HMS Belfast’s nine-gun salute a treat for visitors to superyacht SeaDream I

To Tower Bridge today, where one of SeaDream’s two identical luxury super-yachts was visiting London for the first time. Just arrived in Europe after a transatlantic crossing, and heading for a routine dry dock SeaDream I has been holding open house for travel agents, media and past passengers.
There was chance for a quick look around the delightful vessel – which carries 112 passengers cosseted by 95 attentive crew – before a splendid lunch that featured lobster and crab, the tastiest pumpkin soup I have ever experienced, and a succulent plate of sea bass and tuna.
There was a surprise treat in the form of a nine-gun salute from HMS Belfast, which was hosting its own special event to commemorate the heroism and sacrifice if the Arctic convoys during the second world war.
And the SeaDream’s open decks provided a unique viewpoint of The Shard, which will become the tallest building in Europe, at 1,017 feet.
After the dry-dock, SeaDream I will commence its first season of cruises in northern Europe, sailing on two voyages to the fjords and three to the Baltic.
I hear the ship could be back in the Thames next year. A wealthy fashion magnate is investigating the possibility of chartering the vessel to provide accommodation for himself and friends during the Olympic Games.