Travel and leisure
Cruises
A fond farewell to Saga Rose
As Saga Rose departs for the Mediterranean for the last time next autumn, we take a look back at her history with Captain David Warden-Owen, who will be taking to the helm for her farewell voyage
Captain David Warden-Owen attended HMS Conway Naval College and began his cadetship with Shaw Savill Line, going on to work with Cunard. In 1997 his extensive experience and friendly personality made him the natural choice to become Master of Saga Rose, a ship that he believes to be “a legend in her time.”
When asked what he loves best about captaining Saga Rose, he enthused “I just love Saga Rose. Not only does she have classic lines, but she is also one of the best seagoing ships I have ever been on.” Indeed, Saga Rose has proved more than deserving of such accolades, completing her one-millionth nautical mile of cruising under Saga colours in January of this year and sailing more world cruises than any other ship in history.
As he looks ahead to the farewell voyage, Captain Warden-Owen considers what he will miss most about Saga Rose, his “second home for the best part of twelve years”. What is clear is that he will not only miss the experience of travelling thousands of miles around the globe, but “the many friendships that my wife and I have made with the passengers”.
Captain Warden-Owen’s sentiments concerning the friendships established between staff and passengers onboard Saga Rose is one that has certainly been reciprocated over the years, with customers applauding the efficiency and friendliness of all the crew. Confirmed by passengers such as Clifford and Kathleen French from Cambridgeshire, who praised the “excellent standard of service and friendliness of Saga Rose staff”.
Also bidding farewell to Saga Rose is Hotel Director Horst Pint, who also highlights the unique experience he has had whilst working onboard “It’s very sad for me to see Saga Rose to retire. As well as meeting my wife on board, I have many superb memories and have had a fantastic time. Goodbye Saga Rose, I shall never forget you”.
As Saga Rose departs for the Mediterranean on October 30, 2009, Captain David Warden-Owen, staff and passengers alike can look forward to a spectacular and fitting conclusion to her glorious career.
Reader comments
My husband & I have been on the SAGA ROSE every year since 1997 and are going to miss her very much, but are looking forward to the new ship.Every one on the ship is so friendly & helpful. We have tried other companies but they are not the same as SAGA.
Posted by: Janet Melville | 19/11/2008 14:39:14
Mr husband and I have travelled many sea miles on Saga Rose and we chose the world cruise in 2008 for our golden wedding celebration, it was very special. Happy memories from our cruises will stay with us forever, we know many of the officers and crew and consider them as friends. The splendid hospitality, care and consideration is second to none, Saga Rose will be missed.
Posted by: Audrey Warley | 31/10/2008 21:14:34
Like Mr & Mrs Clifford French we have thoroughly enjoyed the friendly & helpful hospitality aboard this lovely vessel. To the captain, Officers & crew who serve on the SAGA ROSE, thank you for some really splendid cruises.
Posted by: William R Tyler | 25/10/2008 19:46:19
