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Perched high above the ocean on Seabourn Encore, amid gleaming white cabanas, is The Retreat. This exclusive space comes with a range of added perks, but you will pay extra to use it.
What’s hot
- Special canapé presentations.
- Upgraded beverages.
- Luxurious cabanas and padded sun loungers.
What’s not
- No ocean views.
- Synthetic faux teak floor.
- Covered by shade-cloth, so no sun-bathing.
About The Retreat on Seabourn Encore
The Retreat is exclusive to Seabourn Encore (and her yet-to-be launched sister ship Ovation). Guests can enjoy this lavish new space at the top of the ship for an additional charge, the big question is: Is it worth it?
What is The Retreat
On Seabourn Encore The Retreat is the brainchild of internationally famous interior designer Adam D. Tihany. He’s responsible for almost every aspect of Seabourn Encore’s interiors. Tihany has also designed some of the worlds top luxury hotels and restaurants too.
The concept of a retreat-style space is not new to Tihany. The Mandarin Oriental Las Vagas and the Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles both have poolside retreats imagined by him.
On Seabourn Encore The Retreat is centred around an elevated whirlpool surrounded by tables and chairs as well as comfortable sun loungers. Sixteen uber-luxurious cabanas encircle the space.
These upmarket beach huts boast every creature comfort including artwork on the walls, fine wood panel sideboards, a mini bar refrigerator, day beds and padded sun loungers. There’s even an enormous flat screen TV too! Noise cancelling headphones are provided for TV watching so you won’t disturb your neighbours.
What it costs
Guests gain access to Seabourn Encore The Retreat by booking one of the cabanas. Included is all-day access, a selection of quality canapés and premium beverages – spirits, cocktails, wine and Champaign. A plush Retreat bath robe and specially branded Retreat flip-flops are also provided. So how much would you expect to pay for all this luxury?
Seabourn charge US$249 on port days and US$349 on sea days per cabana in The Retreat.
Seabourn Encore The Retreat: Is it worth it?
Is it worth it? Ultimately, that all depends on personal preference. The Retreat is a secluded space and it does offer more privacy and luxury, however there are no ocean views – something many guests we spoke with disliked.
On the other hand, the premium beverages served in Seabourn Encore The Retreat represent significant value, it should be remembered that they would come at an additional charge if consumed elsewhere on the ship.
When we sailed on Seabourn Encore demand for The Retreat was not high. Indeed it was one of the quietest places on the ship. Most days there were no more than 2 couples using the space. At any rate the general consensus among passengers we spoke to was that they didn’t want to pay over-and-above their all-inclusive cruise fare.
Our advice
On embarkation day you are welcome to visit The Retreat, so take the ride up to deck 12 in the forward elevator and see for yourself whether it’s right for you.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
Thank you, Jason. Interesting read re: The Retreat. Doing research for our use (or not) this Summer.
Did you use the retreat? Would you recommend?
Dear Luiza
Yes, I have used The Retreat. There’s no denying it has an extra-exclusive feel. However, whether or not you consider it is worth the extra cost is something of a personal preference. I recommend visiting The Retreat on embaarkation day to decide for yourself.
Regards
Jason Kerr
Managing Editor
Looking forward to using this retreat on our trip to the Caribbean this winter. The prices have come down and they now offer meals including breakfast I heard. Instead of upgrading our room, we are opting for this upgrade instead.