Life is so much more than going on regular dates, anniversaries, or celebrations at TikTok trending restaurants. Ultimately, it’s the entire experience that makes the celebration significant. So if you’re looking to pull all the stops for your significant other(s), why not take them aboard the Royal Albatross Sunset Dinner Cruise for an unforgettable evening?

Tall ships are a rarity these days. With only around 150 tall ships left worldwide - and only a handful dedicated to passenger service - the experience aboard the Royal Albatross is even more special, especially since it’s a manually operated sailing ship.

This luxury tall ship sets sail from Resorts World Sentosa, offering breathtaking views of the Singapore skyline as the sun dips below the horizon. We embarked on a 2.5 hour journey around Sentosa island aboard the 149-passenger tall ship, enjoying the soft sea breeze gently brushing across our faces, while savouring a masterfully crafted four-course meal.

The experience, from dockside to open sea, is carefully curated. Prior to boarding, we were required to remove our footwear, as the ship has a no-footwear policy.

We then got to choose our preferred seats either at the Foredeck or the Aft Deck. The choice you make should be dependent on what you want from the evening. Most of the onboard “activities” take place on the Foredeck, including a live musician and the sight of the sails billowing in the wind. The Aft Deck, by contrast, is quieter and more intimate—perfect for a private dinner with your significant other. The bar is also located on this deck, offering the sights and sounds of cocktails being made, making it a preferable choice for some.

Dining aboard the Royal Albatross is a feast for both the eyes and palate. We enjoyed the 4-course ‘Voyage of Culinary Enhancement’ menu, a delightful whirlwind of flavors inspired by cuisines from around the world. Our favourite was the Moonlit Serenade - perfectly pan-seared Chilean sea bass served with caramelised leeks, harissa and a fennel broth. 

The meal concluded with a free-flow dessert bar at the Grand Salon, the ship’s air-conditioned interior deck, featuring an assortment of fresh fruits, cakes, ice creams and even a chocolate fondue machine. 

The Sunset Dinner Cruise also offers a 7-course menu, along with vegetarian and wine pairing options available.

One of the charming quirks of the Royal Albatross is Captain Willie, the ship’s resident cat. Though he was busy ‘steering’ the ship in dreamland when we first met him, he was more than happy to receive gentle pets and scratches on his head. 

Beyond the shipboard delights, the cruise also offers a unique glimpse into what goes on in the waters of Singapore. We saw numerous tanker ships and other vessels off the coast, providing an otherwise underrated perspective on the city’s bustling maritime activity. 

As the voyage neared its end, we were treated to a short fireworks display, making a spectacular finale to an already magical night.

If given the choice between the Foredeck and the Aft Deck, we recommend sitting on the port side of the ship, as that’s where you’ll get the best views of the fireworks.

To make the most of your celebration, consider planning a staycation or a day trip to Sentosa. Beyond the Royal Albatross, we thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Singapore Oceanarium, where we were mesmerized by the stunning marine life.