Seabourn Pursuit

The 2023-built Seabourn Pursuit cruise ship is the newest vessel in the Seabourn fleet. The boat was delivered and inaugurated in August 2023, after several postponements from 2022 (May, then December) and March 2023. The first vessel in this series (Seabourn Venture) began operations in April 2022 and was also postponed twice (initially scheduled for delivery in July 2021 and later December 2021).

The vessel (IMO number 9862035) is currently Bahamas-flagged (MMSI 311001081) and registered in Nassau.

Venture and Pursuit are part of the Seabourn Expeditions fleet. These vessels are PC6 (Polar Class 6) expedition cruise ships, each equipped with two mini-submarines (custom-built submersibles with maximum occupancy of 7 persons—6 passengers plus 1 pilot; see details in the ship's Wiki section), 24 Zodiacs (large-capacity RIB boats used for tendering and shore landings), and a fleet of eight sea kayaks.

Each ship has a total of 132 staterooms, all outside suites with private balconies.

History - construction and ownership

Seabourn Cruises is a top-luxury (all-inclusive) cruise line founded in 1986 and headquartered in Seattle WA. Seabourn operates worldwide itineraries ranging from 7-day Caribbean cruises to 100+ day Around the World voyages. Since 1998, Seabourn has been fully owned by Carnival Corporation—the world's largest passenger shipping company. Seabourn is a signature travel brand and a major competitor in the premium cruise market, competing directly with Silversea and RSSC-Regent Seven Seas.

By choosing the ship names Venture and Pursuit, Seabourn paid tribute to the polar destinations visited by the company's expedition fleet and to the "Ventures by Seabourn" land tour and shore excursion program.

Note: In February 2026, Seabourn announced that after the 2025–2026 Antarctic season, the optional undersea program (submarine excursions) would be discontinued. The decision reflected a combination of factors, including lower-than-anticipated guest participation and the substantial technical resources required for maintenance and recurring certification of the units. Additionally, evolving regulatory requirements in some regions increasingly limited where and under what conditions submarine operations could be conducted, reducing the number of viable deployment areas.

Decks and Cabins

Seabourn Pursuit staterooms (132 total) are all suite-category accommodations with private step-out balconies. All cabins are thoughtfully appointed and designed as residential-style spaces, with a separate lounge area serving as a relaxation and entertainment space.

The largest accommodations are the two Grand Wintergarden Suites (duplex apartments in Seabourn's new GR category). Each Grand Wintergarden Suite combines two cabins (Wintergarden Suite and Veranda Suite) and spans two levels (midship on Decks 7–8) with a total size of 130 m2 (1400 ft2), including a 19 m2 (205 ft2) terrace.

The smallest accommodations (Veranda Suites) measure 33 m2 (355 ft2) with balconies sized 7 m2 (75 ft2).

Wheelchair-accessible cabins for disabled passengers number five and are available in categories PH-Penthouse (2) and V2–V4 Veranda (3).

The vessel has 10 decks, of which 8 are passenger-accessible and 4 contain cabins.

Through the company's loyalty program "Seabourn Club," Silver Level and above passengers receive free Internet (limited and unlimited packages), free phone calls (20–30–40 minutes worldwide), a complimentary spa massage, a Day Pass for the Spa Serene Area, free laundry (1 bag for every 7 days on the ship), discounted pricing on onboard alcohol purchases (premium wines and spirits), future cruise booking discounts, luggage shipping service discounts, and access to special offers and exclusive onboard events.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Seabourn Pursuit operates with all-inclusive fares and offers a wide range of complimentary dining venues and open-bar lounges. Guests dine when, where, and with whom they wish. The ship's contemporary interior spaces were designed by Adam Tihany's company, including the Main Dining Room and the club-style Seabourn Square lounge.

Below is the complete list of Seabourn Pursuit restaurants and food venues—a total of eight dining options.

The Restaurant (main dining room/MDR on Deck 4) offers open-seating breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dining amenities are ultra-luxury, with a dress code described as “elegant casual,” and optional “formal” attire on special evenings. The Restaurant features an extensive premium wine list with renowned labels and vintages. Some wines by the glass are complimentary, while additional premium selections are available at an extra charge. The menu includes Thomas Keller-inspired dishes such as appetizers, entrée selections, vegetarian options, and French-American style desserts.

Sushi in The Club (Deck 9) is a specialty dinner venue replacing the traditional “Restaurant 2” on Seabourn Odyssey-class ships. It offers freshly prepared sushi and Japanese-inspired bites. The Adam Tihany-designed space features floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows, alfresco terrace seating served by Sky Bar, royal blue carpeting with geometric patterns, a central water-vapor fireplace, a large dance floor and stage, and custom seating designed by Tihany Design Venture.

The Patio Grill (Deck 5 aft) serves the pool area with grilled specialties, salads, side dishes, and fresh pizza by the slice. The venue operates for casual alfresco lunches and afternoon dining (weather permitting).

• Dinner service features a full menu in an outdoor setting. Chef Thomas Keller developed signature dishes for Patio Grill, including the Napa Burger and the artisanal hot dog “Yountwurst” (named after Yountville, California).
• The Patio Pool area includes an aft-facing plunge/infinity pool flanked by two Jacuzzis, a sunbathing deck with loungers and private cabanas, and food and beverage service from both The Colonnade (Deck 5) and Seabourn Square (Deck 6), accessible via exterior staircases. The deck also hosts barbecue parties accompanied by live music.

The Colonnade (specialty restaurant on Deck 6 aft) is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chefs prepare meals in an open kitchen allowing guests to watch the cooking process. Evening menus feature different themes throughout the voyage. Special Chef Keller-inspired dinners reinterpret classic comfort dishes such as Clam Bake and BBQ ribs served family-style. The Colonnade includes an outdoor terrace with alfresco seating and occasionally features the “Earth & Ocean” menu highlighting regional cuisines using locally sourced ingredients.

The Grill by Thomas Keller (specialty restaurant on Deck 9 aft) is a classic American steakhouse developed in partnership with Adam D. Tihany and Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller. Tableside preparations include Caesar salad and ice cream sundaes, alongside steakhouse classics such as Lobster Thermidor and creamed spinach. Reservations are recommended and can be made online prior to sailing (closing 15 days before departure) or onboard. One reservation per sailing is permitted.

Constellation Lounge (theater/bar lounge forward on Deck 9) serves early-morning beverages and pastries, Afternoon Tea, and evening cocktails with tapas-style appetizers. The venue features wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows with 270-degree views, comfortable seating, constellation-patterned carpeting, and a central bar. Expedition staff frequently visit the lounge to provide educational commentary on destinations, wildlife, and geology.

Seabourn Square (aft on Deck 6) features a patisserie offering premium coffees and teas, sandwiches, gourmet sweets, freshly baked pastries, and homemade gelato and ice cream.

The “Pantry in the Bow Lounge” serves light snacks and beverages.

Complimentary 24-hour in-suite dining (room service) is available in all suite categories.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The ambiance aboard Seabourn Pursuit is relaxed with a wide variety of activities. Many sailings feature Seabourn’s signature “Caviar in the Surf” beach barbecue or Marina Days, when guests can kayak or sail directly from the ship. Seabourn’s service is widely regarded as among the best in luxury cruising—highly personalized and attentive. Tipping is not expected.

The ship’s Atrium, Discovery Center, Expedition Lounge, Landing Zone, and other interior public spaces were designed by Tihany Design (founded in 1978). Discovery Center, Landing Zone, and Expedition Lounge are newly introduced areas inspired by the era of early sea explorers and decorated with themed memorabilia.

Additional amenities include complimentary 24-hour room service, Internet/Wi-Fi access, laundry services, and self-service laundromats (Laundry Room adjacent to the Meeting Room midship on Deck 5). Tipping/gratuities are not expected or included in the cruise price. Wedding ceremonies aboard Seabourn ships can be held in various public spaces (no dedicated onboard chapel).

Bow Lounge (Deck 6 forward) is an indoor observation bar lounge offering near-water-level viewing from its forward terrace. It provides an excellent vantage point for observing wildlife and scenery as well as ship arrivals and departures. Interactive touchscreens display navigational charts, weather conditions, itinerary information, and wildlife data. Large HDTVs project live camera footage from exterior HD cameras and occasionally from a drone operating nearby (weather permitting). Members of the expedition team frequently host informal discussions here.

Below is the complete list of Seabourn Pursuit lounges, clubs, and entertainment venues.

The Atrium serves as the ship’s social hub and focal point, featuring a sweeping grand staircase. Interior design elements include metal and wood accents, rope-inspired details, and topography-inspired wall patterns. A suspended art installation evokes traditional wind-measuring instruments.

The Discovery Center (Deck 4, adjacent to the Expedition Lounge) functions as a lecture hall for enrichment programming and accommodates all passengers. The ship’s 26-member expedition team presents lectures, destination briefings, and educational programs. The venue features custom seating, topography-themed décor, and large HD screens (2.5 x 10 m / 8 x 33 ft) displaying expedition-related media and daily submersible footage.

The Expedition Lounge (midship on Deck 4) is the largest indoor relaxation lounge, featuring a full-service bar, custom furniture, a fireplace, and display vitrines with exploration artifacts. Touchscreens display maps, weather charts, and expedition media.

The ship’s two Landing Zones (port and starboard on Deck 3) serve as embarkation points for Zodiac landings. Each area measures 60 m2 (646 ft2) and is designed with durable materials and storage for expedition equipment such as boots, parkas, masks, and fins.

Living Room (open-floor lounge with a small seating area).

Seabourn Square serves as a lounge-style lobby with bar seating, reception desks, concierge services, shore excursion desk, library, and Internet computers. The lounge also features an outdoor terrace with glass railings, mounted binoculars, and comfortable seating.

The Club Lounge (Deck 9 aft) hosts afternoon tea and transforms into a dance club at night, offering live music and cocktails.

• The venue has direct access to a wraparound terrace with two Jacuzzis, loungers, and panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows.
• The open-air Sky Bar (Deck 9 aft) serves drinks to guests on The Club’s terrace.

The Meeting Room (Deck 5 midship) also functions as a Card Room for playing cards and board games.

The Boutique (Deck 4) is a duty-free shop offering fashion, cosmetics, perfumes, watches, jewelry, Seabourn-branded merchandise, travel essentials, and souvenirs.

"Spa at Seabourn" spans two decks and includes treatment rooms, steam rooms, saunas, thermal suites, a glass-roofed spa pool, beauty salon, and outdoor relaxation deck.

The Fitness Center is a panoramic-view gym equipped with Technogym equipment for strength and cardio training. Personal trainers offer customized programs, and complimentary classes such as Pilates, yoga, and Tai Chi are available in the Motion Studio.

The Observation Bar is a circular lounge with a grand piano serving coffee and tea in the morning and cocktails in the evening.

The ship’s main outdoor relaxation areas include Sun Deck (Deck 9), Promenade Deck (Deck 5), and Observation Deck (Deck 10).

Itineraries

Seabourn Pursuit’s itinerary program focuses on polar expeditions, sailing in the Arctic during summer and the Antarctic during winter.

The originally scheduled maiden voyage (March 23, 2023)—a 12-day itinerary themed "Wild and Ancient Scotland and Iceland" from Amsterdam Netherlands to Reykjavik, Iceland—was canceled due to construction delays. It was to be followed by a 12-day North Atlantic crossing featuring Norwegian Fjords cruising and ending in Tromso.

Due to these delays, the new maiden voyage was rescheduled to August 12, 2023—an 8-day Mediterranean itinerary from Valletta (Malta) to Civitavecchia-Rome (Italy).

For summer 2023 (Aug 26–Sept 18), a Northwest Passage voyage through the Canadian Arctic (from Reykjavik to Anchorage) had been planned, with fares starting from USD 38,700 per person, but this sailing was also canceled.

Seabourn opened bookings for Pursuit’s inaugural season in December 2021, with maiden voyage fares starting from USD 63,100 per person (Veranda Suite based on double occupancy).

The vessel (Mariotti Damen Cruise yard/hull number 173) has a volume of 23,615 GT-tons, DWT (deadweight tonnage) of 2,515 tons, and a maximum draught of 6.2 m. The powerplant is based on Wartsila marine diesel engines (model 12V32) with a combined output of 23 MW. The registered shipowner and manager is SEABOURN CRUISE LINE LTD, while the ISM Manager is HOLLAND AMERICA LINE NV.

In July 2018, Seabourn signed a letter of intent with "MARIOTTI DAMEN Cruise" (Genoa Italy) to build two polar-class expedition vessels with the following specifications:

• Ice-strengthened hull (PC6 ice-class).
• Lloyd's Polar Class PC6 (Finnish-Swedish ice class 1A-Super / cruiseferries).
• Length 170 m.
• GT tonnage 23,000 tons.
• 132 balcony cabins.
• Capacity 264 passengers plus 120 crew (including 26 expedition experts such as scientists, historians, and naturalists).
• 2 mini-submarines (6-guest capacity, by U-Boat Worx), sea kayaks, and 24 Zodiacs (RIBs/inflatable motorized boats used for near-shore cruising, landings, and tendering).
• Shell doors at waterline level allowing convenient access to the Zodiacs.
• Deliveries: 1st unit (Venture) in June 2022, 2nd unit (Pursuit) in February 2023.

The vessel's total open-deck space is approximately 2,750 m2 (29,600 ft2). The design is similar to SeaDream's prototype/concept superyacht SeaDream Innovation.

The Seabourn ship's namesake is Azamara Pursuit (2001-built as "R-Eight").

The Seabourn ship Venture was initially scheduled for delivery and inauguration in June 2021 (later postponed to April 2022). The sistership Pursuit was initially planned for inauguration in 2022 (first May, then December) but was eventually postponed to 2023 (February, March, and finally August).

The construction delays were caused by T. Mariotti shipyard closures and supply chain interruptions related to COVID-19.

Pursuit was constructed at T. Mariotti Shipyard near Genoa Italy (in San Giorgio di Nogaro, Udine Province, Italy). Construction began with the steel-cutting ceremony held on September 17, 2020, at the San Giorgio di Nogaro shipyard (near Trieste). The ceremony was attended by Marco Ghiglione (T. Mariotti's Managing Director) and Cyril Tatar (Holland America Group's VP of Newbuild Services), as well as virtually by Josh Leibowitz (Seabourn's President).

The ship's name (Seabourn Pursuit) was officially announced on September 27, 2021, by Josh Leibowitz (Seabourn's President). On the same day, the Inaugural Cruise date (April 4, 2023) was also revealed.

Following the float-out, the unfinished vessel (with hull, machinery, and superstructure up to Deck 9 completed) was transported via heavy barge (approximately 1,930 km / 1,200 mi between April 6–15, 2022) from Trieste to Genoa for final outfitting.

• The shipbuilding yard in San Giorgio di Nogaro is owned by CI.MAR (established in 2007), a joint venture between Cimolai Group (specializing in engineering and large steel construction works) and T. Mariotti Shipyards (specializing in the construction of luxury cruise ships and megayachts). CI.MAR’s facilities offer a shipbuilding area exceeding 50,000 m2 equipped with advanced lifting and maneuvering systems capable of handling constructions weighing up to 300 tons.
• In 2008, the holding company Genova Industrie Navali Group was established through the merger of two Genoa-based shipyards—San Giorgio del Porto and T. Mariotti.
• In 2019, Genova Industrie Navali and Fincantieri (the world’s largest cruise shipbuilder) signed an agreement allowing Fincantieri to purchase a minority stake in the holding company, with an option to acquire a minority share in T. Mariotti. The agreement also allowed Fincantieri to use the Genoa facilities for mega-yacht and medium-size ship construction, outfitting, repairs, conversions, refurbishments, and shipbreaking (dismantling and recycling).

In April 2019, Seabourn contracted ABB Group (a Swiss-Swedish corporation specializing in robotics, marine electrical power equipment, and automation technologies) to provide the propulsion systems for both ships. The equipment integrates main diesel generators, switchboards, converters, remote-control systems, two 6-MW Azipod (azimuth propulsion units), bow thruster motors, and the "ABB Ability 800xA" system. ABB Ability is a remote diagnostic platform using Microsoft Azure cloud computing. It monitors the ship's electrical systems and maintains 24/7 connectivity with ABB's onshore Collaborative Operations Center, providing real-time analytics for predictive maintenance and operational support. The contract was signed by Rick Meadows (Seabourn's President), Marco Ghiglione (T. Mariotti's Managing Director), and Marcus Hogblom (Director of ABB's Passenger Vessel division).

The financing agreement for the two Seabourn newbuilds (Venture and Pursuit) was signed in late June 2019. Funding for the construction was provided by Intesa Sanpaolo SpA (Italian banking group), Banca IMI (part of Intesa Sanpaolo), and Mediocredito Italiano SpA.

Seabourn Pursuit was officially delivered on July 31, 2023. The ceremony was attended by Natalya Leahy (Seabourn's President) and Marco Ghiglione (T. Mariotti's Managing Director).

The registered shipowner and manager is SEABOURN CRUISE LINE LTD.

Seabourn Pursuit's christening took place on June 29, 2024, at Ngula Jar Island (Kimberley Australia). In April 2024, Seabourn designated the Wunambal Gaambera people (also known as Uunguu) as the ship's godparents. The naming ceremony occurred during a 10-day Kimberley itinerary from Broome to Darwin (June 22–July 2). Guests attended the ceremony by Zodiac boats while the crew lined the decks. The event—conducted in both English and the Wunambal Gaambera language—concluded with blessings for the vessel and the ceremonial breaking of a bottle (made from sugar and coated with sand from Ngula Jar) against the bow, in accordance with maritime tradition.

Note: The Wunambal Gaambera people are the Traditional Owners and custodians of significant Kimberley territories, including coastal areas such as Ngula Jar Island (Vansittart Bay) and inland regions such as Yirinni (Hunter River) and Ngauwudu (Mitchell Plateau).

Seabourn Cruise Subs (mini-submersibles by U-Boat Worx)

The ship's two mini-subs are from U-Boat Worx's "Cruise Sub" series, designed for depths between 300 and 1,700 m, with passenger capacities ranging from 5 to 11 people depending on configuration. The submarines offer extensive customization options, excellent maneuverability in all directions (including reverse), and a maximum speed of 3 knots (5.5 kph / 3.5 mph).

Each submersible is battery-powered (62 kWh capacity allowing up to 10 dives per day), with endurance of up to 18 hours. Each unit accommodates 7 people (6 passengers plus 1 pilot), has a maximum diving depth of 300 m (980 ft), weighs 8.5 tons, and measures 4 m in length, 2.9 m in width, and 2.1 m in height.

The design includes an interior volume of 6,840 liters (1,800 gallons) and two transparent acrylic spheres (each with 3 seats positioned on either side of the pilot’s station). The MANTA Controller allows passengers to navigate the submarine under pilot supervision, while the MARLIN Controller enables the operator to steer the minisub remotely from the surface. Passenger seats are custom-embroidered leather and mounted on two rotating platforms (three seats per platform).

Optional equipment includes a 4K UHD underwater camera with video recording capabilities. The recorded photos and videos can be uploaded and displayed onboard the ship at the Discovery Center on large TV screens. A 6-function robotic manipulator arm (maximum lifting capacity 32 kg / 70.5 lb) is mounted on the minisub’s side.

Each minisub is also equipped with Bluetooth stereo, a champagne chiller, dual air-conditioning systems, and imaging sonar. The advanced navigation system uses six horizontal thrusters (2+4 propulsion units) with a total power output of 38.4 kW.

Inaugural itineraries 2023

The following tables show the ship's inaugural itineraries, including those canceled due to delayed delivery.

The 24-day voyage (themed "24-day Inaugural: Scotland and Lands of Fire and Ice") was actually a B2B itinerary combining two consecutive sailings—the 12-day "Wild and Ancient Scotland and Iceland" (Amsterdam to Reykjavik) and the 14-day "Fire and Ice" itinerary (Iceland and Greenland roundtrip from Reykjavik).

Prices started from EUR 29200 / USD 31400 per person (Veranda Suite with double occupancy).

The next voyage was a 12-day North Atlantic Ocean crossing from Iceland to Europe ("In The Realm Of The Arctic Circle") featuring Norwegian Fjords cruising and ending in Tromso.

For summer 2023 (Aug 6 - Sept 18) was scheduled a Northwest Passage voyage (Northwest Passage, Bering Sea and Inside Passage) through the Canadian Arctic departing from Iceland and ending in Alaska (Reykjavik to Anchorage) priced from EUR 36000 / USD 38700 pp. Unfortunately, this unique sailing was also canceled.

(MAIDEN VOYAGE 2023) 8-day from Valletta to Civitavecchia-Rome

(inaugural Transatlantic crossing) 19-day from Barcelona to Miami

(inaugural Caribbean voyage) 10-day from Miami to Barbados

Godspeed!