14 day luxury cruise with Seabourn - Hong Kong to Singapore
The perception that cruising attracts an older retired clientele is not misplaced but this also depends on the type of cruise you choose. We were on an adult only luxury cruise, so there was a bias towards the older generation who have more time and disposable income. This didn't stop us having a fabulous time. What it highlighted is that life is about mindset not age confirmed by Stan, in his 90’s on the dance floor every night into the small hours. Very quickly got to know many of crew and fellow guests from all corners of the world as there was a family atmosphere onboard.
On embarkation day we imagined it to be chaotic like it is at the airport with long queues and lots of hanging around. This was not the case, we were quickly checked in and shown to our cabin where there was a bottle of champagne and canapes to welcome us. The real joy for us was sailing out of Hong Kong. Victoria Harbour is one of the most iconic harbours in the world with its stunning skyline of instantly recognisable skyscrapers. At exactly 11pm when the ship started to sail the entire waterfront was lit up and we were excited for the journey ahead, which took in Ha Long Bay, Da Nang (Hue) and Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) in Vietnam, Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Ko Kood and Bangkok in Thailand and Singapore.
Sailing into Ha Long Bay, Vietnam was enthralling. This natural bay is a World UNESCO World Heritage site, famed for its emerald waters and 1,600 limestone islands which greet you as you sail past. They are a wonder of the natural world.
Our favourite destination was Vietnam and one that we spent most number of days exploring. On day one we enjoyed a full day on a junk in Ha Long Bay, visiting Hang Co Caves formed of stalagmite and stalactite formations, before moving onto to Da Nang.
At Da Nang, we opted for exploring Hoi An, by bike and foot. I hadn’t been on a bike for almost 10 years and was very nervous to start in Vietnam but was persuaded by hubby that this would be a great way to see the city and he was right. Cycling through rural villages and rice fields before arriving at this UNESCO World Heritage site was pure joy. Even the areas with heavy traffic were manageable by a novice cyclists like myself!. The ancient city of Hoi An is well preserved colourful trading port with shops, restaurants, tea houses and temples it’s easy to idle away a few hours.
From Hoi An we moved on to the former capital of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City. As lovers of history, we were excited to experience the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as the locals still like to think of it. Whilst in Saigon we visited the Cu Chi tunnels. Work on this complex of underground tunnels were started in 1948, by the Viet Cong to defeat the French. However they were extended in the 1960’s when war against the Americans started. In total they are a network of 120 miles. I was brave enough to enter the tunnels and it was astonishing just how small they are. Measuring 31 inches in width and 5 feet in height, it is very easy to feel claustrophobic and queasy, as well as worry that you may never get out again, but if you are game it is definitely worth experiencing them first hand as it helps you understand that with this kind of guerrilla war fare tactics, the USA even with all its military might would struggle to win. We also took in the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral, but on a lighter hearted note dancing with cocktail in hand on the rooftop of the famous Rex Hotel and hanging out with the local Harley Davidson enthusiasts was lots of fun.
Other itinerary highlights were a private day at Ko Kood Island, Thailand. The tropical unspoilt paradise was idyllic and a real ‘wow’ moment when we arrived. Just when you thought things couldn’t be better, the Seabourn crew made it even more special by cooking up a beach barbeque feast. For the lovers of seafood there was the opportunity to enjoy Caviar and champagne – we stuck to enjoying just the champagne.
On sea days there was plenty to do too. We joined the daily Seabourn Conversations with experts on the region sharing their knowledge on a range of topics of the region, from the Silk Route, Queen Victoria, The First Indo-China War, Spice trade and more. There was also a good healthy rivalry with the midday quiz and a fun way to know get to know fellow passengers. In the evening we revelled in the various cultural shows ranging from magic, comedy, West End show tunes as well as late night dancing in the lounge bar. There was also a gym and spa facilities for those looking to stay fit, re-charge or be pampered.
If like us you enjoy good food then going on a cruise it’s a foodie haven. The choice of restaurants and food is ample even for a vegetarian like me!!. Whilst cruise companies do cater well for different dietary requirements, it is worth informing the maître de, as they will ensure that the chefs are aware and they can create bespoke dishes if there is nothing on the menu to your liking. One of the highlights is The Grill, by Thomas Keller. Chef Keller is renowned for his take on classic American Restaurant from the 1950’s & 60’s and this is a partnership unique to Seabourn. We dined here a couple times and savoured the culinary delights. We also relished the Sushi restaurant and the themed cuisines, our favourite was the Indian night as we love our spicy curries. On Seabourn all dining experiences including Thomas Keller in-room dining are included in the price as too are the drinks. The exception is premium wines, spirits and champagne. We were very happy with the fine wines onboard, thus offering great value for money.
Our Veranda suite was fabulous, bigger than our London apartment with a private balcony, queen sized bed, ample storage space, fully stocked bar with drinks of your choice, double vanity bathroom with a marble bath and shower as well as your own personal suite stewardess – the suite was heavenly.
We found cruising to be an enriching holiday experience on so many different levels that I would definitely recommend it once the world re-opens fully for travel.