Sophisticated Seabourn Quest sets out on June 9

By Kim Windyka

The Seabourn Quest cruises into summer starting June 9.

The Seabourn Quest, the newest addition to the wonderful world of luxury cruising, will set sail on the first of three pre-inaugural voyages from Monte Carlo, Monaco on June 9, and her maiden voyage from Barcelona, Spain on June 20. Offering European sailings, the ship caters to guests looking for a distinguished cruise experience. A wide variety of on-board activities abound for both the leisurely set and those seeking a bit more excitement, too.

Early birds can snag morning coffee and tea along with a panoramic ocean view at the Observation Bar, and then catch some rays on one of the 36 sun beds that line the Sun Terrace, or play a round of golf on the nine-hole course at The Retreat. The Grand Salon hosts cooking demos and enrichment activities by day, but transforms into an entertainment showcase come evening, with theater, comedy and musical performances. If you’re one of the lucky guests that find yourself on a select warm water sailing, you might even get to experience The Marina, a special enclosed area deployed by the ship’s captain. Here, you can enjoy water sports like kayaking, water skiing, and pedal boating.

Let it all go in the largest spa aboard any luxury cruise ship, which features a thermal area, hydro-pool and even a full-service salon. If you need to step out for some air, try the Spa Terrace, a deck exclusively for spa patrons.

Foodies will be pleased to discover that all of the Quest’s on-board dining is directed by star chef Charlie Palmer. Guests can enjoy an elegant morning, afternoon or evening meal at The Restaurant, the ship’s main dining room. If a craving strikes when the dining room’s closed, it’s no problem. Extended service hours mean that you can put in your order and chow down right in your stateroom. If you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, the Colonnade’s breakfast and lunch buffet options are sure to have something for even the pickiest cruiser — plus, you also have the option to eat al fresco or inside. Want to enjoy your dish poolside? Grab a laid-back bite at the casual Patio Grill. Restaurant 2 features tapas-style, small plates tasting menus in an intimate setting that’s perfect for a romantic evening.

And the suites? They’re pretty sweet. Nine percent offer private balconies, and all feature a living room and bedroom, plus a free bar, flat-screen TV, designer toiletries, Egyptian Cotton linens and more. Yet, it’s the signature touches that truly make the Quest stand out: 24-hour room service, complimentary champagne, a daily fruit basket and even nightly turndown service. There will be no questionthat you’re on a cruise that’s a cut above most!

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Kim Windyka is a travel brands copywriter, bona fide Twitter addict and freelance feature writer whose work has appeared in Metro Boston, the New Hampshire Visitors Guide and the Nashua Telegraph. Despite being a Northeast native, she dreams of palm trees daily.

Tagged: Cruise, Europe