A Visit To Saga Pearl september 2003

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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