Seabourn Cruises

History, Review, Itineraries, Ships, Deck Plans, News

Seabourn Cruises cruise line logo
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Seabourn Cruises fleet

Review of Seabourn Cruises

Seabourn (seabourn.com) is a luxury cruise line (1986-founded, operational since 1988) headquartered in Seattle (WA USA) well-established as an ultra-luxury, expedition-style travel brand. Seabourn operates global itineraries - from short breaks in the Caribbean to exotic 100+ day-long voyages around the world.

Seabourn is owned by Carnival Corporation and is part of the "World's Leading Cruise Lines" group, which also includes AIDA, CCL-Carnival, Costa, Cunard, HAL-Holland America Line, Princess and P&O.

NEWS: On May 24, 2022, CNBC rumored that Carnival Corporation is in discussions with Saudi Arabia's PIF-Public Investment Fund to sell Seabourn.

Company history

Seabourn Cruise Line was founded in 1986 under the name "Signet Cruise Lines" by Atle Brynestad (Norwegian private investor) and Erland Raastad (president of the companies "Kloster Cruise" and "Royal Viking Line").

The name "Seabourn Cruise Line" was adopted shortly afterward, following objections over trademark ownership by Signet Oil & Gas Co (Colorado USA).

Seabourn's current President is Natalya Leahy, who (in March 2023) replaced Josh Leibowitz. She was previously employed as Holland America Group's COO (Chief Operating Officer) managing the Carnival Corporation's subsidiaries Princess, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and P&O Australia.

Seabourn Cruises logo

Seabourn Pride (the company's first vessel) entered service in 1988, followed by sistership Seabourn Spirit in 1989. A third boat (originally planned for 1990) was delayed due to financial constraints. The vessel was eventually purchased by Royal Viking Line (1972-founded/1998-defunct) and launched in 1992 as "Royal Viking Queen". In 1994, it was transferred to Royal Cruise Line as "Queen Odyssey".

In 1991, Carnival Corporation purchased a 25% stake in Seabourn. In 1996, Carnival upped its stake to 50%, providing Seabourn with the needed capital to buy Queen Odyssey (renamed Seabourn Legend). In 1998, Carnival Corporation purchased the remaining 50% stake in Seabourn, acquired Cunard Line (from Kvaerner ASA), and finally merged the two brands into the Cunard Line entity.

In 1999, three Cunard liners (Royal Viking Sun, Sea Goddess I, Sea Goddess II) were transferred to Seabourn under new names (respectively, Seabourn Sun, Seabourn Goddess I, Seabourn Goddess II). In 2001, Carnival Corporation bought out the NCL-Norwegian shares. Seabourn's parent company became Carnival's wholly-owned subsidiary. Seabourn Goddess 1 and Seabourn Goddess 2 were purchased for SeaDream Yacht Club by Atle Brynestad (Seabourn's founder).

In 2002, Seabourn Sun was transferred to Holland America Line (Carnival-owned subsidiary), thus reducing Seabourn's fleet to the three original vessels. The company was demerged from Cunard and reorganized as an independent brand (still part of Carnival Corporation). On March 31, 2011, Seabourn Cruise Line ceased operations from Miami Florida USA and transferred its operations to Holland America's headquarters in Seattle WA.

In 2014, Seabourn Pride left the fleet and was transferred (as Star Pride) to Windstar. In 2015, Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Spirit were also transferred to Windstar (now Star Legend and Star Breeze).

Company changes

Since 2018, Seabourn offers fleetwide "K+M Chocolate" products. These are high-quality chocolates by the "Keller Manni Chocolate" company (founders Michelin chef Thomas Keller and Armando Manni / olive oil producer from Italy). The custom-made for Seabourn chocolates are hand-crafted (produced in Napa Valley, California). Among the signature flavors are the milk-based hazelnut, smoked chili, blood orange, cherry, as well as the dark chocolate "sea salt".

In late-March 2019, Seabourn signed a partnership with Pixvana Inc (Seattle-based company) to create TableVision (virtual reality/interactive training platform based on Pixvana's SPIN Studio) for Main Dining Room waitstaff training.

On August 15, 2019, Seabourn opened bookings for its new "Private Air" program (privately chartered jet service) that allows customers to fly to homeports/departure cruise ports via private jets rather than commercial airlines. The new service is global and offers a variety of private jet aircraft (as models and sizes) to charter, accommodating groups of any size (upon request) and plane capacity 5 to 16 passengers. Seabourn's fly-cruise packages offer access to thousands of airports (private and commercial) worldwide. Pricing varies by aircraft and itinerary and is inclusive of cruise and flight fares, valet luggage service, onboard food and drinks (including caviar, champagne and premium spirits by the glass), onboard Wi-Fi, transfers (to/from home, airports, seaports) and next-port protection (up to 1000 mi).

On June 6, 2022, NCLH announced an expansion of its fleetwide sustainability program "Sail & Sustain". Extending its animal welfare policy, the shipowner is now fully committed to responsible animal food sourcing practices (regarding pork, chicken, eggs, and seafood) within the global fleet's supply chain. The goal is by the year 2025, fleetwide (NCL, Oceania, Regent) to be sourced only cage-free eggs, crate-free pork, certified sustainable seafood, and chicken purchased from American and Canadian suppliers who meet GAP (Global Animal Partnership) standards.

In March 2023, Carnival Corporation (shipowner) sold the 14-year-old Seabourn Odyssey to the Japanese shipping company MOL (Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd). Along with the sale, Seabourn signed a time-charter arrangement with MOL that allowed the company to operate Odyssey's voyages scheduled through October 11, 2024.

In June 2023 was introduced new 24-hour in-cabin dining menus listing gourmet dishes prepared by Anton Egger (company's Master Chef and Culinary Consultant Chef) and Franck Salein (company's Senior Corporate Chef). Introduced on Seabourn Venture in June, the new menus were rolled out fleetwide by October.

In July 2023, Seabourn's culinary program was expanded with new dishes (in The Restaurant/main dining room) fleetwide as well as "Sushi in the Club" (on select ships). Most dishes are made with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients (depending on the visited regions/destinations). The Restaurant's upgraded menu includes new appetizers (Oyster au Gratin with Champagne, Fresh Oysters on Ice/with caviar and vodka) and new entrees (Lobster En Bellevue Parisienne, Blue Cheese Crusted Filet Mignon/Roquefort Crusted Beef Tenderloin, Pan Seared Sablefish/Baked Crusted Cod with Tomatoes). "Sushi in the Club" (on the ships Sojourn and Quest) is available every night (between 6-9 PM) and offers fresh-made sushi bites served with sake.

In October 2023 was announced that on Seabourn Quest in January 2024 debuts the fleet's first Solis Restaurant. The premium dining venue offers daily prepared dishes of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The menu is based on the Mediterranean destinations/regions visited by Seabourn, including the Italian and French Rivieras (Central Med) as well as Turkey and the Greek islands (Aegean). Solis Restaurant's menu was developed by Anton Egger (Seabourn's Master Chef) and Franck Salein (Seabourn's Senior Corporate Executive Chef). The new restaurant has limited seating, provides a chic atmosphere and also offers a large selection of premium wine brands and a separate cocktail menu. In 2024-Q2, Solis will be rolled out on three other Seabourn ships (Encore, Ovation, Sojourn).

On February 21, 2023, Seabourn signed a multi-year ship charter agreement/exclusive partnership with APT Travel Group (Australian Pacific Touring) for chartering two ships (Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit). APT expedition cruises were scheduled for 2025 with a deployment in Northern Europe (UK, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland), Australia/Kimberley, and Antarctica in 2025. The charter deal was signed by Natalya Leahy (Seabourn) and David Cox (APT's CEO).

In March 2024 was appointed Mike Fulkerson as VP/Vice President nd CMO/Chief Marketing Officer. He has 20+ years of experience in chief marketing positions, serving companies like Canyon Ranch (hospitality/resorts, spas, culinary), Marriott International Inc (hotels, residential and timeshare properties), Mattel Inc (toy manufacturing and entertainment), Activision Publishing Inc (video game publisher, parent of Activision Blizzard).

New ships

In 2016 and 2018, the fleet joined two newbuilds - Encore and Ovation.

Seabourn Cruises new ship

Compared to the ODYSSEY-class units, the new boats are ~1/5 larger in size (LOA 210 m, volume 40350 GT-tons), ~1/3rd bigger as passenger capacity (638 max), with 1 additional deck (12 decks), re-designed venues, expanded public spaces, biggest Spa at sea, new onboard programming. Traditionally for Seabourn ships, all passenger cabins (all-suite categories) are with private balconies.

In July 2018, Seabourn signed a letter of intent with "MARIOTTI DAMEN Cruise" for building 2 polar-class expedition ships with the following specifications.

  • length 170 m
  • GT tonnage 23,000 tons
  • ice-strengthened hull (PC6 ice-class)
  • 132 balcony cabins
  • capacity 264 passengers plus 120 crew (including 26 expedition crew of experts - scientists, historians, naturalists)
  • 2 mini-submarines (6-guest, by U-Boat Worx), sea kayaks, 24x Zodiacs (RIBs/inflatable motorized boats used for near-shore cruising, landings and tendering)
  • shell doors (at waterline level) allow convenient access to the Zodiacs.

The total open-deck space is approx 2750 m2 (29,600 ft2).

Seabourn new expedition ships (Venture, Pursuit)

The first vessel (Venture) was scheduled for June 2021 (later postponed to December 2021, April 2022, and. eventually, July 2022). The second unit (Pursuit) was initially planned for delivery in 2022 (May) but was postponed to March 2023.

new Seabourn cruise ship mini-submarine

Seabourn's 30th Anniversary (2018)

In 2018, the company celebrated its 30th Anniversary featuring as highlights:

  • Fleet expansion - from 4 to 5 vessels with the launch of Seabourn Ovation in May 2018.
  • Adding new onboard cocktail offerings, including "Passion Pearls" cocktail by Brian van Flandern.
  • Introducing a new "30th Anniversary Wine Package" with price-inclusive quality champagnes and wines.
  • At the shipboard Shops were available for purchasing a unique collection of pearls and 30th Anniversary themed logo merchandise.
  • Passengers on all ships were offered Seabourn company history-themed trivia games.
  • Also in 2018 were introduced new onboard programs, including two Wellness Cruises (led by Dr. Andrew Weil).
  • The company's 2018 itinerary program included over 170 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a selection of Seabourn Journeys (shore tours).

Seabourn's ship cruising experience

The travel brand Seabourn was established on the principle that personal service in stylish surroundings would appeal to independent-minded, sophisticated passengers with lifestyles that demand the best.

The original Seabourn megayachts and their new fleet mates have been lovingly maintained and proved to be a great success over the years. Recognized as a leading small-ship luxury line, Seabourn delivers all extras, expected by its clientele - a stocked minibar in all suites, elegant amenities, complimentary wines, and spirits.

Seabourn Cruise Line's guests may also expect the unexpected - from exclusive luggage tags and travel document portfolios to the pleasure of a complimentary massage while lounging at the pool. Seabourn will even arrange for your luggage to be picked up at home and delivered to your suite.

The line presents an intimate and exceptional cruising experience. The smaller size of its vessels allows calling at smaller ports and up-close-and-personal encounters with the destination.

The atmosphere onboard is elegant but unpretentious. All rooms are suites, equipped with designer soaps, and the latest amenities, such as flat-screen televisions and Bose Wave sound systems. A bottle of champagne greets all guests in the cabin. Beds are dressed with Egyptian cotton linens and fluffy duvet covers with feather pillows. A well-stocked in-suite bar and Pure Pampering therapeutic bathing menu are provided in each suite. In addition, guests benefit from the services of a Personal Suite Stewardess, ready to cater to every need.

The abundance of public space makes passengers feel as if they have the vessel to themselves - no annoying lines or crowds here. Bar drinks are complimentary. Seabourn cruise ship passengers may choose to dine when and where they want on any of the luxurious ships of the line. Each dining venue offers a different atmosphere and different dishes, but all use innovative cooking techniques and perfect ingredients like Black River Ossetra Caviar.

Seabourn Cruises new ships

Daily team trivia contests, lectures, wine tastings, and other quiet pursuits are usually scheduled, but most passengers are satisfied to just do what pleases them. Focused on personalized service, the line has designed unique programs like Caviar in the Surf and Shopping With the Chef, to further enhance onboard experience.

Seabourn's liners attract a broad mix of ages (40-something and above), and offer a variety of itineraries from more mainstream calls to the offbeat, in order to continue to draw new passengers.

While most of the cruisers are likely to be American, Seabourn appeals to well-off and well-traveled vacationers from a variety of countries, particularly English-speaking Great Britain, South Africa, and Australia, among others.

In 2019, Seabourn signed a partnership deal with the company "Shaoching Bishop and Chef Thomas Keller" to provide fleetwide the Regiis Ova Caviar brand. The company partners directly with selected sturgeon farms to source high-quality caviar.

Shipboard smoking policy

According to the new Seabourn Cruises smoking policy (implemented in 2017), smoking is not allowed in all the ship's indoor venues, also in cabins and on cabin balconies.

Smoking is also banned in the ships' Observation Lounge (previously allowed after 8 pm). Smoking is allowed on Sky Bar's open-air starboard area (midship Deck 9 / Deck 10 on Encore and Ovation ships) and also on the starboard open-air pool terrace of The Club lounge (Deck 5 aft).

Smoking cigarettes, as well as cigars and pipes smoking is allowed on Seabourn Square lounge's open-air terrace (deck 7 aft).

Smoking E-cigarettes in cabins is allowed.

Passengers who don't comply with the company's smoking policy are fined a cleaning fee (USD 250 per day).

“Seabourn Source” Web App

The Seabourn Source app was launched in August 2017. It can be accessed by all passengers (on a complimentary basis) and fleetwide. Seabourn Source offers up-to-the-minute access to the voyage's daily details directly on passengers' smartphones, tablets or laptops. Users can tap the new app to instantly:

  • stay on top of shipboard account records;
  • review daily activity as well as entertainment schedules;
  • track port times (arrivals and departures);
  • peruse meal times and menus for all dining venues;
  • browse and book shore trips;
  • learn about wellness classes and spa treatments;
  • connect to paid satellite internet.

The mobile app further connects cruisers to the company’s complimentary digital newspaper-magazine PressReader Offline, which offers full editions of 2500+ global media sources. They can be downloaded to personal Android or iOS devices while at sea or in port. Seabourn Source operates on a shipboard network, so users do not incur additional Internet/cellular data charges while in use.

Loyalty program

The company's loyalty program ("Seabourn Club") allows earning membership points for each day. Accumulated points (onboard days) count toward Milestone Awards. The most expensive offer is a free cruise - up to 7-day itinerary (with 140 Sailed Days) and up to 14-day itinerary (with 250 Sailed Days). Every Milestone is also celebrated with an onboard event and a jewelry gift (by Tiffany & Co)

In addition to Milestone Awards, passengers earn Seabourn Club Points qualifying them for bonus perks. Seabourn points establish the membership levels.

Each onboard day earns 1 Club Point.

Each onboard day in Penthouse or Premium Suite earns 1 additional Club Point.

Each night on escorted Seabourn Journeys (shore excursions) earns 1 Club Point.

Every USD 500 spent on onboard and pre-cruise online purchases earns 1 Club Point.

The next table shows all the benefits provided by the Seabourn Club loyalty program.

CLUB MEMBER

SILVER MEMBERGOLD MEMBERPLATINUM MEMBERDIAMOND MEMBER

(1-19 points)

  • onboard special events and receptions
  • Club Host or Hostess on every cruise
  • 5% booking discount on future cruises

Pre-cruise available perks include: advanced information on new itineraries and special offers, booking discounts on select voyages

(20-69 points) Club Member benefits plus ONE of the following perks:

  • (onboard) 10% discount on Shore Excursions bookings
  • (onboard) 10% discount on premium wines and spirits
  • (onboard) free internet (1-hour package)
  • (onboard) free phone (20 min worldwide calls)
  • (onboard) complimentary Spa Massage
  • (onboard) 1 Day in Spa Serene Area
  • Complimentary laundry (1 bag for every 7-days on the ship)

Pre-cruise available perks include Club Member benefits, plus luggage tags

(70-139 points) Club Member benefits plus TWO of the following perks:

  • (onboard) 10% discount on Shore Excursions booking
  • (onboard) 15% discount on premium wines and spirits
  • (onboard) free internet (3-hour package)
  • (onboard) free phone (30 min worldwide calls)
  • (onboard) complimentary Spa Massage
  • (onboard) 1 Day in Spa Serene Area
  • Complimentary laundry (1 bag for every 7-days on the ship)

Pre-cruise available perks include Club Member benefits, plus luggage tags, 10% discount on luggage shipping services, advanced invitations to hosted voyages, a magazine subscription (Travel+Leisure or Conde Nast Traveler)

(140-249 points) Club Member benefits plus THREE of the following perks:

  • (onboard) 15% discount on Shore Excursions booking
  • (onboard) 20% discount on premium wines and spirits
  • (onboard) free internet (4-hour package)
  • (onboard) free phone (40 min worldwide calls)
  • (onboard) complimentary Spa Massage
  • (onboard) 1 Day in Spa Serene Area
  • Complimentary laundry (1 bag for every 7-days on the ship)

Pre-cruise available perks include Club Member benefits, plus luggage tags, dedicated Concierge, 15% discount on luggage shipping services, advanced invitations to hosted voyages, a magazine subscription (Travel+Leisure or Conde Nast Traveler)

(250+ points) Club Member benefits plus ALL of the following perks:

  • (onboard) 15% discount on Shore Excursions booking
  • (onboard) 25% discount on premium wines and spirits
  • (onboard) free internet (unlimited package)
  • (onboard) free phone (40 min worldwide calls)
  • (onboard) complimentary Spa Massage
  • (onboard) 1 Day in Spa Serene Area
  • Complimentary laundry and pressing (unlimited)
  • Daily delivery (in the cabin) of any preferred newspaper

Pre-cruise available perks include Club Member benefits, plus luggage tags, dedicated Concierge, 20% discount on luggage shipping services, advanced invitations to hosted voyages, a magazine subscription (Travel+Leisure or Conde Nast Traveler)

Cruise Travel Awards 2016

In 2016, Seabourn wrapped up the year with a total of 22 cruise travel industry awards, several of which were readers' choice nominations. Over the years, the cruise line has consistently been rated a "top choice" in the luxury travel segment.

Follows the list of the company's 2016 awards by the industry's most renowned online publishers and brands.

  • (Conde Nast Traveler) - "Best Small Ship Cruise Line", "Favourite Cruise Line - Small Ships"
  • (Travel Weekly) - "Best Cruise Ship - Under 1000 Berths"
  • (Cruise Awards International) - "Best Boutique Cruise Line"
  • (Cruise Critic) - "Best Luxury Cruise Line"
  • (Magellan Awards) - "Small Cruise Ship", ""Spa Design", "Seabourn Blog", "Shore Excursion", "Itineraries", "Direct Marketing", "Luxury Ship" (Seabourn Quest), "Loyalty Program", "Entertainment"
  • (Luxury Travel Advisor) - "Luxury Small Ships"
  • (Porthole Magazine) - "Best Small Ship" (Seabourn Sojourn), "Best Service"
  • (SHAPE Healthy Travel) - "Best Cruise to Refresh and Rejuvenate"
  • (Town and Country Travel / "Classic Luxury" category) - "Design", "Active Travelers", "Food", "On-Shore Activities".

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Seabourn expanded its cancellation policy fleetwide (all vessels) with penalty-free cancellation of voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through June 30, 2021.

Seabourn's fleet was fully operational by June 6, 2022.

Operations resumed in 2021-2022 with the ships ODYSSEY (July 18, 2021/Caribbean from Bridgetown Barbados), OVATION (July 3, 2021/Mediterranean-Greek Islands from Athens), QUEST (May 10, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), SOJOURN (June 6, 2022/Europe-Mediterranean from Athens), ENCORE (February 19, 2022/Europe-Canaries-Mediterranean from Lisbon), VENTURE (April 10, 2022/Maiden Voyage from London-Greenwich), PURSUIT (May 23, 2023/Maiden Voyage from Reykjavik Iceland).

  • SOJOURN's "World Cruise 2021" (141-day from Miami to Barcelona), Europe 2021 program (Baltic-Mediterranean) and "World Cruise 2022" (145-day from Los Angeles) were canceled.
  • ENCORE's Mediterranean 2021 program (homeporting in Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome) and Asia 2021-2022 program (homeporting in Singapore and Hong Kong) were canceled.
  • QUEST's Antarctica-South America 2021-2022 program was canceled.
  • The newbuild VENTURE's delivery was delayed (due to T. Mariotti shipyard closures) and the inaugural cruise was rescheduled from July 5 (Antarctica) first to December 11, 2021 (Norwegian Fjords) and eventually for April 10, 2022 (Arctic Norway from London).
  • Seabourn also canceled planned for 2021 itineraries in the Caribbean (from Barbados), Alaska-BC Canada (from Vancouver and Juneau), Asia (from Hong Kong and Singapore) and Australia New Zealand (from Sydney and Auckland).

All prepurchased through Seabourn packages and services were fully refunded in FCC (future cruise credit). All canceled bookings received 125% refund in FCC (based on the fares paid) with rebooking. Customers receiving an FCC can rebook until January 31, 2021, any currently scheduled Seabourn cruises with departures prior December 31, 2021.

All booked 2020 itineraries, plus bookings on departures through December 31, 2021, can be canceled up to 30 days prior departure ("Book with Confidence") with full refunds (100% of the fare paid in FCC) valid for 12 months. Seabourn's "Book with Confidence" policy was enhanced in late-May, offering to all departures in 2021 the "Best Fare Guarantee" allowing customers to request the lowest pricing offered for their voyage - even if the fares drop after booking.

Itinerary of Seabourn Cruises

Summer 2024 and winter-spring 2025 expedition voyages (ships Pursuit and Venture)

Both ships explore remote corners of the world, from the South Pacific and Antarctica to the Arctic (Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Canada). The program includes Seabourn's first visit to northern Australia's Kimberley coast where Seabourn Pursuit operates between June-August 2024.

In addition to Kimberley, Seabourn Pursuit (March-October 2024) visits destinations in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, Guam USA, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji, and also has scheduled a Transpacific crossing from Chile to Melanesia. Meanwhile, Seabourn Venture returns for another season in the UK, Ireland, Greenland, Norway, Iceland, and Arctic Canada.

Both ships sail to "The Great White Continent" at the end of 2024-early 2025.

In the South Pacific, Seabourn Pursuit offers 6x 10-day Kimberley sailings (between Broome and Darwin) in June, July, and August 2024. The ship also operates a series of 15-day itineraries to Papua New Guinea and West Papua (May and June) and again in August and September 2024, with combos/B2Bs of up to 35 days available.

In March-April and again in September-October 2024, Seabourn Pursuit sails between the South Pacific Islands and South America/Chilean coast with a series of voyages 14-17-20-day itineraries. Combos/B2Bs of up to 37 days are also available.

Seabourn Venture offers 3x 14-day UK voyages (between Greenwich-London England and Leith-Edinburgh Scotland) in April-May 2024, with 2 different itineraries and availability for up to 28-day B2Bs. In June through September 2024, the ship sails through Norway, Iceland, Greenland, and the Canadian Arctic, with a series of 11-12-day Svalbard itineraries, a 15-day North Atlantic crossing (Svalbard to Greenland and Iceland), an 11-day Iceland Circumnavigation, 11 to 15-day voyages in Iceland and Greenland. The season ends with a 14-day Atlantic  crossing from Greenland to St John's, Newfoundland Canada. B2BS of 28 days are also available.

Seabourn Pursuit offers the Seabourn Antarctic Experience (21-day, Feb 2024) and then on 11x voyages (11-13-21 days) between October 2024 and mid-March 2025.

Seabourn Venture is deployed in the Arctic with 9x voyages (11-13-21 days) as well as Antarctic voyages (November 2024 through to March 2025).

2024-2025 Asia voyages (ships Encore and Quest)

Starting in December 2024, Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest embark on a series of voyages through Southeast Asia and Japan, offering guests a unique opportunity to explore diverse cultures and landscapes.

Seabourn Encore launches with 7 sailings between Singapore and Hong Kong, featuring stops in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines. Highlights include the signature Caviar in the Surf event in Koh Kood, Thailand, and overnight stays in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Encore’s season culminates with a 14-day voyage to Japan in March 2025, introducing new ports such as TokushimaKochi, and Kobe. The ship’s first-ever transpacific crossing then sails from Kobe to Long Beach, California, marking its maiden visit to the U.S. and including stops in Wakayama, Japan, and the Hawaiian Islands.

Seabourn Quest focuses on Japan during cherry blossom season and return in the fall to showcase the country’s autumn scenery. In 2025, the ship sails itineraries ranging from 14 to 34 days, allowing guests to explore both northern and southern Japan. Highlights include AkitaWakayama, and an exclusive "Pacific Passage: Golden Week to Glacier Bay" voyage, combining Japan’s cultural festivities with Alaska’s natural beauty.

2025-2026 expedition voyages (ships Pursuit and Venture)

The forthcoming 2025-2026 expedition itineraries present a series of explorations to some of the world's most remote and exotic locations on the ultra-luxury expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit. The extensive roster comprises more than 40 captivating voyages, encompassing destinations like the Arctic, Antarctica, the Amazon, Australia's Kimberley region, the South Pacific, the Northwest Passage, and more.

Seabourn Venture, between May 2025 and March 2026, offers 21 voyages spanning from 8 to 28 days, covering an extensive range from the Arctic to Antarctica. The itineraries promise immersive encounters in Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland, characterized by towering ice formations and cultural shore excursions in addition to breathtaking, uninhabited fjords.

In August 2025, Seabourn Venture embarks on a historic journey through the Northwest Passage, retracing the paths of earlier seafarers and explorers.

The vessel also ventures southward to Antarctica, dedicating three months to explore the "Great White Continent," providing passengers with the opportunity to navigate around impressive ice formations and encounter unforgettable wildlife.

Furthermore, Seabourn Venture embarks on a unique sea safari voyage deep into the Amazon, offering two 9-day roundtrip journeys from Manaus departing on October 12 and October 21, 2025, as well as a 12-day voyage from Manaus to Rio de Janeiro departing on October 30, 2025.

Commencing in late March 2025, Seabourn Pursuit embarks on 20 voyages spanning from 10 to 20 days. The voyages commence in the South Pacific, featuring pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and cultural interactions.

Subsequently, the ship heads to Australia's Kimberley region, famous for its red sandstone gorges, rivers, waterfalls, wildlife, and rich Aboriginal heritage.

Finally, Seabourn Pursuit navigates back across the Pacific to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, uncovering the region's remarkable biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Notable voyages include two 21-day roundtrips from Buenos Aires departing on December 16, 2025, and February 26, 2026, along with a 28-day sailing from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires commencing on November 11, 2025.

Between May and July 2025, Seabourn Pursuit embarks on a series of 10-day departures exploring the Australia and Kimberley Coast region, connecting Broome and Darwin, Australia.

Four additional voyages are scheduled, including a pair of 20-day journeys departing on March 18, 2025, from San Antonio, Chile, to Papeete, Tahiti, and another on October 10, 2025, from Papeete to San Antonio. Moreover, an 18-day cruise from Papeete to Sydney is planned to commence on April 7, 2025, followed by a 16-day Remote Shores of New Guinea & Indonesia voyage sailing from Sydney to Darwin on April 24, 2025.

Both Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit embark on extraordinary Antarctic expeditions, featuring zodiac excursions to towering icebergs and penguin colonies, complemented by guided hikes through pristine and seldom-visited landscapes, and the option for kayaking and submarine excursions.

Between November 2025 and March 2026, a total of 16 departures are planned, offering 11- and 13-day Antarctic voyages.

In August 2024, the company announced the addition of an 11-day Antarctica expedition voyage aboard its purpose-built ultra-luxury ship, Seabourn Venture, scheduled from March 10-21, 2026.This new departure responds to high demand for Antarctic expeditions, offering travelers another opportunity to explore the continent in 2026. 

Between November 2025 and March 2026, Seabourn Venture, along with her sistership Seabourn Pursuit, conduct a series of expeditions to Antarctica, ranging from 11 to 21 days. These journeys include a pre-cruise stay in Buenos Aires and roundtrip charter flights to Ushuaia, the embarkation point.

Guests on Seabourn's Antarctic voyages can expect Zodiac excursions among icebergs, landings on remote landscapes with the ship’s Expedition Team, and optional activities such as kayaking and submarine tours. Potential destinations include the Lemaire Channel, Deception Island, and Neko Harbour, weather permitting. Each guest will also receive a Helly Hansen PolarShield parka and a waterproof backpack as part of their journey.

Additionally, Seabourn’s Antarctica expeditions will feature the new "Image Masters" program, a photography masterclass offering hands-on instruction in photo composition, camera techniques, editing, and retouching, led by an expert onboard nature photographer.

Alaska, Canada and New England USA (summer & fall 2025)

The array of cruises for 2025 encompasses a total of 24 all-inclusive voyages. These voyages are divided into two regions: Alaska during the summer and Canada/New England during the fall.

During the summer, Seabourn Quest is stationed in Alaska. Her itineraries alternate between 7-day and 14-day journeys. The shorter trips navigate between Juneau and Vancouver, while the 2-week cruises follow a round-trip route from Vancouver. Thanks to the vessel's modest size, housing 225 suites, she can adeptly traverse the intricate fjords in Southeast Alaska. This enables guests to explore noteworthy sites like Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm, in addition to prominent port towns like Ketchikan and Sitka. The cruises also incorporate Seabourn's Ventures by Seabourn program, offering expedition-style excursions such as kayaking, Zodiac cruising, and hiking for those interested.

Subsequently, beginning in September, Seabourn Sojourn, boasting 225 cabins, embarks on a series of fall foliage cruises between Montreal and New York. The itinerary encompasses various destinations including Quebec City, Halifax in Nova Scotia, Portland in Maine, and Newport in Rhode Island, contingent on the specific voyage.

Mediterranean & Northern Europe 2025

Seabourn's 2025 European season (March thru November) offers a range of itineraries encompassing the Mediterranean, Northern Europe (UK, Baltic, Norway) and Spain's Canary Islands. The program is based on three ships (Ovation, Encore, Sojourn) and 60+ voyages.

Seabourn Sojourn visits the Canaries and Moroccan cities before repositioning north to Norway's and Iceland's coastlines, and the rustic charm of the British Isles.

Seabourn Encore visits Easter Med ports (in Greece and Turkey) and the Adriatic Sea's Dalmatian coast.

Seabourn Ovation visits in the Mediterranean iconic Italian and French riviera ports (like Portofino and St. Tropez.

Itineraries range from 7- to 24 days (many are combinable into B2Bs) and offer late-night and overnight por stays.

Seabourn Sojourn's British Isles voyages visit Oban (Scotland) and Saint Helier (Jersey, Channel Islands).

Arctic voyages visit Reykjavik (Iceland) and Tromso (Norway).

Between March and November 2025, Seabourn's ships Encore and Ovation are deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean and Adriatic for a total of 24 sailings (7 to 14 days). Highlights include "Shopping with the Chef" experiences, guided by Seabourn chefs, at unique regional markets in destinations such as Croatia, Montenegro, Barcelona, Venice, and more.

Seabourn Encore's 7-day itineraries are to and from Piraeus-Athens), Haifa-Tel Aviv, Istanbul, Venice, or Dubrovnik (Croatia). Additionally, 14- to 32-day B2Bs provide guests with extended opportunities to savor local culinary arts, culture, and hospitality. Call ports include Kusadasi-Ephesus and Katakalon-Olympia.

From March to November 2025, Seabourn Ovation has scheduled 25 sailings (7 to 14 days) leaving from Lisbon, Rome-Civitavecchia, Barcelona, or Monte Carlo. Call ports include Cartagena (Spain) and Cagliari (Sardinia Italy).

Between February and April 2025, Seabourn Sojourn has four cruises to Morocco and the Canaries (7 to 14 days) visiting El Hierro and Casablanca (Morocco).

2025-2026 (ships Ovation, Encore, Quest, Sojourn)

The 2025-2026 season includes several fresh itineraries in Japan, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Hawaiian Islands. Between September 2025 and March 2026, Seabourn's quartet of vessels - Seabourn OvationSeabourn EncoreSeabourn Quest, and Seabourn Sojourn - explore 105 destinations across 40+ countries through 72 unique itineraries. Ranging from 7 to 22 days in duration, these voyages offer the option for combination to craft more extensive travel experiences. Additionally, travelers can enhance their journeys with pre- and post-cruise excursions.

In a new addition for autumn 2025, Seabourn introduces cruises amidst Japan's vibrant foliage aboard Seabourn Quest. Navigating the Japanese archipelago, the vessel makes inaugural calls on all 4 main islands.

Simultaneously, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn embark on Caribbean expeditions, with departures from San JuanSt. MaartenMiami, and Barbados featuring fresh itineraries.

Seabourn Encore, on the other hand, resumes journeys to Southeast Asia, offering 14-day cruises inclusive of overnight stays in Ho Chi Minh City. Concurrently, Seabourn Sojourn provides holiday sailings around the picturesque Hawaiian Islands.

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