A Luxurious Seabourn Voyage: From Nice to Palamós

Our journey began with a smooth Easyjet flight from Gatwick to Nice, setting the tone for a vacation filled with unforgettable experiences. Once in Nice, the options to reach Monaco varied, with taxis, the local tram, and buses at our disposal. Opting for the bus, we enjoyed a direct 25-minute journey, costing 19 euros each, that conveniently dropped us at the port entrance, just a short stroll from our awaiting ship, the Seabourn Ovation.

As we stepped aboard the Seabourn Ovation, a 6* Ultra Luxury vessel, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. Despite its grandeur, accommodating only 600 guests across 300 cabins, the ship felt spacious and offered a cosy cabin with traditional décor, a curtain dividing the bedroom from the lounge, and a generous balcony.

Dining on the ship was a delight, with two main restaurants. The Collanade, a mid-sized buffet option, allowed both buffet and menu orders. The formal dining option, aptly named The Restaurant, featured waiter service with a daily changing left-hand menu and perennial favourites such as Steak. For an extra treat, we indulged in the Thomas Keller Grill, an inclusive a la carte restaurant where we savoured a delightful Lobster Thermidore.

Our first port of call was the iconic Monte Carlo, famous for its F1 racetrack and picturesque marina nestled into the hills. The ship offered a breath-taking view of the Monte Carlo Casino, accessible by a charming foot ferry. St. Tropez, our second port, embraced us with cobbled streets despite the less-than-ideal weather, offering a glimpse of its boutique shops and harbour-side bars.

Marseille, my personal favourite, revealed its grandeur as we explored its vastness via a 9-euro train ride, providing panoramic views from the hilltop cathedral. Then we ventured to Palamós on the Costa Brava, a lovely beach resort, that welcomed us with a short walk to the beach and promenade, along with nearby shops and cafes for a leisurely afternoon.

Seabourn's exceptional service was a highlight of our journey. Every staff member ensured our comfort with smiles and greetings, making us feel genuinely cared for. The ship's spacious design, despite its size, meant no queues for drinks or food. While the ship may offer fewer onboard activities than its larger counterparts, we found joy in relaxing on the top deck, soaking in the jacuzzi, sipping various drinks, and relishing the scenic views.

The culinary experience on Seabourn surpassed expectations, with perfectly cooked meals and a willingness to accommodate any request. Ideal for both couples and solo travellers, the ship provided double sun beds and ample tables for two in both the buffet and restaurant, creating an intimate and enjoyable atmosphere.

In conclusion, our Seabourn voyage from Nice to Palamós was a perfect blend of luxury, scenic beauty, and impeccable service—a vacation to be cherished and remembered.

You can find Emily at our Felixstowe branch.