23 Apr 2024
Cruising with the FFT was an overall unforgettable experience. We got another vessel than initially booked, a larger size and advertised as a luxury. However, you must note that it's essential to recalibrate expectations regarding accommodation standards, particularly for those accustomed to hotel-like amenities.
On our ship there were three cabins. Two small (one with single and one with two-tier bed) and one double with a materace on the floor, albeit with minimalist bedding arrangements (just sheets and fleece blankets), The biggest drawback is that bathroom/ toilet is separate from bedrooms. In particular the double cabin on the upper deck presented a unique challenge due to its detached bathroom facilities. Navigating the ship's layout, especially at night when the vessel swayed, was less than ideal, compounded by the necessity of passing sleeping crew members stationed on the deck.
Despite these logistical inconveniences, the highlight of our journey was undeniably the exceptional crew. It is important to know that the crew comprises primarily of freelancers and its composition varies from trip to trip, so you may get a different experience. Our crew, helmed by Captain Tojo, Chef Rahmad, and the exemplary guide Valdus, elevated our experience with unparalleled dedication and expertise. Valdus, in particular, stood out for his intuitive understanding of our preferences, crafting a bespoke itinerary that exceeded all expectations. His knowledge, attentiveness, and unobtrusive demeanor epitomized hospitality at its finest.
Additionally, the presence of photographer Lee added an invaluable dimension to our voyage. Through his skilled lens, he immortalized our memories with stunning portraits, captivating drone shots, and poignant films, transforming our journey from ordinary to extraordinary.
We had 4 days / 3 nights trip, giving 2 full days for visiting places. Day 1 and day 4 are cruising back and starting off and are half days only. It’s good to take it into account when booking.
In conclusion, we can recommend cruising with FFT contingent upon an awareness of its onboard limitations and the possibility of experiencing the same exceptional crew we were fortunate to encounter. While the vessel may not offer comforts akin to a hotel, the dedication and expertise of the crew, coupled with the transformative power of expertly captured memories, make it a journey worth undertaking.