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Seabourn Cruises

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Seabourn Cruises fleet

Seabourn pursuit, seabourn venture, seabourn ovation, seabourn encore, seabourn quest, seabourn sojourn, seabourn odyssey, 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 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 thru 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 Odyssey, 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).

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

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).

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.

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.

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.

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).

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 Ovation ,  Seabourn Encore ,  Seabourn 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 Juan ,  St. Maarten ,  Miami , 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.

Seabourn Cruises related cruise news

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Seabourn Cruises December 2024

Seabourn Ovation - December 21, 2024

December 21, 2024.

Dec 21st - Jan 4th

Seabourn Ovation

Seabourn Cruise Line

14 Night Antillean Treasure Holiday

from Bridgetown, Barbados

The December 21, 2024 cruise on the Seabourn Ovation departs from Bridgetown, Barbados. On this 14 Night Antillean Treasure Holiday (Bridgetown Roundtrip) sailing, the ship will visit a total of 15 different cruise port destinations, including its departure port. The Seabourn Ovation sets sail on Saturday, Dec 21st and returns on Saturday, Jan 4th.

Seabourn Ovation - December 21, 2024 - 14 Nights

The Seabourn Ovation was built in 2018 and is amoung Seabourn's 5 ships in it's fleet. The Seabourn Ovation is included in the cruise line's open class. In the cruise ship stats below you'll find the Seabourn Ovation vs all other Seabourn ships.

Bridgetown is the southernmost port on the island of Barbados and its capital. The beaches are plentiful, as is the seafood. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the beautiful blue waters of the Caribbean or try your hand at a local cricket match.

Expect to be immediately immersed in the French Caribbean way of life. Vendors hawk everything from hairpins to bouquets of anthuriums on the congested narrow streets, and the markets are some of the Caribbean's most colorful. The largest, Marche St. Antoine, at the corner of Rues Frebault and Peynier, teems with activity all day long, with tropical produce and spices in madras bags sold by very vocal market women.

Named after the Dutch pirate Jost Van Dyke, this tiny island is perfect for an afternoon of serenity and privacy. Head to the beaches are at Great Harbor and White Bay and then stop for a meal at one of the town's terrific restaurants, while the local guitar player serenades you and your companions. The sailing is great from Jost Van Dyke as well.

The fortress of El Morro guards the harbor against long-gone Sir Francis Drake and his British privateers. The colorful streets of Old San Juan retain the Latin flavor of its seafaring past, when this was the heart of the Spanish Main. Sample the fiery rum made here, or indulge in an icy treat made from fresh tropical fruit and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Hospitable and always sunny, Curacao bids you a warm welcome. The friendly inhabitants, first class hotels, wonderful climate, crystal clear seawater, fascinating architecture, floating market, pontoon bridge, secluded bays, rich fauna and flora, and the many possibilities for excursions and entertainment make Curacao the tourist's paradise.

Kralendijk is the chief town of Bonaire in the Netherlands Antilles. Tourism is the economic mainstay, though salt mining is also a significant industry. The island is known for its fine beaches, skin diving, and pink flamingos.

Blessed with a non-stop breeze, neat little Oranjestad reflects the Dutch passion for cleanliness. Stroll the town's chic shops, venture out to see the wind-formed divi-divi trees, or visit an undersea garden of brilliant corals on a semi-submersible craft.

Are Luxury Cruises Really Worth It?

With price tags that can be in the tens of thousands, luxury cruises aren’t cheap. a look at what’s included and how to pick the right one..

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Worth the splurge: the two-story Grand Wintergarden suite on Seabourn Venture .

Courtesy of Seabourn

While the term “luxury” is often thrown around and overused, the top-end luxury cruise lines really do deliver a five-star experience that’s akin to staying at a grand hotel—with the added bonus of all-inclusive pricing and a ship that brings you to multiple destinations during your stay.

When you book an ultra-luxury cruise, you can expect a carefully curated travel experience. Having sailed on dozens of luxury cruises the world over, I can attest that on these best-of-class vessels, you’ll enjoy high-quality design details, fine artwork, and all-you-can-consume champagne and caviar between visits to tony and lesser-known destinations. In addition, luxury cruise lines also focus on providing immersive and enriching programming that offers a more meaningful and richer understanding of the places and cultures you are visiting through expert-led lectures and guided tours. And the crew to passenger ratio is often as high as one crew member to every two guests, ensuring an elevated level of service.

For years the ultra-luxury end of cruising was limited to a small selection of top brands: Seabourn , Silversea , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , and Crystal , to name a few. But that’s changing. New brands are emerging such as Scenic and the more recently launched Explora Journeys and Atlas Ocean Voyages , each with their own nuances and expertise. (Scenic and Atlas are making a name for themselves in the expedition cruising space, for instance, while Explora promises a beautiful boutique cruising experience on a 900-plus passenger ship.) Luxury hotel companies (and even railway brands) are also getting in the game, with such well-recognized names as Ritz-Carlton , Four Seasons, Orient Express , and Aman all recently unveiling plans to offer a luxury cruise product to guests.

Natalya Leahy, who was named president of Seabourn last year, says the luxury cruise market is growing due to several factors, not the least of which is that there are more than 22 million people in the U.S. with a net worth of a million dollars or more. Well-heeled boomers are booking luxury cruises, but so are Millenials and even younger travelers.

Afar spoke with Leahy in Genoa, Italy, last summer, as the brand prepared to launch the 264-passenger Seabourn Pursuit , the second ultraluxury expedition ship in the Seabourn fleet, which is exploring remote destinations that include Antarctica and the Kimberley region of Australia.

We asked Leahy’s advice on what travelers should know before going on a luxury cruise—and added a few of our own tips as well.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s inaugural vessel, the 298-passenger Evrima (pictured), launched in late 2022, leading the charge for luxury resort names getting into the high-end cruise market.

Courtesy of Jack Hardy/Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection

How to pick the luxury cruise line that’s best for you

Leahy suggests starting out by asking your luxury cruising friends and acquaintances what lines they like. Word of mouth is frequently a factor in the luxury-end of cruising. “Our guests are our biggest ambassadors and bring many new guests onboard,” she says.

Once you get some ideas, or even if you don’t, consult with an expert. “In general, for luxury travel, it’s helpful to have either a travel advisor or, if you book directly with us, a personal cruise consultant,” she says. “It’s very helpful to have someone who is there to advise you.” (Here’s our complete list of travel advisors who are specialized in selling cruises .)

A luxury cruise should be a carefree vacation experience, given all the inclusions, Leahy says. She notes that “when you want to see the world and compare land travel to cruise travel, cruise is much easier to organize.”

But there are nuances—between cruise lines, types of accommodations, and even what is (and isn’t) included in the “all-inclusive” pricing (for instance, certain more exclusive excursions might be extra). This is where working with an expert comes in handy.

Leahy says she seeks advice even when she cruises, which is often with multiple family members or friends. “If I even attempt to organize it on land, I think we all would become ‘best enemies,’” she laughs. “I really believe travel advisors play an incredibly strategic role for us,” Leahy adds. “They know our brands.”

Two-thirds of Seabourn’s business comes through travel advisors, and on any given cruise, about half the guests have cruised with the line before and half are new to the brand—and often new to cruising—Leahy says.

When Explora Journeys launched last summer it became the newest player to enter the luxury cruising market with the 922-passenger Explora I .

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

The best luxury cruise lines

Luxury ships vary in size and destinations they visit as well as other factors such as what’s included in the cruise fare. For instance, is your transportation included? Wi-Fi? Are there any upcharges for specialty dining? Will you pay extra for excursions? Will you have a butler? Every brand has its bragging points.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

The newest cruise line in America, Atlas Ocean Voyages came onto the cruise scene in 2021 and has grown into a fleet of three, 198-passenger yacht-style expedition ships ( World Voyager , World Traveller , and World Navigator ). Atlas has become known for providing extreme comfort and luxury in some of the most extreme polar regions in the world. But it also sails it the warmer waters of the Mediterranean, where it offers immersive culture and culinary programming.

The resurrected Crystal Cruises , now owned and managed by high-end tour operating company Abercrombie & Kent and known simply as Crystal , consists of two ships, the 740-passenger Crystal Serenity and 606-passenger Crystal Symphony , both with complimentary Nobu restaurants aboard.

Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys , a new luxury line from shipping company MSC Group , launched its first, 922-passenger ship, Explora I , last summer with an extensive spa, four pools, and lush interior design details. Sister ship Explora II joins the fleet in September 2024.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas Cruises differentiates itself by including a lot in its fares—such as business-class airfare and unlimited shore excursions—on ships ranging from 490 to 750 passengers. The line launched its newest ship, the 750-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur , the latest of what Regent calls its “world’s most luxurious” ships, last November.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The famous hotel brand launched its first cushy yacht in 2022 . Aboard the 298-passenger Evrima , attractions include hotel-like suites and bartenders who are whizzes at creating personalized concoctions. The 456-passenger Ilma follows in September 2024.

The Seabourn fleet, with ships ranging from 458 to 600 guests, features complimentary fine dining. And the brand’s two expedition ships are outfitted with 24 Zodiacs and kayaks for exploration led by a 24-person expedition team, plus a six-passenger submarine for undersea views.

Australian expedition line Scenic has as many as 10 dining experiences onboard its intimate vessels and toys that include an eight-passenger submarine and state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters aboard its two 228-passenger expedition yachts.

Silversea ships range from 254 to 728 passengers, plus two smaller expedition ships, the 132-passenger Silver Explorer and 100-passenger Silver Origin . The line’s S.A.L.T. program focuses on local dining and drinking experiences, and all guests get butler service—on ships that include the recently launched 728-passenger Silver Nova .

Travelers can relax at sea in the new Aurora spa onboard the reborn Crystal ships.

Courtesy of Crystal

Make sure to choose the ship that’s right for you

Many people start off their vacation planning with the destination, but Leahy makes a case for the strong role the ship should play in your decision-making.

“The unique thing about cruising is your experience continues 24/7,” she says. “It doesn’t end with visiting the destinations. You step onboard and have this experience with fine dining and interaction with our cruise members and entertainment and shows and live music that continues the experience.”

Social media posts and cruise line websites provide clues to help you understand the environment on board specific brands, Leahy says, adding that you should check reviews and look for photos.

She says it’s not uncommon for guests to describe Seabourn ships as their “home away from home.”

Because you will be spending a considerable amount of time on the ship, just as you would when comparing land-based resorts you’ll also want to get an idea of what’s offered onboard in terms of bars, restaurants, lounges, gym and spa facilities, and entertainment. Also consider the amount of outdoor space, such as outdoor dining options, pools, bars, and other spots to catch sea views. Dig into the onboard programming as well to see if there will be talks, live shows, classes, and other offerings that cater to your interests.

How to decide on the right suite and whether to upgrade

Luxury ships in general are usually entirely or mostly made up of suite accommodations with features such as large bathrooms and walk-in closets. You’ll have ocean views and will likely have a balcony on these high-end vessels.

If you’re looking for more space, you might consider upgrading to a suite with a living room and a larger deck. Some luxury suites are apartment-size and come with amenities such as private outdoor hot tubs.

Cruise line websites generally do a good job in terms of providing descriptions, layouts, square footage, and photos of the various options, but a specialized travel advisor or consultant can help you assess your space needs.

Think about how much time you will be spending on the ship and in your suite versus off of the ship to help decide whether the upgrade will be worth the investment. If it’s a busy and active itinerary with daily port stops, it may not be. But if it’s a sailing with longer days at sea, having extra-plush digs could certainly pay off.

Start with a shorter cruise

While you can book luxury cruise itineraries for weeks or months, Leahy suggests before you go all out with a longer sailing you consider a test cruise to see if you will like the experience.

“I think it’s important to start cruising by trying for seven days whether the Caribbean, Alaska, or the Mediterranean,” she says. “They are bucket list destinations and yet they don’t commit you to being the first time on a ship for too long. It’s a great way to start cruising and experiencing.”

Don’t forget about the land-based experiences

Once you decide on a destination and what cruise line you want to try, and you book your suite, it’s important to start thinking about what land-based experiences you’d like to have at the various ports of call.

An advantage of cruising is that your cruise line will provide a selection of carefully curated choices for exploring the ports, for those who prefer not to do independent exploration.

And think about whether you want to extend your stay whether in your embarkation city or your final destination and whether the cruise line might be able to help with that. It’s not uncommon for cruise lines to offer pre- and post-cruising packages that include hotel stays and additional excursion options.

Luxury cruise lines like Seabourn are working to create “deeper and richer” land experiences, says Leahy.

Can’t decide where to cruise? We’ve rounded up our favorite luxury sailings in the Caribbean , Japan , along Norway’s fjords , to experience the beauty of Alaska , Northern Lights cruises , and more . And once you have put those final pieces into place, are booked and ready to go, we’ve also put together a guide on whether or not you should consider cruise insurance , our essential cruise packing list , and the ultimate guide to tipping on cruises —so that you can check off everything you might need (and need to know) before you sail away.

This story was originally published in August 2023, and was updated on August, 30, 2024, to include current information.

Seabourn Club cruise loyalty program: Everything you need to know

Staying loyal to Seabourn brings some big rewards.

The luxury cruise line has one of the most generous frequent cruiser programs of any brand, offering its most loyal passengers such truly stellar perks as free cruises upon hitting certain milestones.

Dubbed the Seabourn Club, the six-tier loyalty program also rewards frequent cruisers with discounts on cruises, shore excursions and premium wines, and it offers such alluring freebies as complimentary massages at onboard spas. The more you sail, the more you get.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The Seabourn Club loyalty program is particularly notable when compared to the loyalty programs of many rival luxury lines. Typically, luxury lines (and other small cruise lines) have relatively modest loyalty programs, if they have a loyalty program at all. Many luxury lines have a loyalty program with just one tier. So a six-tier program with a robust array of perks for a line such as Seabourn is impressive.

Ways to earn

The Seabourn Club point-earning system is relatively straightforward. In most cases, members earn one point for every day they sail on a Seabourn vessel. The only exception is for passengers staying in top penthouse and premium suite accommodations, who earn two points for every day they sail. In addition, members earn one point for every night they are on one of the line's pre- or post-cruise land-based excursions known as Seabourn Journeys.

There is also one final, bonus way to earn points. Members will get one additional point for every $500 they spend on onboard or pre-cruise online purchases for things like spa treatments. The number of extra points that members can earn this way is limited to one for every day they sail.

Program tiers and benefits

There are six tiers to the Seabourn Club program:

• Member (1 to 19 points)
• Silver Member (20 to 69 points)
• Gold Member (70 to 139 points)
• Platinum Member (140 to 249 points)
• Diamond Member (250 to 649 points)
• Diamond Elite Member (650-plus points)

Typically, lower tiers of cruise line loyalty programs offer few valuable rewards. However, the Seabourn Club loyalty program brings one great perk for all members right from its very first tier: a 5% discount on cruises booked on board a ship. Given that many Seabourn accommodations can cost $1,000 a day or more, this is a perk that can save you hundreds of dollars even on a relatively short cruise.

The Seabourn Club's initial tier, the Member tier, also brings special savings on select voyages, advance communication of special offers and invitations to special events and receptions on board ships, plus a few more minor things.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

The valuable perks just get better from there. Upon reaching the Silver Member tier, members will get the choice of one of the following perks on every sailing:

• A 10% discount on shore excursions
• A 10% discount on premium wine and spirits
• A complimentary, two-hour internet package
• 20 minutes of complimentary telephone calls
• A complimentary Signature massage
• A complimentary day in the Spa Serene area
• A complimentary bag of laundry

Upon reaching the Gold Member and Platinum Member tiers of the program, members get two or three of the above perks, respectively — and some of the perks are enhanced. The savings on premium wines and spirits jump to 15% and 20%, respectively, at the Gold and Platinum level, for instance. The shore excursion discount rises to 15% at the Platinum tier.

At higher tiers, the telephone minute allowances also increase, as does the complimentary internet package allowance.

At the Platinum level, members get access to a dedicated Seabourn Club concierge in advance of their sailing who can help with arrangements. They also get a 15% discount on luggage shipping services (Gold members get a shipping services discount of 10%).

Reaching the first few tiers of the program isn't all that difficult. It takes just one cruise to reach the initial Member tier. Reaching the Silver Member and Gold Member tiers would take just a handful of cruises if you do a few longer cruises or stay in top suites.

Related: A beginner's guide to cruise line loyalty programs

With a requirement of 140 points, the Platinum tier of the Seabourn Club loyalty program is a bit harder to reach. It would take 20 seven-night cruises to reach Platinum, assuming you spend no extra money on your sailing (to get those bonus points) and don't stay in top suites.

That said, many Seabourn cruisers gravitate to voyages that are longer than just seven nights. If, like many Seabourn cruisers, you book a mix of sailings that are 10 to 20 days or more and spend a modest amount on board for extras, you could hit the Platinum tier in fewer than 10 cruises even without staying in top suites.

The elite level that makes a difference

We are big fans of the Seabourn Club at all its tier levels. This is a very solid cruise loyalty program. However, the tier level that really starts knocking it out of the park is the Diamond Member level.

At the Diamond Member level, members get all the perk choices on every cruise, and in many cases, the perks are even further enhanced. Plus, there are a couple of all-new perks at the Diamond Member level. Specifically, Diamond members will receive:

• A 15% discount on shore excursions
• A 25% discount on premium wine and spirits
• Unlimited, complimentary internet
• 40 minutes of complimentary telephone calling
• Complimentary laundry and pressing
• Daily delivery of your preferred newspaper
• Priority embarkation

In addition, Diamond members get access to a dedicated Seabourn Club concierge in advance of their sailing who can help with arrangements and a 20% discount on luggage shipping services.

The breadth of all the above is one reason we give high marks to the Seabourn loyalty program.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

The only downside of the Diamond Member level of the Seabourn Club loyalty program is that it can take quite some time for a member to attain it. With a requirement of 250 points, the Diamond tier is a level that would take 36 seven-night cruises to reach, assuming you spend no extra money on your sailings (to get those bonus points) and don't stay in top suites.

That said, as noted above, many Seabourn cruisers opt for longer sailings, and with some extra onboard spending thrown in (which will get you those bonus points) and a few stays in suites, you could reach Diamond level after far fewer voyages.

Best elite perk

The very best elite perk that Seabourn offers its Seabourn Club members, by far, are the free cruises that come with achieving certain milestones in total number of days sailed with the line (more on that in a moment). It's not something that is a part of the tier system that we have been discussing above, and it is such a huge reward offer that it deserves its own section.

As for the best elite perk within the Seabourn Club's regular tier structure, we are partial to the disembarkation/embarkation transfer to and from the ship that comes with the program's top Diamond Elite Member tier. As long as you are within a 50-mile limit, the line will send a car to pick you up and bring you to your ship and then take you from your ship to wherever you are going at the end of a cruise. What a nice touch.

At the Diamond Elite Member level, members also get a $100 spa credit every time they sail, complimentary dry cleaning and a few other perks in addition to all the rewards that come with Diamond Member-level status.

Related: Inside the most expensive luxury ship ever

Just be warned that reaching Diamond Elite Member status takes a lot of cruising with the line. With a requirement of 650 points, it would take you 93 seven-night sailings to reach Diamond Elite Member status, assuming you don't spend much on board when sailing and don't book top suites.

Note that, as is often the case with cruise line loyalty programs, Seabourn customers do not have to requalify for status each year. Seabourn Club members keep their points at the end of each year and continue to accrue points indefinitely. That means that someone who hits Diamond Elite Member status will remain at that top tier level forever (or until Seabourn makes a change to the program).

Such "forever status" is one of the great allures of cruise line frequent cruiser programs. Many airline frequent flyer programs, by contrast, require loyalty members to requalify for status each year.

Milestone Cruise Awards

In addition to all the perks of the six-tier loyalty program discussed above, Seabourn rewards its most loyal passengers with what it calls Milestone Cruise Awards. These are free cruises that the line offers members for every 140 to 250 days they sail with the line.

This is how it works: For each day you sail on a Seabourn ship, you will earn one "sailed day" with Seabourn, and the line will keep track of these in your account. Once your account reaches 140 sailed days, you can redeem them for a complimentary cruise of up to seven days. Alternatively, you can continue to accrue sailed days until you reach 250 and redeem them for a complimentary cruise of up to 14 days.

Once you redeem sailed days for a complimentary cruise, they are removed from your account. However, you can continue accruing more sailed days toward another free cruise in the future.

Seabourn is one of just a handful of cruise lines that offers free cruises to its most loyal customers. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are two others.

In addition to free cruises, Seabourn's Milestone Awards program also brings recognition in one other very classy way. As Seabourn regulars hit various milestones in total days sailed, they are recognized at a special onboard event with a gift from Tiffany & Co.

The onboard recognition comes at the following milestones:

• 100 sailed days
• 200 sailed days
• 500 sailed days
• 1,000 sailed days
• 1,500 sailed days
• 2,000 sailed days
• 2,500 sailed days

Bottom line

Seabourn treats its most loyal customers right. The more you sail with the line, the more you will be rewarded with truly valuable perks.

There is no cruise perk that we can think of that is more valuable than a free cruise, and Seabourn hands out free cruises to its most loyal customers at regular intervals. That's something nearly no other line does (Royal Caribbean is one of few others that makes this a habit ; Norwegian Cruise Line only awards a free cruise to top customers once, when they first hit the top Ambassador level).

We also love the little touches that Seabourn extends to its most loyal customers, like the Tiffany & Co. milestone gifts. Bravo, Seabourn.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

A tale of two luxury cruises and why each one is better than the other | Travel Views

• Updated: Aug. 27, 2024, 1:04 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 27, 2024, 11:03 a.m.

PennLive's Joyce M. Davis on the island of Kas, Turkey, with her home-away-from-home cruise liner, Seabourn's Encore, docked just offshore in the Mediterranean. Davis was on a 10-day cruise between Athens and Haifa, Israel, in the summer of 2023. Russell W. Goodman

• Joyce M. Davis | [email protected]

All cruise lines aren’t the same, and that’s a good thing. Families with small children are seeking a far different experience for a summer vacation than newly-weds taking a 5-day jaunt into the Caribbean.

And retired couples who’ve spent their lifetimes saving for an ocean voyage are looking for a certain standard of relaxing luxury teens would find, well, boring.

But many travelers may not know even the upper end cruise lines are different in how they cater to their elite clientele. You can almost put your wallet away once you step onto a Seabourn ship, knowing top-quality meals, drinks and entertainment are all included in whatever price you negotiated to get onboard.

And, yes, prices can vary depending on where you sign up and when you book them. But that’s another column.

Oceania, which some cruise critics consider a notch or so below the “ultra-luxury” Seabourn line, is not so inclusive. You have to purchase drink packages on Oceania, and prices can be pretty steep, depending on whether you want booze only with meals or if you want to knock it back all day long.

On Seabourn, you can have champagne. with caviar lounging around the pool, and you won’t fork out a penny more. This “all-inclusive” angle influences whether some lines are classified as 6-star “ultra-luxury,” while others are only “premium.”

I have cruised both on Oceania and Seabourn and can attest they both offer travelers a very high-end experience. Oceania has some real plusses that Seabourn lacks, and vice versa. Trust me, you’ll feel like royalty on either of these ships.

The grand dining room of Oceania's new Vista cruise liner. Russell W. Goodman

I boarded Oceania’s newest Vista ship in spring 2024 at Civitavecchia, Italy, and spent 10 days hopscotching across the Mediterranean between ports in Italy, Spain, and France before anchoring for final adieus at the stunning island of Malta.

And in the end of summer of 2023, only weeks before the earth-shattering Oct. 7 attack on an Israeli kibbutz, I spent seven summer days aboard Seabourn’s Encore, leaving from Athens and ending in Haifa. This time, our ocean liner explored the Mediterranean between Turkey, Greece, and Cyprus.

The first thing worth noting about the two ships is their size. Neither is as large as some of the biggest cruise ships that can accommodate thousands of passengers and crew and that can boast 20 or more decks. If you’re looking for a behemoth party ship, that’s not what these premium and ultra-luxury ships are about. They specialize in smaller, more intimate journeys, with the newest craze being a yacht-like experience.

With its capacity of 1200 passengers, the Oceania Vista holds twice as many passengers as Seabourn’s Encore at 600 guests. A chilled bottle of champagne awaits newly boarding passengers in veranda staterooms on both ships. Both are comparable with comfortable sitting areas and spacious balconies, and refrigerators stocked with drinks.

Inside the Veranda Stateroom of Oceania's Vista cruise liner. Joyce M. Davis

On Seabourn, your stateroom is also stocked with your choice of booze. Not so with Oceania, but they do let you bring on your own.

Seabourn’s Encore also boasts a sizeable walk-in closet, which is a real plus. But the Vista’s concierge level veranda suites may have an even bigger advantage – complimentary laundry service.

The Veranda Stateroom on Seabourn's Encore cruise liner looks onto a spacous balcony for watching the waves go by. Joyce M. Davis

On a 10-day cruise, passengers on our ship were offered three opportunities to get clothes cleaned and returned folded and even pressed, if requested. The problem is the time the service took to get the clothes cleaned allowed me to use only twice on a 10-day cruise. But that was enough and more than what Seabourn offered by far.

It’s the one big downer about Seabourn’s Encore. Moods can turn quite foul when passengers have to wait in line in the laundry room, especially when someone cuts in line or hogs the machines. Passengers told stories of at least one woman getting kicked off a cruise for unruly behavior over a clothes dryer.

Seabourn should take a hint from Oceania and offer complimentary laundry in its fares to avoid unpleasant laundry scenes. At the very least, it needs to provide more than one laundry room to accommodate several hundred people. Oceania’s Vista has laundry rooms on decks 7-11. That alone should give the cruise line ultra-luxury billing.

Both cruise lines offer gourmet cuisine, world-class wines and spirits, and plenty of opportunities for the well-heeled to drop hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, for the best of the best Champagnes and Bordeaux.

Fine wines and great cuisine are hallmarks of any high end cruise. Both Seabourn and Oceania do not disappoint, Joyce M. Davis

Oceania offers a package that allows passengers to pay extra to have alcohol with meals, at about $40 per person; or to have it whenever you want it at any time of the day or night. On my cruise, that option came to about $70 per person per day.

The caveat in all of this is the company sometimes offers hundreds of dollars in cabin credit incentives that can cover some drink costs and onshore excursions. But this all can be confusing, so it’s best to clarify what the incentives can cover and what they can’t.

You can’t go wrong with the food on either of these ships.

The Vista’s grand dining room is a marvel to behold with its gold and white color scheme lit with a series of massive crystal chandeliers.

The main dining room of Seabourn’s Encore is equally posh and inviting with attentive waiters and sommeliers ready to help select the right wines for each course of the meal. Yes, you can have Prosecco with your snails, a white Bourgogne with one of a half dozen salad choices, and a Merlot with your filet mignon, rack of lamb or duck confit. It’s all in the fare.

The main dining room on Seabourn's Encore ship. Russell W. Goodman

Both the Seabourn and the Oceania vessels have multiple restaurants and no long, breakfast, lunch or dinner lines. And on both vessels, there’s ample food for those preferring to while away hours around the pool. That’s where Seabourn comes out ahead.

Afternoon caviar and champagne is, as you guessed, ready for the asking. And it’s all in Seabourn’s all-inclusive fare.

The biggest downer I experienced with Oceania had nothing to do with the on-board experience but with buying the tickets. I thought I was getting a trustworthy deal going through a recommended travel broker only to realize he was tacking on $1500 in hidden commissions.

But that’s a story for another column on cruising the world -- coming soon.

Joyce M. Davis is PennLive’s Outreach & Opinion Editor. Follow her on Facebook and on Twitter @byjoycedavis.

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10 Luxury Cruise Lines That Will Make You Want to Ditch Plane Travel Forever

Explore cruise lines that embody the VERANDA spirit, offering luxury and well-appointed design around every corner.

Thinking about booking your next dream vacation? As stunning as land-locked adventures and beautiful hotels can be, there’s something to be said about sailing the seas. Fortunately for us, nowadays, there are cruise ships that far exceed the family-fun agenda of the classic companies so often advertised on TV. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with those cruise liners, there’s something special about not only traversing the ocean but doing so decked out to the nines. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best luxury cruise lines of 2023. Ahead, uncover the company that best aligns with your idea of the ultimate water-bound getaway.

Silversea is the “jewel in the crown” of the Royal Caribbean Group, not to mention the original luxury cruise line, first entering the space in 1994. The company touts 12 all-inclusive ships with destinations all over the world. Whether you want to explore the American West Coast, South America, Northern Europe and the British Isles, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, or even Antarctica, Silversea has a cruise to fit your fancy.

Speaking of fancy, the most luxurious cruise that Silversea offers is its 125-Day Chile to Norway sail, which rings up at $94,700. You don’t have to invest that much to enjoy a Silversea cruise, though. No matter which type of suite you book, you can expect butler service, optional 24/7 in-suite dining, endless access to premium beverages and craft cocktails, and complimentary caviar around the clock.

Explore Silversea Cruises

Paul Gauguin

Paul Gaugin stands out for its single-ship escapade into the luxury cruise space. With a variety of cruises that explore French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruise line with 7-, 10-, 11-, and 14-night itineraries that focus on intimate experiences, delectable cuisine, stunning stateroom balcony views, butler service, and more. With a 1:1.5 crew-to-guest ratio, you can rest assured knowing that all of your needs will be met aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.

Explore Paul Gauguin Cruises

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic is unique in that it not only offers luxury ocean cruises but river cruises, too. The brand prides itself on operating and innovating with guest experience in mind. As such, all of its cruises have so much to offer voyagers, from extensive dining, leisure, and wellness options to striking design elements that will make you want to stay aboard for much longer than your itinerary.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has nine ships with oceanic destinations spanning from the Arctic and Europe to the Caribbean and Australia. Meanwhile, if you find yourself in France, you may want to check out Scenic’s beloved river cruises, in which you can tour the Seine in the utmost style.

Explore Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Ponant has a fleet of 13 luxury cruise ships with destinations dotting the globe. The award-winning French cruise line is beloved for its tailor-made voyages, in which guests have access to myriad bespoke experiences both on and off board, from in-room dining to once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions.

Since Ponant ships offer smaller capacity—more akin to a private yacht experience—they’re able to navigate private ports and preserved locations that large-scale cruise ships are unable to access. While aboard Ponant’s all-inclusive ships, you can anticipate exceptional French cuisine, delicious fine wines, complimentary Champagne and spirits, room service, and more.

Of course, if you need further inspiration to look into the cruise line, perhaps the fact that three-mast yacht, Le Ponant, is part of the Relais & Châteaux portfolio will do the trick.

Explore Ponant Cruises

Crystal is renowned for its personalized voyages all over the world, not to mention its palatial suites that will leave you picking your jaw up off the floor. In addition to well-appointed design, the cruise line offers an impressive dining experience, with authentic cuisines from all over the world. So whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Peruvian, or Japanese food, you’ll have ample options to choose from.

It’s also worth mentioning that the luxury cruise line took it to the next level with its spa, Aurora Spa. The gorgeous, sea-view spa offers a variety of face, body, salon, and healing treatments, including massages, facials, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and even IV drip therapy—so you won’t have to worry about feeling hung over at sea (especially considering the cruise line offers complimentary Champagne, fine wines, and premium spirits).

Explore Crystal

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a six-ship fleet dedicated to extraordinary sailing experiences. With small ships that carry less than 350 passengers, Windstar prides itself on offering guests intimate, aesthetic, unforgettable voyages spanning from Asia and Australia to Italy and Iceland.

While the staterooms and suites are stunning and the shore excursions are aplenty, it’s the food that really stands out aboard Windstar. As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers a number of themed culinary cruises with food and bev from some of the most notable chefs of today, including Maxime Bilet (The Cooking Lab) and Jose Mendin (Pubbelly Noodle Bar, Habitat, Baja Bao).

Explore Windstar Cruises

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, so it’s no surprise that the company extended into oceanic adventures with a fleet of three superyachts. Where the Evrima was built in 2021, the Ilma and Luminara yachts are forthcoming in 2024 and 2025.

While classic cruise lines have a capacity in the thousands, often edging upward of 4,000, the Ritz-Carlton superyachts offer a more curated experience to 500 passengers or less. From the outside, the yachts are sleek and serene, fitting in beautifully with the sea. Within Evrima’s walls, though, moody modern interiors with magnificent ocean views await.

Guests can look forward to soaking tubs, expansive private balconies complete with sun beds and a whirlpool, walk-in wardrobes, and more. As far as destinations are concerned, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection embarks on oceanic adventures in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Explore The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruises

Seabourn is a luxury cruise line that speaks to our soul—and for more reasons than the simple fact that it touts a “Veranda Suite Upgrade.” The luxury cruise line sets sail in the Arctic, Canada and New England, the Amazon, Arabia, Africa, and India, and more.

Each of the fleet’s yachts, which carry between 458 and 600 guests, is outfitted with ocean-view suites only, so no matter what excursion you book, you can anticipate traveling in luxury style with a picturesque backdrop. You can also look forward to mouth-watering cuisine courtesy of renowned chef Thomas Keller.

Explore Seabourn Cruises

Cunard is known for its iconic black funnels, yes, but more so for its unparalleled large-scale onboard experiences. Although each of the cruise line’s ships carries upwards of 1,500 passengers, the four-ship fleet is adored for its luxury itineraries, stylish design, tranquil spa offerings, delectable cuisine, and unmatched comfort at sea.

Truly, if your goal is to book an unforgettable, Instagram-worthy cruise, Cunard is the way to go. From the stunning suites (decked out in pops of rich color, sumptuous textiles, and spectacular lighting) to the picturesque destinations, Cunard has it all.

Explore Cunard Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

If you want to get the most bang for your buck when booking a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a prime pick. The all-inclusive cruise line crafts a new definition of the category with complimentary roundtrip airfare, free unlimited shore excursions, include 2- to 3-night land programs, on-the-house bar and lounge experiences, and more.

The six-fleet cruise line is also known for its gorgeous interiors, complete with modern aesthetics, Art Deco embellishments, stunning chandeliers, and more. When traveling with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can traverse the seven seas, with destinations in Africa and Arabia, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean and more. And if you don’t want to pick a single destination, there’s always the option to book a grand voyage or world cruise, which can last up to 168 days and cost upwards of $100,000.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Want to Take a Cruise to Antarctica? Here's What You Should Know Before You Book

Here's everything you need to know before you book a cruise to Antarctica.

Picking the Best Antarctica Cruise

Expedition companies and cruise lines, best time to go to antarctica, choosing an itinerary, getting there, what to pack, health and safety considerations, life on board an antarctic cruise, exploring antarctica, environmental considerations, antarctica tips to know before you go.

Wolfgang Kaehler/Avalon/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Traveling to the elusive seventh continent has never been easier, thanks to the rapid growth of the expedition cruise industry. But why travel to Antarctica? Visiting the White Continent is far more than just checking a box. It's an opportunity to see a part of Earth that's radically different than anywhere else — and radically removed from everywhere else — reminding you just how extraordinary our planet is. Plus, there are penguins. Lots of penguins.

If you're hoping to visit Antarctica, the process of planning can feel overwhelming. With so many cruise lines and expedition operators in the game, and so many variables to consider when booking a trip, making decisions about your voyage isn't easy. But it's crucial that you pick the right cruise for you, particularly since this might be a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. (Unless you're like me and become hooked, returning time and time again…) To that end, we're here to help you build the foundation for your trip with this ultimate guide to Antarctica cruises, covering everything you need to know before you book.

Antarctica cruises are not created equal. Though the scenery will be stunning no matter which operator you see it with, you need to ensure you're choosing the cruise that best suits your style of travel and your interests. Here are some factors to consider before you book:

goinyk/Getty Images

This might be the most important detail to focus on when selecting an Antarctic cruise. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) limits a ship's operations based on passenger capacity, so your vessel's capacity has a direct impact on the experience you'll have in Antarctica. Choose your ship wisely with these IAATO criteria in mind.

• Small ships (200 passengers or fewer): These ships can visit all landing sites.
• Medium ships (201 to 500 passengers): These ships are limited to specific landing sites that can handle higher capacity.
• Large ships (500+ passengers): Ships with more than 500 passengers are not allowed to make landings at all, so you'll only be doing scenic cruising in Antarctica, not setting foot on the continent.

Luxury Level

The ships sailing to Antarctica run the gamut from bare-bones former research vessels to ultra-luxe purpose-built vessels. Naturally, cruises on the more luxurious vessels tend to cost more. Think about what's most important to you on a cruise — do you want butler service and a spa, or would you prefer to save a few thousand dollars for an older ship with fewer amenities?

I've journeyed to Antarctica five times — each with a different operator — and would happily go back time and time again. Here's what you can expect from the operators I've traveled with.

oversnap/Getty Images

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad has been taking guests to Antarctica since 1966, and the company remains one of the preeminent operators in the region. Its fleet of Antarctic vessels — including its new luxury ships National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution  — carry a maximum of 148 guests, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of time ashore. Education is a key pillar of the company, and its expedition staff and their lectures are second to none.

Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II are ultra-luxury ships that look more like sleek yachts than they do expedition vessels, not only on the outside, but on the inside, too. Standouts on these ships include helicopters and submersibles, nearly a dozen dining options, and a relaxing spa. Even with all these amenities, the ships only carry 200 passengers in Antarctica, allowing them to take advantage of the small ship–only landing sites.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

A newcomer to the game, Atlas Ocean Voyages debuted in 2021, and its fleet of new-build expedition ships each have a different design personality. For instance, World Traveller , the ship I sailed on, is inspired by "la dolce vita" and features retro nautical decor. Atlas Ocean Voyages' niche in the market is somewhere between an expedition and a classic cruise — the roughly 200-passenger ships are no doubt expedition vessels, but the programming has some traditional cruise-like elements, such as musical performances at night.

Viking's two expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, carry a maximum of 378 passengers, so they fall into the medium-size category. As such, landings are generally limited to one site per day, which creates a more laid-back Antarctica experience — there's plenty of time to enjoy the out-of-this-world spa (my favorite feature is the open-air badestamp , a wooden hot tub) as well as hands-on science demonstrations. But there's a lot to do off the ships, too, as they carry quite a few toys: notably, submersibles. 

Aurora Expeditions

Adventure is in Aurora Expeditions' DNA. This Australian operator is perfect for those seeking as much action as they can get. I found landings with Aurora to be far more active than my experiences with other carriers — for example, I covered more than five miles on Deception Island, climbing up hills to get to scenic overlooks. Plus, for an extra fee, you can choose one activity group to join: snorkeling and paddling were offered on my sailing, while skiing is an option earlier in the season. Aurora's ships may skew a touch more utilitarian than high-design, but these are expedition powerhouses. 

Other Cruise Lines and Operators in Antarctica to Consider

Of course, there are many other operators in Antarctica, too. Quark Expeditions, Abercrombie & Kent, Natural Habitat Adventures (NatHab), Silversea, Seabourn, HX (Hurtigruten), Ponant, Adventures by Disney, Albatros Expeditions, Princess Cruises, Antarctica21, Oceanwide Expeditions, and Swan Hellenic are all worth a look.

Once you've chosen a cruise operator, though, what comes next? It's time to narrow down your itinerary options, then book your flight.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

The Antarctic cruising season runs in austral summer (that is, Southern Hemisphere summer), from November through March. "Within that time frame, there’s truly no bad time to travel," says Trey Byus, Lindblad Expeditions' chief expedition officer. "Summer temperatures usually range from a crisp and cool 32° F to 65° F, and while specific conditions and wildlife events occur during specific months, interesting and exciting activity occurs throughout the season." Here's what you might experience at each different time.

November–early December : Experience Antarctica at its most pristine, with thick snow blanketing much of the landscape. "Guests on early-season Antarctica expeditions are likely to see penguins building their nests and seal pups still being weaned by their mothers," says Byus. "In the early season, when ice conditions are just right, our captain is more likely to be able to 'park' the ship in the sea ice so that our expedition team can lead a walk among penguins ... Early November departures also offer the possibility to cross-country ski or snowshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting."

Late December–January: This is peak season in Antarctica, particularly for penguin sightings. Penguin chicks start to hatch in late December, and they'll be running around by mid-January. "You will also experience nearly a full 24 hours of daylight," says Aaron Lawton, Viking's head of expedition operations.

February-March: Later in the season, there may be less snow, but there will be more whales. "As the region transforms from summer to autumn, March is an ideal time for those interested in captivating photography against softer lighting as the angle of the sun reduces harsh shadows," notes Colby Brokvist, an expedition leader for Natural Habitat Adventures, a certified senior polar guide with the Polar Tourism Guides Association, and author of "The Professional Guide's Handbook."

“I have had the privilege to visit Antarctica more than 100 times over the last 25 years, and I can tell you that every trip is unique and special — no matter what time of year you experience it," adds Lawton.

While some travelers choose to visit just Antarctica, many cruise lines offer extended itineraries that also include the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia. Both destinations are rife with wildlife — South Georgia notably has massive colonies of king penguins — as well as human history. If you can swing the time commitment, which usually spans a minimum of three weeks, visit all three destinations!

Most Antarctica cruises explore the Antarctic Peninsula, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile; or Puerto Williams, Chile. While some operators will have you book flights to these cities, most will have you fly to either Buenos Aires or Santiago for a night before catching a chartered group flight to your embarkation city. 

Traditional cruises have you sail the infamous Drake Passage, but you can also choose a fly-fly cruise or a fly-sail cruise that has you skip the Drake (in one or both directions) by flying between Punta Arenas and King George Island. These flights can save you time, but there are a lot of ifs, ands, or buts — on my fly-fly cruise, our flight was delayed three days due to poor conditions. If it had been delayed any further, our cruise would have been canceled. Be sure to read the fine print when booking a cruise that includes flights to and/or from Antarctica.

There are also a few Antarctica cruises that depart from New Zealand, which explore the Ross Sea side of Antarctica.

There are two questions everyone asks about Antarctica: what should I pack, and will I get seasick? Your expedition company or cruise line will provide you with a packing list — and Travel + Leisure has created an Antarctica packing list of our own — but some of the basics you'll definitely need include base layers, mid layers (like fleeces), waterproof outer layers (including pants!), and knee-high waterproof boots, plus general cold-weather gear like warm hats and waterproof gloves. Many luxury operators will give you a waterproof parka you can take home, as well as provide you with loaner waterproof pants and waterproof boots. You'll also want to take a bathing suit for the polar plunge, if you dare.

As for onboard apparel, many expedition cruise lines take a laid-back approach. "One of the main things we prioritize on our Antarctic voyages is comfort, as we promote a relaxed atmosphere on every journey," says Byus of Lindblad Expeditions' onboard experience. "We always recommend dressing for comfort, practicality, and the conditions in the region you're exploring." Other cruise operators might have you dress in resort casual attire in the evenings.

Seasickness

When you're crossing the Drake Passage, conditions can be calm (Drake Lake) or chaotic (Drake Shake). "No amount of technology can keep these seas from being rough, though there are ways to mitigate the impact the weather has on the guest experience, and there are certainly plenty of crossings where the seas are relatively calm," says Byus. "Our team works hard — analyzing weather forecasts to pick a window through storms and deploying stabilizers that minimize side-to-side rolling motion. But even then, every person handles motion differently."

So it's very possible you'll get seasick on the Drake — or even in open seas down in Antarctica. "Seasickness is possible, and we recommend adopting practices like focusing on the horizon, staying hydrated, and choosing a centrally located cabin for greater stability," says Brokvist. "For some travelers, additional measures can be taken such as over-the-counter medications, wristbands, or prescription options." Ships will also have an onboard doctor who can provide seasickness medication if you've forgotten yours at home or if you've run out.

Visiting Antarctica is not like cruising the Mediterranean or the Caribbean — there are no piers for easy access, nor are there sheltered tenders that protect you from the elements. You will be expected to board heavy-duty inflatable vessels called Zodiacs to go ashore, and getting in and out of them requires a fair bit of mobility (though expedition staff will, of course, be on hand to help you). Then, when you're ashore, the terrain may be uneven and difficult to traverse — expect wobbly rocks, deep snow, and slippery penguin guano. "Being careful is essential given the remoteness of the location and the limited access to medical facilities," says Brokvist.

If mobility isn't your strong suit, you can always stay onboard the ship. Or, in the case of Viking, you can leave the ship via a "Special Operations Boat," which may be easier to get into and out of for some travelers. "Guests who have a more limited range of mobility might enjoy viewing the White Continent from one of Viking’s two Special Operation Boats, fitted with comfortable seats offering excellent viewing opportunities," says Lawton. Just note that these boats will not make landings ashore like the Zodiacs.

While you might know what to expect on a traditional ocean cruise, an expedition cruise is an entirely different experience. 

Accommodations

Accommodations very much depend on the luxury level of the ship. On older expedition ships, you might be sleeping in twin-size beds (or potentially even bunks) with a small porthole for a window. On newer luxury ships, you might have a full suite with a soaking tub, balcony, and butler service. If you're traveling solo, read the fine print for your carrier: some ships have specific cabins dedicated to solo travelers, while others may pair you with a roommate. Though a cabin of one's own may sound ideal, choosing the roommate option can be a good way to save money, as many operators charge a single supplement for solo travelers who book their own cabins.

Smaller expedition ships typically only have one or two restaurants onboard, with special dining opportunities like an on-deck barbecue or a chef's table on certain nights. But some ships have multiple restaurants to cater to diverse palates, serving various cuisines. As for beverages, what's included in your cruise fare depends on your operator. Some are all-inclusive, and others are à la carte.

Entertainment

Again, entertainment varies per operator and ship, but the typical program always includes lectures about Antarctica from expedition staff — all experts in various fields, from glaciology to marine biology to history.  Some ships might offer hands-on science experiments, while others might include nightly musical performances.

Your experience in Antarctica will be shaped by whether you've chosen an expedition cruise where you'll make landings or a scenic cruise. In either case, every day will be different. Though expedition leaders and captains have a general plan for the itinerary, day-to-day operations will be based on the weather and ice conditions.

Expedition Cruises

On small ships with 200 passengers or fewer, your day typically starts early, as you'll have both a morning and an afternoon excursion. On larger ships, you'll probably only get off the ship once per day. That's because IAATO only allows 100 guests per ship ashore at a time — on higher-capacity ships, you'll have to wait your turn. 

Mint Images - David Schultz/Getty Images

Excursions almost always include one of two options: a landing or Zodiac cruising. Landings take place at designated sites across Antarctica, and experiences usually include short walks, wildlife viewing (like penguins, other seabirds, and seals if you're lucky), and occasional visits to historic structures, such as a hut at Damoy Point built as an "airport terminal" of sorts in the 1970s. Another popular landing site is Port Lockroy, a staffed facility operated by the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust that includes a museum and an operational post office.

Some operators offer a variety of other excursions — some paid, some included — such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, skiing, camping, helicopter flights, and submersible dives. It all depends on the capabilities of the operator and the ship.

Scenic Cruises

If you're on a larger ship that's only doing scenic cruising, your days will be filled with lectures, wildlife watching, and landscape viewing. "On an Antarctic expedition with Holland America Line, travelers not only cross the Drake Passage but sail through the bays and islands of the Palmer Archipelago," says Ryan Baird, manager of destination communications on Holland America Line. "Along the way, the ship's naturalists will point out an abundance of wildlife: terns, petrels, and gulls found on the coast and small islets like Dallmann Bay; the largest colony of gentoo penguins in the world while passing the dark, rocky Cuverville Island; and leopard and elephant seals swimming near country-sized glaciers." You can also enjoy other Antarctica-themed programming. "Beyond on-board experiential education, we’ll mix in some fun and games, like snowball fights, Antarctica-themed movies, and Antarctica trivia," says Baird.

Antarctica is a sensitive environment, and it's reasonable to be concerned about your environmental impact on the destination as a visitor. To minimize their effects on Antarctica, visitors must adhere to strict biosecurity protocols ranging from using biocide to kill any organisms on their boots to avoiding bringing food and drink on land.

"When traveling, I am always of the mindset of our mission — you should leave a place better than how you found it, whether that is being applied to a hotel, a friend’s house, or an entire continent," says Byus. "We want guests to be thoughtful visitors, along with enjoying a spirit of adventure and exploration. Just as importantly, our captains and expedition leaders have significant training in how to conduct our voyages with the greatest care towards sustainability and respect for the ecosystems we visit."

As for ships, they're improving over time. "Since my early voyages to Antarctica more than two decades ago, the industry has made significant improvements to the expedition ships sailing to the region with notable advancements in environmentally considerate ship design," says Lawton. These days, ships use dynamic positioning rather than anchors to stay in place, reducing the impact on the seafloor; special treatment systems to prevent contaminating Antarctica with biological organisms; and quieter technology to reduce noise pollution.

Furthermore, cruises to Antarctica provide scientists the opportunity to conduct research in the region — many operators host researchers from around the world on their sailings, often for free. "It is important when visiting remote places that we not only avoid doing harm, but we are also looking to do good through scientific research," says Lawton. Viking, for instance, partners with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), among other nonprofits. On my sailing with Lindblad, we hosted renowned "penguinologist" Dr. Tom Hart — "hitchhiking" on expedition ships, he told me, is a far more affordable way to travel to his penguin colony observation sites than chartering his own vessel.

Go with the flow.

"Flexibility is the key to unlocking the magic of Antarctica for first-time visitors. Weather conditions can shift rapidly and impact plans, and the appearance of wildlife can be a welcome opportunity that derails an existing plan," says Brokvist. "So it’s imperative to embrace the unpredictable nature of the White Continent, stay flexible, and savor the unique adventure that each moment brings."

Embrace the Drake.

While I'm fortunate that seasickness doesn't affect me very strongly, I thoroughly enjoyed sailing the Drake Passage — it's what introduced me to birding, since there's not much else to see out there! "In my experience, it does vary in degrees of smooth and rough waters, but no matter which you experience, traveling the Drake Passage is part of the journey and a memorable passage," says Lawton. I also find that crossing the Drake builds anticipation on the inbound journey and helps you decompress on the return.

Know your limits.

A trip to Antarctica can be exhausting. Though it's hard to say no to any activities, you do need to listen to your body. If you need a break, it's okay to pass on a landing or Zodiac cruise — you don't want to have any accidents because you pushed yourself too hard.

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More From Forbes

5 things to know about america’s newest cruise line.

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The new cruise line launched in 2021.

Atlas Ocean Voyages has certainly made a splash with its triad of superyachts that immediately entered the Polar expedition market after the line launched its first sailing in 2021. Typically, cruise lines test out more tried-and-true destinations like the Caribbean or the Mediterranean when they start. Not so with Atlas though, which dived in “bow first” into the Antarctic market with luxury sailings at a lower price point than the competition.

That’s what set travel advisors a-flurry. They were used to selling luxury, once-in-a-lifetime dream vacations at the Poles for five digit-starting prices, a number this cruise line has slashed significantly.

These days, Atlas Ocean Voyages has expanded beyond the typical Polar trips, but to many travelers, says Chris Gray Faust, executive editor for Cruise Critic, it still remains an unknown brand.

Here are five things to know about America’s newest cruise line.

A fleet of three, and just three

Atlas Ocean Voyages has three ships, which it calls super yachts, in its fleet.

Atlas launched with World Navigator in late 2021, a ship that can hold 196 passengers (far fewer than its luxury competitors like Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas). All ships in the fleet have almost a 1-to-1 staff to guest ratio. The line has continued the same trend with World Traveller, which debuted in 2022, and its newest vessel, World Voyager. It began sailing late last year.

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Its fleet is all purpose-built expedition vessels, something that competitor lines have added after testing the marketplace, comprising Polar Category C- and Ice Class 1B-certified ships. And these aren’t the expedition ships of years past, they look more like billionaire yachts and are built to withstand environmental pressures in the same way those money makers withstand market ups and downs.

Atlas has ships in the Polar regions almost the entire year.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is the only luxury cruise line to offer Polar expeditions on almost a year-round basis with ships rotating between the Poles. It does not sail during April or October to either region. This past winter season, its entire fleet was operating expedition sailings in Antarctica. No other cruise line has doubled down in such a way.

This year, it has two of its super yachts in the Arctic. Its goal, say executives, is to take people to the polar edges of the Arctic and the Antarctic without charging what the competition does, but without missing out on the premium that such an exclusive trip would cost. That sweet spot is unique in expedition cruising.

A guest room aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages

It is also offering several fly-in options to the seventh continent so that queasy travelers do not need to endure the sometimes-rocky Drake Passage. Starting in the 2025-2026 season, the line will double the number of fly-in options.

Operating smaller cruise ships also gives it an edge in the buyout world of incentive and corporate groups that often book bucket-list vacations as a reward for employees. But, it takes time to gain a foothold in the market.

“It is always a bit of a gamble for us starting out with a cruise line we haven’t chartered previously,” says Jeff Gundvaldson, president and owner of BrandGVacations. “After completing three full-ship charters, with several more on the books, we couldn’t be happier. Our guests absolutely love the design of the ship and her cabins as well as the food and service levels.”

Smaller ships can visit niche ports that larger cruise lines cannot access.

The ships can reach the Polar regions as well as its growing roster of cultural immersion sailings through Iceland, Northern Europe, South America and the Caribbean. These yachts can squeeze into smaller ports and waterways , like the “Corinth Canal in Greece and Guadalquivir River in Spain,” according to the line’s website.

Atlas is a private company with no imminent plans to take the business public and no current plans to grow its fleet.

For now, executives say, the focus is on growing technology and online partner booking systems as well as expanding outreach to travel agents.

An epicurean focus

The grab-and-go market is complimentary and open 24 hours a day.

Its polar sailings are a mainstay of the brand, and they do not skimp on food and beverage (including a unique grab-and-go concept that is open 24 hours a day). But, it is the mid-season, Mediterranean sailings that the young line has turned into a foodie escape.

These cruises are branded “Epicurean Expeditions” and bring aboard well-known chefs and experts from notable restaurants, magazines and TV programs to interact with guests. They vary from sailing to sailing, which is one of the reasons that some travelers choose to do back-to-back itineraries to see the onboard programming and not just the ports of call.

The onboard cuisine often includes local recipes from the day's port of call.

Recent sailings have included food expert Mara Papatheodorou, contributing editor to Bon Appetit magazine, and chocolate expert Julieta Davey, also known as Mamá Cacao.

Other sailings hosted names like Top Chef Brazil winner Luciana Berry, who appears on Bravo, and Peter Campbell, who has had stints on The Food Network and a master pizza chef.

Their expertise not only provides entertainment and value to passengers, but it also helps the cruise line seek out unique experiences for its customers, too.

Many of the presentations and activities, including foodie "cookoffs" between guests take place in ... [+] the lounge.

Activities include live cooking demonstrations, guest lectures, guided port visits to local markets, culinary competitions with guidance from the onboard experts and the chance to chat one-on-one over a meal or in the bar with leaders in the food and beverage industry.

A new partnership with Academia Barilla brings its famous Chef Marcello Zaccaria, who has been personal chef to celebrities and diplomats, aboard select sailings to share everything he knows about pasta from how to cook it properly to what to pair it with during each meal.

Earlier this year, Atlas started its “Cultural Expeditions,” which it says will follow the same type of immersive experience (with onboard experts) as its culinary sailings.

Small ships, big aspirations (especially for sustainability)

The pool deck has two whirlpools and is ringed by a jogging track one deck above it.

While the three super yachts are small (fewer than 200 passengers), they offer plenty of private space with decks at the front and back of the ship for those that don’t want to sit by the main pool.

The size of a smaller ship also allows it the ability to call on niche destinations that the bigger lines cannot visit (even luxury brands like Seabourn and Silversea).

Another element that has been a part of Atlas from the start is having a zero-waste operation in the kitchens. For example, things like onion skins might be turned into onion powder used in sauces for other dishes. Ideally, each sailing would disembark with minimal fruit and vegetables remaining.

Outdoor dining offers a second restaurant option.

Historical data, like with airlines, helps the cruise line plan for the percentage of different food items to provision for a particular sailing, depending on the audience, destination or length of the cruise. This prevents waste of food items that could otherwise go bad.

Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, and since the buffets are heated or chilled in different areas, the cruise line can share leftover dishes with staff in addition to their regular menus. This is a popular perk for cruise staff, but also helps reduce waste.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is focused on operating a sustainable cruise line.

Any food waste gets sent to the pulper, which like on other ships, reduces it to a mulch-like substance that can be used as compost. It really is a zero-waste process. Bones are the only thing that cannot be put in the pulper.

It is not just above deck where the cruise line pays attention to the environment, but below deck, too. The ships are built to respect the underwater life by using a hydro-jet propulsion system that does not disturb marine life, giving passengers the chance to follow marine migrations on some voyages. This is similar to what Celebrity uses in the Galapagos, for example.

More inclusions than expected

Drinks, meals and entertainment are all included in the cruise fare. Cruise directors do double duty ... [+] as performers on many evenings.

Since this line tends to price lower than other smaller ships, the expectation from many travel advisors was that there would be fewer inclusions, but not so says Gray Faust. Atlas includes a long list of extras for all cabins like free minibars and all-hours room service (alcohol is part of the deal), a guided culinary excursion on each sailing and prepaid gratuities. While these might vary by itinerary, the idea is that the cruise line offers more for the discerning traveler than what others might.

The addition of some shore excursions and gratuities puts it in the window of lines like Viking, which have taken the small-ship market by storm in an effort to bring a more exclusive experience to sailors.

Some activities are complimentary, but others carry a fee.

Atlas does not provide complimentary shore excursions in each port of call, however. They sell options of varying lengths and price points. On Polar expeditions, its Zodiac landings are included, but additional activities like kayaking and overnight camping are not.

Onboard entertainment is another area that may surprise. There is a theater, but it is used more for presentations rather than revue shows although live entertainment is a nightly event in the ship’s bars and lounges.

A “second guest sails free” promotion offered outside of peak Polar sailing season has proven popular as Atlas works to build its name. It end Sept. 30 although executives say another promotion will replace it.

An evolved experience

Zephyr Lounge is an outdoor deck popular throughout the day.

When the brand first launched, it had a few service hiccups. But, that does not seem to be the norm anymore, says Gray Faust.

“When Atlas launched in 2021, it positioned itself more as a top-of-the-line luxury brand, which meant it was competing with well-established cruise lines that have been providing amenities such as caviar on demand and butler service for decades. That's a high bar of entry, particularly when we've seen other companies, such as Ritz-Carlton and, soon, Four Seasons, enter that space.”

She noted occasional service hiccups, but that the line has been making strides and correcting that fairly quickly.

Atlas ships sail in the Polar regions almost all year.

Don Bucolo of EatSleepCruise.com agrees, saying that he has noticed more diverse menus, better food flavor and improved service after sailing the line for the second time.

“We were amazed how a few crew members we met on our first sailing remembered us and quickly recalled our drink orders,” says Bucolo. “That level of detail is something you rarely find on larger cruise ships.”

According to Gray Faust, the line hired key industry veterans in 2022 to help with execution.

Atlas executives say that “consistency in execution across all destinations and yachts” is the focus before adding capacity.

There is also a new loyalty program , Atlas Yacht Club, which started earlier this year. Members earn cruise discounts, onboard credits and welcome gifts based on the number of nights they sail.

Atlas yachts have numerous outdoor decks.

“Prices and value have started to build a cadre of loyal guests; meanwhile, the line has worked hard to improve its service and onboard product,” Gray Faust adds.

She praises the onboard amenities that are a standout for small expedition shops. They include things like L’Occitane toiletries in the showers with fantastic pressure and multi-head nozzles, more than one dining option each night (all included) and plentiful power outlets.

While noting great value, Bucolo’s shares that the atmosphere is more relaxed and less stuffy than other more expensive, luxury cruise lines.

Atlas specializes in expedition sailings.

Atlas Ocean Voyages seems to have tapped into a void in the cruise space where price and exclusivity meet bucket-list itineraries. Only time will tell if this strategy will work, but according to Gray Faust, the proof is in the pudding. This affordable approach to expedition luxury is something the cruise industry was missing.

Gray Faust says: “the expedition cruising landscape is more crowded than ever, but Atlas does seem to be carving out a niche for value and giving passengers an excellent trip, at an affordable price.”

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