Bigger is not better

Item: Seabourn Encore
Rating: 4.4
Author: sn2

Seabourn Encore Cruise Review to Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)

sn2

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Review: 1

Helpful Votes: 60

Overall rating:

4.4 out of 5

16 Night Jewels Of Arabia (Dubai To Singapore)

Sail date: October 25, 2017

Ship: Seabourn Encore

Cabin type: Suite

Cabin number: 1120

Traveled as: Singles/Friends

Reviewed: 6 years ago

Review summary

If you have never sailed on Seabourn' or their new larger ( 550 passenger) Encore class ships , you would give it the highest marks. Service is very good and it is a first class experience. That said, having sailed with Seabourn on 4 other occasions on the slightly smaller ( 400 passenger) Odyssey class ships I can see that teh smaller ships was a bit nicer. The Encore easily handles the extra passengers. I was in PH cabin 1120 . It seems that these cabins on the new ship are about 6 narrower but maybe a 3 ft longer in size...plenty of room. My stewardess service was excellent but long time Seabourn passengers will notice that passenger name recognition is sadly missing among the crew and food and beverage service has definatey slipped. That said, if you are new to Seabourn ( lets say from other cruise lines with big ships) you wil have an excellent experience.

Embarkation

4 out of 5

Embarkation in Dubai was awful. Taxis let you off quite far from the terminal and there is little to no porters or carts. This is not under Seabourn control but port of Dubai who don't seem to be ready for cruise tourism.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

4 out of 5

Onboard Activities

4 out of 5

If you go on this cruise line expect quiet conversation and leisure time. The most intense activity will be a putting contest or bean bag throw.

Entertainment

5 out of 5

They do a great job in a small space

Children's Programs

This is not a cruise line you would bring kids on.

Service and Staff

4 out of 5

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5

A very nice sized space with walking closet and separated bedroom /living room. Large balcony with dining table two chairs and then two separate sun loungers. PH cabins have jetted tubs as well as walk in shower.