Apex 28 Aug - Royal Suite

[ian441672]

Great to read another Apex 'Live'. I did one, oooh, must be coming up to 4 weeks ago (that went quick!), so it takes me back. We were in a SS but received no Move Up offer which was a shame after reading your story, but of course we were very happy too in our SS.

 

Sony was our waiter too, and he was a great guy with his assistant (tall man) who always prepared my 'special coffee' - a large glass or Remy cognac, warming over a glass of heated water never having to ask for it (apart from the first night!).

 

We only had 600 or so on board, the Retreat Lounge and deck were a peaceful haven of service and relaxation. You wait till you see the production shows - amazing. We did the magic carpet dinner, which was beautiful as the sun set, though it was $130 pp (from memory), it was certainly an experience to remember. Short Cut was so tasty too - enjoy all your speciality restaurants.

 

Have a great time, and look forward to reading more soon.  Thanks for sharing.

[drarill]

On 8/29/2021 at 10:37 AM, wendyam76 said:

@Stu UKhave a fantastic cruise! Tari is a treasure - we knew her from serving us in Constellation- she makes great espresso! - so when she spotted us on Apex she made sure to tell our Retreat Host she was asking for us. One of our highlights was seeing her in person. 
If you get a chance please tell her Wendy and Doreen are asking for her.

Wendy

Tari is a doll!! she also took excellent care of us back in June!!

[Stu UK]

Day two was Mykonos.  We stayed onboard and used The Retreat to its full.  Breakfast was amazing.  We were seated in the same area as the previous evening so Sony and his colleagues are already starting to get to know us.  We then headed to the Retreat deck to enjoy the sun.

 

Easily managed to get loungers in the shade and even as the sun moved - so did we.  Drinks service was super attentive but i resisted alcohol until we ate lunch there.  Cesar Salad for me and Turkey Wrap for Karl, both gorgeous - and the food too.  Naturally it got busier as some excursions returned but still lots of space.  Started to meet several lovely couples.  Being in the pool was very social as people tried to cool down.  

 

If you want outdoor shade then the small seating area outside The Retreat Lounge is a lovely alternative, again with excellent bar and food service, plus an easy escape into the air conditioning of the lounge.

 

After cooking in the sun we decided it was time for the Thermal Suite.  Transpires that we get free access as RS guests (as well as an extra special purple key card).  The Thermal Suite is being limited to 10 guests at a time but there were only 5 in between 3pm and 5pm.  It was spotless and unusually for a cruise ship spa it all worked correctly - well it is a new ship. Bought the $27 scrubs - 3 varieties for that price to use in the Hammam. Views from the heated loungers were amazing albeit the sun is slightly bright as there are no window blinds.

 

Dinner we attended the Chefs Table.  Picture of the menu and some of the dishes below.  Sorry I forgot to snap the soup.  We were joined by 6 others and had an excellent evening.  Also got to see the $100,000 bottle of wine onboard.  The dinner was hosted in Fine Cut starting at 6:30pm and took about 3 hours.  We received a glass of Champagne on arrival.  Each course was explained by Executive Chef.  We opted for the additional $60 wine pairing and enjoyed them all.  Due to Covid there is no longer a galley tour.  We would recommend it - not included in any dining packages or RS unlimited dining. It was all stunning.

 

Day ended with a drink at the Sunset Bar.  All in all a 10 out of 10 day with an extra surprise - monographed pyjamas when we arrived back to the suite. 

[Stu UK]

Apologies forgot to say we also went to the theatre to see The Tree of Life.  Amazing.  The performers had so much energy and well rehearsed.  The LED screen was magical.  I love traditional West End theatre but this was so enjoyable despite being so modern in its set.  

 

Tomorrow is Rhodes - well Journey to Lindos as we have done the Rhodes old town before.  Then its Dinner on the Edge.

[drarill]

3 hours ago, Stu UK said:

Day two was Mykonos.  We stayed onboard and used The Retreat to its full.  Breakfast was amazing.  We were seated in the same area as the previous evening so Sony and his colleagues are already starting to get to know us.  We then headed to the Retreat deck to enjoy the sun.

 

Easily managed to get loungers in the shade and even as the sun moved - so did we.  Drinks service was super attentive but i resisted alcohol until we ate lunch there.  Cesar Salad for me and Turkey Wrap for Karl, both gorgeous - and the food too.  Naturally it got busier as some excursions returned but still lots of space.  Started to meet several lovely couples.  Being in the pool was very social as people tried to cool down.  

 

If you want outdoor shade then the small seating area outside The Retreat Lounge is a lovely alternative, again with excellent bar and food service, plus an easy escape into the air conditioning of the lounge.

 

After cooking in the sun we decided it was time for the Thermal Suite.  Transpires that we get free access as RS guests (as well as an extra special purple key card).  The Thermal Suite is being limited to 10 guests at a time but there were only 5 in between 3pm and 5pm.  It was spotless and unusually for a cruise ship spa it all worked correctly - well it is a new ship. Bought the $27 scrubs - 3 varieties for that price to use in the Hammam. Views from the heated loungers were amazing albeit the sun is slightly bright as there are no window blinds.

 

Dinner we attended the Chefs Table.  Picture of the menu and some of the dishes below.  Sorry I forgot to snap the soup.  We were joined by 6 others and had an excellent evening.  Also got to see the $100,000 bottle of wine onboard.  The dinner was hosted in Fine Cut starting at 6:30pm and took about 3 hours.  We received a glass of Champagne on arrival.  Each course was explained by Executive Chef.  We opted for the additional $60 wine pairing and enjoyed them all.  Due to Covid there is no longer a galley tour.  We would recommend it - not included in any dining packages or RS unlimited dining. It was all stunning.

 

Day ended with a drink at the Sunset Bar.  All in all a 10 out of 10 day with an extra surprise - monographed pyjamas when we arrived back to the suite. 

Thanks for taking the time to share your cruise with us.  Tari and Sony took care of us back in June, and both were wonderful.  Enjoy your cruise 

 

[clevercruiser]

On 8/29/2021 at 1:30 PM, Stu UK said:

Coach drew up outside some tent like buildings.  Very few people around.  We had been told in the concierge email to look for the  priority baggage drop sign for Royal Suite and higher guests and then the exceptional service began.  The InterCruises agent then personally took charge of us and our luggage.  She escorted us into the Covid testing area (bypassing the short queues) and remained with us until testing was complete....

 

Quick question: was the test just the nasal swab, as it is at UK ports such as Southampton?

 

(my wife has a severe gag reflex and won't tolerate a throat swab under any circumstances)

 

 

 

MARK

[Sam.Seattle]

Don't let the ship launder the Retreat sleepwear unless it is too big.  Mine shrunk...  😞

Cold water wash when you get home.

Edited August 31, 2021 by Sam.Seattle

[Stu UK]

2 hours ago, clevercruiser said:

 

Quick question: was the test just the nasal swab, as it is at UK ports such as Southampton?

 

(my wife has a severe gag reflex and won't tolerate a throat swab under any circumstances)

 

 

 

MARK

Mark.  Just a nasal swab so no need to worry.

[little britain]

Just love those jimjams!!

 

Great review…. Keep it coming!

LB

 

 

 

 

[swisskreuzer]

Curious about the Mykonos Excursions, is that true that there were two beach excursions, one also priced around 60 Euro per person instead of the Pricey 145 Euro beach escape ?

[clevercruiser]

7 hours ago, Stu UK said:

Mark.  Just a nasal swab so no need to worry.

Thanks for clarifying - much appreciated.

 

Looking forward to seeing some pictures of the Royal Suite! 

[Miaminice]

1 hour ago, swisskreuzer said:

Curious about the Mykonos Excursions, is that true that there were two beach excursions, one also priced around 60 Euro per person instead of the Pricey 145 Euro beach escape ?

 

For our cruise next week I can see the Mykonian Beach Experience for  € 145 plus an excursion to beaches on an island called Cruise To Rhenia Island for € 94. 
 

Please note that some Americans complained because they were shocked to see that the beaches were close or next to nude beaches.

Judging by your screen name you are probably European and won´t have a problem with it. 😂

Edited August 31, 2021 by Miaminice

[Stu UK]

4 hours ago, swisskreuzer said:

Curious about the Mykonos Excursions, is that true that there were two beach excursions, one also priced around 60 Euro per person instead of the Pricey 145 Euro beach escape ?

That’s correct.  3 hour Beach Experience was $169 to Ella Beech inc snacks and umbrella.  Then there is $59 transfer to Kalafatis beach, dont think anything else included in that.

[Stu UK]

Yesterday was Rhodes.  After another breakfast in Luminae we headed to the theatre for our tour to Lindos.  We have been to Rhodes several times but if its your first visit all you need to do is explore the Old Town of Rhodes, right next to where the ship docks.

 

So it was a jaunt down to the theatre where there was a grand total of about 50 people for 5 tours!!  We had 7 in our group.  Once on the dock side we realised it was 7 in a large coach, a bit like the transfer from the airport.  Exclusive to say the least.

 

Journey to Lindos was about 50 minutes.  It is definitely a walking tour that is not easy - so as the walk to the top in Lindos progressed our 7 became 3, so we ended up on a private tour with a great guide.  Enough of that, let the pictures start to tell the story. Please do not be tempted to ride a donkey to the top, its more than cruel.

 

Once back onboard it was lunch on The Retreat Deck (prawns), a spin around the Thermal Suite (max capacity 10 people only 6 in) then Dinner on the Edge, followed by Andrew Derbyshire a contestant in Britain’s Got Talent.  More about the latter 2 later.

[Stu UK]

Next up was Dinner on the Edge.  So we are clear this is on the Magic Carpet and it does not move during the dinner, much to the disappointment of some guests.  Likewise the staff cannot be held responsible for the weather and so some events have been quite windy.  I have to say ours was a little drafty but did not distract at all.  It started at 6:45 and there was a second arrival time for 7:45 so that they could ensure great service.

 

Prior to dinner we invited a couple of new friends into the suite and asked the wonderful Tari for some champagne and nibbles before dinner.  We were not aware that this is a perk of the RS and she provided a mini banquet and lovely Tattanger Champagne with no extra charge.  Note to self, ask for less food next time.

 

We were lucky to be seated on the edge with stunning views.  There was a DJ playing very mellow music all the way through creating a lovely atmosphere.  We were presented with a menu and made our selections (see below).  Well that was a mistake … you don't make selections you get the whole menu, fantastic!!  In essence 2 platters for starters, one for main course and one for desert.  You wont be hungry.  In fact we cancelled a reservation for later in the cruise for Raw on 5 as there was a great seafood platter included in this dinner.

 

Drinks from the Premium Package were no problem, no wine pairing offered making you feel as if you should take it.  We told the waiters when we wanted breaks between courses and they were so accommodating, but insuring we were out for 9:30 to head to the theatre. As ever they were all very happy too take holiday snaps for you.

 

After dinner it was vocalist Andrew Derbyshire in the theatre.  A very talented chap who was a contestant in Britain’s Got Talent and loved recounting aspects of his life, work and his nana.  Great show and a very powerful voice.  Loved Andrew’s performance especially his song from Joseph my all time favourite musical, having played Joseph in the dim and distant past!

 

A quick visit to the roof top party for a drink before bed.  Lovely atmosphere and met some more great people.  This is one of the most sociable cruises we have ever done.

 

Tomorrow is Santorini and Petit Chef.

[Stu UK]

The book from the Chefs table has just arrived.  One per couple - phew was worried about our flight baggage allowance.  400 pages and as many lbs.

[LGW59]

43 minutes ago, Stu UK said:

The book from the Chefs table has just arrived.  One per couple - phew was worried about our flight baggage allowance.  400 pages and as many lbs.

Dang I love pretend sailing with you guys!  Please pass the seafood platter.

[George C]

On 8/30/2021 at 4:08 PM, Stu UK said:

Day two was Mykonos.  We stayed onboard and used The Retreat to its full.  Breakfast was amazing.  We were seated in the same area as the previous evening so Sony and his colleagues are already starting to get to know us.  We then headed to the Retreat deck to enjoy the sun.

 

Easily managed to get loungers in the shade and even as the sun moved - so did we.  Drinks service was super attentive but i resisted alcohol until we ate lunch there.  Cesar Salad for me and Turkey Wrap for Karl, both gorgeous - and the food too.  Naturally it got busier as some excursions returned but still lots of space.  Started to meet several lovely couples.  Being in the pool was very social as people tried to cool down.  

 

If you want outdoor shade then the small seating area outside The Retreat Lounge is a lovely alternative, again with excellent bar and food service, plus an easy escape into the air conditioning of the lounge.

 

After cooking in the sun we decided it was time for the Thermal Suite.  Transpires that we get free access as RS guests (as well as an extra special purple key card).  The Thermal Suite is being limited to 10 guests at a time but there were only 5 in between 3pm and 5pm.  It was spotless and unusually for a cruise ship spa it all worked correctly - well it is a new ship. Bought the $27 scrubs - 3 varieties for that price to use in the Hammam. Views from the heated loungers were amazing albeit the sun is slightly bright as there are no window blinds.

 

Dinner we attended the Chefs Table.  Picture of the menu and some of the dishes below.  Sorry I forgot to snap the soup.  We were joined by 6 others and had an excellent evening.  Also got to see the $100,000 bottle of wine onboard.  The dinner was hosted in Fine Cut starting at 6:30pm and took about 3 hours.  We received a glass of Champagne on arrival.  Each course was explained by Executive Chef.  We opted for the additional $60 wine pairing and enjoyed them all.  Due to Covid there is no longer a galley tour.  We would recommend it - not included in any dining packages or RS unlimited dining. It was all stunning.

 

Day ended with a drink at the Sunset Bar.  All in all a 10 out of 10 day with an extra surprise - monographed pyjamas when we arrived back to the suite. 

Move up is a great way to try the best suites, I see pajamas were monogrammed, they didn’t do that on our penthouse will need to remember to ask them about that on our next royal suite , great thread.

[amevola]

Reading the text and seeing the pictures is so lovely.  Thank you for this treat!

 

[C-Dragons]

6 hours ago, Stu UK said:

Next up was Dinner on the Edge.

 

We were lucky to be seated on the edge with stunning views.  There was a DJ playing very mellow music all the way through creating a lovely atmosphere.  We were presented with a menu and made our selections (see below).  Well that was a mistake … you don't make selections you get the whole menu, fantastic!!  In essence 2 platters for starters, one for main course and one for desert.  You wont be hungry.  In fact we cancelled a reservation for later in the cruise for Raw on 5 as there was a great seafood platter included in this dinner.

 

A quick visit to the roof top party for a drink before bed.  Lovely atmosphere and met some more great people.  This is one of the most sociable cruises we have ever done.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Following along. ❤️

The weather looks wonderful and you both look deliriously happy!

Thanks for sharing your adventures.

Edited September 1, 2021 by C-Dragons

[Schmoe38]

Just Curious…

 

Now this is probably the longest of longshots, but if you get a chance, could you please ask your Retreat Concierge, Luis, if he has ever been a server in Luminae on Summit?

 

We sailed with one of the most personal and genuine servers in Luminae on Summit when we did a re-positioning cruise from San Juan to Bayonne. His client relation skills were such, that he would be a natural in The Retreat.

 

p.s. Hope your retirement celebrations are all you want them to be.

 

Randy

 

 

 

 

 

[RichmondJustin]

@Stu UK Stu, we just got upgraded from a SS to RS as well for the Edge cruise on Sept 18. Is the Dinner on the Edge covered under the unlimited specialty dining? Is the only specialty dining not covered the Chef's table (and any wine upgrades above the premium package)?

[Stu UK]

Congratulations on your upgrade success you will love it!  You are correct. Chefs Table not included but all other speciality dining is. Any other questions? Has shoreside Retreat Concierge contacted you yet?

[Stu UK]

Next adventure was to Santorini.  We did this via a ships tour purely as we wanted to get to see Oia without the stress of working out boats etc during times of Covid.  First it was a tender journey - Magic Carpet works do well for this and the whole tender area is very smart. This was a larger tour than Rhodes with a virtually full coach and not great compliance with mask wearing.  It was a hot day and the coach air con was not great so it was understandable.  I do wish that passengers and the tours information would talk to each other and give the correct information.  There were several inform people on the tour who just could not manage the steepish roads in Oia or keep up with the pace of the tour.  The guide struggles to keep everyone together and in the end we broke off from her to explore.

 

Oia is stunning.  The steep cliff location, white buildings and blue domes churches were well worth the aforementioned inconvenience.  Lovely narrow cobbled streets.  Joined the coach party to move onto the the wine tasting.  The vineyard is a local cooperative where we received 3 glasses and some cheese, tomatoes and olives.  All very pleasant but cant say I’m a great fan of Greek wine.  Lovely views from here down into the bay overlooking Apex.

 

Finally it was into Thira, capital of the island.  We rapidly ditched the tour as we were heading back under our own steam - well the cable car down to the dock. Really enjoyed wandering the streets and found a great vantage point on a roof top bar for some well deserved cold beers.

 

Down on the cable car and jumped onto the tender to the ship.  You can probably guess the next few bits - afternoon in The Retreat, visit to the Thermal Suite and then it was dinner in Petit Chef.  It will probably take me some time to sort the video clips of the latter but needless to say a great experience. The animation was new to us and unique to Apex with the food and service being fantastic.  We opted for the additional wine pairing at $20pp.  It worked but I would probably just stick to your favourite wines onboard.  Whilst it is a set menu you can substitute some items but then it does not sync with the animations.  

 

After dinner we headed to the Theatre for Crystalize.  This was outstanding.  Singers, dancers, acrobats and lots of hi tech scenery.  This is a show not to be missed and appeared to be the most complex so far.  After the show we headed for the Martini Bar but didn’t stay as it was too loud to hold a conversation and ended up in Eden for a cocktail with some lovely guests we have met.  Our timing was lucky as an Eden how with acrobats had just started.  I can recommend the Pea cocktail!  Time for bed after yet another outstanding day on Apex.

[Stu UK]

Here we go with a taste of Le Petit Chef.  It’s a clip from desert so as not to spoil the overall surprise experience if you have not been before.