MightyQuinn

On 12/8/2020 at 5:59 PM, KenzSailing said:

We have the Philips air fryer, and love it.

 

The models can be a little confusing at first, but you really only have  two decisions to make:

 

Analog controls or digital

 

Size: they come in three; papa, mama, baby

 

I would recommend springing for the digital controls.  Size is a function of how many folks you cook for.  Since it's the two of us, I use the baby digital model, so can't vouch for anything larger.

 

Hope this helps.  Happy cooking!

Super helpful @KenzSailing.  I had narrowed my choice down to Philips Turbostar or Cuisinart Compact and now the decision is clear.  Excellent advice to take a peek at air fryer cookbooks.  I usually just google and land on some random food blog.  Many thanks!

Have you made yam fries in the Philips?  I've tried every hack to get them crispy in a conventional oven, with little success.  My DH loves yam fries and that will be my first test for our soon-to-be-purchased air fryer.

Thanks again!

On 12/7/2020 at 1:36 PM, KenzSailing said:

This Friday I plan to make one of my personal favorites: chicken parm.  It's not the classic prep, as I make it in an air fryer (you know, the healthy alternative to hot oil frying.) But boy, is it good.

Kenz, what air fryer do you have?  We're in the market so I'm researching brands/models.  I've read a ton of reviews by experts and homecooks which has left me decidedly undecided on what to buy.  I'd welcome any tips.

22 hours ago, CabinBoy2020 said:

Just received an email from Seabourn:  My 21-day Alaska-Pacific Coast cruise in Sep 2021 is cancelled.  Now another decision about requesting a refund or taking the 125% FCC.  I need a spreadsheet to keep track of all these credits!

CabinBoy, I'm sorry your cruises were cancelled as I know you were looking forward to sailing with Seabourn.  I hope you get another opportunity to experience the SB magic. 

Just a thought as you ponder whether to take a refund or FCC.  I've noticed recently that some SB promotional offers are not available to guests who use FCCs.  For example, the fine print on the current Black Friday deals says: Guests using a Future Cruise Credit and/or rebooking from 2020/2021 voyages impacted by a pause in operations are not eligible for this offer.  I'm not sure if SB will rigidly apply this restriction or if they'll be flexible and consider bookings with special offers on a case-by-case basis.  But it's something to think about if you decide to go the FCC route.

1 hour ago, rafinmd said:

We left Vancouver September 25 and arrived in Victoria September 26.  The weather was obviously not great as there was no furniture on the back deck.

It looks the same this morning ... but sun is hiding behind the clouds!

2 hours ago, sfvoyage said:

I still have $400 referral coupons.  If you need a referral, feel free to email me at sfvoyage at gmail dot com

As already mentioned, Seabourn and Crystal are our favorite lines and we sail both happily.  I'm by no means a Crystal cheerleader (am seriously ticked off by their response to covid refunds) but I'm surprised to read so many negative comments here about their passenger mix.  Maybe we've been lucky, but I gotta say we've not encountered many snooty, unfriendly or judgemental passengers on Crystal, whether on their ocean or river vessels.  For the most part, our fellow passengers were enjoyable traveling companions.  Sure some acted with a sense of entitlement, but we've seen a few of those on Seabourn as well.  If we spot folks like that, we simply avoid or quietly observe with amusement.

3 hours ago, SLSD said:

We have encountered passengers in SB in the past who took advantage of this particular company's offerings and they were very pleased.  As for Mr. SLSd and me, we were a bit put off by their crowing.  I know that SB has a business model and selling off unused suites is part of that.  My point here is that it is being done well in advance. 

 

I subscribed to emails from this seller so that I would be aware.  Would I take advantage of their offerings? Maybe --if the price was truly advantageous.  

We've been on that mailing list for years and Seabourn has been featured since at least 2015.  Usually SB deals are advertised at least 4-6 months before sailing and quite often much longer in advance.  The "package" is definitely attractive in the beginning, but as time goes on and SB sweetens the pot with price reductions or additional perks that don't apply to the "package", its value diminishes.  We know a couple who've cruised multiple times through that agent and they have always been very pleased.  We like to look but have never been tempted!

22 hours ago, 2SailingNomads said:

For the most part the crew we interacted with were as friendly as what we are used to from Seabourn's crew.  That said, we had an absolute lack of interaction with Officers on Crystal.  And the CD Russ was totally unimpressive.  On multiple occasions were were getting coffee and he came up and spoke to long time Crystal cruisers but despite us standing only a few feet away from him he never took the trouble to even say "Hello" - the exact opposite of the Seabourn CD's.  

I agree in part with your observation.  The CDs we've had on Crystal were a tad aloof and rather stuffy compared to the friendly and outgoing CDs we've had on Seabourn.  I think that's consistent with the onboard vibe and "culture" of the respective lines.  Seabourn tends to be more carefree and relaxed which creates a warm and comfortable environment.  On Crystal the vibe is more reserved and buttoned down.  The difference shows up in the attitude and behavior of officers, staff and crew.

But I think Russ Grieve is an exception!  He is relatively new to Crystal but IMHO is a wonderful addition to the line-up.  Our experience with him was exact opposite to yours. We encountered him as CD in his previous life on Azamara and thought he was among the best in the business.  A consummate professional who was engaging, talented, energetic, accessible and a ton of fun.  No adjectives are enough to describe this fine human being.  My only regret is Crystal cancelled our cruise on which Russ would have been our CD.

13 minutes ago, Ken the cruiser said:

We hope you're right and our TA tomorrow talks with SB rep that agrees with you. ☺️

Ken, that "plus" language is straight from the SB website.  If your voyage qualifies, I can't imagine your TA would have any difficulty in getting both for you.  

Now I have a question for you.  We've done many refares when the price was reduced before final payment and our amount due was decreased accordingly.  We've also had the odd occasion when we received OBC when the base fare was reduced after we made final payment.  I'm curious how things work if you refare for a lower price after you've made early final payment far in advance.  How will Seabourn refund the difference to you?  By credit card?  By check?  By FCC?  By OBC?  Or?  Thanks!

2 hours ago, Ken the cruiser said:

Here are the 10% off T&Cs and the new Sensational Suite Savings T&Cs.  From what we can tell, they don't say either way.

This online description of the 10% Early Bonus Savings uses the word "Plus" in bold so it appears to be combinable with the Sensational Suite Savings Event.

https://www.seabourn.com/en_US/deals/early-bonus-savings/early-bonus-savings.html

Experience the best of extraordinary worlds on board the best at sea. We are pleased to offer a special 10% savings on select sailings for new and existing bookings when you book now and pay in full. Plan your next ultra-luxury getaway and save today. Stated pricing does not reflect discounted fares, contact your Travel Advisor or call Seabourn directly for more details.

Plus, when you book during our Sensational Suite Savings Event and you may receive a Complimentary Veranda for Ocean View or Up to Three Category Suite Upgrade, up to $1,000USD Shipboard Credit per Suite and up to 900-minute Internet Package per Guest.

1 hour ago, Ken the cruiser said:

Just heard back from our SB PCC after forwarding him the SHB request yesterday, and the $250 OBC perk was posted to our account earlier today.

Well done.

17 minutes ago, Ken the cruiser said:

Our SB PCC said Friday to email him the Shareholder Benefits info, minus any personal account into, and he'll submit it for us to the applicable folks. We plan on doing that tomorrow, so it will be interesting to see what happens.

I agree with zelker re: timing and process for shareholder OBC. 

As you may know, the OBC benefit on any CCL cruise brand is renewed annually at the shareholder's meeting.  It's currently applicable on sailings through July 31, 2021 so your Dec 20, 2021 voyage wouldn't qualify.  Maybe your PCC plans to register your application as a placeholder.  AFAIK the OBC benefit has always been renewed but shareholders may not be in a generous mood next year given the huge drop in share value over the recent months. 

https://www.carnivalcorp.com/static-files/50351a91-4dc0-4f6b-bfec-684647e6129f

You'll be able to see the shareholder OBC on your account as long as it's credited while your booking is still with Seabourn.  Once it's transferred to a TA, you will no longer be able to see it and your TA will need to check when it's applied.

47 minutes ago, CabinBoy2020 said:

Hahaha .... I was hoping you knew how to start a Roll Call because I don't either!  I think I can figure it out and will try to start one for the Vancouver to LA segment that we both will be on.  That will at least allow us to share thoughts and hopes about these future cruises.  Best wishes.

2 hours ago, vslyko said:

Hi CabinBoy2020,

I see you suggested me doing a Roll Call for my sailing.  I know this may sound crazy but how does one even do that?  I am what some would call "computer illiterate."

CabinBoy and vslyko - you've both created threads here on Seabourn forum and it's the same process on the Roll Calls.  Simply click the blue box "Start New Topic" here and voila.  Good luck to both of you!

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/forum/537-seabourn-odyssey-roll-calls/

58 minutes ago, vslyko said:

If I don't get definitive responses on this thread about the Coke Products and Heinz Ketchup I will just call Seaborne's Corporate On Board Services Office (or email them) to find out for sure. 

Seabourn serves ketchup and other condiments in small bowls so the brand is not identified unless you ask.  That said, my husband is a ketchup fiend and he thinks SB does indeed serve Heinz. 

As for Coke products, after booking you will have access to an on-line preference form that shows what beverages are available onboard.  You can indicate a special request beyond those listed.  In our experience, however, if you have a special request it's best not to rely on the online form alone.  Follow up with SB well in advance of departure to ensure that your preferences are noted.  As other have stated, SB will do all they can to accommodate your request, including going ashore in ports to find your pleasure.

Hope you enjoy your first Seabourn cruise!

22 minutes ago, Isklaar said:

 

There is a self-service laundry, detergent definitely provided but not sure about fabric softener.

Heads up though - Covid19 -  it's not certain right now whether or not the cruise lines will allow the self-service laundries to be used initially when cruising starts again. 

Hi Isklaar.  We posted at the same time but you make excellent points about laundry rooms post-covid.

28 minutes ago, vslyko said:

I have yet another question.  Does anyone know if Seabourn Odyssey has a self self laundry onboard and if so do they provide detergent and fabric softener?  Thanks!

Yes and yes.

38 minutes ago, Ken the cruiser said:

Today, we were able to coordinate with a Seabourn PCC to hopefully let us know when the Quest replacement 2021/22 itineraries are  posted. If we are actually able to book one of our desired itineraries through him, does anyone know what the timeframe is (e.g., 30 days, 60 days) to subsequently transfer the booking to our TA to reap their benefits as well?

Reservations have to be transferred within 60 days of being created. 

Seabourn and Crystal are our favorite lines and we choose between them based on itinerary and timing.  Service is excellent on both but there are subtle differences in the "feel" of the overall cruise experience.  I can't address your question about solo travel but I can say that we usually request a 2-top on Seabourn and have always been accommodated, whether in the main dining room or in TK Grill.  Even pre-covid, tables were sufficiently distanced that we never felt we were dining with our neighbours.  

For comparisons between Seabourn and Crystal, there's lots of good info on this thread from Feb 2019.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2631551-seabourn-vs-crystal/

We prefer Seabourn for:

The familiarity yet intimacy of Seabourn Square
Caviar on demand

Signature events like Opera under the Stars and Officers on Deck
Shopping with the Chef
Spacious suite accommodations with walk-in closets
More varied and interesting itineraries

Ventures by Seabourn zodiac excursions
Loyalty program with tangible benefits

We prefer Crystal for:

Fabulous enrichment with unrivaled guest lecturers

More interesting and diverse entertainment

Magic Castle at Sea (now renamed)
Computer University at Sea
Specialty restaurant Umi Uma
Outstanding cocktail list and excellent bartenders

Specialty luncheons such as Asian and Seafood Buffets

Wrap-around promenade
Unlimited free wifi

So there you go, at least pre-covid!  My thoughts only but you can't go wrong with either choice.

1 hour ago, Ken the cruiser said:

Thank you all so much. All of your comments were very helpful. We'll definitely focus on the South Georgia Islands itineraries.

Very much agree.  In 1997, we took an expedition cruise aboard World Discoverer to Falklands, Antarctica Peninsula and South Georgia.  The entire trip was a highlight but our most memorable moments are from South Georgia.  Standing amidst literally thousands of King Penguins is definitely a wow.

1 hour ago, Daisi said:

I grew up speaking Quebecoise and English in the house, and although I have lost a good protion of my French (I was classified as bilingual when working), I still have enough to get by...in Quebec!  We had a great time with our CD on our Rhine cruise, she was from Belgium, and did not like my French! 

Many years ago we did a cycling tour in the Loire Valley.  I remember stopping at a little cafe and speaking Canadian French with locals.  After a little while, they said in amusement "why don't we both just speak English". 

45 minutes ago, Two4Sea said:

Part II -opinion

 

So a cruise ship with no Ice Class rating and being careful to only sail in clear water could qualify by just meeting the knowledge, cold, ice encrusting and survival equipment requirements.

 

I think what we have here is that the lines are coming around to seeing how to run their familiar Antarctic cruises and still conform to the Polar Code.

I think you're onto something Bill.   According to the International Maritime Organization, ships intending to operating in the defined waters of the Antarctic and Arctic must apply for a Polar Ship Certificate, which would classify the vessel as:

Category A - ships designed for operation in polar waters at least in medium first-year ice, which may include old ice inclusions

Category B  - a ship not included in category A, designed for operation in polar waters in at least thin first-year ice, which may include old ice inclusions

Category C - a ship designed to operate in open water or in ice conditions less severe than those included in Categories A and B.

chengkp75 said that Quest was issued a "Polar Ship Passenger" certificate by Lloyd's in 2018 and I bet it's designated a Category C ship under the Polar Code.  I don't know when the Quest certificate will expire but presumably not before 2022.

http://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/HotTopics/polar/Pages/default.aspx

23 minutes ago, Ken the cruiser said:

I believe you didn't highlight @chengkp75 correctly for CC to notify him regarding your comment referencing him. So I thought I would make the attempt as we're definitely interested in his answer.

He should get a CC notification that I quoted his post, as well as an email to his address on file.  At least, that's how it's always worked for me.  Unless he has notifications turned off. 

Thank you notamermaid.  You're right!  The Seatrade article has been posted and discussed on the Crystal forum already.  There are multiple threads and several "correspondents" who provide good coverage of GHK from multiple sources.  The virtual meeting of GHK creditors took place on Aug 28 and it's been reported that they “have been supportive and a number of the Group’s long term financial creditors have agreed to join an ad hoc group to extend their support to the Group.”  GHK also stated that they have adequate working capital and cash flow to meet financial obligations until June 2021.  So it's not all doom and gloom!

The outlier was info about MV Werften, which hadn't yet made it onto the Crystal forum.  You got the scoop and now we're all in the know!  Thanks again.

On 8/31/2020 at 4:47 AM, chengkp75 said:

Marina, built in 2011, will complete her second Special Survey in Jan 2021, and that will be the latest her polar certificate will last, so she will not be permitted to operate south of latitude 60* after that date.  60* south is a parallel that crosses only ocean as it circles the globe, and the closest land is the South Shetland Islands, 35 miles (over the horizon) south, and the South Georgia Islands (60 miles) and the Antarctic Peninsula (180 miles to the tip) are further.

 

Even most of the expedition ships will no longer be permitted in Arctic/Antarctic waters after 2021, only those built within the last 2-3 years.

chengkp75 ... I have followed your posts for years and value your informed judgement.  I copied your comments from Oceania over here so I could ask you a question.

Yesterday Seabourn announced that Quest would not be sailing their planned Antarctic/South Georgia itineraries this year but would operate them for the 2021-2022 season.  Guests booked on affected sailings for this season have automatically been re-accommodated on the same voyage for 2021-2022.  The time frame for those Antarctic voyages would be Nov 2021-Feb 2022.  Are you able to provide comments on whether Quest would be permitted to operate south of 60* latitude at that time? 

24 minutes ago, Joc123 said:

Does this mean the Venture will not be sailing until 2023?

I can’t imagine they would have 2 ships going to Antarctica. Love to have more information about Venture’s progress as we are booked on inaugural cruise July 2021 -don’t expect that to happen 

From the announcement by Seabourn today:

Details about the revised inaugural season for Seabourn Venture are currently being finalized and will be announced in October. The brand has opened a wait list for guests interested in the voyages from December 2021 to April 2022. Guests currently booked on the inaugural voyage for Seabourn Venture will be offered the opportunity to sail on the new inaugural itinerary on a priority basis before it is open for sale to the general public. Additional details on rebooking for other affected Seabourn Venture voyages will be shared with booked guests and travel advisors in mid-October.