Cruise and MaritimeVoyages welcomesVasco da Gama Steve Aldridge checks out the latest addition
The port of Tilburymoves some 16million tonnes of cargo pa. So its understandable that the emphasis is on functionality rather than aesthetics. So as Vasco da Gama sat majestically behind the (somewhat ornate) cruise terminal building, it was quite a contrast to the rest of the “scenery”. Think of a diamond tiara sitting in a box of spanners.
Iwas attending theGala Event towelcome Vasco da Gama to the CMV fleet and looking forward to a first glimpse of her, following her forty five night maiden voyage from Singapore. Originally launched as Statendam for Holland America Line in 1993, the 55,877 grt ship was briefly in the hands of P&O Australia and renamed Pacific Eden after a refit in 2015. A relatively small ship by today’s standards at 630 cabins (1220) passengers, in April this year it was acquired (still in great condition fromits refit) byCMV. The ship is named after the great Portuguese explorer, famed for being the first European to reach India.
First impressions are always important and as I tookmy first stroll around, the combi- nation of fabrics, variousmaterials and eye catching patterned carpet gave the ship a feel of timeless elegance. That said, there’s a fewquirky bits that hint at the fun to be had and that it’s not taking itself too seriously.
There were a number of cabins available for viewing during my visit and they all seemed well equipped plus a nice size. The combination of mellow woods and
Vasco da Gama
coloured fabrics gave them a soothing ambience, perfect for relaxing after a day’s sightseeing. I spent the night in cabin 9123, a category 15 superior plus balcony on the Verandah deck and thought thiswould suit my needs perfectly on a cruise. The bed was extremely comfortable and I could picture myself sitting on the large leather sofa, sipping a cold beer (frommy in room fridge), watching England win the World Cup on the TV (just let me dream OK).
Everything’s there that I’d need for my (imaginged) cruise plus I had to admire the thoughtful touches. Themini safe is placed at eye level (no reaching or stooping), tea and coffee making facilities (all Brits cheer now) and whirlpool bath complete with shower and non slip mat. With difficulty I draggedmyself away fromplayingwith the adjustable height coffee table to see some
For a bit of activity there are two pools on board, one with a retracting roof (so no excuse not to get your 100 laps in, what- ever the weather). The stylish Spa was ready and waiting to pamper customers until they are purring softly,whilst close by was everyone’s favourite place on a cruise ship….not the bar…..a sizeable and well equipped gym (no…I’m shocked).
Having found where to burn the calories, it was important to find out where to replace them and there are plenty of options. The three main Waterfront restaurants come in three incarnations; Classic, Mediterranean and Eurasia. Classic offers international cuisine with a twist of British, Eurasia delivers Asian style cuisine, whilst the Mediterranean venue serves (have a wild guess)….. Mongolian! Just kidding its Mediterranean. Each offer flexible dining, so you eat when you want (within the published opening times).
Pool midship PAGE 76
Our Gala dinner was in the Waterfront Classic and I thoroughly enjoyed my delicious Camembert in filo pastry, Caesar Salad, Salmon and Baked Alaska, complimented by a very refreshing (perfectly chilled) white wine. The restaurant has a nice decor, it is spacious enough to accommodate many diners without feeling crowded and the service was excellent.
THE ADVERTISER, REGIONAL PAPERS ACROSS KENT
CMV’s GALA EVENT AT
LONDON TILBURY
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