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 CRUISE SHIP REVIEW Index: All Ship Reviews
Overview Built in 1923 for the American financier E.F. Hutton, Mandalay is one of the most historic cruise ships in active operation. The 236-foot, 420-ton ship was refurbished in 1982 prior to its introduction to the commercial cruise market; it’s now capable of hosting 72 fortunate passengers on cruises throughout the West Indies and the rest of the Caribbean. Mandalay--which served for years as a research vessel for Columbia University--has aged remarkably well, and it is now known for its “Barefoot Cruising” format: no large-ship dress codes, seating assignments, or embarkation/disembarkation hassles.
Cabins Mandalay’s 36 oceanview staterooms range in size and accoutrements, but all feature private bathrooms. Cabin layouts vary widely; the ship offers everything from four-bunk staterooms to more spacious suites. In-cabin entertainment options are all but nonexistent; most cabins do not include televisions, stereos, or any other electronics. The ship’s six suites do include televisions, larger seating areas, and more lavish bathrooms. Dining The Saloon (main dining room) Mandalay’s main saloon doubles as lounge and dining room. This inviting space features plush booths, buffet breakfasts, light, healthy lunches, and dinners daily. Menu highlights include seafood, steaks, and carved poultry. There is one “carvery” night per cruise, in which passengers dress in masquerade and dine on deck. The Bar Snacks and beverages are served throughout the day at this top-deck spot. Public Rooms Mandalay’s entertainment programs and public spaces are a reflection of the ship itself—they’re small, casual, and incredibly comfortable. The outdoor bar is the ship’s primary gathering spot, and it features DJs or live music nightly. Passengers also frequent the ship’s top deck, which is well-outfitted with deck chairs and pads. Entertainment Bars, lounges, and casinos: Shore Excursions: Windjammer’s shore excursions are well known amongst the cruise line’s clientele. From whitewater rafting on Costa Rica’s Rio Savegre to Stingray Swims in Antigua, Windjammer offers on-shore experiences for every passenger. Passengers are encouraged to book shore excursions prior to each cruise, as the most popular activities tend to fill up quickly.
Fitness & Recreation Mandalay offers occasional stretching classes, but the ship does not have any dedicated fitness facilities. Most passengers find that the vessel’s active shore excursions provide an ample amount of exercise. Family Because of her small size and motor-sail-yacht structure and layout, Mandalay is not patronized by a large number of families. However, the ship does offer children’s programs from June through August; its Junior Jammers program offers programs for children ages 6 through 12, and includes supervised swimming, snorkeling, and more. The Cadet Sailing Program caters to teens ages 13 to 17, and offers snorkeling, sailing, hiking, kayaking, and diving instruction. The ship also offers babysitting services (surcharge) every evening. Tipping $60 per person/per week
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Photo provided by Windjammer Barefoot Cruises.
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