1. Overview of Seabourn Venture
Seabourn launched its 264-passenger expedition ship, Venture, today. It represents a new era of luxury travel to the world’s most remote destinations, including an upcoming voyage to Antarctica.
2. The Maiden Voyage
The Venture, which set sail from Tromsø, Norway, is the first official expedition ship from the Carnival Corporation–owned luxury cruise line, marking a significant expansion into adventurous sailing.
3. Unique Luxury Experiences
Seabourn, a favorite among cruise enthusiasts, is renowned for exceptional service and gourmet dining options, including complimentary caviar and Thomas Keller steakhouses. With the 132-suite Venture, guests can now indulge in unique experiences such as:
- Zodiac excursions
- Wildlife-watching expeditions
- Off-the-grid explorations
As Josh Leibowitz, president of Seabourn, emphasizes, the ship is designed for guests who seek to live each moment to its fullest.
4. Sailing Schedule and Destinations
The upcoming itinerary includes travel to various Arctic locations, such as:
- Longyearbyen, Norway
- Greenland
- The northern regions of Canada
In late 2022, Venture will transition to warmer climates, traversing the Panama Canal and the stunning coasts of Peru and Chile before heading to Antarctica for the Southern Hemisphere summer.
5. Onboard Adventure and Expedition Team
One of the key attractions of the Venture is its extensive collection of water toys, which includes:
- Two submarines for underwater exploration
- A fleet of 24 Zodiacs
- Kayaks and scuba gear
The ship’s 26-person expedition team enhances the guest experience with their diverse skills. According to Robin West, the team brings destinations to life, offering expertise in various fields including:
- Submarine piloting
- Marine biology
- Geology
6. Notable Experts Onboard
Guests will have the opportunity to interact with experts in disciplines such as history, anthropology, and volcanology. Noteworthy team members include:
- Robert Egelstaff, kayaker
- Trevor Potts, lecturer
Together, they reenacted Ernest Shackleton’s 800-mile journey, ensuring guests receive rich, informed narratives during their adventures.
7. The Future of Expedition Cruising
The launch of Venture closely follows trends, as numerous cruise lines introduce their own expedition ships driven by increasing consumer interest in exploration.
Leibowitz points out the unique position of the company in the expedition cruise sector, stating that the overall fleet remains small compared to tourist numbers in other popular travel styles, such as safaris.
8. Dining and Interior Design
The Venture features exceptional interior design and a range of dining options. Notable aspects include:
- Eight onboard dining venues
- Suites starting at 335 square feet, each with a private veranda
- Luxury spa suites with enhanced amenities
9. Active Luxury Experience
Seabourn aims to redefine luxury cruising with Venture and its sister ship, Pursuit, expected in 2023. Each ship is equipped to offer a distinctive blend of active and chill luxury experiences.
As Leibowitz states, guests can enjoy personalized service infused with meticulous detail. For instance, they may request a gin and tonic made fresh on board while enjoying the serene views from the observation bar.
