A Well Deserved Ovation

There’s a new girl in town and after a five day cruise debut, the brand new Seabourn Ovation has become the talk of the high seas.  From conception to the initial launch from Genoa, Italy on April 28, 2018, this stunning beauty has been groomed for pure perfection.  Porthole Cruise Magazine and a select entourage had the distinct honor of escorting this cruise debutant to her grand coming out celebration in Venice, Italy.

Never has Seabourn’s’ signature recipe for cruise excellence been more evident; elegance seasoned with a pinch of chic and luxury blended with pampered service, ingredients that translate into a master stroke of indulgence for cruise connoisseurs.  

Sleek, Elegant, Innovative

Seabourn Ovation | Seabourn Cruise Line

With sleek looking molded lines, the exterior aesthetics of the vessel hold fast to conventional trends but the gifted talents of Master Designer Adam D. Tihany are on brilliant display with the inspiring design of public spaces throughout the ship.  Written narrative is inadequate to describe the innovative design elements that exude a private yacht like aura, unlike any ship of its intimate size.

RELATED: Ovation Boasts Superior Luxury, Unmatched Style

Seabourn’s list of exclusive amenities stretches far beyond the ordinary.  Factor in a cutting edge computer center, a discreet enclave staffed by courteous concierges, a club like casino, a coffee bar with a gleaming espresso machine, fitness center, complimentary open bar and wines, boutique shops and an innovative living room atmosphere and the vessel becomes your personal mansion at sea.

An exquisitely designed pool area invites sun seekers to an all hands on deck call with more than expected space and extra cushy chaise loungers surrounding the centerpiece swimming pool.  Getting away from it all has never been easier in The Retreat, a serene, tranquil setting under a flower- shaped canopy with 15 private cabanas, complete with television, and your personalized selection of refrigerated beverages.  A designated Retreat Concierge is at your beck and call, with optional spa treatments available. To further the quest for inner indulgence and a personalized spa experience, Dr. Andrew Weil has implemented an enrichment program offering holistic and wellness programs highlighting complimentary meditation, and spiritual well being.  

Unmatched Cuisine

Seabourn Chef Thomas Keller | Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has cast conventional trends aside and offers complimentary alternative dining options in a number of different restaurant venues.  Guests will enjoy the diverse cuisine and appetizing menus inspired and designed by the culinary genius of famed restaurateur, Thomas Keller in “The Restaurant”.  Sushi connoisseurs will revel in delight with the freshest bounty of the sea in the “Sushi” restaurant, complemented by select Sake and matcha teas.

If carnivorous cravings call out, “The Grill” restaurant serves up prime steaks and seafood in a traditional steak house setting.  Casual buffet dining is available in the Colonnade and for that al fresco feeling “The Patio” features comfort food during the daytime and complete dinner menu options for casual evenings outdoors.  When the comfort of your plush suite is just too much to leave, full dinners can be served just for you in the suite or on your private veranda.

Seabourn Ovation Entertainment

Daytimes and evenings engage guests into a variety of sophisticated entertainment options. In addition to professional entertainers and local cultural shows, Seabourn calls on legendary celebrities for enrichment sessions in the beautiful Grand Salon.     

RELATED: Seabourn Ovation Maiden Voyage – What a Sight! (Video)

This isn’t my first rodeo and I generally expect and accept minor blips on these “shake down” departures.  I can spot hits and misses in the blink of an eye, but with the initial five days of sailing, this sweetheart of the sea is right on target.   I know what I like when I see it and I love what I see in the Seabourn Ovation. The cruise line has leveraged its impeccable reputation into an upscale cruise experience purposely designed for the gourmet, cruise aficionado.