The Seabourn Encore is an impressive ship and clearly a larger (but not too large) and overall improved version of the Seabourn Odyssey-class ships. The attributes that have struck me in my first few hours onboard is that she is lighter, more open and spacious, and both modern but more nautical in feel.
To be honest, there are a few quirks, but I need to live with them for a few days before deciding how quirky they are and whether they actually affect my (and your) overall cruise experience.
But just to provide some photographs, rather than the computer generated or staged photos that have been provided, what follows is a bit of a journey around the Seabourn Encore. I will detail each space, as appropriate, later in this Inaugural sailing. And, remember, some of these venues are designed to be truly appreciated in the evening with different lighting; especially some of the dining venues. I will try to post evening photos of them later in the cruise.
The Restaurant
The main restaurant on the Seabourn Encore is beautiful with numerous touches that catch your eye. And there are even more if you look!
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Main Entrance to The Restaurant |
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Rear Hallway to The Restaurant is beautiful. |
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Rear Entrance to Main Restaurant |
The Standard Seabourn Suite
The layout of the standard Seabourn Encore’s Seabourn suite is similar to the Seabourn Odyssey-class ships, but with some differences…some good, some maybe not. Overall the suites are generally the same square footage, but one foot narrower and a bit longer.
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Seabourn Encore’s standard Seabourn Suite |
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The additional length of the suite allows for a much larger television, but the shorter width make the cabinet at the foot of the bed less practical for storing clothes (though the drawers in the closet built-in are larger and deeper) |
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The additional length of the Seabourn Encore’s suite allows for a larger sofa – Perfect for stretching out to read or take a nap |
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The Seabourn Encore has a glass table with an interesting wood base with two easier to manage leather chairs. Reappearing from the triplets: A stool with storage room inside |
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The Seabourn Encore balconies are slightly wider and roomier |
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The Seabourn Encore balcony chairs have a slideout ottoman |
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The Seabourn Encore bathrooms layout is very similar to the Odyssey-class ships. New: A nightlight under the vanity, lighter color marble and granite and better lighting. Oh, and a larger, more efficient, toilet. |
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Seabourn’s updated and upgraded Molton Brown amenities |
The Seabourn Square
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The Seabourn Square is, well, round, but more importantly, open and bright |
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You now look at a beautiful glossy teak sculpture…I mean wall… when you chat with Guest Services |
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There are individual internet desks. (Privacy film needs to be added to prevent others from seeing your information) |
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Seabourn Square’s coffee bar is larger and improved. Seabourn is roasting its own coffee…right on board. (I’ll tell you more later!) |
The Grill by Thomas Keller
I believe The Grill is the most visually spectacular space on the Seabourn Encore combining a bar, lounge and restaurant. This is one venue I will photograph again in the evening.
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The Bar in The Grill by Thomas Keller |
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Glass and Steel Wine Cellars A striking and common theme on the Seabourn Encore |
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The Grill has both inside dining in a beautiful setting or |
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al fresco dining (which during the day is also available for use for breakfast or lunch in the Colonnade) |
The Colonnade
The Colonnade is larger and the tables are more spread out, giving a great sense of space. There are a few traffic issues that need to be worked out.
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The Seabourn Encore’s Colonnade has more spacious seating |
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The Seabourn Encore’s Colonnade has a longer buffet “line”, but also has additional hot offerings |
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I’m still figuring out the circular presentation of culinary delights, but I think this island is for salads and cold dishes. It requires you to “make the rounds”…. |
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but what is presented is both beautiful and delicious. |
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The Seabourn Encore’s al fresco dining is very similar to the Seabourn Odyssey class ships |
The Patio Grill
The Patio Grill is significantly expanded both in size and offerings: a significant upgraded dining experience…even for lunch.
Sushi
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Sushi is about the cuisine – Minimalist and white decor with colorful and well prepared presentations. Bento Boxes for lunch |
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Seabourn Encore’s Sushi – Open for lunch and dinner with earlier opening hours. Hint: One night enjoy some sushi at 6PM and dine elsewhere at 8PM |
The Club
The Club has been significantly modified on the Seabourn Encore.
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Seabourn Encore’s The Club has more group seating and sofas |
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The Club’s bar is more easy to socialize at as it is a horseshoe, but it is difficult for the bartenders. |
The Pool Area
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The Seabourn Encore’s Pool Area has more options for seating and laying about. The Pool is also a bit more than 5 feet deep. |
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The twin hot tubs are now located on the opposite side from the Patio Grill |
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Typical Seabourn: Suncare amenities await! |
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Not to worry, there are actually plenty of lounge chairs |
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A great place for a drink, but I noticed a number of people using this area for laptops and iPads |
The Spa and Fitness Center
The Retreat
I will be spending a day at The Retreat and will provide a detailed description of what this exclusive area is all about.
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The Seabourn Encore’s Retreat |
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Private Cabana in the Seabourn Encore’s Retreat |
The Observation Lounge
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Seabourn Encore’s Observation Lounge |
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Afternoon Tea is served in the Seabourn Encore’s Observation Lounge |
The Grand Salon
There is a lot more to the Seabourn Encore to explore, including the numerous open spaces, pools and hot tubs located aft…behind The Club and Seabourn Square. And, of course, the various premium suites.
If you are interested in learning more about the Seabourn Encore or, better, want to book a cruise on this magnificent ship, please give me a call or email me…even when I am onboard her!
United States: (877) 2GO-LUXURY
United Kingdom: 020 8133 3450
Australia: (07) 3102 4685
Everywhere Else: +1 530-562-9232
Or email us at eric@goldringtravel.com.