Singapore’s Sentosa Island is harbouring experiences extraordinaire. Enter the Royal Albatross, said to be Singapore’s No. 1 Dinner Cruise and Asia’s Most Romantic Dining Experience. This unique offering has cruised straight to the top one percent of Global Attractions, as rated by TripAdvisor. As tourists typically stay for only three days in the city state, this makes the Royal Albatross something that should not be missed.

Cruising On the Royal Albatross

The Royal Albatross lends its name from the bird, although it looks majestic just being moored. Albatrosses travel long distances with two techniques used by many long-winged seabirds – dynamic soaring and slope soaring.

It is also Singapore’s only luxury tall ship, a modern term for a traditionally-rigged sailing vessel, which is using a powerful engine for a smooth journey. Romantics, adventurers, and explorers may opt for a 2.5-hour dinner cruise to get a different perspective of Singapore while getting a taste of what it would be like to sail the seven seas.

An Exhilarating Conversion

Apparently, the Royal Albatross, which was originally a cargo ship, would make too much speed under full sail. Although some would certainly want to see that, the dinner cruise is best experienced while gracefully gliding through the Singapore Straight. An experienced crew makes the journey a memorable one, supported by the latest technology to navigate and manoeuvre.

It is oftentimes easier said than done to provide a unique experience. However, with only 100 tall ships sailing worldwide, this claim already becomes harder to fulfil. Of these, only a mere five are privately owned, with the Royal Albatross being the only one in Asia. The vessel has been completely rebuilt for entertainment and luxury cruises, thanks to its owner – a former entrepreneur who has always had a passion for water. When the ship came up for sale in Chicago, he grabbed it, sailed it to Singapore for re-fitting. What was planned to be a two-year project, took six.

The renovation was prolonged in order to achieve the highest specifications, providing the ultimate safety rating obtainable in Singapore. Riggings and masts were designed by the same people that handled the ships in the movie franchise Pirates of the Caribbean and one can already feel a little bit like Jack Sparrow when the Royal Albatross departs for the City Lights Dinner Cruise.

Taking to the Sea

Leaving the berth in Sentosa, the Royal Albatross heads into the sunset. The City Lights Dinner Cruise provides a three-hour escape, where one will be seated on the upper deck, under the 22 sails and imposing masts. The City Lights option takes guests from sunshine to sunset, twilight to moonlight. During the cruise, the buffet is open and two premium bars serve up delectable dishes. Food is prepared by nine chefs on board, taking on an artisanal approach to match the romance. As the sun dips into the sea, the Singapore skyline lights up to provide the perfect backdrop for the cruise on the Royal Albatross.

Lounging on the comfy seats, one can take in the spectacular vistas, enjoying a different view of the bustling city. A deep draft of four meters and the wide beam of this tall ship provide for ample space between tables and a surprisingly smooth ride. Even when the Royal Albatross is bursting through the wash of other vessels, there is barely any rolling or pitching. Those who may be concerned about getting seasick may venture to try this experience as the set-up of the ship would counter the unwelcome movements.

The City Lights cruise also comes with free flow of beer, wine and soft drinks. Those more confident in their sea legs may opt for a beverage package that offers spirits. Thanks to the spacious layout of the deck, there is plenty of room for guests to tour the Royal Albatross, snapping memories and having their hair tussled a little by the breeze.

Delightful Food

The buffet line under decks offers a tasty selection of mains and desserts. As there are several add-ons and options available for dinner, one should spend some time considering what would be best. The buffet offered is a wholesome culinary journey that allows for guests to dine at their own pace. Sampling the food, enjoying it while being at sea whiles away time, which flies as one has fun. Throughout the ship, carvings done by local craftsmen enrich the experience visually. Having completed their work on the wooden decorations, some artisans decided to stay on as sailors.

As a versatile venue for corporate or private functions and excursions, the Royal Albatross offers a lot of options. One can pick a seat on the bow, pre-order drinks packages, take the helm, or be adventurous and climb the mast. Couples may opt for the Royal Albatross not only to propose during the romantic City Lights cruise, but also charter the ship for their wedding venue. Doing so will unlock the owner’s cabin, the pinnacle of luxury on board, as the bridal suite.

Outstanding Service at Sea

The highly attentive staff ensures that guests are well looked after, managing well to be present when needed and to melt into the background when guests may need their privacy. It is not surprising that one will find pictures of celebrities who have been on board in the grand salon. Princesses, F1 drivers, and movie stars can be found featured in the hall of fame below decks.

Meanwhile, the Royal Albatross itself is a celebrity, being part of ‘The Dark Knight’ film. Many of the crew members have been with the Royal Albatross of 15 years and some can surely spin some yarn! As a combination of a once-in-a-lifetime experience and dinner, the ticket is certainly more than worth it.

Small, Fast, and Fun: Southern Albatross

The operator of the majestic tallship has also launched a new Southern Albatross attraction, a 1-hour speedboat adventure around Sentosa Coastline and Southern Islands.  The experience has an educational commentary, and you can get some great Instagram-worthy photos as you discover notable landmarks and places of interest. It has been so successful that the Albatross Speedboat Adventure Fleet has expanded to three Albatross Speedboats. Sails start from 11 am to 6 pm with eight sails a day, seven days a week.

For more information about the Royal Albatross, visit the website.