Spirit of Discovery

No Saga ship would be complete without our signature Britannia Lounge, and it’s an exciting, multi-purpose venue where you’ll always find something to see and do.

Located on the Lido deck, it’s a double-height venue with panoramic windows looking out and over the front of Spirit of Discovery, offering some of the most impressive views the ship has to offer.

In a nod to Saga Cruises’ legacy, the ship features a large, fully-glazed observation lounge, just like our first-ever ship, Saga Rose.

During the day, enjoy talks from guest speakers, or simply relax while admiring spectacular views. Then, later at night, it comes alive with dancing and live performances.

Spanning the full width of the lounge is an impressive bar area, where you can choose from the ship’s full range of drinks, or enjoy waiter service from your comfy seat.

In a first for Saga, this ship features our very own theatre at sea. Comfortable, raked seating The Playhouse seats 444 guests, meaning you’ll enjoy the best seat in the house wherever you are, with unrestricted views of the stage. In The Playhouse you can expect a quality entertainment experience, every night of your cruise. This includes West End-style shows, classical music performances, plays and revues.

During days at sea, expect matinees performances to boost your entertainment choices throughout the day. The venue is also the place to enjoy talks and lectures from our roster of guest speakers enriching your cruise experience.

It’s another first for Saga: Spirit of Discovery also has her own elegant steakhouse fine dining restaurant and music club. Better still, the venue is full of surprises, starting with its patron, music legend Jools Holland. Saga has worked closely with Jools to bring this idea to life, and it’s designed as a classic 1950s cabaret club, with elegant wood panelling and of course, a grand piano.

The menu is every bit as exciting. The Club offers classic steaks from fillet to sirloin, plus more unusual cuts such as tomahawk steaks. But much more than a restaurant, it’s another of the ship’s vibrant and fun entertainment venues too – the place to enjoy live music and cocktails in the evenings, with resident and guest musicians entertaining until late.

Music lovers can soak up the ambience in The Club. A late-night music venue and cocktail bar where guests can enjoy live music from an array of performers, including resident and guest musicians. Also an on board fine dining restaurant why not dine from The Club's enticing menu and keep your table for the evening?

The 'hub' of Spirit of Discovery is the bright and inviting Living Room. Greeting you as soon as you step aboard, this vibrant, sociable venue is the place to meet friends, grab a coffee, or relax with an after-dinner cocktail.

Open day and night, it serves gelato, fresh pastries and homemade cakes. In the evenings, the Living Room is a sociable bar with occasional light entertainment, open until late. The perfect place for pre and post dinner drinks.

With the style and ambience to match anything found in London, Spirit of Discovery’s main bar is superbly designed with an art deco influence.

This stylish venue offers our full selection of wines, draught craft beers, and a curated collection of fine whiskies. Or for gin connoisseurs, there’s a varied list that’s as stylish as the bar’s elegant wood panelling and leather chairs.

Spanning the width of the ship, the South Cape Bar windows look out onto the wraparound promenade on both sides, for amazing views inside and out. It’s a great place to relax with a tipple, meet up with friends, and to unwind after a busy day exploring another amazing destination.

Did you know? The South Cape Bar is a tribute to our cruising heritage: it was the name of the main bar on Saga Ruby, launched in 2005.

The Library is a quiet, relaxed space located at the top of the ship’s atrium, and is another of the ship’s artful delights.

The Library feels like an artisanal coffee-shop, thanks to its self-service area with freshly-ground coffees and teas, and a tempting selection of cookies and snacks, replenished throughout the day. It’s also the perfect spot to log-on to the ship’s free Wi-Fi, research your next port of call, and catch up with family and friends back home via email and Facebook.

Set within the surrounds of The Library you’ll find two additional spaces: the Craft and Card Rooms. These extend Spirit of Discovery’s areas to socialise, entertain and inspire.

This elegant ‘secret’ garden area is the perfect setting to enjoy the fresh air any time of the day. Expect it to be especially inviting as you sail away, when you can watch the sun set into the ocean while sipping a cocktail.

The Terrace also offers easy access to Spirit of Discovery’s full-length wraparound promenade. This encircles the ship and offers the chance to enjoy walks in the sea air, relax on the soft loungers and chairs, and simply let the world pass beautifully by.

Did you know? Stroll four times around the promenade and you’ll walk a mile – so you don’t just have to use our wellbeing services to keep fit and healthy on your cruise.

A dedicated craft area, where you can enjoy a range of classes and workshops, from jewellery-making to papercraft. Expert teachers and artists will be on board most cruises, instructing and assisting. The Craft Room offers the opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends, and enrich your cruise experience.

The Card Room is essential for any serious bridge player. Join in with organised lessons and tournaments, or simply use it to play card games however you wish.

The shopping experience aboard Spirit of Discovery is as unique as the ship itself. Take advantage of tax-free purchases on selected cruises including clothes, bespoke fine jewellery and watches, and the services of a private jeweller offering unique hand-crafted pieces. There are also perfect gifts for every occasion, and personalised pieces exclusive to Spirit of Discovery. You’ll also find a range of the latest fragrances, cosmetics and skincare from some of the world’s most renowned high-end brands. Or if you’ve forgotten an essential item, you’ll also find a wide range of everyday products, toiletries, drinks and snacks in our smaller port shop by the entrance.

Not only is Spirit of Discovery a state-of-the-art ship, she also houses amazing art inside. Our team have been working behind the scenes for several years, commissioning painters, sculptors and graphic artists to create bespoke pieces for the ship, showcased throughout the public areas. British artists have been given a major focus, combining classic artworks with contemporary pieces. In addition, you can also visit a dedicated art gallery on board. Located next to The Playhouse theatre entrance on Promenade deck, it houses a permanent collection of exciting art. The Gallery will also be used to display new art exhibitions at sea, featuring an exciting line-up of up-and-coming artists in Britain.

In the centre of the Promenade deck you can step into the world of Saga, without having to leave the ship. Meet and chat with our friendly consultant about Saga’s range of travel and lifestyle products.

If you want to enjoy special discounts off your next cruise, you can browse the latest range of itineraries on board. You can then book another voyage on Spirit of Discovery or Spirit of Adventure. Or why not take a look at Saga’s wider range of travel experiences? From exciting long-haul adventure tours to all-inclusive hotels throughout Europe and the Mediterranean, you can choose from more than 120 destinations worldwide.

Saga World is also the place to chat about Saga’s other range of products and services. You can even subscribe to one of the UK’s leading print titles, Saga Magazine.

In the centre of the Lido deck, you’ll find Spirit of Discovery’s beautiful main swimming pool and outdoor area, designed with an art deco flair. The Lido has sun loungers and deck games, while you can order drinks, traditional fish and chips, burger or hot dogs all free of charge from the neighbouring Grill – one of the many on board restaurants.

The Lido is perfect for swimming, relaxing in the sunshine, and enjoying waiter-served drinks. What better way to spend a day at sea? The area also offers self-serve ice cream station, offering an irresistible taste of the British seaside.

It’s another of the ship’s special and quirky features: a virtual golf course at sea. It’s a space with plenty of room to practice your swing. Whether you want to play on your own, or join in with a tournament, this state-of-the-art digital simulator allows you to try some of the world’s most famous courses. It’s a sporting experience that’s certainly ‘above par’.

Nearby you’ll find another set of games that are altogether more traditional: shuffleboard and deck quoits. These hark back to the bygone age of cruising, and are a welcome addition to Spirit of Discovery’s line-up of outdoor activities.

A sumptuous sanctuary for relaxation, The Spa is a place of beauty, delight and wellbeing. Designed in neutral tones with warm colours, this wellness retreat exudes a timeless elegance. Featuring six treatment rooms (one for acupuncture), a thermal suite, salon and fitness centre, Saga’s signature spa concept is an all-encompassing collection of curated moments.

The heart of The Spa – the Thermal Suite is an escape boasting its own 200 sqft vitality pool, as well as steam room, infrared sauna, and heated lounge chairs. The Thermal Suite is a prelude to the spa journey or can be experienced as standalone event.

Just off the main Spa area, you can step into another world of pampering and indulgence: the beauty salon. Here you can enjoy a range of beauty treatments and wellbeing services, from hairdressing to manicures and pedicures, even eyebrow and eyelash tinting, and waxing. These and many more services are available on the beauty salon menu. Whether you want to look extra special for a formal night or other occasion, or simply want to treat yourself, make sure you book your appointment on board with one of our fully trained beauty professionals.

If you want to really get active throughout your cruise, head for the cutting-edge gymnasium on the Sun deck. Offering views across the Britannia Lounge and out across the front of the ship, it’s a place where you can always feel your best, thanks to a selection of exercise machines and the latest equipment. Nearby is the adjoining Fitness Centre. Our health and wellbeing expert is on hand to offer advice, tailored exercise regimes and bespoke one-to-one sessions, whether you’re a gym regular or are just starting out. These areas are just one aspect of Spirit of Discovery’s healthy living programme, which also includes Pilates, yoga, and lighter options at every mealtime, within all of our fine dining restaurants.

Opposite The Gallery, you’ll find The Chart Room. It’s a space designated for learning and talks with our on-board experts. From interactive learning sessions to illustrated lectures, it’s the venue to try new things on your cruise. A place where you can enjoy enriching experiences that enhance the destinations you visit. The Chart Room is also where you can have professional photos taken by the on-board photographer.

Spirit of Discovery also has a well thought out health and beauty area, which includes a spa, a fitness centre and a salon. Read more about wellbeing on Spirit of Discovery.

Making the most of your time ashore

It’s the big attraction of boutique cruising. You get to explore one new destination after the next, all on one luxury journey. But what happens when you step ashore? We offer plenty of ways to see all the amazing sights.

Excursions included on every cruise

Every Saga cruise includes a selection of excursions in the price. These panoramic tours are designed to give you a flavour of what the port and surrounding area has to offer. Look forward to exploring natural wonders, historic cities, and beautiful gardens.

See even more on our optional excursions

If you want something more in-depth, we also offer a wider selection of optional tours in every port. These are designed by our team of destination experts and include guided walks, RIB boat trips, wine tasting and even helicopter flights. We’ll send you all the details a few weeks before you sail so you can pre-book.

Tailor your cruise experience…

Create a bespoke excursion - We also have a dedicated Explore Ashore team on board. They can help you to create a bespoke excursion or private tour, tailored to exactly how you want it. Visit the Explore Ashore desk on board, and our travel experts will help you put together your perfect personalised trip.

Rather go your own way? - We also include complimentary bus transfers from the ship into the nearest town centre. So grab a map, then set off to explore your way. The Explore Ashore desk can also help with the best local attractions, opening times, and everything else you need to get the most out of your time ashore.

New! Borrow a Saga e-bike

Now available on all cruises! Guests can use our ships’ brand-new e-bikes free of charge. It’s a fun new way to explore. Set off on your own, or join an organised bike ride with other guests. You only need to pedal gently, and the bike’s 250-watt motor will make your cycling trip almost effortless.

How Saga can support you

To ensure you feel supported and at ease when talking to us, you can let us know if you have any concerns or contact preferences, which we will take note of for when we need to contact you.

Perhaps you're worried about a disability or health condition, you've recently suffered a stressful life event, or you have a little trouble hearing our cruise consultants on the phone.

Simply let us know by filling in our form so we can provide you with the best service possible.

At Saga, we endeavour to provide an exceptional experience for all guests, and we want to ensure you make the right choice when booking your cruise with us.

If you need to notify us of any special requirements, please do so at the time of booking. If you have already booked, please make sure you notify us no later than 48 hours before departure by calling us free on 0800 373 034.

Failure to inform us could result in denied boarding. Every effort will be made to cater for your requirements; however, we are unable to accommodate all needs.

Assistance that is not offered

Carriage of guests up and down gangways in ports other than turnaround ports. This is only available at home ports if arranged pre-departure

The hiring of hoists or mobility equipment, and assistance with using personal hoists

Any level of personal care, for example, using the bathroom, eating, or movement around the ship

Routine daily care of assistance dogs including but not limited to feeding, exercise and sanitary needs

Guardian services or emotional support

Travelling alone

If you are travelling alone and once on board, we feel you are unable to cope, a senior officer will discuss the situation with you, and you may be asked to leave the ship at your own cost in extreme circumstances.

There will be some instances where a guest should be accompanied by a fare-paying travelling companion who can dedicate the time and attention needed to ensure the required care is received.

It's important that you discuss your needs with us prior to booking so that we can assess your individual circumstances and inform you if a travelling companion is required. Failure to tell us of any requirement for disability assistance may result in denied boarding, or curtailment of the cruise.

Car service

If you are booking our return UK travel service to take you from home to your departure point, you must let us know if you plan to take a wheelchair, scooter, or any other mobility aids or medical equipment, in order that we can arrange a suitably sized vehicle.

Oxygen

Certain types of gaseous oxygen or portable oxygen concentrators will be accepted on board. If you have such a requirement, you must notify us at the time of booking and no later than 48 hours before you travel.

This time is required to check whether your type of oxygen can be carried and, if so, to make the necessary preparations before the oxygen is brought on board.

Also, the ship will have limited storage capacity so notice is required for us to check if this will be available.

Please note, liquid oxygen is not permitted.

Only one oxygen cylinder may be stored in your cabin at any one time. This is in addition to the cylinder currently in use. Any remaining cylinders must be stored in the appropriate ship's storage facility elsewhere if available.

You will be responsible for providing any supplies or equipment needed. You also need to be able to administer the oxygen yourself or you'll need to travel with a fare paying companion capable of performing this function.

How do I dispose of medical waste and sharps?

If you have a medical condition where you need to dispose of medical waste or sharps, please let us know prior to your cruise and we will make sure a medical waste or sharps bin is in your cabin.

You can tell us by calling 0800 373 034.

It is important that you let us know so that our crew are not injured if you place needles in your regular cabin bin.

Dialysis patients

Due to the specialised equipment and expertise required to safely administer haemodialysis, regrettably you will be unable to cruise with us if you require this treatment.

We can however accept peritoneal dialysis patients. Please let us know at the time of booking, providing at least 48 hours’ notice if you require peritoneal dialysis. You will need to supply your own equipment and need to be able to carry out the procedure yourself or be accompanied by a fare paying companion who can do this for you.

For safety reasons, if you are permanently reliant upon medical equipment or need to take bulky, heavy equipment (i.e., unable to be carried in a rucksack or similar case) you will not be able to use the ship's passenger tender service. Consequently, at ports where the vessel is at anchor, if you carry such equipment or are unable to assist yourself into the tender, you will need to remain aboard the vessel.

Our ocean cruises are exclusively for over-50s. You can travel with a companion who is over 40 though.

Yes. Evening dress code applies from 6pm and must be followed by all guests in the ship’s public areas for the evening. The dress code is recommended for the ambiance and comfort of all guests. Details will be shown in your Daily Programme.

Evening-casual

For dinner, evening-casual is the way to go – just like at any other restaurant.

For ladies:

• Smart dress
• A blouse or elegant top with trousers or skirt

For gentlemen:

• Smart, open-neck shirt and trousers
• A jacket is optional

Please note, polo shirts, t-shirts, shorts and denim are not considered smart-casual attire in the evenings and should not be worn.

Formal nights

Getting smartly dressed up for the occasional formal night has long been part of the fun of cruising.

As a guide, there'll be:

• One formal night for cruises from four to seven nights.
• Two formal nights for cruises of eight to 11 nights.
• Three formal nights for cruises of 12 to 21 nights.

For ladies:

• Evening gown
• Cocktail dress
• Dress suit
• Elegant separates

For gentlemen:

• Smart suit with tie
• Dinner jacket including bow tie

On formal evenings, formal attire is required in all restaurants apart from selected seating in The Grill. Evening-casual attire can be worn in selected seating in The Grill, all bars, including the Britannia Lounge and the Playhouse theatre.

The dress code includes a smart dress or an elegant blouse or top with trousers or skirt for ladies. For gentlemen, a smart open neck shirt and trousers are required. A jacket is optional, and we would ask that polo shirts, t-shirts, shorts and denim are kept for casual wear during the day. Guests are also able to take advantage of the complimentary room service.

You can find full details here.

Generally our cruises include:

• Travel to your departure port including return economy flights if you need them
• Fruit and water in your cabin when you arrive
• Excursions, entertainment and activities
• Food, soft drinks, wine, beer, and cocktails along with a range of premium spirits
• Wifi
• Shuttle buses in ports where these are provided
• Cruise ship facilities and hotel accommodation
• Port taxes

You can smoke or vape where it’s allowed in public places, but not when you’re on our coaches.

All our ships have free Wi-Fi. Although it can sometimes be a bit patchy because of the nature of ocean cruising. If you plan on reading your books on a tablet we would advise that you download these before leaving home.

Our chefs prepare a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan as standard. Gluten-free bread and pasta are also available on board. For diabetics, we offer options such as sugar-free jams, lower-sugar desserts, and sugar-free scones.

Food allergies

If you have any food allergies or specific dietary requirements, it is essential that you advise us at the time of booking. Your requirements will be noted and passed on to the Food and Beverage teams before you board the ship.

We can also cater for Kosher and Halal diets, however please note that we do not prepare these meals on board as we do not have a separate Kosher/Halal kitchen. This means it is essential that you request this in advance when booking your cruise in order for us to order the meals.

When you arrive at the ship

On embarkation day, please go to the ship’s main dining room to join a dietary meeting with the Restaurant Manager and Executive Chef. This will allow you to confirm your dietary requirements, so they can be sure the right food is prepared for your individual needs. Menus can also be provided for you, to select foods that are suitable. If you do not manage to attend the dietary meeting, please speak to the Restaurant Manager or Head Waiter when you go for dinner on the first evening.

Will I be a problem?

We are used to catering for a wide range of allergies and dietary requirements, so do not think that you are alone. We do this for many guests on every cruise, so please remind your serving staff of your requirement or allergy when ordering.

If you have medications related to your diet, you are also advised to keep them with you at all times while on your cruise.

For any concerns, or if your dietary needs have changed since you booked your cruise, please contact our Customer Care Team as soon as possible by telephoning 0800 373 034.

If you need to travel with an assistance dog, please make sure you let us know at the time of booking, whether you are travelling overseas or within the UK. If you've already booked and now need to notify us of this please contact our Customer Care team free on 0800 373 034.

If you're due to fly, it's essential that you let us know if you plan to take your assistance dog with you on the flight as soon as possible.

Airlines must accept all assistance dogs for air travel without charge, unless a second seat is required. Dogs will normally sit in the space on the floor in front of the seat. If it is not possible for the dog to sit there or the dog is of a larger breed, then an airline may charge for a second seat in order for there to be enough floor space for the dog to lie down.

A safety harness should be taken on the plane to enable your dog to be secured during take-off and landing.

An airline may ask for confirmation that your dog has been trained by a recognised dog training organisation. In the UK these organisations are members of Assistance Dogs UK.

An assistance dog will need to comply with the rules of the Pet Travel Scheme, on international flights to other EU countries. For those outside the EU, you will need to check local quarantine rules.

All accommodation will differ in terms of suitability so it's important to discuss this with us prior to booking.

If you need to take a wheelchair, mobility scooter or any other type of mobility aid on your holiday, please let us know at the time of booking as we'll need to make the necessary arrangements with your hotel or ship and any transport providers such as airlines.

If you've already booked and now need to notify us of any special requirements please contact our Customer Care team free on 0800 373 034. You must provide at least 48 hours notice if you have any special requirements.

Some airlines may have restrictions relating to equipment - these can vary depending on who you fly with. The same may apply to other forms of transport such as rail travel and coaches used for transfers and excursions. Please let us know at the time of booking so we can look into any restrictions for you.

If you are flying and use a mobility aid such as a wheelchair or scooter, you will need to give us some information in advance about the equipment, including its make and model. This will be passed onto the airline to ensure that it is loaded and stowed safely during the flight and is not a fire risk.