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With no
apologies for the pun, Saga Pearl is a real gem!
The history
of this little ship is in itself very interesting. Originally
intended as a spy ship (Okean) for the Soviet Navy, with the
end of the 'cold war' construction got as far as the basic
hull before lay-up. The hull was then purchased by V-Ships
and was towed to Italy for completion as a cruise ship and
chartered to Swan Hellenic Cruises as Minerva. Saga took over
the charter of the ship (still owned by V-Ships) in May 2003
for a period of three years.
From May
to November of each year the ship will operate as Saga Pearl
for Saga Cruises whilst for the remainder of the year she
will operate as Explorer II for Abercrombie & Kent. The
ship is crewed by V-Ship's employees in the Deck Department,
with officers and hotel staff from Saga; this is also the
case when operating as Explorer II.
This is
Saga's second cruise ship, finally making 'Saga Shipping'
operators of a 'fleet'. Refreshingly Saga Pearl and Saga Rose
are completely different. Whilst Saga Rose has the feel of
a grand ocean liner (which she is) Saga Pearl feels more like
a country house hotel at sea - smaller and more intimate.
That said, despite her small size internally one never feels
cramped. Spacious, light, airy are all words that could easily
describe her interiors; contemporary, classic and timeless
could equally be used to describe the ambience.
Possibly
the most attractive space on the ship is Shackleton's Bar
with some wonderful photographs by Hurley of that disastrous
expedition. Even in port on turnaround day we were entertained
by a pianist whilst having a pre-luncheon drink - ok so it
was the piano tuner, but it certainly made the moment! A close
second for best space on the ship would be the North Cape
Bar which feels comfy and homely.
Saga Pearl's
library is huge, one of the largest at sea, and that is saying
something when some ships five and even ten times her size
don't have a library - but then nor do many have a dedicated
cinema whilst Saga Pearl does.
Eating
in the main dining room is single (open) seating. Once again
the decoration brings a sense of subtle elegance. Menus could
best be described as traditional with a twist of adventure.
Our luncheon was of the highest standard and dessert was 'to
die for'; a prospective passenger would most probably need
to pack two sizes of clothes for their cruise as weight gain
would be hard to avoid - though of course Saga Pearl does
have a gym should one decide to fight the battle.
Once again
Saga Shipping seem to have got everything 'about right'. Saga
Pearl is refined but not ostentatious providing that relaxed
convivial atmosphere sometimes so easy to lose amongst the
(unnecessary) pomp of supposedly first class travel - which
this certainly is!
Of course
Saga ships are aimed at the over 50's (or over 40 if travelling
with a companion over 50) and I have often heard many young-at-heart
over-50's say the ship will be full of 'old people'. This
was my third time aboard a Saga ship during embarkation and
each and every time I have always been struck by the wonderful
lively atmosphere - despite the age requirements of Saga their
ships do not feel as if they are full of 'old people'!
My only
complaint? Being 'under-age' I am not able to enjoy the full
Saga experience! If Saga diversified into catering for all
age groups I doubt there are many Cruise Lines to whom they
would not give a run for their money. An interesting thought
!!
Review
and photographs by Stephen Shirley, September 2003
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