driving range. The staterooms have plasma TVs and private en-suites. One of the most impressive amenities on-board is the Beach Club, a dry dock where the tender lives.
When the tender is outside, the dock can be transformed into a 12m swimming pool with underwater lighting.
Luxury Yacht Insurance
Luxury Yacht Insurance
Luxury Yacht Insurance has over thirty years in the yacht industry and knows how to serve your marine insurance needs.
We insure vessels from
the world's top builders. See a partial list of yacht builders below.
Our programs range from $250,000 to $25,000,000 and insure private pleasure, luxury charter, bare boat charter, catamarans, high speed vessels, and fleet operations for both motor and sail yachts.
We insure vessels from
the world's top builders. See a partial list of yacht builders below.Our programs range from $250,000 to $25,000,000 and insure private pleasure, luxury charter, bare boat charter, catamarans, high speed vessels, and fleet operations for both motor and sail yachts.
Worldwide coverage includes USA, Bahamas, Cuba, Caribbean, Panama Canal, Pacific, Mediterranean and all other areas.
Looking for marine and yacht insurance in the Caribbean? Please vist Caribbean Boat and Yacht Insurance.com. How about Charter Boat Insurance? Visit Charter Boats Insurance.com for all the latest charter insurance information. For yacht insurance, please visit W.R. Hodgens Marine Insurance for more information.
Seabourn Undercutting Silversea - Incredible Discounts!
While I am writing how there seems to be little cross-over from Silversea to Seabourn, it appears that Seabourn may well be trying to change that!
Possibly smelling Silversea blood in the water, Seabourn has essentially put all of 2010 on sale adding additional discounts to virtually all of its 2010 sailings.
Clients are calling me to extend cruises because it now is less expensive to cruise for four weeks than it was for three. Others are looking at adding additional cruises.
I am not sure that I agree with the concept, but it is here and I would urge you to take advantage of it.
And remember, even with these incredible fares I still discount every cruise and have my exclusive Goldring Travel Seabourn Referral Program, special complimentary Ensemble Experiences on many sailings and, of course, the best service for my clients.
Possibly smelling Silversea blood in the water, Seabourn has essentially put all of 2010 on sale adding additional discounts to virtually all of its 2010 sailings.
Clients are calling me to extend cruises because it now is less expensive to cruise for four weeks than it was for three. Others are looking at adding additional cruises.
I am not sure that I agree with the concept, but it is here and I would urge you to take advantage of it.
And remember, even with these incredible fares I still discount every cruise and have my exclusive Goldring Travel Seabourn Referral Program, special complimentary Ensemble Experiences on many sailings and, of course, the best service for my clients.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Luxury Yacht review
Couach 3700 Fly - A fiesta of luxury life
The new Couach 3700 Fly makes an ultimate charter vacation if you care for excellent sophistication and beautiful azure waterways. Hit the blue waters in style with this high-end 37 meter yacht that is crafted to offer everything that folks from affluent class are used to.
Luxury Yachts coming from Couach, featuring the best of on-board technology, this 3700 Fly has been exclusively designed to cater to the needs of a businessman and making it a complete resource for both work and pleasure. With more leisure options like the home automation management for lighting, blinds and videos also create a personalized atmosphere. For music lovers, it renders Music on demand. This feature lets you indulge in a list of favorite numbers from a central electronic music library, creating different musical ambiances in every corner of the boat. The interiors of the boat are in sync with its exterior form that is elegantly chic and majestic! Within the cabin, the signature “Yacht Couture” makes sense and is significantly expressed at all levels.Riva ’92 Duchessa – A spectacular beauty for the seas
Undoubtedly one of prime status symbols next to a private jet is a magnificent sailing beauty. As the list of millionaires and billionaires is increasing every day, is has become mandatory for all the super rich to own a luxury yacht. The latest to walk the red carpet on the blue waters is the ’92 Duchessa. Coming from Italy, this sensual splendor is presented by Italian yacht maker Riva. Gorgeously she shows off her exquisitely crafted black American walnut interior, spacious VIP and master cabins, a large sunpad, an above-board Jacuzzi and an advanced entertainment system. You can also look out for room on the bridge deck that stows a 4.2-meter (13′9″) tender.
Luxury YachtsAnd not only it’s the looks, but also her strength that is rendered by two 2,211 hp MTU engines is impressive. Moving with grace she can attain a top speed of 29 knots, a cruising speed of 26, and a 360-mile range at cruising speed.
Aeroyacht 110' high-performance luxury catamaran
For the luxury yacht owners, the world is one big playground, and they have the playthings to prove it. We at BornRich are big fans of luxury yachts and catamarans. Inspired by world renowned ocean racers, the Aeroyacht 110′ luxury catamaran is one of the largest multi hulls in the world that exemplifies the ultimate high performance. Designed b
y
Luxury Yacht
Gregor Tarjan, founder and president of Aeroyacht, in collaboration with the famed team of Morelli & Melvin, the 30knot capable Aeroyacht 110′ luxury catamaran has a specially designed pod to house a 2-seater Icon A5 amphibian sports plane. This pod could also be used for sightseeing, medical emergencies and transporting guests to the yacht. The catamaran has a speed potential of over 32 knots.
yLuxury Yacht
Gregor Tarjan, founder and president of Aeroyacht, in collaboration with the famed team of Morelli & Melvin, the 30knot capable Aeroyacht 110′ luxury catamaran has a specially designed pod to house a 2-seater Icon A5 amphibian sports plane. This pod could also be used for sightseeing, medical emergencies and transporting guests to the yacht. The catamaran has a speed potential of over 32 knots.
Four of the greatest yachts in the world - Speed boats
Poseidon 180 Superyacht Costs a Whopping $50 Million
A few days back, we were drooling at the Sabdes concept megayacht and many other luxury travel yachts. Now, we have the Poseidon 180 from Giancarlo Zema Design Group, which is being developed by Bugatti yachts.
greatest yachts The 180-foot superyacht touts a military developed Bentley Yachts’ air cavity hull and a pioneering hull design. The luxurious yacht comes fitted with floating decks under a giant glass dome. There are eight staterooms that enrich you with the floor to ceiling panoramic ocean views. The Poseidon 180 is power driven by Bugatti Marine engines that can hit 40 knots. Priced at a whopping $50 million, the Poseidon 180 is merely a design for now.
via SuperYachtTimes greatest yachts The 180-foot superyacht touts a military developed Bentley Yachts’ air cavity hull and a pioneering hull design. The luxurious yacht comes fitted with floating decks under a giant glass dome. There are eight staterooms that enrich you with the floor to ceiling panoramic ocean views. The Poseidon 180 is power driven by Bugatti Marine engines that can hit 40 knots. Priced at a whopping $50 million, the Poseidon 180 is merely a design for now.Boeing 727 Jet transformed into a street-legal Limo
Earlier, we have seen Boeing 747 being converted into a luxury house, a luxury yacht and a bedroom flight simulator. This time, someone has actually built a street legal Boeing 727 Jet Limo. The best part is that the transformed Mercedes bus is street legal and has that capacity to seat up to 50 persons in opulence. This Boeing 727 Jet Limo includes a sunken living ro
om speed yachts with a dance floor, big screen TV, fireplace, full bar, fog machine, tons of lighting, ceiling mirrors, and aerodynamic seats. The whole thing weighs approximately 24,000 pound. Do you want to keep it in your backyard? Well, this street legal 727 limo is sitting at US $269,900 on eBay.
Wspeed boatshat better way to splash your riches than by buying a luxury yacht? Too drab for your taste, eh? Have no fear because Setzer Design has unveiled two new designs that are way more attractive than the normal, conventional, awfully white stuff. Tagged Cerise and Javelin, these two vessels will form a part of company’s Vision Line. Rendered bright in red and blue respectively and streamlined wonderfully, Cerise and Javelin certainly look the part to adorn any rich boy’s fancy collection. Cerise is the smaller of the two designs and is a neat 165-footer doing 14 knots. Having four deck levels, a crew lounge, large holds and system spaces, it has plenty of room. Cerise also comes with four guest cabins, one twin cabin, one master with nearby office/library and a theater for 10. On the luxury front, it has lounges, grills and several bars.
om speed yachts with a dance floor, big screen TV, fireplace, full bar, fog machine, tons of lighting, ceiling mirrors, and aerodynamic seats. The whole thing weighs approximately 24,000 pound. Do you want to keep it in your backyard? Well, this street legal 727 limo is sitting at US $269,900 on eBay.Designer yachts that make do without white
Wspeed boatshat better way to splash your riches than by buying a luxury yacht? Too drab for your taste, eh? Have no fear because Setzer Design has unveiled two new designs that are way more attractive than the normal, conventional, awfully white stuff. Tagged Cerise and Javelin, these two vessels will form a part of company’s Vision Line. Rendered bright in red and blue respectively and streamlined wonderfully, Cerise and Javelin certainly look the part to adorn any rich boy’s fancy collection. Cerise is the smaller of the two designs and is a neat 165-footer doing 14 knots. Having four deck levels, a crew lounge, large holds and system spaces, it has plenty of room. Cerise also comes with four guest cabins, one twin cabin, one master with nearby office/library and a theater for 10. On the luxury front, it has lounges, grills and several bars.Thea from Fraser Yachts sails out for $8.5 million
With the number of luxurious yachts surfacing over the blue waters, it won’t be long before the remaining 70% of the watery part of our globe also screams of traffic congestion. The latest luxurious entrant is the Thea. Aptly named, this goddess (Thea is Greek for goddess) yacht from Fraser Yachts is up in the market for a wicked price of €5,900,000 ($8.5 million). Originally launched in 1968 as Donapila
yachtsII, this timeless yacht is again being fine-tuned to keep up with its market’s demand. Large enough, this gorgeous sailing vessel has room for smaller siblings like jet-ski and speed boat on the upper deck. Spreading out with generous space for lazing, lounging and relaxing under the sun during the day and stars by night, the Thea seems to be the ultimate solution for a lavish vacation.
yachtsII, this timeless yacht is again being fine-tuned to keep up with its market’s demand. Large enough, this gorgeous sailing vessel has room for smaller siblings like jet-ski and speed boat on the upper deck. Spreading out with generous space for lazing, lounging and relaxing under the sun during the day and stars by night, the Thea seems to be the ultimate solution for a lavish vacation. Super Boats and Mega Yachts - Picture gallery
More pictures and information about the most popular and luxury yachts and superboats in the world.
Trimaran
Price: $2.4 million
Designed by: Craig Loomes
The most extreme design that you will see in the Yacht industry is apparently designed by Craig Loomes and resembles a futuristic boat for your recreational sea voyages.
![[trimaran.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOkUburXJhlaBuE1N5QGBid-qJ0blp82d1ct2RbUi3NmX0c4VEKHXo_gZ7dPQvaquIBhvoUlmUIhI9KJj33YJssmMbZQWvHTxLp1R-keMOxwOXQjW7Q450LJZItMk8SYQBssYFQpGi0gc/s1600/trimaran.jpg)
Mega Yachts
Although the Trimaran, which looks like something from a Star Trek movie, is not the fastest out there but can surely be taken as one of the world’s most extreme superyacht.
The 148-meter hull boasts of split-level luxury staterooms offering room for up to 28 guests. The top speed for this yacht is 50 knots when all of the 33,000 HP kicks is utilized. At a cruising speed of 40 knots the range is over 3,000 miles. The unique thing about this luxury Trimaran is the long, slim center hull flanked by two narrow side hulls that provide stability.
The luxury amenities available on board are a swimming pool, hot tub, rooms for sunbathing, a grand piano and bar, a helicopter pad, a grand hall and an internal harbor.
Frank Mulder Gigayacht
Designed by: Naval architect Frank Mulder of Mulder Design
The Frank Mulder Gigayacht is claimed by many to be the most expensive item ever sold on eBay for a purchase price of $168,000,000. Now, a Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich owns this beauty.
![[Gigayacht.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEwWC8rGMraKKLmnnoUZ3BqTdEcH-3ta6ZYqS3l81i-kPqz7ZDQ3GwjnSFBwQ4jQmYPGiNap9O-il-EBZSNKZ6QPNRzmAB_Csqp5JdeBdmhuUTaT6UbGCYZKgURmCl3JzInjoG_VYcdOA/s1600/Gigayacht.jpg)
The ultra-luxury yacht boasts of luxurious master suite on deck that features luxury office area, salon, cinema room, fitness room, two person cabin for children, body guards. The stunning yacht also features helicopter garage in the bow with retractable elevator, two fabulous multi-level VIP Suites with panoramic windows, sixteen luxurious oversized guest cabins.
Annaliesse
Charter Price: US $840,000 per week
![[luxury-yachts1.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTcdGNg5Eoo5WqW7P345D9lBeLtIm_23Eqc-fvV0Ie8pYRkaPz0pKGmRf4dBDPFOvcte2cBilvKRWbx2cbL0HQEP2i0ZJ78jeL6nTbcbXTWWHZzHxuj4W83YQSE9xN3XCSEek_iV8mAB0/s1600/luxury-yachts1.jpg)
Mega YachtsOne of the world’s most impressive yachts, the Annaliesse, which also topped the list of “world’s most expensive yachts” by Forbes, was taken off the charter market in March 2007 and sold to a private owner.
The 280 feet yacht features room for 36 guests in 18 cabins, 1,184 square foot main stateroom offering panoramic views, private deck, his and hers walk-in closets and marble bath with Jacuzzi, full-service spa, bars, salon, a sundeck with Jacuzzi and helipad a library/theater room with a 100-inch screen.
The owner’s stateroom is equipped with a king-size bed, a 42-inch FFFD TV and panoramic windows that can be covered with a remote control. The yacht has a range of 7000 nautical miles with a top speed of 18 knots. The queen of the ocean was up for an asking price of $95.448 million.
Image
Maltese Falcon
Built by: Italian Perini Navi Yachts
![[maltese-falcon.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZ9QiNka7UYctdae8PHsBvR1wcLpK0Dhicmf1cYzOf3q1P_uQACXO0OrjE8YF5FGKp0yAKJdOPACDAkCcK8RVSK3iCqzwDfiuuY8zq9djXz7HuydEktT3uoZh0QmgMD-95olm2cDjck4/s1600/maltese-falcon.jpg)
Owned by: American Millionaire Tom Perkins
Cruising on the waves is simply different and exotic with the Maltese Falcon. The 87.5 meters luxury sailing yacht is the world’s largest and fastest personal sailboat controlled by its three gigantic 57-meter tall free-standing masts. The credit for its record shattering speeds goes to the DynaRig under its hood.
We can’t ignore the lavish amenities that come on-board with the Maltese Falcon. It comes equipped with all the state-of-art luxury décor and features of a large mega yacht. The stunning yacht, which is a prefect blend of design and technology, is providing ‘Atlantic crossings in ten days’ offer.
The other things on the beautiful beast for the geeks are 4 laser sailing boats, 6 full sets of dive gear, water skis, snorkeling gear, Technogym, audio-visual devices, 50-inch plasma in main salon, SAT TV and DVD throughout the boat. All the four guest suites have 42-inch plasmas while the “Passage Cabin” located at the upper deck has a 32-inch plasma display. For the true audiophiles, Maltese Falcon boasts B & O surround sound all the way through the vessel. VSAT takes care of the wireless internet connectivity.
Octopus
Built by: German shipbuilder Lürssen in Bremen
Owned by: Paul Allen, Microsoft’s billionare
The luxury private yacht Octopus cost Paul Allen over $200 million and has a total crew of sixty members. The beauty comes loaded with high-tech features like the “marina dock” for the custom main tender and the mini-sub.
![[octopus.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTxHbMYAY5l0yBab1ff1BF8gUA-Sx0PTZPwy3uPdR4iO0UG31p6_LMTsaTjyw6C9oyKqNSia3Bn-lQyu_EliZ7sSso2ZVQSUeCtBuyPDbAT9H7uiNwsuiPFipmgiNnVxjs19eE1dqxIY/s1600/octopus.jpg)
At 414 feet, the Octopus boasts alfresco dining, support for three helicopters on the top deck, and remote control submarine. To keep the beast in excellent working condition, an annual budget of $20 million is needed.
Rising Sun
Built by: Lürssen in Bremen, Germany
Owned by: Larry Ellison (Head of Oracle Corp.)
Larry Ellison’s Rising Sun is a simple gigantic at 452 feet & 8-inches. The exteriors of the large luxury yacht are been designed by late Jon Bannenberg and the interior by Laura Seccombe. Larry went for the Rising Sun because some people say that he wanted to own a bigger yacht than Paul Allen’s Octopus.
![[risingsun.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQLkbwFJlwVXxXwClsUxmLjW1KDgj4flxslezxeEsRVxetfOgXsbslc5HCvjVt8KWDTPqVe2rQ5pE7uH_KB8U0u7wPZ-YtxEzetJRfpCgebF9EluYRiS46X8fdh-Y_ZnbmBYOBZ0yvTE/s1600/risingsun.jpg)
Mega Yacht
The long list of luxury things on-board include a colossal swimming pool, all-embracing wine cellar, a cinema, basketball court that also works as a helicopter pad, suites for 16 guests, and space for private submarine. The production cost of the big Rising Sun is said to be US$200+. The privately owned yacht boasts 8 000 square meters of total living space.
Passing reference:
• WallyIsland
Wallypower yachts are well known among luxury circles. The company is also working on a 325-foot yacht with a colossal deck area of 1,000 sq. mtr. to accommodate state-of-art luxurious amenities and facilities including a deep water pool, a heli pad, mini soccer court, tennis court and garden oasis with trees! WallyIsland, as it is aptly called will be customizable, so you can actually design a boat of your own, just like you always wanted!
• Hull 6154
![[wally.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnS1sPhntyymKLkw3mf8lqdU_RQHjDXNBmdjjlHAOtx3BaQVoI2AEbipi44T9isGj1mLWjXQylOuevF9dfvRIK2F1pcLe_TLgLt4xJMuvhQoxN8cEx2dQAsa9m1SnaB8Z1dan0CjIHkCk/s1600/wally.jpg)
Some unknown Russian tycoon is being rumored to be making the world’s most expensive privately owned yacht. At 438 feet, the so-called Hull 6154 will feature seven decks, 15 state rooms, Jacuzzis, a gym, two helicopter pads and storage space for a submarine and is said to bring back $270 million. The super-sized private yacht is being built by Fincantieri, one of the world’s leading yacht builders at its base in Genoa
• Angelina Jolie and beau Brad Pitt’s $138m yacht
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt are being reported to have commissioned a 280-foot-long Italian luxury yacht for $268 million. The yacht will come festooned with a swimming pool, a heliport, and a submarine, and is expected for delivery in 2009. They have ordered the luxury yacht from the luxury shipbuilder Privilege Yard SpA.
Source: http://luxurious-thing.blogspot.com/
Trimaran
Price: $2.4 million
Designed by: Craig Loomes
The most extreme design that you will see in the Yacht industry is apparently designed by Craig Loomes and resembles a futuristic boat for your recreational sea voyages.
Mega YachtsAlthough the Trimaran, which looks like something from a Star Trek movie, is not the fastest out there but can surely be taken as one of the world’s most extreme superyacht.
The 148-meter hull boasts of split-level luxury staterooms offering room for up to 28 guests. The top speed for this yacht is 50 knots when all of the 33,000 HP kicks is utilized. At a cruising speed of 40 knots the range is over 3,000 miles. The unique thing about this luxury Trimaran is the long, slim center hull flanked by two narrow side hulls that provide stability.
The luxury amenities available on board are a swimming pool, hot tub, rooms for sunbathing, a grand piano and bar, a helicopter pad, a grand hall and an internal harbor.
Frank Mulder Gigayacht
Designed by: Naval architect Frank Mulder of Mulder Design
The Frank Mulder Gigayacht is claimed by many to be the most expensive item ever sold on eBay for a purchase price of $168,000,000. Now, a Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich owns this beauty.
The ultra-luxury yacht boasts of luxurious master suite on deck that features luxury office area, salon, cinema room, fitness room, two person cabin for children, body guards. The stunning yacht also features helicopter garage in the bow with retractable elevator, two fabulous multi-level VIP Suites with panoramic windows, sixteen luxurious oversized guest cabins.
Annaliesse
Charter Price: US $840,000 per week
Mega YachtsOne of the world’s most impressive yachts, the Annaliesse, which also topped the list of “world’s most expensive yachts” by Forbes, was taken off the charter market in March 2007 and sold to a private owner.
The 280 feet yacht features room for 36 guests in 18 cabins, 1,184 square foot main stateroom offering panoramic views, private deck, his and hers walk-in closets and marble bath with Jacuzzi, full-service spa, bars, salon, a sundeck with Jacuzzi and helipad a library/theater room with a 100-inch screen.
The owner’s stateroom is equipped with a king-size bed, a 42-inch FFFD TV and panoramic windows that can be covered with a remote control. The yacht has a range of 7000 nautical miles with a top speed of 18 knots. The queen of the ocean was up for an asking price of $95.448 million.
Image
Maltese Falcon
Built by: Italian Perini Navi Yachts
Owned by: American Millionaire Tom Perkins
Cruising on the waves is simply different and exotic with the Maltese Falcon. The 87.5 meters luxury sailing yacht is the world’s largest and fastest personal sailboat controlled by its three gigantic 57-meter tall free-standing masts. The credit for its record shattering speeds goes to the DynaRig under its hood.
We can’t ignore the lavish amenities that come on-board with the Maltese Falcon. It comes equipped with all the state-of-art luxury décor and features of a large mega yacht. The stunning yacht, which is a prefect blend of design and technology, is providing ‘Atlantic crossings in ten days’ offer.
The other things on the beautiful beast for the geeks are 4 laser sailing boats, 6 full sets of dive gear, water skis, snorkeling gear, Technogym, audio-visual devices, 50-inch plasma in main salon, SAT TV and DVD throughout the boat. All the four guest suites have 42-inch plasmas while the “Passage Cabin” located at the upper deck has a 32-inch plasma display. For the true audiophiles, Maltese Falcon boasts B & O surround sound all the way through the vessel. VSAT takes care of the wireless internet connectivity.
Octopus
Built by: German shipbuilder Lürssen in Bremen
Owned by: Paul Allen, Microsoft’s billionare
The luxury private yacht Octopus cost Paul Allen over $200 million and has a total crew of sixty members. The beauty comes loaded with high-tech features like the “marina dock” for the custom main tender and the mini-sub.
At 414 feet, the Octopus boasts alfresco dining, support for three helicopters on the top deck, and remote control submarine. To keep the beast in excellent working condition, an annual budget of $20 million is needed.
Rising Sun
Built by: Lürssen in Bremen, Germany
Owned by: Larry Ellison (Head of Oracle Corp.)
Larry Ellison’s Rising Sun is a simple gigantic at 452 feet & 8-inches. The exteriors of the large luxury yacht are been designed by late Jon Bannenberg and the interior by Laura Seccombe. Larry went for the Rising Sun because some people say that he wanted to own a bigger yacht than Paul Allen’s Octopus.
Mega Yacht
The long list of luxury things on-board include a colossal swimming pool, all-embracing wine cellar, a cinema, basketball court that also works as a helicopter pad, suites for 16 guests, and space for private submarine. The production cost of the big Rising Sun is said to be US$200+. The privately owned yacht boasts 8 000 square meters of total living space.
Passing reference:
• WallyIsland
Wallypower yachts are well known among luxury circles. The company is also working on a 325-foot yacht with a colossal deck area of 1,000 sq. mtr. to accommodate state-of-art luxurious amenities and facilities including a deep water pool, a heli pad, mini soccer court, tennis court and garden oasis with trees! WallyIsland, as it is aptly called will be customizable, so you can actually design a boat of your own, just like you always wanted!
• Hull 6154
Some unknown Russian tycoon is being rumored to be making the world’s most expensive privately owned yacht. At 438 feet, the so-called Hull 6154 will feature seven decks, 15 state rooms, Jacuzzis, a gym, two helicopter pads and storage space for a submarine and is said to bring back $270 million. The super-sized private yacht is being built by Fincantieri, one of the world’s leading yacht builders at its base in Genoa
• Angelina Jolie and beau Brad Pitt’s $138m yacht
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt are being reported to have commissioned a 280-foot-long Italian luxury yacht for $268 million. The yacht will come festooned with a swimming pool, a heliport, and a submarine, and is expected for delivery in 2009. They have ordered the luxury yacht from the luxury shipbuilder Privilege Yard SpA.
Source: http://luxurious-thing.blogspot.com/
High-tech Luxury Yachts - Super Boats
Magnificent, majestic, royal, breathtaking, and graceful are the words that describe the real meaning of luxury yachts. For the superyacht owners, the world is one big playground and they have the playthings to prove it.
There has been an incessant increase in the count and fame of large private luxury yachts over the last two decades. This list of top 12 high-tech luxury travel yachts will tell you that these are not just another means of transport over the water but a style statement too. Let’s not waste any more time and take a look at these spectacular beauties.
Sea Dream
![[seadream.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXNgN1_RxRjHxmyeTlcweHVZF9S4v7N8rTFwUlutFtmX1G8o4U0ZB6C_yBZ4oERFhVGyjYuSwb9IY3XL-KETgQDPxuMv-_8FBqwwLpRnUe6xzIbaChiJXRF1Z3HDg3wy2ldirrT7LgHg/s1600/seadream.jpg)
Charter price: US$ 315000 to US $700000 per week
The splendid 344-foot Sea Dream luxury yacht lets large groups submerge straight into an unforgettable luxury experience. The most striking thing on Sea Dream is its exceptional cuisine.
The list of the lavish on-board amenities include ‘open air’ area with spectacular water views, dining salon, new boardroom area, bar cocktails, library with many games, Asian Spa and Wellness Center, beauty salon, 3 steam showers, 2 treatment rooms, and a sauna, separate guest’s ensuite bathroom, and flat screen TV & DVD & CD players throughout the 195 square foot of living area.
Excellence III
![[excellence.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7iOE0IqZazs3B9p0sQgtsfL-5MLNGg_DFlS84grg28pJIIzqGhQr5N1OL1SZ6wDU53-CZifJePf9Iq2aE4IsCW6g2_9Fejn-aaSl5c-MlysEYX8G8yDLe37GWzpLXOPHvalzr6Vy3hls/s1600/excellence.jpg)
Built by: Abeking & Rasmussen
Charter Price: US $365000 to $385000 per week
The luxury motor yacht Excellence III charters both the Mediterranean and Caribbean waterways. The interiors are a perfect intermingling of mahogany, harmonized by myrtle and honey onyx. The yacht accommodates 12 people in its six luxurious guest cabins, of which four are king-size.
Luxury yacht Excellence III offers two Windsurfers, two kayaks, two 800hp Yamaha Wave runner jet skis, various knee boards, water skis, inflatable toys, snorkeling equipment, rendezvous diving and fishing tackle. The innards of the luxury yacht features a LINN music system, a Plasma screen TV in guests and master cabins, the Sky lounge (convertible to full theatre), a gymnasium, and a steam shower.
Atmosphere
![[atmosphere.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBqulv_CJQPBDx5MVvlj4txggTsGzhyphenhyphen072Hc91eKaMBkou8cxjQvoUJL_1wr6vA8FAyhtAmSMlITvP7GXAiFCHhVnCLOCoqaWAPLWtm1S7okyDdtE22iF6iWb7aEfIHI0hZ6CjNWC9sE/s1600/atmosphere.jpg)
Built by: Perini Navi in 2000
Charter Price: US $ 210,000
The 174ft Atmosphere luxury yacht offers exceptionally spacious accommodation for its 14 guests, thanks to the 11.40m beam. The interiors of the yacht have been designed to the best of Perini standards.
The interiors of the super yacht are festooned with russet-toned fabrics with shades of orange and gold, and graceful cherry-wood joinery. Dining room can be changed into a conference room in case of any business meetings. Other facilities include a main saloon, a sauna, separate Turkish bath, satellite TV/DVD/video/stereo throughout the yacht, and Jacuzzi dip pool.
Virginian
![[virginian.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25V_fEAxDBUsKAP2F5B_uDM0_-omHhTWXTAGuC4C_D-Pzi2MVdwop_ALzvkQCKvEkwu8HjI7g2ajFoOh7D2tA-35HDbhTiOD-2cmbOGMKzrCY_65heWbAlaj_G18jmssWWYx9Mt3tZBk/s1600/virginian.jpg)
Built by: Van Lent in 1990
Charter Price: US$294000 per week
The Virginian luxury yacht is well-known for its fabulous design and outstanding technical specifications. At 203 feet, Virginian offers accommodation for 12 guests in six cabins.
The yacht features an array of lavish facilities such as an on-deck Jacuzzi, a mosaic octopus in the master bathroom, a bar, abundant dining space on the sundeck, and, interestingly, a library with built-in bookcases.
Senses
![[senses.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7EamKUvhQw__DxxSY603CFsa3JtjsSGJjnM31iREe3b1_kSeq7Ly0NIRV0O_v4ItWtTCnlGLyFcXSAQK7f7JKJYzek4VY7o4P4aqx24Utxr4VaQmxEAqML9HYTN6ZaxW9_UQ8UDRULAE/s1600/senses.jpg)
Designed by: Martin Francis
Charter Price: US$ 240000 to US $250000 per week
The inimitable charter yacht enriches you with the four-wheel-drive option as compared to the conventional yachts. If you take a look at the robust exteriors, you can’t even think of the lavish, beautiful interiors with which the “Senses” is festooned with. Designed by Martin Francis, the interiors are decked with wonderful wood with cream soft furnishings.
The Senses is equipped with all the latest luxury amenities such as satellite television, stereo music systems, Jacuzzi pool, gym, and sauna. The motor yacht offers charter accommodation for up to 12 guests.
Leander
![[leander.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHCgUcemXGBKHW7tJGuDplKIaqb4MGJcoA5A-5tmZP4pmKszVGVirt13Ekhgx6Av5N7hXMTYAFGq3oRFbiy_UF5ahTMJB-6P55VzODzcz84A8QoltBvEOD6UzmtEzTo7CFxJAAOkRpUy4/s1600/leander.jpg)
Built by: Peene shipyard, Germany in 1994
Charter Price: US$ 490,000 per week
The yacht Leander is one of the largest yachts build over the last decade with all the latest luxury facilities. The 75 meter full displacement yacht offers excellent accommodation spread over 3 deck levels, with utterly private VIP apartments.
The luxury mega yacht touts lavish dining room, observation lounge, panoramic windows, custom pool with Jacuzzi, audio/visual equipment a bar, sauna, barbeque, and a modern gym.
source: http://luxurious-thing.blogspot.com/
There has been an incessant increase in the count and fame of large private luxury yachts over the last two decades. This list of top 12 high-tech luxury travel yachts will tell you that these are not just another means of transport over the water but a style statement too. Let’s not waste any more time and take a look at these spectacular beauties.
Sea Dream
Charter price: US$ 315000 to US $700000 per week
The splendid 344-foot Sea Dream luxury yacht lets large groups submerge straight into an unforgettable luxury experience. The most striking thing on Sea Dream is its exceptional cuisine.
The list of the lavish on-board amenities include ‘open air’ area with spectacular water views, dining salon, new boardroom area, bar cocktails, library with many games, Asian Spa and Wellness Center, beauty salon, 3 steam showers, 2 treatment rooms, and a sauna, separate guest’s ensuite bathroom, and flat screen TV & DVD & CD players throughout the 195 square foot of living area.
Excellence III
Built by: Abeking & Rasmussen
Charter Price: US $365000 to $385000 per week
The luxury motor yacht Excellence III charters both the Mediterranean and Caribbean waterways. The interiors are a perfect intermingling of mahogany, harmonized by myrtle and honey onyx. The yacht accommodates 12 people in its six luxurious guest cabins, of which four are king-size.
Luxury yacht Excellence III offers two Windsurfers, two kayaks, two 800hp Yamaha Wave runner jet skis, various knee boards, water skis, inflatable toys, snorkeling equipment, rendezvous diving and fishing tackle. The innards of the luxury yacht features a LINN music system, a Plasma screen TV in guests and master cabins, the Sky lounge (convertible to full theatre), a gymnasium, and a steam shower.
Atmosphere
Built by: Perini Navi in 2000
Charter Price: US $ 210,000
The 174ft Atmosphere luxury yacht offers exceptionally spacious accommodation for its 14 guests, thanks to the 11.40m beam. The interiors of the yacht have been designed to the best of Perini standards.
The interiors of the super yacht are festooned with russet-toned fabrics with shades of orange and gold, and graceful cherry-wood joinery. Dining room can be changed into a conference room in case of any business meetings. Other facilities include a main saloon, a sauna, separate Turkish bath, satellite TV/DVD/video/stereo throughout the yacht, and Jacuzzi dip pool.
Virginian
Built by: Van Lent in 1990
Charter Price: US$294000 per week
The Virginian luxury yacht is well-known for its fabulous design and outstanding technical specifications. At 203 feet, Virginian offers accommodation for 12 guests in six cabins.
The yacht features an array of lavish facilities such as an on-deck Jacuzzi, a mosaic octopus in the master bathroom, a bar, abundant dining space on the sundeck, and, interestingly, a library with built-in bookcases.
Senses
Designed by: Martin Francis
Charter Price: US$ 240000 to US $250000 per week
The inimitable charter yacht enriches you with the four-wheel-drive option as compared to the conventional yachts. If you take a look at the robust exteriors, you can’t even think of the lavish, beautiful interiors with which the “Senses” is festooned with. Designed by Martin Francis, the interiors are decked with wonderful wood with cream soft furnishings.
The Senses is equipped with all the latest luxury amenities such as satellite television, stereo music systems, Jacuzzi pool, gym, and sauna. The motor yacht offers charter accommodation for up to 12 guests.
Leander
Built by: Peene shipyard, Germany in 1994
Charter Price: US$ 490,000 per week
The yacht Leander is one of the largest yachts build over the last decade with all the latest luxury facilities. The 75 meter full displacement yacht offers excellent accommodation spread over 3 deck levels, with utterly private VIP apartments.
The luxury mega yacht touts lavish dining room, observation lounge, panoramic windows, custom pool with Jacuzzi, audio/visual equipment a bar, sauna, barbeque, and a modern gym.
source: http://luxurious-thing.blogspot.com/
Luxury yachts picture gallery - super boats - yackt cha
Yachts in Princes Wharf in Auckland
Trieste lighthouse
black and white photo of barcelonetta marina
Yaletown Yachts
Dubai Marina
Sail Vessel in Cook Strait
Round-the-world Yacht out of water for maintenance
Sailing In San Francisco
Yachting in France
Spinnaker in Sydney
Aldeburgh Yachts at Sunset
yacht at sunset in the caribbean
Source: http://yatch.wordpress.com/ picture source: Flickr
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Oceania Cruises - More Great Improvements...But It Is Still About The People
Oceania Cruises invited me to a exclusive event last evening at the French Culinary Institute in New York City where they announced another great feature for their new ship, Oceania Marina: a Jacques Pepin French Bistro style restaurant aptly named "Jacques".
I have met Jacques Pepin a number of times...not because I am anyone special, but because he is so approachable. Last night, while waiting for the official announcement, I recounted with him some amusing moments some years ago at the Aspen Food & Wine Festival which he attends almost annually. He introduced his wife and spoke of his daughter. And briefly chatted about his working on the menu for the about to be announced restaurant.
After chatting with him I thought about my chat with Charley Palmer on the Seabourn Odyssey Inaugural Cruise less than a month ago. First I thought about how lucky I am, and how cool it was, to briefly chat with two remarkable chefs and to do it in such a short span of time. But then I thought about how these two men were similar in many respects, but also so different. Charley Palmer is a guy I could easily see sitting down with a glass of whiskey and talking about anything in a "manly" way. Jacques Pepin comes across more as your favorite uncle who you just can't wait to be invited over to his home for a family dinner with wonderfully simple, but elegant, food, wine and conversation.
I also had the opportunity to speak with Frank Del Rio, Chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings (owner of Oceania Cruises). He was warm, caring, proud and enthusiastic. We had a bit of a chat about both Oceania and Regent Seven Seas wherein I explained my confidence in the Oceania product, but my concerns with Regent. Unlike you might expect, he was not defensive, but very interested. He brought me over to the wonderfully charming head of Hotel Operations and the three of us had a pleasant, but candid, conversation where each of us learned some things. It was all about making the product the best it can be. (I did tell Mr. Del Rio that I am not a fan of the inclusive tours on Regent as luxury clients tend not to take them, so it was more of a negative than a positive...but that is a discussion for another blog post.) The conversation left me feeling upbeat and enthused.
Bob Binder, President of Oceania Cruises spoke during the formal announcement of Oceania's commitment to the use of the finest ingredients when making everything from chocolate croissants to its steaks; emphasizing Oceania's cuisine and its constant development and improvement.
The Marina will also have a very cool 22 station culinary center where, unlike anything else at sea, guests will be able to actually cook either a single lesson or a cruise-long course, rather than simply watching a demonstration. Mr. Binder spoke of going shopping with the chef and bringing local ingredients back to the ship's culinary center to create, for example, a wonderful pesto. (I think this is a wonderful concept and I am sure there will be very high demand for this. For me it is reason enough to book a cruise on the Marina. Imagine learning the ingredients and techniques necessary to bring the local cuisine home with you...so that you can relive your cruise whenever you step into your home kitchen. Great life experience...and great marketing!)
And that brings me back to Jacques Pepin and his new restaurant. He spoke, as he always does, of Jacques having "honest" food that is simple and prepared properly. As he said in his later cooking demonstration (how many of those has he done in the past 50+ years?!) that the key is not to screw up great ingredients, but rather to touch them the least amount possible.
To me, that is what Oceania is about. While the public spaces are beautiful (though the standard cabins are a bit small) and the itineraries interesting, what makes Oceania a great value and easy to recommend is simple: It is the ingredients.
From Frank Del Rio to the busboy, the buffet to the new Jacques Restaurant, Oceania is all about a very simple concept: High quality ingredients (be it people or food) which are prepared properly (whether in training or in the galley) and which are not screwed up (with faux luxury/pretense or unnecessary complication.)
Note: Oceania has told me there is going to be a BIG surprise on the Marina that will be announced closer to the launch. No one will tell me what it is, but they are very excited about it. With the installation of Canyon Ranch spas on the ships, the Marina Culinary Center and Jacques already announced, it has to be something special. Of course with the launch still more than a year away we are going to have to wait. Such problems!
I have met Jacques Pepin a number of times...not because I am anyone special, but because he is so approachable. Last night, while waiting for the official announcement, I recounted with him some amusing moments some years ago at the Aspen Food & Wine Festival which he attends almost annually. He introduced his wife and spoke of his daughter. And briefly chatted about his working on the menu for the about to be announced restaurant.
After chatting with him I thought about my chat with Charley Palmer on the Seabourn Odyssey Inaugural Cruise less than a month ago. First I thought about how lucky I am, and how cool it was, to briefly chat with two remarkable chefs and to do it in such a short span of time. But then I thought about how these two men were similar in many respects, but also so different. Charley Palmer is a guy I could easily see sitting down with a glass of whiskey and talking about anything in a "manly" way. Jacques Pepin comes across more as your favorite uncle who you just can't wait to be invited over to his home for a family dinner with wonderfully simple, but elegant, food, wine and conversation.
I also had the opportunity to speak with Frank Del Rio, Chairman and CEO of Prestige Cruise Holdings (owner of Oceania Cruises). He was warm, caring, proud and enthusiastic. We had a bit of a chat about both Oceania and Regent Seven Seas wherein I explained my confidence in the Oceania product, but my concerns with Regent. Unlike you might expect, he was not defensive, but very interested. He brought me over to the wonderfully charming head of Hotel Operations and the three of us had a pleasant, but candid, conversation where each of us learned some things. It was all about making the product the best it can be. (I did tell Mr. Del Rio that I am not a fan of the inclusive tours on Regent as luxury clients tend not to take them, so it was more of a negative than a positive...but that is a discussion for another blog post.) The conversation left me feeling upbeat and enthused.
Bob Binder, President of Oceania Cruises spoke during the formal announcement of Oceania's commitment to the use of the finest ingredients when making everything from chocolate croissants to its steaks; emphasizing Oceania's cuisine and its constant development and improvement.
The Marina will also have a very cool 22 station culinary center where, unlike anything else at sea, guests will be able to actually cook either a single lesson or a cruise-long course, rather than simply watching a demonstration. Mr. Binder spoke of going shopping with the chef and bringing local ingredients back to the ship's culinary center to create, for example, a wonderful pesto. (I think this is a wonderful concept and I am sure there will be very high demand for this. For me it is reason enough to book a cruise on the Marina. Imagine learning the ingredients and techniques necessary to bring the local cuisine home with you...so that you can relive your cruise whenever you step into your home kitchen. Great life experience...and great marketing!)
And that brings me back to Jacques Pepin and his new restaurant. He spoke, as he always does, of Jacques having "honest" food that is simple and prepared properly. As he said in his later cooking demonstration (how many of those has he done in the past 50+ years?!) that the key is not to screw up great ingredients, but rather to touch them the least amount possible.
To me, that is what Oceania is about. While the public spaces are beautiful (though the standard cabins are a bit small) and the itineraries interesting, what makes Oceania a great value and easy to recommend is simple: It is the ingredients.
From Frank Del Rio to the busboy, the buffet to the new Jacques Restaurant, Oceania is all about a very simple concept: High quality ingredients (be it people or food) which are prepared properly (whether in training or in the galley) and which are not screwed up (with faux luxury/pretense or unnecessary complication.)
Note: Oceania has told me there is going to be a BIG surprise on the Marina that will be announced closer to the launch. No one will tell me what it is, but they are very excited about it. With the installation of Canyon Ranch spas on the ships, the Marina Culinary Center and Jacques already announced, it has to be something special. Of course with the launch still more than a year away we are going to have to wait. Such problems!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Seabourn and Silversea Cruise Lines - Are They Really Competitors?
At first blush this may seem like worse than a naive question, but one that is just silly. I mean, how could the two largest true luxury cruise lines not be direct competitors?
Yesterday I learned some very interesting statistics. Silversea claims that it actually has more former Princess passengers on it ships than Seabourn guests. More Holland America passengers. More Cunard (actually the highest percentage). More Crystal. In fact, when providing the statistics Seabourn wasn't even mentioned; and clearly isn't in its top four sources of prior cruisers.
When first faced with this surprise I was, frankly, shocked. Of course Seabourn had to been in the mix, didn't it? But then I started thinking...as I do.
Silversea provides a very upscale product; no question about it. It has gone through, and probably will continue to go through changes, while it struggles with its present situation. However, Silversea has stressed that it is not cutting back, but rather adding value through essentially keeping the product the same and lowering prices. (I do not acknowledge that to be true - I don't have personal knowledge - but that is the company line.)
Seabourn also provides a very upscale product, but what I experience and what I hear consistently - even with the launch of the Seabourn Odyssey - is that it is the staff that makes Seabourn Seabourn. (How many expressed concerns abouth whether Seabourn could deliver the same quality service on its larger ship? I have not heard a single person say Seabourn hasn't succeeded.)
Aside from opinions about cuisine and service levels (or, better, style differences) the ships are markedly different. The Seabourn triplets with only 208 guests are yachtie and the 450 passenger Seabourn Odyssey provides the same yacht-like service. Silversea, however, provides a large platform for all its ships (which are medium to medium-large). Is that why Silversea mentions passenger to space ratios rather than differences in service? Probably.
So with the similarity, and knowing that many cruise these lines to be on the ships first of all and itinerary second, why isn't there more cross-over? My experience tells me that I have a much more prevalent move to Seabourn from Regent and Celebrity (and a bit from Oceania). I have had Seabourners try Holland America or Cunard...once. But not so much the other way round. I do have some serious Crystal clients that happily swing between it and Seabourn.
One interesting observation: Seabourn's ships are sailing pretty full this summer. In fact, Seabourn is running into situations where it is oversold. Silversea, on the other hand, ha thrown everything it has (butlers, $1,000 onboard credits, deep discounts, etc.) to attract more guests...and its ships still have significant space available.
With such great deals (and they are) why aren't more Seabourn guests giving Silversea a try? I believe that at this level the guests know what they want and it is not necessarily about getting the best deal...when measured solely by the dollar/pound/euro.
Backtracking to the move-up clients, it would appear that it is a bit more in what the style of service is provided (or, in some instances, marketed) in the mass market/premium market that a particular person latches onto and becomes comfortable with. Every line tries to pitch some sort of service difference and, it would seem, that comfort with the "hint" given on Princess may build a natural acceptance to Silversea's marketing, while the "hint" on Celebrity favors Seabourn.
Regent is a whole 'nuther kettle of fish which I will address another day. Suffice it to say, as I recently discussed with a client, Regent seems to be more of a premium line with great suites; rather than a luxury line with great service and cuisine. It is when those that have been trained that what is truly faux luxury discover what luxury cruising is truly about, the change to Seabourn or Silversea happens. My experience is that there is no real trend toward one or the other. In that respect, I guess, Seabourn and Silversea do directly compete.
I guess, then, it is not so ironic as a top seller of Seabourn cruises I also tend to sell more Celebrity and Oceania than I do Silversea, Princess or Cunard. Mind you I sell them all, and am very familiar with each, but I cannot ignore the trend.
Funny thing, "This is My Yacht" and "Starring You" do have some symmetry.
Yesterday I learned some very interesting statistics. Silversea claims that it actually has more former Princess passengers on it ships than Seabourn guests. More Holland America passengers. More Cunard (actually the highest percentage). More Crystal. In fact, when providing the statistics Seabourn wasn't even mentioned; and clearly isn't in its top four sources of prior cruisers.
When first faced with this surprise I was, frankly, shocked. Of course Seabourn had to been in the mix, didn't it? But then I started thinking...as I do.
Silversea provides a very upscale product; no question about it. It has gone through, and probably will continue to go through changes, while it struggles with its present situation. However, Silversea has stressed that it is not cutting back, but rather adding value through essentially keeping the product the same and lowering prices. (I do not acknowledge that to be true - I don't have personal knowledge - but that is the company line.)
Seabourn also provides a very upscale product, but what I experience and what I hear consistently - even with the launch of the Seabourn Odyssey - is that it is the staff that makes Seabourn Seabourn. (How many expressed concerns abouth whether Seabourn could deliver the same quality service on its larger ship? I have not heard a single person say Seabourn hasn't succeeded.)
Aside from opinions about cuisine and service levels (or, better, style differences) the ships are markedly different. The Seabourn triplets with only 208 guests are yachtie and the 450 passenger Seabourn Odyssey provides the same yacht-like service. Silversea, however, provides a large platform for all its ships (which are medium to medium-large). Is that why Silversea mentions passenger to space ratios rather than differences in service? Probably.
So with the similarity, and knowing that many cruise these lines to be on the ships first of all and itinerary second, why isn't there more cross-over? My experience tells me that I have a much more prevalent move to Seabourn from Regent and Celebrity (and a bit from Oceania). I have had Seabourners try Holland America or Cunard...once. But not so much the other way round. I do have some serious Crystal clients that happily swing between it and Seabourn.
One interesting observation: Seabourn's ships are sailing pretty full this summer. In fact, Seabourn is running into situations where it is oversold. Silversea, on the other hand, ha thrown everything it has (butlers, $1,000 onboard credits, deep discounts, etc.) to attract more guests...and its ships still have significant space available.
With such great deals (and they are) why aren't more Seabourn guests giving Silversea a try? I believe that at this level the guests know what they want and it is not necessarily about getting the best deal...when measured solely by the dollar/pound/euro.
Backtracking to the move-up clients, it would appear that it is a bit more in what the style of service is provided (or, in some instances, marketed) in the mass market/premium market that a particular person latches onto and becomes comfortable with. Every line tries to pitch some sort of service difference and, it would seem, that comfort with the "hint" given on Princess may build a natural acceptance to Silversea's marketing, while the "hint" on Celebrity favors Seabourn.
Regent is a whole 'nuther kettle of fish which I will address another day. Suffice it to say, as I recently discussed with a client, Regent seems to be more of a premium line with great suites; rather than a luxury line with great service and cuisine. It is when those that have been trained that what is truly faux luxury discover what luxury cruising is truly about, the change to Seabourn or Silversea happens. My experience is that there is no real trend toward one or the other. In that respect, I guess, Seabourn and Silversea do directly compete.
I guess, then, it is not so ironic as a top seller of Seabourn cruises I also tend to sell more Celebrity and Oceania than I do Silversea, Princess or Cunard. Mind you I sell them all, and am very familiar with each, but I cannot ignore the trend.
Funny thing, "This is My Yacht" and "Starring You" do have some symmetry.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Is Cruising Really Travel?
My post of yesterday has started an interesting discussion on The Gold Standard Forum with a question posed by Diebroke (I love that name!): Is Cruising Really Travel?
I thought it better to express my thoughts here and allow others to discuss their feelings on the forum. What is interesting about the premise is that a cruise is a personal thing. For every single person that walks onto a cruise ship their idea of what a cruise is differs, their desires differ, their aspirations differ and, therefore, their perspectives differ. That is why, in large part, there are so many different flavors of cruise lines.
But before I get to that I do want to point out a bit of irony. Diebroke mentioned a June 29, 2009 blog post by Arthur Frommer, the travel writer and publisher entitled: My 12-Day Med Cruise: Loads and Loads of Fun, But Not the Deeply Fulfilling Activity Travel Can Be. The article starts of, "Don't ever call it Travel. It's not. At best, it's a prelude to travel, like the appetizers that precede a meal, like an hors d'oeuvre. It's like those whirlwind tours by escorted motorcoach that used to bring you 13 countries in 14 days." Knowing that Frommer's Guide information is going to be available on my website Goldring Travel very soon, the irony becomes apparent.
One must juxtapose Mr. Frommer's comments from the philosophy of AFAR Magazine, "If your idea is staying at big-name chain hotels, touching every attraction in the guidebook, easting what you eat at home, and being in bed by 9 p.m., we're afraid that AFAR might not be for you." Respectfully, isn't AFAR referring to the very same Frommer's Guides???
And then there is the Iamboatman/Goldring Travel approach. Yesterday I said it very clearly: Cruises are supposed to be about travel; seeing new places and seeking out life-enriching experiences.
How can that exist if Arthur Frommer says it doesn't? It is simple: Frommer's is a wonderful and reliable resource for "information". It is not a resource for "how to travel" or "how to see things". Arther Frommer made a huge mistake...because he obviously doesn't have the experience of traveling by cruise ship: He did what the cruise line told him to do! (Didn't we just have a "discussion" yesterday that it is up to the traveler to do what is best for him/her, not be trained by the cruise line, because doing otherwise is fraught with danger?)
Mr. Frommer speaks of motorcoaches. Anyone who has ever sought my advice will tell you that I pretty much suggest avoiding taking a ship's tour "with 50 of your favorite new friends". (How many of you have heard me say that? Show of hands!) There is usually no good reason to get on the bus. It will, especially on the larger ships/lines, be a huge disappointment and a frustration.
Example: (And I have written about this, so obviously Mr. Frommer hasn't read my blog!) Next month I am taking my family on the Celebrity Equinox and will be visiting Israel for two days. We have arranged an expert guide specializing in Jewish history to take our family in a private van from Haifa to Jerusalem to Ashdod, overnighting at a Palestinian owned and operated hotel in Jerusalem. The cruise ship experience (at substantially more money BTW) is a bus ride to and from Haifa to see things from a more Christian view (the obvious majority) and then the next day is another long bus ride to and from Ashdod to see Jerusalem...or an overnight at a non-descript hotel at even more money. Hence, many more hours in a bus, less seen, less done, less experiences.
Mr. Frommer speaks of it being a prelude to travel, like appetizers. That comment, to me, is so "ugly American". If you have been to Paris you have been to France. If you can't see it all, why bother going. Who came up with stuff? Spain, Italy and other cultures have made such things an entire cuisine and mainstay of a lifestyle: Tapas anyone? Ever go to a really good buffet and get excited because you don't know where to start. It all looks so good, but you don't want to overfill your plate. So you carefully plan and taste the things that look best to you. You then say, "That was good, but not as good as I thought" or "I want more of that. I have to make a second trip to the buffet" Cruise travel is exactly the same thing.
I have written extensively on how to travel and have given hours and hours of advice to my clients on how to do it so that it is "life-enriching". I have been to Athens how many times? I am excited to go back because there is is the brand new Museum. I was just in Venice last month and "have to" go back in September where I will take a walking wine tour. Rhodes - looking forward to getting lost in the labyrinth of alleys again. Do you remember my story of the little restaurant in St. Tropez which we found only by strolling around and seeing a wonderful galvanized bucket with bright red gladiolas down a very narrow alley? What of the wonderful woman in Sirince, Turkey who cooked and cooked for our small group? Ever get lost in culinary heaven at La Boqueria in Barcelona? These are not bus trips. They are not 50 people with a flag-holding guide. But they are all life experiences taken in while on cruises.
And then there are the comments about Santorini, for example. They may never made it out of the town of Fira! We rented a car, drove to Akrotiri to see the Minoan ruins, stopped for lunch at a local restaurant with awesome views (and pretty much no English spoken), walked on the black sand beaches, dropped the car, dropped the kids back on the ship and came back to enjoy an incredible sunset with a bottle of local wine and fruit before making it back to ship. An incredible day...and not one shopping. (OK, we did some shopping.)
Mykonos - OK, the place is not one of my favorites. But the last time I was "blessed" with having to shop for some dresses with my wife. (Long story.) My reward was being able to sit in a waterfront restaurant with my friend for a couple of hours and watch the boats in the harbour and the people on the promenade. It was, to be sure, quite Greek as we drank ouzo, beer and ate olives and anchovies. (I could have taken the $49 cruise ship bus to the beach, but I thought my experience would be better.)
Naples - Ever try the high speed ferry to Capri for the day? What about a family walking tour where you make pizza in a true Neapolitan pizzeria?
You get the point.
So where does the cruise ship come in. Is it merely transportation? No, it is alas much more. Whether you want Royal Caribbean's "Why Not?" (I love that!!) or Seabourn's "This Is My Yacht" you can find different ways to wind down or up. For me, I prefer a soak in a whirlpool with a glass of champagne, a great meal (assuming I haven't over-indulged on land...or maybe so anyway), some nice conversation with new shipmates and a nightcap. Others want discos and rock climbing. Whatever floats your boat.
So, as I said yesterday, Now regardless of what the cruise lines are doing, in their various forms, it is incumbent upon the traveler to do that which they originally intended to do: Travel.
Mr. Frommer, do you need a good travel agent? I know one. Do you need a good magazine to teach you how to travel? I know one of those too! (I couldn't resist. It is, of course, said in fun and with respect.)
I thought it better to express my thoughts here and allow others to discuss their feelings on the forum. What is interesting about the premise is that a cruise is a personal thing. For every single person that walks onto a cruise ship their idea of what a cruise is differs, their desires differ, their aspirations differ and, therefore, their perspectives differ. That is why, in large part, there are so many different flavors of cruise lines.
But before I get to that I do want to point out a bit of irony. Diebroke mentioned a June 29, 2009 blog post by Arthur Frommer, the travel writer and publisher entitled: My 12-Day Med Cruise: Loads and Loads of Fun, But Not the Deeply Fulfilling Activity Travel Can Be. The article starts of, "Don't ever call it Travel. It's not. At best, it's a prelude to travel, like the appetizers that precede a meal, like an hors d'oeuvre. It's like those whirlwind tours by escorted motorcoach that used to bring you 13 countries in 14 days." Knowing that Frommer's Guide information is going to be available on my website Goldring Travel very soon, the irony becomes apparent.
One must juxtapose Mr. Frommer's comments from the philosophy of AFAR Magazine, "If your idea is staying at big-name chain hotels, touching every attraction in the guidebook, easting what you eat at home, and being in bed by 9 p.m., we're afraid that AFAR might not be for you." Respectfully, isn't AFAR referring to the very same Frommer's Guides???
And then there is the Iamboatman/Goldring Travel approach. Yesterday I said it very clearly: Cruises are supposed to be about travel; seeing new places and seeking out life-enriching experiences.
How can that exist if Arthur Frommer says it doesn't? It is simple: Frommer's is a wonderful and reliable resource for "information". It is not a resource for "how to travel" or "how to see things". Arther Frommer made a huge mistake...because he obviously doesn't have the experience of traveling by cruise ship: He did what the cruise line told him to do! (Didn't we just have a "discussion" yesterday that it is up to the traveler to do what is best for him/her, not be trained by the cruise line, because doing otherwise is fraught with danger?)
Mr. Frommer speaks of motorcoaches. Anyone who has ever sought my advice will tell you that I pretty much suggest avoiding taking a ship's tour "with 50 of your favorite new friends". (How many of you have heard me say that? Show of hands!) There is usually no good reason to get on the bus. It will, especially on the larger ships/lines, be a huge disappointment and a frustration.
Example: (And I have written about this, so obviously Mr. Frommer hasn't read my blog!) Next month I am taking my family on the Celebrity Equinox and will be visiting Israel for two days. We have arranged an expert guide specializing in Jewish history to take our family in a private van from Haifa to Jerusalem to Ashdod, overnighting at a Palestinian owned and operated hotel in Jerusalem. The cruise ship experience (at substantially more money BTW) is a bus ride to and from Haifa to see things from a more Christian view (the obvious majority) and then the next day is another long bus ride to and from Ashdod to see Jerusalem...or an overnight at a non-descript hotel at even more money. Hence, many more hours in a bus, less seen, less done, less experiences.
Mr. Frommer speaks of it being a prelude to travel, like appetizers. That comment, to me, is so "ugly American". If you have been to Paris you have been to France. If you can't see it all, why bother going. Who came up with stuff? Spain, Italy and other cultures have made such things an entire cuisine and mainstay of a lifestyle: Tapas anyone? Ever go to a really good buffet and get excited because you don't know where to start. It all looks so good, but you don't want to overfill your plate. So you carefully plan and taste the things that look best to you. You then say, "That was good, but not as good as I thought" or "I want more of that. I have to make a second trip to the buffet" Cruise travel is exactly the same thing.
I have written extensively on how to travel and have given hours and hours of advice to my clients on how to do it so that it is "life-enriching". I have been to Athens how many times? I am excited to go back because there is is the brand new Museum. I was just in Venice last month and "have to" go back in September where I will take a walking wine tour. Rhodes - looking forward to getting lost in the labyrinth of alleys again. Do you remember my story of the little restaurant in St. Tropez which we found only by strolling around and seeing a wonderful galvanized bucket with bright red gladiolas down a very narrow alley? What of the wonderful woman in Sirince, Turkey who cooked and cooked for our small group? Ever get lost in culinary heaven at La Boqueria in Barcelona? These are not bus trips. They are not 50 people with a flag-holding guide. But they are all life experiences taken in while on cruises.
And then there are the comments about Santorini, for example. They may never made it out of the town of Fira! We rented a car, drove to Akrotiri to see the Minoan ruins, stopped for lunch at a local restaurant with awesome views (and pretty much no English spoken), walked on the black sand beaches, dropped the car, dropped the kids back on the ship and came back to enjoy an incredible sunset with a bottle of local wine and fruit before making it back to ship. An incredible day...and not one shopping. (OK, we did some shopping.)
Mykonos - OK, the place is not one of my favorites. But the last time I was "blessed" with having to shop for some dresses with my wife. (Long story.) My reward was being able to sit in a waterfront restaurant with my friend for a couple of hours and watch the boats in the harbour and the people on the promenade. It was, to be sure, quite Greek as we drank ouzo, beer and ate olives and anchovies. (I could have taken the $49 cruise ship bus to the beach, but I thought my experience would be better.)
Naples - Ever try the high speed ferry to Capri for the day? What about a family walking tour where you make pizza in a true Neapolitan pizzeria?
You get the point.
So where does the cruise ship come in. Is it merely transportation? No, it is alas much more. Whether you want Royal Caribbean's "Why Not?" (I love that!!) or Seabourn's "This Is My Yacht" you can find different ways to wind down or up. For me, I prefer a soak in a whirlpool with a glass of champagne, a great meal (assuming I haven't over-indulged on land...or maybe so anyway), some nice conversation with new shipmates and a nightcap. Others want discos and rock climbing. Whatever floats your boat.
So, as I said yesterday, Now regardless of what the cruise lines are doing, in their various forms, it is incumbent upon the traveler to do that which they originally intended to do: Travel.
Mr. Frommer, do you need a good travel agent? I know one. Do you need a good magazine to teach you how to travel? I know one of those too! (I couldn't resist. It is, of course, said in fun and with respect.)
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Let's Get Back to Basics - Why Do We Do This Stuff????
The past few weeks have been a sort of a travel roller coaster.
I spent a fantastic two days on the Seabourn Odyssey marveling at what a fantastic ship she is; absolutely dumbfounded by how incredible the Seabourn staff, crew and executives pulled off a miracle after her horrifically late deliver and the shocking condition T. Marrioti left the ship in.
That was sandwiched in between two wonderful days in Venice with incredible views, outstanding stays at the Ca' Segredo Hotel, and my favorite meal of liver and onions in a little local restaurant as we watched a local man eat his meal, sleep for about an hour and then carry on as if all is normal (as he apparently does nightly). And it was coupled with my planning for a great family cruise on the brand new Celebrity Equinox visiting Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Greece and Italy at an absurdly low price. (What could be bad?)
And then I returned to complaints of chaos in the dining room of a Regent Seven Seas ship, demands for more "compensation" for non-compensable issues on a recent cruise, the absurdity of "Fire Sale" marketing by Silversea and, frankly, ridiculous marketing by Seabourn which I believe cheapens its product and name.
So I ask, "With many of the ships essentially full, WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?"
Before I answer that I want you to watch a short video from the owners of a new travel magazine AFAR, which I will be at the launch party for next month:
Cruises are supposed to be about travel; seeing new places and seeking out life-enriching experiences.
Cruises are supposed to be about cruise lines providing the traveler with excellent service (expectations adjusted accordingly dependent on price) and facilities to relax and recharge in while transporting us to the next life-enriching experiences.
Cruises are supposed to be about not seeking perfection or finding things to complain about, but rather the enjoyment of an overall experience.
Unfortunately it seems, as I was afraid would be the case (and which I have written about), the cruise lines cut rate pricing has created a monster...and it is a monster that many cruisers are feeding. I will get to the cruise lines in a minute, but first those feeding the monster.
When things are great the small misses (an unreplenished refrigerator or trying to get a second cup of coffee) are noted, but are weighted as rather petty in light of the entire cruise experience. Now, for some - not all - it "goes on The List". That list becomes the focus - or the game of "How I get a free cruise or big discount" - rather than why I went on the cruise to begin with.
You remember that sleeping man in the restaurant I spoke of earlier. I could have said, "That is outrageous! How dare they allow him to sleep away while I am trying to enjoy my dinner. My dinner is ruined." Instead I said, "What an interesting piece of life! Strange, but interesting. I must truly be in a local spot and what a treat it is to be able to enjoy (or tolerate...take your pick) this moment as if I lived in Venice. It makes my liver and onions taste, well, so uniquely Venetian."
Now there are those that will remember most the missing towel or overcooked fish, but they will actually be the ones that probably will forget they were on the cruise, first and foremost, to be travelers. They turned into the dreaded (by some) "dealmakers". It is all about the "deal".
I firmly believe this has come about, in large part, because over the past months the cruise lines have trained the cruising public that it is about the deal and not about the travel or life-enriching experiences. After years of trying to make it clear that waiting until the last minute is not a good travel strategy, the cruise lines panicked and decided that more important than long-term price and quality integrity, there must be short term "fill the ships" cut-rate pricing and deals. So all the effort of the past years to have product integrity has been effectively tossed out. Add to that some cruise lines loss of cash positions causing changes that reduce the quality of their product.
Regent has suffered this for a long time and, despite its good faith and concentrated efforts to correct the errors of its prior owners, it is a long process that involves far more than training dining room staff (if the shipboard management doesn't get it, how the heck are they going to train the staff properly?). Add to that what is a now commonly reported complaint of people that don't normally cruise on open liquor ships are running a bit amuck, interfering with "travel"...and then The List begins and the "I need to be compensated" becomes the focus.
Then there is the Silversea approach (now being somewhat mimicked, but purely for marketing reasons, by Seabourn) of doing anything to get people on their ships. Increase base prices slightly so that 60% discounts with free air can be offered...with onboard credits too! They must be desperate, right?! And then the thoughts of , "Gee, Silversea has cut back here or there. It just isn't the same. I better start my list!"...placing all the neat stuff to the rear ("That is what I paid for, so why does that count?) and forgetting about the life-enriching travel.
This is followed by Seabourn's most recent marketing "One Week Sale" approach. I swear it is like opening the newspaper or watching television and hearing a commercial for Macy's (Lowest prices of the season! Hurry, limited supplies!, etc.) or, worse, a commercial from a local automobile dealership (A Cadillac for only $200. That's right, only $200. Of course the Cadillac is a 1984 Sedan deVille.) Now Seabourn is pitching a $1,349 cruise with cruises selling for $5,499. The ad doesn't tell you that the first cruise, at $270 a day, is for a historically very low demand 5 day cruise that may or may not become a charter or that the second one is 14 day cruise at a 45% higher per diem. If the lines, especially Seabourn, treats its prospective guests in such a fashion, what is it that can be expected?...The List.
Now regardless of what the cruise lines are doing, in their various forms, it is incumbent upon the traveler to do that which they originally intended to do: Travel. Don't get sucked in. The cruise lines will see their ways are wrong, but that does little for the guest that used to be thrilled despite the little errors and now has "The List".
Travel.
I spent a fantastic two days on the Seabourn Odyssey marveling at what a fantastic ship she is; absolutely dumbfounded by how incredible the Seabourn staff, crew and executives pulled off a miracle after her horrifically late deliver and the shocking condition T. Marrioti left the ship in.
That was sandwiched in between two wonderful days in Venice with incredible views, outstanding stays at the Ca' Segredo Hotel, and my favorite meal of liver and onions in a little local restaurant as we watched a local man eat his meal, sleep for about an hour and then carry on as if all is normal (as he apparently does nightly). And it was coupled with my planning for a great family cruise on the brand new Celebrity Equinox visiting Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Greece and Italy at an absurdly low price. (What could be bad?)
And then I returned to complaints of chaos in the dining room of a Regent Seven Seas ship, demands for more "compensation" for non-compensable issues on a recent cruise, the absurdity of "Fire Sale" marketing by Silversea and, frankly, ridiculous marketing by Seabourn which I believe cheapens its product and name.
So I ask, "With many of the ships essentially full, WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?"
Before I answer that I want you to watch a short video from the owners of a new travel magazine AFAR, which I will be at the launch party for next month:
Cruises are supposed to be about travel; seeing new places and seeking out life-enriching experiences.
Cruises are supposed to be about cruise lines providing the traveler with excellent service (expectations adjusted accordingly dependent on price) and facilities to relax and recharge in while transporting us to the next life-enriching experiences.
Cruises are supposed to be about not seeking perfection or finding things to complain about, but rather the enjoyment of an overall experience.
Unfortunately it seems, as I was afraid would be the case (and which I have written about), the cruise lines cut rate pricing has created a monster...and it is a monster that many cruisers are feeding. I will get to the cruise lines in a minute, but first those feeding the monster.
When things are great the small misses (an unreplenished refrigerator or trying to get a second cup of coffee) are noted, but are weighted as rather petty in light of the entire cruise experience. Now, for some - not all - it "goes on The List". That list becomes the focus - or the game of "How I get a free cruise or big discount" - rather than why I went on the cruise to begin with.
You remember that sleeping man in the restaurant I spoke of earlier. I could have said, "That is outrageous! How dare they allow him to sleep away while I am trying to enjoy my dinner. My dinner is ruined." Instead I said, "What an interesting piece of life! Strange, but interesting. I must truly be in a local spot and what a treat it is to be able to enjoy (or tolerate...take your pick) this moment as if I lived in Venice. It makes my liver and onions taste, well, so uniquely Venetian."
Now there are those that will remember most the missing towel or overcooked fish, but they will actually be the ones that probably will forget they were on the cruise, first and foremost, to be travelers. They turned into the dreaded (by some) "dealmakers". It is all about the "deal".
I firmly believe this has come about, in large part, because over the past months the cruise lines have trained the cruising public that it is about the deal and not about the travel or life-enriching experiences. After years of trying to make it clear that waiting until the last minute is not a good travel strategy, the cruise lines panicked and decided that more important than long-term price and quality integrity, there must be short term "fill the ships" cut-rate pricing and deals. So all the effort of the past years to have product integrity has been effectively tossed out. Add to that some cruise lines loss of cash positions causing changes that reduce the quality of their product.
Regent has suffered this for a long time and, despite its good faith and concentrated efforts to correct the errors of its prior owners, it is a long process that involves far more than training dining room staff (if the shipboard management doesn't get it, how the heck are they going to train the staff properly?). Add to that what is a now commonly reported complaint of people that don't normally cruise on open liquor ships are running a bit amuck, interfering with "travel"...and then The List begins and the "I need to be compensated" becomes the focus.
Then there is the Silversea approach (now being somewhat mimicked, but purely for marketing reasons, by Seabourn) of doing anything to get people on their ships. Increase base prices slightly so that 60% discounts with free air can be offered...with onboard credits too! They must be desperate, right?! And then the thoughts of , "Gee, Silversea has cut back here or there. It just isn't the same. I better start my list!"...placing all the neat stuff to the rear ("That is what I paid for, so why does that count?) and forgetting about the life-enriching travel.
This is followed by Seabourn's most recent marketing "One Week Sale" approach. I swear it is like opening the newspaper or watching television and hearing a commercial for Macy's (Lowest prices of the season! Hurry, limited supplies!, etc.) or, worse, a commercial from a local automobile dealership (A Cadillac for only $200. That's right, only $200. Of course the Cadillac is a 1984 Sedan deVille.) Now Seabourn is pitching a $1,349 cruise with cruises selling for $5,499. The ad doesn't tell you that the first cruise, at $270 a day, is for a historically very low demand 5 day cruise that may or may not become a charter or that the second one is 14 day cruise at a 45% higher per diem. If the lines, especially Seabourn, treats its prospective guests in such a fashion, what is it that can be expected?...The List.
Now regardless of what the cruise lines are doing, in their various forms, it is incumbent upon the traveler to do that which they originally intended to do: Travel. Don't get sucked in. The cruise lines will see their ways are wrong, but that does little for the guest that used to be thrilled despite the little errors and now has "The List".
Travel.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Seabourn Wins Travel & Leisure Magazine's Top Small Cruise Line Award
You know I hate these "awards", but I feel compelled to provide the information because some people find them of great interest.
The Yachts of Seabourn has won the 2009 Travel & Leisure Magazine Award as the No. 1 Small Ship Cruise Line.
What is interesting is that the category was dominated by river cruises with Silversea being No. 3 and Regent not even in the category (and, I might add, properly not). Next cruise line was Windstar at No. 7 followed by SeaDream at No. 8.
I am not sure what Lindblad Expeditions has done to garner No. 5, but suffice it to say whatever the standard (other than multiple votes), Seabourn and Silversea would logically need to be measured by a different standard than Linblad...IMHO.
The Yachts of Seabourn has won the 2009 Travel & Leisure Magazine Award as the No. 1 Small Ship Cruise Line.
What is interesting is that the category was dominated by river cruises with Silversea being No. 3 and Regent not even in the category (and, I might add, properly not). Next cruise line was Windstar at No. 7 followed by SeaDream at No. 8.
I am not sure what Lindblad Expeditions has done to garner No. 5, but suffice it to say whatever the standard (other than multiple votes), Seabourn and Silversea would logically need to be measured by a different standard than Linblad...IMHO.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Newest Seabourn Sale - I Am NOT Impressed
You are going to see lots of promotions for next week. Take a Seabourn cruise for as low at $1,345.00. Before you get all excited, this price is for one five day cruise and the number of cruises included are actually very limited.
And if you really look at the pricing, even the itineraries are good, but the concept of Seabourn giving away cruises is just misleading...and I don't like it.
Here are the details...and if it works for you great:
The sale starts on Monday, July 13 and the ends on Monday, July 20.
Seabourn Legend
11/23/2009 14 days Ft. Lauderdale to Caldera, Costa Rica from $3599
12/07/2009 14 days Caldera, Costa Rica to Ft. Lauderdale from $3599
03/20/2010 5 days St. Thomas to St. Thomas from $1499
03/25/2010 7 days St. Thomas to St. Thomas from $1999
Seabourn Spirit
11/15/2009 12 days Lisbon to Ft. Lauderdale from $2765
12/16/2009 5 days St. Thomas to Ft. Lauderdale from $1349
Seabourn Pride
02/13/2010 14 days Singapore to Hong Kong from $4999
02/27/2010 14 days Hong Kong to Singapore from $5249
03/13/2010 14 days Singapore to Hong Kong from $5249
Seabourn Odyssey
11/28/2009 12 days Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale from $3999
And if you really look at the pricing, even the itineraries are good, but the concept of Seabourn giving away cruises is just misleading...and I don't like it.
Here are the details...and if it works for you great:
The sale starts on Monday, July 13 and the ends on Monday, July 20.
Seabourn Legend
11/23/2009 14 days Ft. Lauderdale to Caldera, Costa Rica from $3599
12/07/2009 14 days Caldera, Costa Rica to Ft. Lauderdale from $3599
03/20/2010 5 days St. Thomas to St. Thomas from $1499
03/25/2010 7 days St. Thomas to St. Thomas from $1999
Seabourn Spirit
11/15/2009 12 days Lisbon to Ft. Lauderdale from $2765
12/16/2009 5 days St. Thomas to Ft. Lauderdale from $1349
Seabourn Pride
02/13/2010 14 days Singapore to Hong Kong from $4999
02/27/2010 14 days Hong Kong to Singapore from $5249
03/13/2010 14 days Singapore to Hong Kong from $5249
Seabourn Odyssey
11/28/2009 12 days Ft. Lauderdale to Ft. Lauderdale from $3999
Thursday, July 9, 2009
What Happens When Customer Service, Rather Than The Customer, Is Right (?)
A singer, David Carroll, had his $4,000 guitar, sent as checked luggage, broken by United Airlines. When United jerked him around...
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Goldring Travel's 2009 Food & Wine Cruise - Seabourn Spirit Update
As I mentioned the other day, I had an unfortunate last minute cancellation for the Goldring Travel Food & Wine Cruise aboard the Seabourn Spirit, departing on September 26, 2009, round trip Venice, so there may still be an opportunity to join us.
For those going, thinking about going, wishing they could go...or just curious, I have finalized our Walking Wine Tour of Venice. Here are the details:
On Saturday, September 26, 2009, at about 10:30 a.m. we will meet in the lobby of the Ca’ Segredo Hotel and take a one minute ride in a traghetti (a simple gondola) across the Grand Canal to the Rialto Market. (If you watch Anthony Bourdain’s show, No Reservations – Venice on the Travel Channel you can see the market…which, because it is Italy, is in no rush to open, so we don’t need to start too early! Here is list of restaurants Tony has visited: Tony's Venice Restaurants )
After a casual wander we will take the traghetti back to Ca’ Segredo Hotel and meet up with our guide for the walking tour, which will start at 11:30 a.m. and last about 3 hours…stopping, of course, to eat and drink. (Don’t worry about starting at 11:30 a.m., the Venetians will have started drinking before us!)
WINES OF VENICE AND THE VENETO - Explore the hidden corners of Venice with your expert wine guide, who is a professional sommelier. Enjoy a glimpse of local life while learning about traditional local wines and their place in the local culture. You will visit 2 wine bars (enoteche) in an authentic area of Venice, off the beaten path. In each wine bar, your personal sommelier will select two typical quality wines for you to taste, each paired with small Venetian appetizers, called cicchetti. We will start with white wines, and finish with red wines.
During your time together, you will learn about the most important aspects of Italian wine production and its role in Italian culture. Regardless of your level of wine knowledge, you will find this walk both informative and fun. Your guide will be happy to focus on any particular wine topic that interests you most, including history, tasting guidelines or quality standards.
Our guide: MARIO PICCININ - Mario is a certified Italian Sommelier (AIS) and Master Cheese Taster (ONAF). His background also includes a degree in the Science of Food Production from the University of Bologna. Mario, a native of Milan, has lived in the Veneto for 35 years, and his grandmother was from the Cannaregio sestiere of Venice. He is an experienced wine educator, and particularly enjoys the wine tasting seminars he regularly organizes for the U.S. diplomatic corps in Italy. In the past Mario led a seminar on Italian wine and food for the undergraduate students of Boston University studying in Padova. He also works as a travel consultant, specializing the wine and food of the Veneto, Friuli and Trentino Alto-Adige. Mario lives in Padova with his wife, Rachel, a native of Ohio, and their two children. He can often be heard to say "A glass of wine is not merely something to drink, but a true reminder of our history, traditions and culture."
We will end the tour back at Ca’ Segredo where we can take a water taxi to the Seabourn Spirit.
As you read from my often, it is more about seeking out and understanding the local life that brings a traveler memories. I think this is an excellent start to a week celebrating food and wine and, of course, discovering the local life, as we cruise the Adriatic Sea.
Monday, July 6, 2009
The Sojourn of the Seabourn Odyssey Pre-Inaugural Cruise - The Upper Suite Details
OK, now its time to see what the top shelf Seabourn suites are like on the Seabourn Odyssey. There are basically four different suites: Penthouse, Owner's, Signature and Wintergarden. They are, quite refreshingly, unique, modern, very well thought out and not filled with gimmicks...though if you look you can find one or two.
Penthouse Suite - The really unique thing about these suites is the etched glass enclosure which separates the bedroom from the living room. It gives a great sense of space while dividing it...which seems counter-intuitive...but works.
The Owner's Suites are located forward, overlooking the bow with a nice wraparound deck:
Penthouse Suite - The really unique thing about these suites is the etched glass enclosure which separates the bedroom from the living room. It gives a great sense of space while dividing it...which seems counter-intuitive...but works.
The Owner's Suites are located forward, overlooking the bow with a nice wraparound deck:
The Signature Suite is really a slightly larger Owner's Suite:
The Signature Suite can be combined with the adjoining Veranda Suite to create two bedroom Grand Signature Suite;
My favorite suite is the Wintergarden Suite, located midship on Deck 7. It combines great living space with a funky bathroom, a glassed-in wintergarden and nice outdoor deck space in a wonderfully convenient location:
The Wintergarden Suite can also be combined with the adjoining somewhat unique Veranda Suite to create a Grand Wintergarden Suite. As of now that suite cannot be booked independent of the Wintergarden Suite:
I have many more photos, but this should give you enough of the suite details to whet your appetite.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)