seabourn cruise food

Onboard Experience

Culinary excellence on a seabourn cruise: elevating the dining experience.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Dining is a crucial and defining part of the cruise experience on Seabourn
• Seabourn is committed to delivering exceptional culinary offerings and has a strong culinary foundation built on excellence
• Special events like Caviar Sail Away, Champagne in the Surf, and Shopping with the Chefs enhance the onboard culinary experience
• Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine offers a comprehensive resource for cruise and travel enthusiasts, providing in-depth features on voyages, new ships, destinations, and onboard cuisine and entertainment.

The Importance of Culinary Excellence on a Seabourn Cruise

Seabourn’s Commitment to Elevating the Dining Experience

Signature events: enhancing the culinary journey.

The Role of Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine

Exploring related articles from porthole cruise and travel magazine.

Conclusion: Unforgettable Culinary Excellence on a Seabourn Cruise

Frequently asked questions, what are some of the unique dining experiences offered on seabourn cruises, how does seabourn ensure the quality of its culinary offerings, can you provide more information on the food & wine cruises offered by seabourn, what are some of the signature events that guests can look forward to on a seabourn cruise, how can readers access porthole cruise and travel magazine and what kind of content can they find in it.

Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond.

Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.

AIDAnova’s Naming Ceremony: A Futuristic Cruise Experience

Disney Wish: A Magical Lineup of Entertainment!

Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond. Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.

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Choosing the perfect cruise cabin: factors to consider.

• Different cabin types offer different experiences and prices increase as you move up in cabin type.
• Consider your vacation style and special groups of cabins that align with your preferences.
• Cabin location and noise can affect your sleep quality, so choose a quieter spot and consider the location on the ship.
• Deck level and cabin size/layout are important factors to consider for convenience and comfort.

Cabin Types and Cost

Vacation Style and Special Groups of Cabins

Cabin location and noise.

Deck Level and Cabin Size/Layout

Additional cabin amenities and overall experience.

Proximity to Amenities and Attractions

Noise considerations, cabin size and accommodations for groups, accessible cabins for passengers with mobility issues.

• Accessible cabins come with features like wider doorways and accessible bathrooms.
• Booking an accessible cabin can usually be done online, like any other cabin type.
• It’s important to book accessible cabins early due to limited availability.
• Accessibility features in these cabins ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers with mobility issues.
• Cruise lines are a great option for passengers with special needs, as they provide accessible cabins and prioritize the comfort of all passengers.

Choosing Your Own Cabin Vs. Letting the Cruise Line Select

Are there any discounts or promotions available for booking certain cabin types, can i request a specific cabin location on the ship, are there any age restrictions for certain cabin types or special groups of cabins, is there a limit to the number of people allowed in a cabin, what is the process for upgrading or changing cabins after booking.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

Setting Sail with the Perfect Soundtrack: The Ultimate Cruise Playlist

Introduction

Creating the perfect cruise playlist.

Popular Songs for a Cruise Playlist

Songs that capture the spirit of cruising, classic cruise-inspired songs, how to curate your own cruise playlist, consider the cruise destination and itinerary, mix up genres and eras, include songs that evoke the feel of the open sea, don’t forget to include fun and upbeat songs, sample cruise playlist, 1. surfin’ usa, 2. one love, 3. margaritaville, 4. come sail away, 5. night fever, 6. escape (the piña colada song), 7. celebration, 8. let’s groove, 9. vacation, 10. red red wine, 11. girls just want to have fun, 12. hot hot hot, 13. walking on sunshine, 15. don’t worry, be happy, 16. somewhere over the rainbow, 17. island in the sun, 18. soak up the sun, 19. no shoes, no shirt, no problems, 20. it’s five o’clock somewhere, 21. party in the u.s.a., 22. knee deep, 23. on the floor, 24. fireball, 26. the night is still young, 28. heat waves, 29. friday (dopamine re-edit), 30. i’m good (blue), related articles, silversea holiday sales: suite upgrades, discounts & onboard credit.

As someone passionate about travel, I’m excited to announce the incredible holiday sales event by Silversea.

Imagine upgrading your suite, saving an additional 5% per person, and receiving a generous $1,000 onboard credit. This credit can be used for indulgent experiences like spa treatments and shore excursions.

With worldwide voyages departing soon, you can explore classic Caribbean destinations or embark on unique journeys from ports like Singapore, Bangkok, and Bali.

Join me in spreading holiday cheer by booking a luxurious cruise and creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

• Suite upgrades are available during Silversea’s Holiday Sales Event, providing a more luxurious and comfortable experience with extra space, elegant furnishings, and breathtaking views.
• Customers can enjoy an extra 5% off per person and receive a $1,000 onboard credit per suite during the Holiday Sales Event, making their cruise more affordable.
• The onboard credit can be used to pamper oneself with luxurious amenities, explore new destinations through various excursion options, enjoy live shows and performances onboard, and treat oneself to extra amenities for an unforgettable cruise experience.
• Specialty restaurants offer delectable culinary delights, gourmet dining experiences, a diverse array of flavors and cuisines, and a sophisticated ambiance for an elevated dining experience.

Suite Upgrades: Enhance Your Accommodation

I can enhance my accommodation by taking advantage of the suite upgrades offered during the Silversea Holiday Sales Event.

This special event allows me to upgrade my holiday accommodation to a higher category suite, giving me a more luxurious and comfortable experience on board. Imagine having more space, elegant furnishings, and breathtaking views from my suite. It’s the perfect way to upgrade my cruise experience and make my holiday even more memorable.

Additionally, during the sales event, I can also enjoy an extra 5% off per person and receive an onboard credit of $1,000 per suite. This credit can be used for exciting shore excursions or indulgent spa treatments.

Discounts: Save More on Your Cruise

Take advantage of the special offer to save even more on your cruise. Silversea’s Holiday Sales Event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy luxurious cruising at budget-friendly prices.

With the one-category suite upgrade, you can enhance your accommodation and experience ultimate comfort. Plus, you’ll receive an extra 5% off per person, allowing you to save money and make the most of your vacation.

But that’s not all! Silversea is also offering an onboard credit of $1,000 per suite, which can be used for exciting shore excursions or indulgent spa treatments.

With these discounts and credits, you can truly make your cruise a memorable and affordable experience. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to save money and enjoy a fantastic holiday at sea.

Onboard Credit: Treat Yourself to Extra Amenities

Indulge in the onboard credit to pamper yourself with luxurious amenities during your cruise.

With the Silversea Holiday Sales Event, you can enhance your experience by using the onboard credit for various options.

One exciting option is to explore new destinations ashore with the wide range of excursion options available. Whether it’s visiting historical landmarks or immersing yourself in local culture, there’s something for everyone.

Additionally, you can enjoy live shows and performances onboard as part of the entertainment options. From Broadway-style productions to live music, the cruise ship offers a vibrant and entertaining atmosphere.

Specialty Restaurants: Indulge in Culinary Delights

Savor the delectable culinary delights offered at the specialty restaurants on the cruise ship. Indulge in gourmet dining experiences and fine dining options that will tantalize your taste buds. From elegant seafood dishes to succulent steaks, these specialty restaurants offer a diverse array of flavors and cuisines.

Immerse yourself in the sophisticated ambiance of these dining establishments, where every detail is meticulously crafted to create a memorable dining experience. From the elegant decor to the attentive service, every aspect is designed to enhance your enjoyment.

Sample the chef’s signature dishes, created with the finest ingredients and expertly prepared to perfection. Whether you prefer French cuisine, Asian flavors, or classic Italian dishes, these specialty restaurants have something to satisfy every palate.

Experience a culinary journey like no other as you savor each bite and savor the exquisite flavors. With the onboard credit provided by the holiday sales event, you can indulge in these fine dining options without worrying about the cost.

Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience and make your cruise even more memorable.

Spa Treatments: Relax and Rejuvenate Onboard

I can’t wait to book a spa treatment and relax onboard, allowing myself to unwind and rejuvenate. Silversea offers an array of spa options that are perfect for pampering and self-care. Here are some of the fantastic spa amenities you can enjoy on your cruise:

Immerse yourself in the soothing ambiance of the spa and embrace the opportunity to take care of your well-being.

What Other Benefits Are Included in the Silversea Holiday Sales Event Besides Suite Upgrades, Discounts, and Onboard Credit?

In addition to suite upgrades, discounts, and onboard credit, the Silversea holiday sales event offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary beverages. These extra perks enhance the overall experience and make for a truly enjoyable vacation.

Are the Suite Upgrades Available for All Types of Suites on the Cruise?

Sure thing! Suite upgrades are available for select types of suites on the cruise. Eligibility for suite upgrades may vary, so it’s best to check with the cruise line for specific details.

Can the Onboard Credit Be Used for Any Other Expenses Besides Shore Excursions and Spa Treatments?

Yes, the onboard credit can be used for a variety of expenses besides shore excursions and spa treatments. It can be used for specialty restaurants, onboard activities, and other amenities to enhance your cruise experience.

Are the Specialty Restaurants Included in the Cruise Fare or Do They Require an Additional Fee?

Yes, specialty restaurants on Silversea cruises require an additional fee. However, with the onboard credit from the holiday sales event, you can use it towards enjoying the delicious meals and exquisite dining experiences at these specialty restaurants.

Are Spa Treatments Included in the Cruise Fare or Do They Require an Additional Fee?

Yes, spa treatments and specialty restaurants are not included in the cruise fare and require an additional fee. However, with the Silversea Holiday Sales Event, you can use onboard credit for these amenities.

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Seabourn: FREE Tips, Drinks, Gourmet Dining...

Seabourn Alaska cruises from $2,644*

Seabourn Mediterranean cruises from $3,204*

Seabourn Cruise Line Dining

Choose to dine when and where you want on any of Seabourn’s luxurious ships. Each venue onboard offers a different atmosphere with different dishes, but all using impeccable ingredients like Black River Ossetra Caviar and innovative cooking techniques.

• The Restaurant Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Restaurant offers a variety of dishes for you to choose from. The menu has lighter fare alongside classic choices, and the cheese plate is a favorite.  

• Restaurant 2 This intimate venue requires reservations, but you’ll be glad you made them when you dine here. Here you can try innovative small plates like Foie Gras Crème Brulee and Roasted Dorade.  

• Veranda Café Seabourn’s Veranda Café is open for buffet breakfasts and lunch on the Seabourn Pride, Spirit and Legend . This venue also gives you the option of sitting outside.  

• The Colonnade Open for dinner on the Seabourn Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest , The Colonnade is a bistro-style restaurant where you can expect to taste flavors from the region you’re visiting.  

• Sky Grill Sit al fresco and enjoy a casual, but delicious meal as you take in the beautiful sights and discuss your plans for the evening.  

• Patio Grill On the Seabourn Odyssey, Sojourn and Quest , make sure to stop at the Patio Grill for a quick and casual salad or hamburger from the grill. This venue is open for both lunch and dinner.  

• In Suite Dining Room service is available 24/7 aboard Seabourn. You can order anything off the room service menu or have a meal being served at The Restaurant delivered to your suite or veranda, course by course.  

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Dining Onboard Seabourn Cruises

Seabourn Cruises offers the 'ultimate dining experience' on your schedule. In an atmosphere defined by choice, you choose what you want, when you want it. From award-winning cuisine to simple snacks or even backyard favorites, you can get the food you're craving on your own timeline. With open seating in several restaurants, an experienced staff ready to cater to your needs and an ability to meet most dietary requests, Seabourn is ready to serve you the meal of your dreams. With world renowned Chef Thomas Keller at the helm, these onboard eateries set and maintain incredibly high standards in both service and quality.

Seabourn manages to exceed expectations in most categories when it comes to dining options. For instance, you can try Black River Ossetra Caviar exclusively on Seabourn cruise ships. Most restaurants highlight local flavors and specialty ingredients which you may recognize from the amazing destinations on your journey. Beverages, both alcoholic and otherwise, are generally included in the price of your cruise vacation but some premium liquors can be purchased and delivered to your stateroom.

• CASUAL DINING
• MAIN DINING
• SPECIALTY DINING
• ROOM SERVICE

The Patio and Sky Grill

For poolside snacks and your favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, fresh pizza and more, visit The Patio. Open for lunch and dinner, this is one of the most comfortable spots on deck.

For dining in a more casual environment while still maintaining a very high quality meal, check out the Colonnade. Breakfast and lunch buffets truly are crowd pleasers. Dinners are regionally themed and include such delightful dishes as shrimp ceviche, pan seared grouper, oven roasted pineapple with frozen yogurt and almond brittle, among others served up bistro style to the delight of guests.

The Restaurant

The name may be simple but the food is quite thoughtful and varied in terms of cuisine and flavors. The Restaurant's refined ambiance embraces open seating to make dining as comfortable as possible. With an experienced staff ensuring your meal is both perfectly prepared and without complication, you're bound to cherish each and every meal in The Restaurant on Seabourn.

Restaurant 2

For dining in a more intimate setting, with tapas style small plates visit Restaurant 2. Innovative dishes are always on the menu in this beautiful venue. You'll need to make a reservation before you sail your way through one of the most fun and exciting menus on board any ship at sea.

The Grill by Thomas Keller

The Grill serves dishes as iconic as its namesake Thomas Keller. This truly is one of the finest American chophouses you'll ever have the pleasure of visiting. A timeless menu doesn't seek to reinvent the culinary wheel it seeks to perfect it in every way. This Keller-trained staff led by an amazing group of talented chefs will cook up your favorite dishes as you like with some of the most flavorful side items of any restaurant on board. Some items have tableside preparation for your entertainment in this elegant area.

Room Service

In suite dining is available 24/7 to accommodate your desires. Whether you opt for course by course service ordered from The Restaurant or prefer to enjoy lighter fare on your veranda, the room service menu is sure to thrill a connoisseur.

*Additional fee applies.

All menus and dining times are subject to change without notice. Some venues are only available on select ships.

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Seabourn Ovation Restaurants

Share this story.

The Seabourn Ovation restaurants are like heaven for foodies. This review rates each of them and includes video tours so you can see what they are really like.

In this review

• Dining ratings
• The Restaurant
• The Grill by Thomas Keller
• Earth & Ocean at the Patio
• The Colonnade

There are five excellent Seabourn Ovation restaurants, including two speciality venues:

• The Restaurant.
• The Grill by Thomas Keller.
• Earth & Ocean at the Patio.
• The Colonnade.

The Restaurant is the main dining room. It is a breathtakingly beautiful space with high ceilings as well as coloured glass chandeliers. But what really makes The Restaurant special is the food – it was consistently some of the best I’ve tasted at sea.

The Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the morning there are pastries, eggs and other breakfast favourites. At lunch there is a small but delicious menu. This usually has at least one fish dish. But in the evening things step up a notch with a wonderful French-inspired dinner menu.

Each night the chefs present a wide selection of specials. These often reflect the local ports of call. In addition, there are dishes inspired by Thomas Keller as well as Seabourn classics that are always available.

I especially enjoyed the Avocado, Artichoke and Orange Salad served with Bitter Greens and a Tangerine Vinaigrette. The Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb was also excellent.

When you have dinner in The Restaurant you can mix-and-match from the menu.

Also, like all the Seabourn Ovation restaurants French champagne and fine wines are poured free of charge.

The Restaurant has open seating which means you can dine when you like and with whomever you like. Reservations are not needed.

On formal nights The Restaurant has a formal dress code.

The Grill by Thomas Keller is one of two speciality dining venues on Seabourn Ovation. It is a classic American steakhouse with a chic New York twist.

The decor – which includes a spectacular silver staircase set against a golden mosaic wall – was inspired by designer Adam D. Tihany. While for the menu Seabourn teamed up with Michelin starred chef Thomas Keller.

Chef Keller has updated classic dishes, like Lobster Thermidor served out of the shell with a lobster foam. There’s Elysian Fields Farm Lamb Medallions with Herb Crust as well as Dover Sole and daily specials like Steak Diane. One of the most popular starters is the Caesar Salad with marinated anchovies – it is a real winner and is prepared at your table.

The whole Roasted Free Range Chicken with Thyme Jus is also a highlight. The preparation takes two days and the Roast Chicken is carved table-side. It serves two people.

The Grill also offers a small yet delicious dessert menu with treats like Seven Layer Coconut Cake and Dark Chocolate Layer Cake. Be sure to leave room for a signature Thomas Keller cookie at the end of the meal!

The Grill by Thomas Keller has a great choice of old and new world house wines to compliment the menu. There is also an extensive specialty wine list.

Insider’s tip:  The Grill is one of the most popular Seabourn Ovation restaurants so I recommend making your reservation online before you sail.

There is no additional charge to experience this great Seabourn Ovation restaurant.

Sushi is the other speciality dining venue on Seabourn Ovation. It is a small restaurant serving exceptional quality Japanese cuisine. The menu is so authentic it could come direct from the street markets of Tokyo with sushi, sashimi and nigiri. The staff are happy to help guide your selections.

Like the best restaurants in Tokyo, the quality of the produce is outstanding. Hamachi, tuna and other fresh seafood is flown from Japan and served a each night. Indeed, the eel, octopus, salmon and tuna are all superb.

A great selection of hot and cold sake is also available. In addition, there is a good choice of the house wine and beer as well. But it’s worth noting that the Sushi restaurant does not serve coffee as it is not part of Japanese cuisine.

Sushi is also open for lunch, serving an expanded selection of bento boxes. These include teriyaki chicken, miso salmon, tamarind-glazed mushrooms and gyoza pork dumplings. There is also a mince pork ramen bowl. It is a healthy lunchtime alternative.

Sushi restaurant does not require reservations. Also, there is no extra charge to eat there. However, the restaurant has limited seating and is popular, which means you might need to be patient.

Earth & Ocean at the Patio is Seabourn’s new à la carte poolside restaurant. The menu was developed by consulting chef Anton Egger. Indeed, it was inspired by his travels around the World.

The Earth & Ocean restaurant introduces fine dining to the poolside patio each night. There is designer ceramic ware, a candlelit ambiance and table service, as well as spectacular sunset views.

Earth & Ocean is full of surprises, like the smoked tuna dip delivered to the table in its own tiny smokehouse. The Penne Pasta with Homemade Spanish Chorizo, Peppers and Basil also impresses.

Earth & Ocean also has other delectable bites like Iberia Ham with Melon, Fennel and Feta Salad as well as Bacon Wrapped Branzino fish with Curry Butter Sauce. I enjoyed the Shrimp Tempura with Pickled Mushroom, Ponzu and Sriracha Mayo. In fact it’s all great stuff and an excellent addition to the Seabourn Ovation restaurant scene.

You can choose to share dishes or they can be served individually. Reservations are not required for Earth & Ocean at the Patio.

The relaxed Colonnade restaurant on Seabourn Ovation sets new standards for gourmet buffet dining.

There are salads, seafood platters, hot roasted meats and delectable desserts. Everything is fresh, plentiful and well presented. The Colonnade also has a range of daily specials.

There is comfortable seating inside, as well as outdoor seating on the teak terrace where you can enjoy the gentle sea breeze and wake views.

The Colonnade is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You do not need to make reservations.

The author sailed as a guest of Seabourn Cruises .

About the Author: Jason Kerr

Seabourn Ovation Overview

Seabourn ovation rooms, seabourn ovation nightlife, seabourn ovation wellness, one comment.

Jason the presentatioln was great but there is one thing you said that was wrong:

My dad was in the navy in world war 2 and this is what he told me what to do and what not to do.

If you take a cabin do not take one amidships but take a cabin either at the rear or at the bow. The reason for this is the bow goes up and down while the rear rolls from side to side but you get both in the middle.

The fastest way to get seasick is to sit in a deck chair and watch the railing and the sea go up and down

If you get seasixk my dad said these are the best remedies:

feeling seasick get up and start walking and do not lie down on the bed it wil be worse

you eat even if you throw up keep eating as your stomach needs something in it to counteract the seasickness

One night my dad and I listened to the news where it mentioned 35 foot hkgh waves hkt the QE2 and my dad started laughing then told me tghat his ship would have 100 foot waves crash into it.

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Caviar and Champagne Flow Freely 24/7 on This Luxury Cruise Line

Really, what more do you need?

Picture this: An electric blue iceberg floats past portside as your mother-of-pearl spoon scoops a heap of caviar onto a blini. You pop it into your mouth and chase it with a sip of Champagne as a humpback whale is spotted fluking in the distance. 

Sure, the whales and icebergs are the stuff of travel dreams, but did we mention the caviar is included? Seabourn’s all-inclusive, 24/7 caviar service takes cruising to a new level of luxury, and for travelers, it’s a majorly mouth-watering perk.

“Reliving those special nights on Seabourn with my husband and our friends is a memory I treasure,” says travel expert Olivia Liveng. “There was something incredibly romantic about sneaking out for Champagne and caviar at 1 a.m. Sitting there, with the night sky above us, enjoying some of the finest treats life has to offer — all donning bathrobes, of course.”

Whether you’re lounging in bed while crossing the Drake Passage, passing by palm trees in the Caribbean, or enjoying afternoon tea cruising The Kimberley, endless Regiis Ova caviar is available on demand. 

Meaning “royal egg” in Latin, Regiss Ova was co-founded by Michelin star chef Thomas Keller, with each tin of salty goodness sourced from his favorite sustainable farms. So, passengers will find the same caviar they’re digging into atop Michelin-star dishes at The French Laundry and Per Se.

Aboard Seabourn, this bonafide black gold is served the traditional way over ice and on a silver platter. Chopped red onion, crumbled boiled egg yolk, egg whites, sour cream, and Melba toast or blinis accompany it. Paired perfectly with a dry vodka martini or glass of bubbly, it’s one of Seabourn’s most ordered items day or night.

“Caviar is one of our guests’ favorite offerings because they can get it with the ring of a phone,” says Seabourn’s SVP of guest operations, Gerald Mosslinger. “If you’re waking up and want to indulge in caviar with your eggs on your private veranda or winding down at the end of the night for a snack before bed, caviar can be delivered 24/7 to your suite.” That's certainly one way to get us onboard, but now, we may never want to leave.

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5 best fall foliage cruises in New England, Canada and beyond

If you feel left out whenever your social media feeds blow up with beautiful pictures of fall foliage, you probably should plan your own leaf-peeping trip. Sure, you could arrange an epic road trip, complete with traffic jams and overpriced, overcrowded tourist traps. Or, you could take a fall foliage cruise.

From a cruise ship, you can enjoy the autumnal hues of the Canadian and New England coastline as you sail between northeastern U.S. home ports like New York and Boston and Canada's Montreal or Quebec City. Book shore excursions for a more relaxing day out; the bus driver will navigate the traffic along tree-lined byways to scenic vistas, and your mealtimes will be prearranged (or held on board your ship's multiple dining venues).

If you'd rather explore fall's colors outside of the Northeast, a few cruise lines will take you to fall foliage destinations in other parts of the U.S., too.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You'll want to book your Canada and New England cruise at least six months (if not a year or more) in advance for the best pricing and availability. Here, we present the five best fall foliage cruises you should consider in New England, Canada and beyond.

7-day Canada and New England Discovery cruise on Holland America

Holland America 's 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam is a delightfully midsize ship, so you don't have to worry about crowds as you sail between Boston and Quebec City. The ship starts sailing this route in late August, but for the best leaf peeping, you'll want to book one of the two October departures.

Ports of call include Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine. Take your pick of scenic drives or strolls through gardens or along hiking paths, camera at the ready. On board, spend your evenings rocking out to live music or enjoying a leisurely meal of steak or seafood at the Pinnacle Grill.

Best for : Holland America attracts mainly retirees and couples who appreciate the line's focus on fine dining and live performances. Zuiderdam's itinerary is ideal for anyone who doesn't mind flying in and out of different cities in order to travel farther north into Canada than the one-way sailings.

Related: 11 best cruises to Canada and New England

7-day Canada and New England cruise on Princess Cruises

For an easy round-trip New York cruise that leans more into New England than Canada, consider Princess Cruises ' weeklong October sailings on the 3,660-passenger Enchanted Princess. Choose from itineraries with four or five ports, including Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Bar Harbor; Halifax; and (only on certain sailings) Saint John, New Brunswick.

If seascapes are your thing, don't miss the beautiful coastal landscape by the Bay of Fundy (from Saint John) or Peggy's Cove in Nova Scotia. Head to the hills in Bar Harbor for elevated views, or escape to sea with a harbor cruise from Newport.

Best for : Princess Cruises also attracts mature couples and lovers of classic cruising, but the 2019-debuted Enchanted Princess is much larger and bigger than Holland America's Zuiderdam. Kick back with the line's signature Movies Under the Stars (complete with blankets for fall nights in New England), or enjoy multiple specialty restaurants devoted to Italian specialties, steakhouse fare and seafood. Bundle up for a romantic breakfast on your balcony while the colorful coastline passes by.

Related: The best time for a Canada and New England cruise

7-night Canada cruise on Royal Caribbean

Combine an easy Boston round-trip sailing with a fall foliage cruise focused more on Canadian than New England ports with Royal Caribbean 's seven-night voyages on the 2,191-passenger Jewel of the Seas, setting sail in September and October 2024, and 2,142-passenger Brilliance of the Seas, departing in September and October 2025. Most itineraries call in Portland, Maine; Saint John; Sydney; and Halifax.

The ships are among Royal Caribbean's older and smaller ships, so don't go in expecting a humongous megaship with wild top-deck amenities (a good thing or not, depending on your style). You'll still find plenty of dining options (including Izumi for Japanese cuisine and Giovanni's Table for Italian), the line's signature circular Viking Crown Lounge and — perfect for fall weather — an indoor, adults-only solarium.

Best for : Royal Caribbean fans seeking a midsize ship experience with fewer children on board should book this cruise. Anyone looking for a round-trip cruise to Canada that doesn't require a passport will appreciate the convenient Boston departure port (with plenty of beautiful fall foliage on its own) and three port calls in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Related: Canada and New England cruise packing list: What to pack for every season

7-night Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise on American Cruise Lines

Canada and New England aren't the only regions of the U.S. known for their fall foliage. American Cruise Lines offers several small-ship sailings in October to other leaf-peeping regions, including the Hudson River Valley, the Upper Mississippi and the Chesapeake Bay.

But for something completely different, why not try the line's seven-night, round-trip Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise from Seattle on the 90-passenger American Spirit or the 170-passenger American Constellation?

Your itinerary will take you to Anacortes, Friday Harbor, Port Angeles (gateway to Victoria, British Columbia, and Olympic National Park), Port Townsend and Poulsbo, Washington, with a day spent cruising around the San Juan Islands. Take advantage of the Fidalgo Island walking trails near Anacortes, and don't miss the photogenic Deception Pass nearby. Gaze at the Olympic and Cascade mountains in their fall glory, and enjoy the fall weather in historic waterfront towns.

Best for : Travelers looking for a different destination for their fall foliage cruise, but also cruisers who prioritize time on shore over time on the ship. American Cruise Lines' ships are tiny, just four to six decks, with amenities limited to a restaurant, a couple of lounges, small fitness areas and a sun deck, perhaps with a putting green. Be prepared to entertain yourself in the evenings — or go to bed early so you're energized for a full day in port nearly every day. Also, know that these ships generally draw an older retiree crowd.

12-day Canada and New England Fall Foliage cruise on Seabourn

Smaller ships can visit more off-the-beaten-path ports than their big-ship counterparts. Seabourn 's 458-passenger Seabourn Quest (2024) and Seabourn Sojourn (2025) sail 12-day cruises between New York and Montreal. Itineraries vary slightly by sail date, but visit several destinations in Quebec, including Trois-Rivieres, Quebec City, Baie-Comeau and Saguenay, with scenic cruising along the Saguenay Fjord. The ship also visits Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Halifax, Nova Scotia; it stops at a couple of American ports, too, such as Newport, Rhode Island, and Boston, Martha's Vineyard or Provincetown, Massachusetts.

This is also one of the best fall foliage cruises if you're looking for an all-inclusive voyage in luxurious surroundings. On Seabourn Quest, every cabin is a suite with a view (not to mention a walk-in closet and spacious bathroom with tub). You can enjoy gourmet cuisine, complimentary wine and cocktails and a friendly crew that will go above and beyond for you.

Best for : Luxury lovers who wish to be pampered on their leaf-peeping vacation will enjoy this nearly two-week cruise around Canada and New England. The extended itinerary features several days at sea to enjoy the ship's spa or delicious afternoon tea service, as well as some lesser-visited ports and, on select departures, an overnight in Halifax. It's ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their fall Northeast trip.

Bottom line

You might be surprised by how many choices you have for late-September and October fall foliage cruises. In addition to Seabourn, all the major luxury cruise lines dedicate a few cruises to this region, including such lines as Silversea Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Windstar Cruises , Oceania Cruises and Crystal . Big ships like NCL's Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway also get into the leaf-peeping action.

Here, we've picked the best fall foliage cruises for different itinerary configurations and ship styles. They might be our favorites, but only you know which combination of ports and onboard experience is the perfect match for your travel style.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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