I recently went on a special five-night cruise on Seabourn’s first expedition ship to explore the stunning landscapes of Scotland and experience unparalleled luxury. This review will take you through our amazing five-night adventure onboard the ultra-luxurious Seabourn Venture.
First Day
On the first day, I flew to Edinburgh and got a taxi to Leith, where I embarked. After a quick check-in process, I was taken straight to my Veranda Suite. Upon my arrival, two gracious stewardesses warmly greeted me with a glass of champagne, offering a delightful start to my voyage after a quick tour of the suite. I was lucky enough to have a balcony in my suite. The suite effortlessly showcased its charm with tasteful decor. At the same time, the ensuite provided luxurious amenities, including a walk-in shower, bathtub, and toilet.
Veranda Suite
After unpacking, I headed to the main evening dining venue, Collonade, for a bite on deck 5, where there was an open buffet. From pizzas to stir-fries and salads, take your pick! You also had the option to pre-order omelettes for breakfast and hotdogs for lunch every day! Fortunately for me, the weather was exceptional, so I took the chance to self-explore the ship, where I ended up on the top deck, cocktail in hand, soaking in the blinding sun. Before I knew it, it was time to prepare for pre-dinner, where I had soufflés and tapas, delicious! And, of course, more drinks during cocktail hour.
Following my delectable dinner, I made our way to The Club, situated on deck nine, which served as the venue for the evening’s entertainment. The night’s lineup featured a talented singer who serenaded us all with captivating melodies. This was followed by a side-splitting comedy act that was a regular highlight of the cruise’s nightly offerings.
Second Day
After an amazing night’s sleep, the ship set sail for the first port of call, docking in Invergorden. Before doing so, I headed down to The Colonnade to have breakfast (lots and lots of croissants and picky bits). The ship then disembarked for an afternoon excursion and went to Urquhart Castle, located in the Scottish Highlands. This stands as an impressive ruin on the shores of Loch Ness where I admired the breathtaking views and learned about the legends surrounding the famous ‘Loch Ness Monster’.
After a fun-filled afternoon, I returned to my suite to get ready for dinner. I ate lamb steak for dinner with a side of lightly seasoned vegetables. After that, I spent some of the evening at the bar before enjoying the evening entertainment, consisting of a piano player, a singer, and a comedian.
The Restaurant
Third Day
On the third day, the ship ventured to Fair Isle, renowned for its exquisite knitted jumpers. As the morning sun beckoned, I made my way to breakfast, preparing for the day’s escapades. Aboard a Zodiac, me and my fellow friends on the cruise traversed the waters and set foot on the island’s enchanting shores. A nice taxi ride whisked us to the community centre, where warm hospitality awaited us with complimentary tea and cake and delightful encounters with the island’s welcoming locals. The centre showcased an array of local crafts, allowing us to appreciate the artistry of Fair Isle.
Our next stop led to the fascinating submarine, unveiling a glimpse into maritime history. In the afternoon, a beautiful hike awaited, guiding us through picturesque landscapes adorned with the charismatic presence of puffins, lambs, and a vibrant array of birdlife. Satisfied by the day’s adventures, we returned to savour a delectable cowboy steak for dinner, accompanied by tasteful cocktails. The evening’s entertainment mirrored the previous night’s extravaganzas, ensuring a lively and memorable experience.
Sky Bar
Fourth Day
Upon the arrival in Kirkwall, a delightful surprise awaited me: a complimentary excursion to the quaint town of Stromness. Nestled in charming surroundings, I embarked on a journey to explore the magnificent Ring of Brodgar, a remarkable monument even older than Stonehenge. As I approached, the sight of the stone ring, standing proudly against the sky, captivated my senses. Experts guided the fascinating tour, unravelling the mysteries of this ancient site.
As the evening unfolded, a local family entertained us with a lively Scottish dance known as a ceilidh. With cocktails in hand, we immersed ourselves in the joyous atmosphere, mingling with fellow friends and revelling in the rhythmic movements on the dance floor. The melodies of the bagpipes played as we all bid farewell to Kirkwall, accompanied by the heartfelt tunes played by the talented Scottish family.
Wine Selection in The Restaurant
Fifth Day
The ship disembarked at the Shetland Islands, specifically Mousa and the Isle of Noss. The first stop was Mousa, known for its ancient broch, a fascinating historical structure. I took part in a scenic hike, covering a mile and a half, to reach the broch and marvel at its intriguing architecture. Later, embarked on a thrilling Zodiac tour around the island, keeping our eyes peeled for the active presence of seals in the surrounding waters.
Afterwards, I ventured to the neighbouring Isle of Noss, where I embarked on another Zodiac tour, this time indulging in the joy of bird watching. As the evening approached, we gathered for a delightful dinner, savouring the region’s flavours and reflecting on the remarkable experiences of the day.
Expedition Lounge
Last Day
I arrived back in Lerwick when the sun began to set and indulged in evening cocktails after a productive meeting onboard the ship. Me and my fellow friends sipped our drinks on the deck for one last time, indulging in the splendid views of Lerwick’s harbour. It was a delightful way to unwind before disembarking.
Front Ocean View on Seabourn Venture
Accessibility
Seabourn Venture also offers a notable feature of wheelchair-accessible suites, ensuring comfort and convenience for guests with mobility challenges. Guests with visual impairments are provided with braille nameplates for public areas such as restaurants, lounges, and lifts. This thoughtful accommodation ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all visiting guests.
