Having sailed on Seabourn 3 prior times , on the Seabourn Legend(200 passengers) and twice on Quest and Oydessey( 400 passengers) , we were hoping for the same level of service on the Encore (586 passengers on our cruise). Unfortunately, the service level was below expectations as compared to previous cruises. Not sure if understaffed, but definitely inexperienced staff abound. There were about 6 -8 staff onboard that seemed experienced and attentive. Too often had to wait for service especially around the pool for drinks or any other needs. Colonade theme dinners at night were a disappointment. Thomas Keller restaurant good but not great. Food can be salty. Complimentary wine served is of very very poor quality and mostly poured from screw capped bottles, (although there are some very good wines from screw capped bottles, none served by Seabourn). Not sure why they would serve Fois Gras , Rack of Lamb, Venison , Prime Filets , Lobster with such poor quality wines. Yes you can buy better wines, BUT WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE TO.

Sushi Restaurant has excellent staff but sushi only served at night. Lunch has a Bento Box, NO SUSHI. The Sushi restaurant also only holds 30 people so it should have Sushi at lunch as well. Internet still very slow. Still need adjustments on automatic doors not opening when you approach. NO LAUNDRY a problem ! In general, the staff is not up to standards of Seabourn at this point. Retreat not something I believe was used much. The Club too small and bar set up for waiters to make drinks was poor.

On the positive side, the ship was beautiful,