Boston from the deck of the Odyssey — Photo courtesy of Jessica PolizzotiViewing the Boston skyline from the outer, upper decks of the Odyssey while slowly setting sail around the Harbor erases all worry. Fellow cruisers are dressed to impress as the Odyssey dress code inspires you to don only your best attire. The refined crowd varies in age and is far from stuffy; as the cruise wears on you'll find the dance floor filling up and the outer decks abuzz with cocktail party type chatter. Offering a variety of cruise options that range in price (topping out at over $100 per person for a Saturday night dinner cruise) there is sure to be one that will perfectly suit you.
Boarding the Odyssey on a sunny Sunday morning for the Champagne and Chocolate Brunch is nothing short of magnificent. The royal treatment begins with a commemorative photo of your group (available for purchase at the end of the cruise), and is followed by welcoming crew members at each point of entry. This does not end until you are seated and meet your servers. Two servers are assigned to cater to your needs while on board, and although on a brunch cruise those needs are limited by the buffet, neither server neglected to fill drinks or clear plates between buffet visits. In fact, the service is so attentive you'll forget you are on a sightseeing tour and find yourself feeling more like your eating at a five star restaurant.
The dessert buffet — Photo courtesy of Jessica PolizzottiAn impressive assortment of breakfast and lunch specialties combine with a lavish dessert display (complete with a chocolate fountain and many dipping delights) is a treat for your tastebuds. Breakfast staples, like scrambled eggs were served fluffy and moist, while the carving station's cracked pepper sirloin was prepared a perfect medium rare. Drinks cost extra, except for the complimentary glass of champagne or mimosa you are served when you sit.
Your two hour brunch cruise starts with a narrated thirty minute tour of the Harbor. A perfect time to grab your cocktail and make your way to the outer decks to watch the sites being described. If the weather gods mess with your day or your stomach beckons you to refill your plate, the windows provide almost as good of a view as the open air decks. The narration is informative, and on a clear day you'll see a good chunk of the city, including the outer islands and airport without having to do any legwork. Once the narrated tour is complete, the music starts, live bands are on each floor and provide guests with dance classics that can be enjoyed by cruise goers of all ages.
Kids enjoy a little royal treatment at brunch — Photo courtesy of Jessica PolizzottiDon't shy away from bringing kids on your brunch cruise (but not to dinner). The Odyssey caters to their needs just as well as they cater to the needs of their older clients. With a two year old in tow they made him feel right at home. While enjoying the perfect weather outside, a goodie bag awaited our return to the table. Filled with activities, toys, treats and even an Honorary Odyssey Captain certificate he was never lacking in excitement. But the special treatment did not stop there, his chocolate milk arrived in a nautical themed covered cup, and although the buffet had more than enough options to please most picky palates, two members of the crew offered a special kids menu. The Odyssey combines sightseeing with elegance and is one ship this local will visit for a return trip.
And when you've disembarked, take advantage of the Harborwalk by strolling along the water's edge into the North End, here you'll find a bit of the Freedom Trail ripe for easy post cruise exploration.
