The Odyssey - A Picturesque Staycation on Water
(photo credit: Odyssey)
Dating back to 1978, Entertainment Cruises launched its inaugural ship, the Spirit of Norfolk, which cruised on the legendary Elizabeth River. Today, Entertainment Cruises has 30 vessels, a presence in nine U.S. cities ranging from Baltimore to Chicago to the Nation's Capital and hosts more than 1.5 million guests a year.
Recently, a few bloggers, Laetitia of French Twist D.C. and Aparna of Doorstep & Beyond and myself had the opportunity to discover the Washington DC-based ship - The Odyssey, more specifically its Cherry Blossom cruise. The Odyssey was a sight to behold - alabaster white, sleek long lines and long panoramic windows that framed the ship, which reminded me of the famous bateaux mouches in Paris, France.
After a quick drink at Cantina Marina, which never disappoints, we boarded the 600-person occupancy vessel. The main room was brightened up with cherry blossoms, which were interspersed throughout.
As soon as we arrived to our table, we perused the menu and ordered a variety of dishes that satisfied everyone's palate. For seafood lovers, I'd go with the Seafood Tower and Crab and Mussel Gratin. If you prefer veggies or are a vegetarian, then I'd opt for the meaty Cauliflower Steak. If you are looking for a protein rich dish, then go with the Braised Short Rib. And if you are in the mood for both meat and seafood (like me that night), then I'd recommend the Steak and Lobster Tail which came with a delicious side of truffle potatoes.
Following the savory part of the night, we all decided to take a break from eating (and if you know our group, that's not easy ;-)) and headed out to the wrap around deck where we admired breathtaking nighttime views of the North Cruise Route, which included the Nationals Stadium, Kennedy Center and the Georgetown waterfront.
We then returned to our seats, where we sipped on Virginia bubbly and satisfied our sweet tooth with multiple orders of the Odyssey Shortbread Pudding and Mountain Berry Shortcake.
Right before we docked, the DJ (yes folks, there's a dance floor on this ship!) honored all of the individuals and couples who celebrated birthdays and wedding anniversaries, respectively. It was a very sweet and endearing moment and a perfect way to end what was a memorable outing.
So, if you are looking for a perfect mix of delicious dining, fun entertainment and gorgeous views, then The Odyssey is for you. The Cherry Blossom cruise has ended, but don't fret, during the weekends there is a Bottomless Mimosas Brunch cruise (cheers!), or you can celebrate your loving parents with a Mother's Day Brunch and Dinner cruise or a Father's Day Brunch and Dinner cruise.
A BIG thank you to Kyle and The Odyssey for a memorable experience!
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Cauliflower Steak
(with Israeli Couscous, Red Currants, Crispy Capers and a Parsley Vinaigrette)
Steak and Lobster Tail
(with Twice Baked Truffle Potato and Herb Butter)
Seafood Tower
(Alaskan King Crab, Jumbo Shrimp, Bay Scallop Ceviche, Prince Edward Island Mussels, Seared Ahi Tuna with Sriracha Cocktail Sauce and Lemon Aioli)
Braised Short Rib
(with Chimichurri Glaze, Queso Fresco, Roasted Corn, Zucchini and Blistered Grape Tomatoes)
Nationals Park
(home ballpark for the Washington Nationals)
John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
(a gorgeous venue that hosts around 3,000 cultural events per year)
Georgetown Waterfront Park
(an aesthetically pleasing dining destination)
The Odyssey in all its glory.
