Review
of Ventura deck 17 (Sports-Adults)
- The Retreat – adults only Outdoor Spa Terrace (luxury loungers, access to Oasis Pool, private cabanas, open 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.) This for-fee area (GBP20 PP on sea days or GBP12 PP on port days) was added after the 2013 refurbishment and consists of 49 deck chairs, bookable on a weekly basis (GBP350 for a fortnight, per couple; GBP200 for a single). The Retreat offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The fee also includes access to the ship's Thermal Spa, and easy access to the Oasis Pool. For an additional charge passengers can access a full range of treatments such as daily specials like GBP20 facials or 15-minute Expert Touch for GBP15. The overhead covering makes The Retreat airy whilst protecting it from the sun.
- Skydome
- Epicurean (dinner specialty restaurant/surcharges GBP28-30 depending on length of cruise; serving suite guests only for breakfast 8-9.30am and dinner 6-10:30pm, bookings recommended). The Epicurean features molecular gourmet twist on the classic British fare. It is one of the most sophisticated onboard and provides guests the chance to eat outside. The menu includes interesting combinations like wild boar with black pudding, lamb rack with mini shepherd's pie. Creative dining experiences include a bit of theatre (salmon carved at your table). Eric Lanlard's Afternoon Tea (open from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.) is available on sea days and costs GBP15. Each mountainous cake stand is packed with a range of sandwiches like cheese eclairs and beef brioches as well as sweet treats like meringues, beautiful scones and pop cakes. Seats are limited.
