2SailingNomads

On 9/1/2024 at 6:56 AM, Hlitner said:

Greetings fellow cruise lovers.

Since the two "Fudges" debarked this morning, I have decided to continue the live report which is under another thread.  This morning, the Encore docked at Terminal C in Pireaus.  That particular terminal is about 1/3 of a mile from the main cruise terminal, which means a slightly longer walk or ride to get anywhere!   DW and I are, normally, very independent travelers and today was no exception.  We decided to walk over to the relatively new Dimotiko Theatro Metro Station, rather than hike to our usual station located on the other side of the port (across from the main ferry terminal entrance.  This was our first experience using the new station, which provided access to the metro blue line (I think it is also known as line 3).  Both the Green Line (which is from the older station) and the Blue Line (from the newer station) provide easy access to Athens.  In this case, DW and I were going to the Monastiriki Station (which can be accessed by either the Blue or Green lines).  Round trip on this metro cost us 2.30 Euros, so the total cost of going into Athens (for a couple) is less than $5.  

 

The walk from Terminal C to either station is about 1.1 miles and folks might want to consider that the old station (often referred to cruisers as the train station) can be accssed by the local #843 bus for those that do not like 1 mile walks.  The new station does mean hiking uphill for about 2 blocks to get to its access road.  We really appreciated that the Blue Line has new trains which are in great condition.  Folks can actually take this metro line all the way to the Athens Airport, although that does require purchasing a more expensive ticket (9 Euros one-way).

 

After our 20 min metro ride we alighted at Monasiriki and did our usual Athens Sunday stroll through the various streets of the popular flea market.  After 1 1/2 hours of shopping, we decided to head back to Pireaus (and the ship) for lunch, which we enjoyed on-deck.  It occurred to us that some would find it strange that a couple of cruisers were back aboard by 1pm after having trekked all the way into Athens.  I mention this for folks who like to do their own thing, since traveling between the port of Pireaus and downtown Athens is actually quite simple (and inexpensive).  One could also take a taxi (for a lot more money), the X80 express bus, or even make the trek on one of several local bus routes (not recommended by me).

 

On our way to the station, about 9:30 this morning, it actually rained!  This is unusual for Athens in the summer, but the shower was a minor inconvenience and did help keep down the temperatures (which eventually made it to the mid 80s F or about 30 C) and clean-up the usually polluted air.  

 

After our lunch, near the pool on Deck 9, we found loungers in the shade on the aft end of Deck 5 (behind the Club).  One big change, that has happened on Seabourn, is that most of the deck loungers now have cushions.  These are about 1 1/2 inches thick, have a plastic coating (which is great if they get wet) and really add to the comfort of using the loungers.  While many talk about the various cut-backs (such as with Cognac) it is nice to also see some improvements.

 

This evening, DW and I will again dine at a "hosted table" in the Restaurant.  For those not aware, Seabourn does provide some larger Restaurant tables that are hosted by various staff.  This is a popular thing with some singles and couples and invites may sometimes just happen, or anyone can simply tell one of the restaurant hostesses that they want such invites.  DW and I love the hosted tables since it is a way to meet some other cruisers and staff.  Since the COVID shutdown, we seldom see the marine Officers hosting tables, and most hosts are either non-marine staff (such as the Cruise Director, or various entertainers.  So far, on this voyage (we have been here a week) we have dined with two Guest Entertainers (who we knew from having met them on two previous cruises), the Seabourn Club Hostess, and a third invite (which we turned down) to dine with one of the regular singers.

 

The reason we turned down the third hosted table invite was because, last evening, we wanted to dine in the Colonnade where they had the somewhat popular "Indian Market."  The Indian Market is a common occurrence on Seabourn and a personal favorite.  This buffet is obviously about Indian Cuisine, and we really enjoy the change from the more normal menu items.  Last evening was quite pleasent, outside, and the ship was cruising at a very slow speed which made dining behind the Colonnade a near-perfect experience.  The outside area was packed with happy cruisers enjoying the Indian dishes.  The evening later continued with a 9:30 Production Show, which was quite full.  On most nights when there is a show, there are two performances (usually about 8:15 and 10:15).  But last night, being the final night for a cruise segment, the CD only scheduled one show.

 

A word about our Suite.  I had mentioned, a few weeks ago, that we had booked a V1 (basic veranda suite) guarantee for this cruise.  SB offered us several opportunities for upsells (always to various V categories) which we ignored.  When we got our suite assignment. we received a free upgrade all the way to V4 which put us on Deck 10.  While these V4 cabins are the highest and most expensive "V" Category, we actually prefer lower category suites on decks 5-8!  Deck 10 is actually, in my opinion, the least convenient location for a suite since the only inside elevator access are the two forward elevators.  To get to the main elevator bank, one needs to go outside.  Funny thing about cruise ships is that folks are willing to pay more money for the highest category cabins/suites, which are often in less desirable locations.  But cruisers have always been brainwashed to accept that the best cabin locations are on the highest decks (usually amidship).  Just one of those long-standing cruise traditions.

 

Hank

As a gentleman we sailed with several times on Seabourn years ago rightly said about suites on higher floors: "You pay to sway".... 

18 hours ago, SLSD said:

  To tell you the truth, we are told something different every time we cruise. 

Which is a problem....   What exactly is the policy?  And how does the length of the cruise matter if on a sea day the MDR is open?  Illogical policy IMO that the length of a cruise determines when a venue is open.  Will they only open the Sky Bar in the future for a 7+ day cruise?  I was told on the Encore - by someone we have sailed with before and is now an Assistant Maître D' - that the decision is up to the Hotel Director.  

Glad to hear that all is well on Sojourn.  Unfortunately that was not the case with our recent Encore cruise when the MDR was NEVER open on sea days for breakfast nor lunch.  Last morning breakfast a mess as outside deck of Colonnade was closed at 8 a.m. when everyone departs their suites and Patio grill breakfast not open.  Very poor planning. 

As I noted in the thread about wines they ran out of many of the not very good complimentary wines and services was often lacking at the bars when they were busy.  No waiters at Sky Bar for embarkation sail away, multiple night in Obs Bar under staffed.  No interaction with senior staff - never knew who the F&B guy was and only saw the Hot Man 4 times, twice at the Captains walk around and tell the same stories he told last time.  21st cruise on Seabourn, if it was my first it would have been my last. 

Yes Regent new ships are IMO very good, great outside space (pickle ball court, well padded loungers) only think lacking is a Sky Bar equal as the pool bar doesn't have a lot of seating.  But much more covered places to sit outside at pool grill in the shade than on Seabourn.  And always at least 1 specialty sit down restaurant is open for lunch.

We disembarked the Encore September 1st.  As stated in the original post the offered wines were pretty poor.  The worst part was they ran our of so many of the wines.  Roquesante ran out of 4 days into the cruise, 2nd choice Cala out of 3 days later.  Some cheap sweet stuff no one wanted (at least of the folks we knew) to drink.  And my wife did get served Mateus one evening when she asked for a Rose in the Obs bar - why do they even have that and White Zin on-board taking up space?  No cabernet after a week, no pinot nor Malbec.  Now we were in Europe where there are many places you could have the Bar Manager (who did a poor job of staffing the bars when they were busy) or F&B guy (who we never knew who he was) go into town and buy some replacements.  Nope, not like the old days where the Bar Managers would buy local wines and beers.  So on top of really poor provisioning (they know what people like to drink so why not insure those are available) no effort from on-board management to rectify the issue.

For lunch we drink the included wines and buy wines for dinner.  The revenue wines are in most cases reasonable especially with the Diamond member discount.  And as mentioned in an earlier post they did have some "special deals" that brought the price of a $200 bottle below $100 

Friends are on the Pursuit now and have issues with the lack of acceptable revenue wines and sent an email to the President and got back a thanks so much for your email blah blah reply.   

We are currently on a Scenic river cruise in Bordeaux, here is their wine list:

Agree with everything you wrote.  Disembarked Seabourn Encore on Sunday and it had multiple issues but after 21 Seabourn cruises know the product has changed.  One reason we wanted to try and had high expectations for EJ was a new line to get things right.  Service on EJ was superior to what we had on the Encore - and we were not the only people with many hundreds of nights regreting its not the old Seabourn - but until EJ gets past its teething pains we will stay away.  No future itinerary I have seen  interests us.

Currently on Scenic Diamond river from Bordeaux and the service is amazing as are the included wines!!!

On O class ships MDR can accommodate all pax. E class can't so on formal night late arrivals may have to wait.  I like the Solis bar on E class but not the retreat which is the anthesis of what Seabourn was when we started on the Legend.  Prefer the layout of the Colonade on the E class ships.  

Great pix!  Hopefully when we board the Encore in 5 days the MDR will be open for breakfast and lunch when in port although most days we will have lunch in port.

On 8/2/2024 at 2:02 PM, Hearthosesteeldrumsplayin said:

So, Gary, once again I am following along as you look at another option that seems to fit my taste, too.  We have Regent's in January for a Panama Canal, then Oceania in Oct/Nov for Rome to Istanbul.  Very excited for both trips.  Now I'm considering 2026.  Was originally looking at AUS/NZ, but I may have to let that sit a little longer.  Maybe I should be looking at EJ.  Hmmmm.  Such wonderful possibilities to ponder!

And thank you again for your comparison worksheet.  I have used it for multiple scenarios to make my cruise decisions!

Let me offer this advice, having been thru the Canal 3 time now - last on Regent - that is NOT a ship I would choose for that itinerary as there is no outside forward facing public deck which you want want going thru the canal.  Yes you can go up to the bar area which will be PACKED but you can not go outside.  Seabourn was what we did the other 2 times and Explora would be a great option with the outside areas. 

We typically, for reasons unknown, do not drink the bottle of champagne - regardless of quality (not so much IMO) - the first day.  Rather save it for the last day when packing and get some OJ from room service and have mimosas and listen to Andre Bocelli while packing.  In the old days I got a fresh bottle of 1000ml Vodka the last night as I had finished mine earlier - never opened.  Guess I better not want an after dinner drink in my suite the last night.      

First time on Scenic I went to the hotel director and asked if they had a crew fund.  He said, how do you know about it but yes.  I told him I wanted to make a donation and he tried hard to dissuade me, telling me there was no reason to.  I persisted as I wanted to thank all the great crew.  (Many ex-Seabourn).

Is anyone from EJ management reading these posts?  Maybe ask people (not influences or TA's) what they like and hate?  Seems like management can't get over themselves.  Survey (hmm never got one) paying past guests.  For !40 E per person on top of what the per diem is I'd expect a great meal, not a disappointment as PaulMcn experienced.

7 hours ago, SLSD said:

I don't know what your itinerary is--but if it is Iceland or Norway, I think a waterproof (not just water resistant) jacket is a very good idea.  Also, bring layers.  I have a quilted vest, a down sweater, and then my waterproof jacket.  I also have a stocking cap and a pair of gloves.  We've had some very cold days (in certain locations) and these layers have served me well.  I can't suggest excursions without knowing your ports.  

 

We have not seen any mosquitos in Iceland.  I think one of our guides said that some places have them.  

 

The excursions have been good, but there have been too many people on the buses and many have been  coughing.  Unfortunately, both Mr. SLSD and I tested positive for Covid late this afternoon.   We have very very mild symptoms, but we self tested (and reported to the ship) before meeting friends for dinner.  Mr. SLSD had fatigue today, so I insisted that he test. Then, I tested and was positive also.  We did not want to expose our friends.  We wish others cared enough not to expose others.  The nurse has come by our suite.  Neither of us has fever.  The nurse says she will release us from quarantine if we have no fever and are feeling ok.  We have some sea days coming up--so the timing is good.  

Hoping you both have VERY mild symptom and recover quickly.  We always travel with Paxlovid (spelling as I don't have in in front of me).. Good report, we join Encore in 11 days.

8 hours ago, saminina said:

 Civility of MDR would be enough for it to taste better, but no surprise if this was delivered from Colonnade.   IME, most mains found on buffet line will be listed on MDR lunch menu. 

Totally agree.  Love the MDR for lunch but same choices as on the buffet.  Never understood that.

I have noticed, and not just on Seabourn, on the last few cruises that housekeeping / butlers want to aggressively prepare for the next guest at the expense of the current one - who may have paid more than the next guest.  Extra hangers disappear 3 days before the end of the cruise, any unopened liquor / wine / beer disappears.

I have no positive evidence but I have heard from multiple sources including a TA I met on a cruise that after a few drinks told me a good TA gets close to 18%, so they can give you a 10% discount / rebate and still make a nice profit.  My TA typically gives about 8-10% discount

On 7/8/2024 at 4:30 PM, johng75370 said:

FWIW, saw a modest promotion of the Crew Welfare Fund on a discreet sign in SB Square currently on Odyssey.  Whomever donates is entered into a raffle for a token gift from the voyage.  Seems like a fair way to get the message out that it exists without anyone feeling pressure to donate.  

I have to respectfully disagree.  The crew fund has been there for many, many years.  It was never advertised (I learnt about it from this forum and have contributed to it every cruise since our 3rd - when I discovered it).  It was NEVER advertised, or dare I say marketed as apparently is now is, win a prize.  Really?  We would get a discreet thank you, a letter from the Purser, maybe the hotel director.  Always donate the last day as we are not looking for anything in return.  Will Seabourn - which we will be on in 11 days from now - have a contribute to the fund letter in the suite the day we board?  Highest contributor gets dinner with the Captain?  Not the Seabourn we have spent over 400 days on.  Sad, glad we have been spending time on Scenic, Regent - met many ex-Seabourn pax there, Explora (growing pains but a lot of potential, and great NEW ships). 

Did the old Crystal river ship which was great. l do not like Riverside price classes. Will be on Scenic in 6 or so weeks with friends who love them and after 3 Scenic ocean cruises looking forward to trying the river product.

On 7/10/2024 at 3:55 AM, pingpong1 said:

Also remember..."We're not supposed to even care about how much Regent raises its prices because our stock portfolios have gone up over the past year or two."  😵

Agree 100 percent with you..  Will Regent lower their prices the next time the DOW drops 1000 points??

So people are going to Sail on EJ just to buy a watch?  Interesting demographic just sayin 

We board with our preferred watch on our wrist 

Cheaping the product, not what they originally promised especially to Champagne when we booked. No compensation between price of what was promised vs what was delivered. Overall experience was mostly good but no way I would book another until they decide exactly what they want to be.  And dump the 4 expensive watch shops.  Really stupid IMO.  

On 7/4/2024 at 5:04 AM, lincslady said:

I  fear that the different ways we express our wants in different countries can grate on others.  The Brit. tendency is to say 'may I have', whereas others are more likely to say 'can I get'.  I don't think either form is other than polite, but they just sound slightly different to one another.  I really hate though to hear 'gimme', as do most other people.

Or worse "I need..."

It was never filled on our 19 day cruise to my recollection 

Do your research and see what you can  book on your own vs. what the ship tour is.  I love the Regent experience but that has nothing to do with the included port tours.  I am paying for them but I do not need to take them unless they appeal to me. I would rather have a private tour that I  arranged. 

Our experience has been a couple have been great, most barely ok, and a few poor.  We usually do our own thing private but since some Regent tours sound interesting have tried them. 

20 hours ago, saminina said:

Well, your Scenic comments influenced the decision to give it a try.  Did a Scenic river from Amsterdam a few years ago that was worthwhile.  One of a kind story how that happened.

Just don't take the 2 or 3 lowest level suites on Scenic.  Last time we had a spa suite and it was very good.  First time took the 2nd lowest category and storage was limited.