Len and I are trying to nail down our 2009 vacation plans and we have become intrigued with Silverseas' Seychelles itinerary in February.

We've never sailed with Silversea but from all of the reviews here on LCT, it seems to be very similar to Regent. Any suggestions on what type of stateroom to reserve? We're tempted to just go with the least expensive Vista Suite since we probably won't spend much time in the room. But, we've been spoiled with balcony cabins in the past and so I'm torn. Are there plenty of places on deck to sit and watch the world go by? And, more importantly, do you have to wake up at 7 am to snag a lounge chair by the pool?

Also, any thoughts on the Seychelles? Have you been? I'm picturing Hawaii but a bit more rustic. Do you think it's far enough away from Somali pirate territory?

Emirates looks like the best airline for us to use and that will mean a stopover in Dubai. I'll have to re-read all the Camel reviews! Alternatively, we could connect in London or Paris and fly Air Seychelles.

We'd love to hear about perspectives on this ship or itinerary. Thanks!

Andrea

I love my balcony but that being said there is plenty of room on the pool deck to lounge on SS and I never had a problem getting a chair. It's certainly not like Seabourn where their pool area is sorely lacking just from the design of their ships. There is a big price difference between the ocean view and the verandas so if having immediate access to fresh air is not a big concern then I say go for it. Of course there is another alternative and that's going for the shared deck. You still have access to outside for less money but you can't put a chair out there either as it's a safety hazard.....or so I was told by a crew member. I've never been to the Seychelles......would love to one day...they sound so exotic and lovely.
Pat

Andrea, Crystal and I were on the Wind a year and a half ago. Here is a link to our seamail. Hope ths gives you some idea of the ship. I loved the cruise. Reminded me a lot of Regent. You should have a wonderful time.

We were on the Wind last year at this time. We're booked for Seychelles on Whisper in December, 2009 but also with Africa and some other places thrown in.

I think my Wind review is on here, as is my Dubai review from December.

Wind is special. It's smaller than all the Regent ships, and service is very intimate. It's a different feeling.

You do not have to go get a lounge chair at 7 a.m. The staff will always set you up if a place is not that obvious, and it likely won't be an issue.

Let me know if you don't find my reviews. I'll send the links. We're off to Silver Shadow in Antigua in a few hours.