Noah had nothing like this

July 26, 2025

Noah had nothing like this

As I may have mentioned earlier the cruise liner complex was a short walk from my hotel. Checking in was to begin at 12:30 pm so I made my way there with my luggage etc. I felt quite proud of myself as others took taxis to the embarkation point. I was checked in (passport and booking verified), my heavy luggage sorted away to be deposited in my room (716) later on. Next we were scanned as was our hand luggage and only then allowed on board, and then having our visages photographed for on board security.

Given how many passengers there are (less than 300) the ship's bulk looked overblown. once on board you discovered why. My suite is huge - the bed with more acreage than Wembley's hallowed grass. A his and hers bathroom with discreet lighting to hide the extra pounds you're bound to put on.

There was a bottle of champagne as an arrival gift and a bottle of Jack Daniels. When I got talking to experienced Seabourn travellers I asked what I should do with the whiskey - "Drink it, it's on the house " was the response.

The internet's available for free, but it's of so poor quality, if you're using any heavy traffic, it's essential to upgrade. At $300 it's not cheap, but I recall having to do that on a previous cruise and paying a similar amount.

After getting settled in our rooms we were required to view the obligatory video on safety at sea. The Fat Captain knew if you'd viewed it in it entirety. If you hadn't you were keel hauled. After that we all assembled in the Theatre to learn what the next 10 days promised.

There was a slight hiccup in the smooth running - one of the gantries loading our luggage broke, which meant we didn't get our luggage until after 5 pm and the boat's departure was delayed by an hour and a half.

At late lunch, accompanied by the obligatory glass of wine, I talked to a couple of my fellow seamen. They were seasoned travellers, having ranged the world with Seabourn. One couple, mother and son, had been on 35 voyages with the company. He was a navel architect - the first I've ever met - living his dream.

At dinner, that evening, I sat with an American dermatologist, a crime writer and his wife and the ship's entertainment manager. This seating was organised by the company, bringing first time Seabourners together. This evening I'll be the guest of the Purser!

After dinner I went on deck where our entertainment manager was laying down a few tracks - I strutted my stuff before, exhausted, heading for my ~~cabin~~ suite and bed. Such was the excitement and novelty of the day I forgot to set my alarm and only woke at 9 am and by the skin of my teeth had breakfast.

I had to inspect the guest laundry last night where I found two already using the facilities and one ironing a shirt or two. I look forward to availing myself of the washer and tumble dryer

Now the fotos...