SeaDream I

SeaDream I really is the ultimate exclusive boutique vessel – like having your own private yacht in which hospitality, anticipation and personal recognition are art forms practised to a high level.

Best for: Mature cruisers, Luxury

At a glance

With the ambiance of a private club, this ship is for experienced, independent travellers who don’t like large ships, glitzy lounges, kids running around, or dressing up – no tuxedos or gowns are allowed, and ties are not needed. One delightful feature of each cruise in warm weather areas is a “caviar in the surf” beach barbecue.

A “Top of the Yacht” bar, crafted in warm wood, was added to both ships in 2001. So were eight special alcoves set to the port and starboard sides of the funnel, equipped with two-person sun loungers with thick pads (and two equipped for one person); however, there is quite a bit of noise from the adjacent funnel.

At the front part of the deck there are more sunloungers and a couple of large hammocks, as well as a golf simulator with a choice of 30 courses.

Inside, there is a feeling of unabashed but discreet sophistication. Elegant, chic public rooms have flowers and pot pourri everywhere. The main social gathering places are the lounge, a delightful library/living room with a selection of about 1,000 books, a piano bar which can seem more like a karaoke bar at times, and a small casino (two blackjack tables and five slot machines).

All drinks, except for premium brands and connoisseur wines, are free.

Because the ship is popular for small company charters, you may find that the date and itinerary you want will not be available, so you may be asked to change to its sister ship, SeaDream II, and a different itinerary.

Wheelchair accessibility: None
Gratuities: Tips are included in the cruise fare.
Onboard currency: US dollars

Accommodation

There are three types, and six price categories (depending on location, size and grade): Yacht Club Cabin, Commodore Club Suite, Admiral Suite and Owner’s Suite.

Yacht Club Cabins, incorrectly called “suites” in the brochure, are, more correctly, fully equipped “mini-suites” with an outside view through windows or portholes. The sleeping area has twin beds that can be put together to form a queen-sized configuration. In the lounge area, there is also a 20-inch flat-screen television, CD and DVD player, and an MP3 audio player with a choice of more than 100 selections. But the bathrooms really are small.

For larger accommodation, choose one of 16 Commodore Club Suites, consisting of two standard cabins with an interconnecting door. One cabin is made into a lounge and dining room, while the other becomes your sleeping area. The advantage is that you get two bathrooms.

For the largest living space, go for the Owner’s Suite. It’s the only accommodation with a bathroom that incorporates a real full-sized tub; there’s also a separate shower enclosure and lots of space for toiletries.

Admiral Suite is a little smaller than the Owner’s Suite, but is well laid out and extremely comfortable.

You are encouraged to sleep under the stars under the stars, if you wish, in one of the on-deck two-person beds, and cotton sleep suits are provided.

Food and Drink

The Restaurant, is elegant and cosy, yet with plenty of space around each table for fine service. Tables can be configured for two, four, six, or eight. Course-by-course meals can also be served out on deck. Candlelit dinners are part of the inviting setting.

The SeaDream Yacht Club experience really is all about dining. Only the freshest and finest quality ingredients are used in the best culinary artistry. Fine, unhurried European service is provided.

Good-quality table wines are included in the cruise fare for lunch and dinner. Real wine connoisseurs, however, will appreciate the availability of an extra wine list, full of special vintages and premier crus at extra cost.

The Topside Restaurant is the informal open-air dining venue. It has glass sides and a glass ceiling. Informal dining is its theme, whether for breakfast, lunch or the occasional dinner. Teak tables and chairs add a touch of class.

Entertainment

There is no evening entertainment as such, other than a duo or solo musician to provide music for listening and dancing in the lounge. Dinner is the main event, and videos are available to take to your cabin.

Spa/Fitness
 

The holistic approach to wellbeing plays a big part in relaxation and body pampering aboard SeaDream I. The Asian Spa/Wellness Centre, together with a good sized gymnasium and a small beauty salon, has three massage rooms, a small sauna, and steam shower enclosure.

Golfers should enjoy the electronic golf simulator, with a choice of several golf courses to play.

At the stern is a small, retractable, water sports platform. Equipment carried for sporting types include a water-ski boat, sailboat, wave runners (jet skis), kayaks, wake boards, snorkelling equipment and two Zodiacs. The use of all this equipment is included in the price of a cruise.

The sea conditions have to be just right (minimal swell) for these items to be used, which, on average is once or twice during a typical night-night cruise. You may also be allowed to swim off the stern platform if conditions permit. Ten mountain bikes are also carried, so you can pedal away when ashore.

Service

SeaDream I offers fine European-style service in surroundings that border on elegant and refined while remaining trendy.