Latest news with #SeabournQuest
Business Insider
11-05-2025
- Business Insider
Wealthy travelers are spending $81,000+ to live on this luxury cruise ship for 5 months — see what it'll be like on board
In early January 2027, Carnival Corp's high-end, all-inclusive cruise brand, Seabourn, says its Seabourn Quest will embark on a 145-day voyage to 67 ports across 19 countries. The itinerary, sailing round-trip from Miami, primarily focuses on destinations throughout South America, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and the Southern Pacific islands — from Peru to Easter Island to a 37-day circumnavigation of Australia. Of course, like any world cruise, travelers are expected to see more than a month's worth of sea days throughout the almost 34,000-nautical-mile journey. But no need to worry about going stir crazy — Quest has plenty of onboard amenities to help keep boredom at bay. The teenage-aged Quest isn't ancient, as far as industry standards go. Carnival Cruise Line's oldest vessel is 26 years old. But Quest is relatively dated compared to the rest of Seabourn's fleet, which averages eight years such, expect some small design details reflecting its 2011 birth year, such as lower ceilings and some less-than-modern furniture. The Colonnade operates as a breakfast and lunch buffet until nightfall, when it becomes a table-service restaurant with rotating international indoor-outdoor restaurant is more casual than Solis, the ship's upscale Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. The modern dining room marries the upscale playfulness of a Virgin Voyages dining room with the seriousness of a fine-dining menu, complete with branzino and 32-ounce Tuscan-style porterhouse steak (both prepared tableside).Don't expect to waltz in at your leisure — guests get one Solis reservation per least it is complimentary, unlike ultra-luxury competitor Silversea, which has upcharged restaurants on its newest ship. For the intellectual traveler, the cruise line invites guest speakers — such as Apple cofounder Steve Wozniak and King Charles III's former butler, Grant Harrold — to give lectures at the travelers who prefer to lounge under the sun, Quest also has a traditional pool deck and an onboard marina that opens directly onto the latter has become a popular amenity on competing ultra-luxury cruise ships, such as Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collections' Evrima. Walk toward the bow and past the guest cabins on deck six to find the ship's fifth hot stroll five decks up to find the quiet, staggered rows of lounge a great place to read a book or nap under the sun. There, you can pick from a selection of books, puzzles, or caffeinated pick-me-ups from the coffee the puzzles don't appeal to you, the card room's fully stocked board game cabinet is a short walk Carnival, Seabourn doesn't cater to families with young children. As such, don't expect more kid-friendly activities than the board games and upper-deck shuffleboard. Or, spend your afternoon lounging around your private balcony. There's a good chance you'll have one, after all. Quest has 229 cabins, ranging from 295 to 1,182 square feet. Most have balconies, which can add hundreds of additional square feet to the floating hotel rooms feature little touches of luxury, from the personalized in-suite bar to the walk-in certainly more luxurious than its parent company's eponymous cruise line, where paying for the cheapest accommodation means vacationing in a compact windowless cabin.
Business Insider
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
How a luxury cruise line decides where to go on a 145-day, 34,000-mile journey around the world
If you think planning a weeklong family vacation is hard, try organizing a five-month, around-the-world trip for 458 people. For the everyday traveler, it may seem logistically impossible. For Crystal Morgan, Seabourn's senior director of deployment and itinerary planning, it's just another day at work. Morgan and her team are the driving force behind the luxury cruise line's annual around-the-world voyages. And as you might expect, ideating them is no easy feat. Seabourn's recently announced 2027 world cruise is one of its most ambitious yet, spanning 145 days and almost 34,000 nautical miles. It plans to stop at 67 ports in 19 countries, with bucketlist destinations like Honolulu, Machu Picchu, and Bora Bora. These voyages offer a convenient and comfortable way for travelers to see the world. But behind the scenes, designing them can be anything but smooth sailing. "I think of itinerary planning as baking a cake," Morgan told Business Insider. "It's one part science, one part finesse. There have to be the right ingredients to go in, but how you decorate the cake is the kind of finesse when it comes to itinerary planning." The framework World cruises ideally commence in early January, when the industry is in a post-holiday lull and retired snowbirds become heat-seeking missiles. They're generally more than 100 days long — but they can't be too lengthy, or risk cutting into the peak summer season. As for the ship, Seabourn plans to deploy its smallest ocean vessel, Seabourn Quest. Its 458-guest capacity is "just the right amount for a world cruise," Morgan said. The floating resort is scheduled for several Caribbean cruises from Miami during the preceding holiday season. The world voyage will therefore sail round-trip from the popular Florida port, with fares currently ranging from $81,000 to $380,070 per person. After setting the timing and ship framework, designing the rest of the itinerary becomes, to a certain extent, a plug-and-play game — with more limitations than you might expect. The destinations Deciding which destinations to visit isn't as simple as throwing darts at a map or checking #TravelTok for trending cities. Instead, Morgan's team considers factors such as weather patterns, Seabourn's global deployments, competing itineraries, and consumer surveys. Ideally, the extended itinerary has a sensible geographic flow that balances sea days and ports that don't feel too repetitive or are only accessible to smaller ships like Seabourn's. As such, the global voyage is scheduled to sail south and westward to South America, Australia, and New Zealand before returning through Hawaii, Los Angeles, and Mexico. Throughout its transoceanic crossings, Quest is also scheduled to visit several South Pacific islands. None of Seabourn's ships are set to be stationed in Australia and New Zealand in early 2027 — two "extremely popular" destinations, according to Morgan. To fill this demand, the global voyage plans to spend 35 days circumnavigating Australia. Other ports, especially those in larger cities, are as desirable as necessary. Take Papeete, French Polynesia, for example. It's a hot destination, but more than that, it's also where the ship can restock its fuel and food supply, according to Morgan. If an attractive town doesn't make geographic sense or cuts into the time needed to reach a restocking port, it'll be nixed. As such, to ensure safety and feasibility, internal teams that oversee marine operations and supply chains also have a say in the long-haul itinerary. "Everything's like a big puzzle," Morgan said. "The hardest part is crossing all the T's when it comes to the full operation and getting everyone to agree that operationally, what we're pushing through is the best experience." External factors, such as predicted weather conditions and port availability, also impact the route. Small variables, like current trends, can even dictate the ship's speed and when it arrives and departs a particular port. So too do geopolitical tensions — Seaboun's reason for skipping the Suez Canal. "It's measuring that risk versus reward," Morgan said. "We've seen our competitors publish itineraries that do transit the Suez Canal, but as a company, right now, we're choosing not to." With all these layers, it should be no surprise that creating and approving the itinerary took 1½ years, with several months spent on itinerary ideation and review alone, according to Morgan. Yet, believe it or not, she does think planning a family vacation is more difficult.
CNA
02-05-2025
- CNA
Discover the beauty of Japanese islands via small-ship luxury cruising
In late March this year, as Yokohama shook itself awake from its wintery slumber, I boarded the Seabourn Quest for a long-anticipated, two-week cruise around the Japanese islands. Our timing couldn't have been more perfect: The cherry blossom season was just beginning, unfurling its gauzy tapestry of white and pink across the landscape. With barely a ripple, the Quest – a slick, all-white vessel carrying only 347 guests from 73 countries and attended by 357 crew members from 44 – eased away from the bustling port. This was cruising at its most refined. No towering behemoth with water parks and thousands of passengers. Just a floating sanctuary of dignified luxury moving silently through deep blue waters. As we pulled away from Yokohama's metropolitan sprawl, there was a collective sense of anticipation, knowing that over the next fortnight, the ship would deliver us to ports so remote and logistically challenging that they normally remain inaccessible to all but the most determined travellers. Our first morning at sea brought intellectual stimulation alongside relaxation. On board were a couple of former diplomats and authors. Throughout the voyage, they delivered fascinating lectures on the complex history and geopolitical landscape of East Asia – the longstanding tensions between Japan, China, Russia, and the United States, all played out in these waters we were sailing through; the nuclear policies reshaping the region; and the remarkable economic transformations that had turned simple fishing villages into industrial powerhouses like Yokohama. These scholarly offerings provided fascinating context that no guidebook could match, transforming our journey from mere sightseeing to deep cultural immersion. The next dawn brought our first port – Hiroshima. As we ventured from the shoreline, the city revealed itself, its streets and parks draped in a breathtaking canopy of white and pink sakura blossoms that seemed to defy its sombre history. We walked through the Peace Memorial Park, where the skeletal dome of the former Industrial Promotion Hall stands against the sky as a stark reminder of a painful past, evoking a profound sense of reflection and sorrow. The carefully tended grounds and memorials create a space that honours Hiroshima's terrible history, while allowing visitors to contemplate its message of peace – a moment also reflected in the nearby Shukkeien garden where a single bent gingko tree that survived the atomic blast provides silent testimony to both destruction and resilience. At Miyajima the following day, we climbed hillside paths festooned with cherry trees that created a floating white cloud of flowers hanging above ancient wooden shrines. The famous vermilion torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine appeared to hover on the water's surface, while in the nearby shopping streets, old machiya-style homes have been transformed into boutiques selling curry oyster buns and sweet red bean cakes. Not far from these lively thoroughfares, the massive unfinished timber library of Hokoku Shrine (Senjokaku), begun in 1587 but never completed, stands as a grand monument to interrupted ambition. As we continued northward through the Kanmon Strait to Busan, South Korea, the Quest revealed itself to be a haven of civilised pleasures. Mornings began with stretch classes overlooking the sea, while afternoons offered bridge lessons or informal gatherings over tea service with champagne, scones and delicate cucumber sandwiches. For those willing to brave the cold air, there was fine dining under stars, followed, one evening, by an elegant recital in the Grand Salon by a classically trained pianist. After a day in Busan, the ship's northward journey brought us back into Japanese waters to smaller ports where modern Japan seemed to recede. In Sakaiminato, weather-worn wooden homes lined quiet streets where fishing boats bobbed gently in the harbour. The town is famous as the birthplace of Shigeru Mizuki, Japan's legendary manga artist whose supernatural yokai creatures are immortalised in 177 bronze statues along Mizuki Shigeru Road. Down by the waterfront, we discovered a tiny sushi restaurant with rickety chairs and tables polished by generations of elbows, where we savoured fish of such freshness that it seemed to melt on contact with the tongue. Tsuruga unfolded itself through temple gates and communal bathing houses fed by hot springs. The Japanese approach to bathing struck me as beautifully practical – simple, utilitarian facilities with indoor and outdoor pools where the bracing contrast between steaming waters and cool air created an experience more rejuvenating than any luxury spa treatment. Elsewhere in the city, the Kehi Shrine, dating from 702, features one of Japan's three most remarkable wooden torii gates, its simple elegance all the more impressive for having weathered thirteen centuries. In Takaoka, we visited Zuiryuji Temple, a national treasure constructed entirely of wood without a single nail, its clean lines and balanced proportions exemplifying the restrained beauty of Zen Buddhist design. Walking through its pristinely manicured grounds, we found ourselves naturally falling into a quieter, more contemplative state. Precisely the effect, one imagines, its builders intended. And so, the days passed. Again and again, I reflected on the peculiar alchemy of small-ship cruising – how it manages to distil travel to its essence by removing all friction. No hunting for hotels in unfamiliar cities, no deciphering train timetables in hieroglyphic scripts, no navigating complex ferry schedules to reach island destinations. Instead, each morning brought a new horizon, a new adventure, with the comforting knowledge that at day's end, our floating resort awaited with familiar faces and creature comforts. As we pushed further north towards Hokkaido, the cherry blossoms retreated, their buds still tightly closed against the lingering chill. In Sakata, we explored the immaculately preserved Homma residence, once home to one of Japan's most prominent merchant families during the Edo period when this small port was a crucial hub for the rice trade. The landscape grew more dramatic as we sailed towards Hakodate and the snow-streaked mountains that loomed in the distance beyond its harbour. Early morning found us wandering among vendors in the central morning market, examining piles of dried kelp and gleaming plump scallops arranged in neat stalls. Our final port of Kushiro appeared through morning fog, its city market offering a final opportunity to indulge in the ocean's bounty – mounds of uni, buttery toro, and sweet crab arranged with gastro-porn precision. Along one of the main thoroughfares, we discovered a traditional artisan workshop where calligraphic seals are still made to order, each one a miniature work of art pressed into vermilion stamp ink to create distinctive personal signatures As the Quest finally glided back into Yokohama harbour, I found myself silently thanking the ship for its gentle companionship on a voyage cocooned by airy pink clouds of cherry blossoms that had seemed to follow us from port to port. In two perfect weeks, suspended between sea and sky, we had traced Japan's coastline during its most magical season, experiencing moments both profound and simple. The bent tree in Hiroshima that survived an apocalypse, the languid sea days spent watching the ever-changing face of the ocean, the taste of just-caught fish in Sakaiminato. What remained, though, was a perspective rarely granted to those who visit by conventional means – Japan seen from the sea. It was how Japan had first revealed itself to the world, and how I will always remember it: Islands emerging from the mist, mountains descending to meet the water's edge, and everywhere the quiet dignity of a culture that understands better than most the beauty of moments that cannot last.
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SEABOURN ANNOUNCES 145-DAY "2027 WORLD CRUISE: AUSTRALIA & SOUTH PACIFIC PANORAMA" ON SEABOURN QUEST
Seabourn Quest set to explore Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, visiting 67 destinations in 19 countries with five overnight stays and two maiden calls SEATTLE, April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, has unveiled its "2027 World Cruise: Australia & South Pacific Panorama," a 145-day roundtrip voyage from Miami that will chart an extraordinary journey through some of the world's most captivating regions in the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand and South America. Sailing between Jan. 5 and May 30, 2027, the award-winning Seabourn Quest will travel nearly 34,000 nautical miles and visit 67 destinations in 19 countries. The voyage will feature two maiden calls, five overnight stays, four immersive optional Seabourn Journeys, and signature Seabourn experiences and exclusive events. "We invite travelers to embark on our 2027 World Cruise and discover the most awe-inspiring and extraordinary destinations across Australia, New Zealand, Polynesia, and beyond," said Mark Tamis, president of Seabourn. "This voyage invites guests to explore and create lasting connections with both the extraordinary places we visit, and the people and cultures that bring them to life. Along the way, guests will enjoy Seabourn's signature style of luxury travel at sea, elevated by the intuitive, personalized service delivered by our incredible onboard team." Voyage highlights: Roundtrip from Miami to 67 destinations and 19 countries Overnight Stays: Lima (Callao), Peru; Hobart, Australia; Papeete, French Polynesia; Sydney and Darwin, Australia Maiden Ports: Wallaroo, Australia, and Whangarei, New Zealand Optional mid-voyage Seabourn Journeys: Land-based, multi-day experiences in Machu Picchu, the Galápagos Islands, Easter Island, and Uluru in Australia Scenic Cruising: The dramatic Kimberley Coast of Australia and Fiordland National Park in New Zealand Select Destination Highlights: Whangārei, New Zealand (Maiden Port) - Whangārei has a rich history, starting as a timber-milling site in the early 1800s and later becoming a hub for the kauri-gum trade and shipbuilding. Guests will enjoy the port's rich arts and cultural experiences available, such as the Whangārei Museum including Kiwi House, and the Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery. It is also home to the stunning Whangārei Falls, a 26-meter-high waterfall with beautiful viewpoints. Wallaroo, Australia (Maiden Port) - Nestled on the picturesque Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, Wallaroo offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and coastal charm. Guests can explore the Wallaroo Heritage and Nautical Museum or relax on the beautiful North Beach. The Kimberley, Australia - Scenic cruising of the Kimberley Coast offers a breathtaking journey through one of Australia's most remote and pristine regions. Guests will witness dramatic landscapes, including rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, while navigating through crystal-clear waters. The experience is enriched by the region's traditional land-owner heritage and abundant wildlife. Norfolk Island, Australia - A remote island in the South Pacific Ocean east of Australia, Norfolk Island boasts a rich history, having been settled by Polynesians around 400 AD and later claimed by Captain Cook in 1774. Today, the island is known for its lush landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural heritage. Callao (Lima), Peru (Overnight) - The capital of Peru, Lima stands as one of the most significant cities in South America and is renowned for its exceptional cuisine and proximity to remarkable Inca artifacts. Founded in 1535, it seamlessly blends its UNESCO-inscribed Spanish Colonial heritage with modern architecture. The historic Plaza de Armas is surrounded by well-preserved colonial buildings, contrasting with the contemporary structures in newer districts. Transit of Panama Canal – The 145-day voyage will include two transits of the historic Panama Canal, one of the great engineering marvels of the modern world. Guests will enjoy a front-row view of this unforgettable passage connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Signature Experiences: Shopping with the Chef - Led by Seabourn's culinary team, the signature Shopping with the Chef experience offers guests a behind-the-scenes look at local markets, where they can discover regional ingredients and culinary traditions alongside the experts who bring them to life on board. The popular excursion will be offered in 11 ports, including Sydney, Auckland, and Papeete. Shorter World Cruise Option: 126 days Guests may opt for a shorter 126-day World Cruise option, disembarking in Long Beach on May 11, 2027. This option is ideal for guests who wish to end their voyage on the West Coast of the U.S. Full World Cruise Benefits and Amenities Guests who book either the full 145- or 126-day World Cruise will receive a meticulously curated, value-packed menu of complimentary benefits and amenities: Upgraded Stream Wi-Fi packages, powered by Starlink (two devices) Included medical services package, valued at $1,000USD Exclusive private dining experiences and sensational tasting menus Expanded and enhanced Special Events, exclusive to full World Cruise guests Up to $10,000USD Shipboard Credit per suite^ Included Round-trip Business or First-Class Air✝ Unlimited laundry, wet cleaning, and pressing on board One-night pre-cruise hotel stay Private car transfers door-to-door between home and airport Gala Bon Voyage dinner: Stay tuned for details of this guest favorite event, transformed for 2027 Personal Valet® luggage shipping service 50% Reduced Deposit at booking✝ Special President's Event Exclusive World Cruise pillow gifts ✝In select markets.^Value determined by suite level. Early Booking Advantage: Guests who book on or before May 14, 2025, can save up to 10 percent with Seabourn's Early Booking Advantage. Certain restrictions apply. For more details about Seabourn, or to explore the worldwide selection of Seabourn cruising options, contact a professional travel advisor, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit About Seabourn: Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury ocean and expedition travel and operates a suite of six modern ships. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships, including Seabourn Venture that launched in 2022 and Seabourn Pursuit in 2023. Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe, visiting more than 400 ports including marquee cities and lesser-known ports and hideaways. Guests of Seabourn experience extraordinary offerings and programs, including partnerships with leading entertainers, dining, personal health and wellbeing, and engaging speakers. For more details about Seabourn, or to explore the worldwide selection of Seabourn cruising options, contact a professional travel advisor, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391 or visit Seabourn is a brand of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL and NYSE: CUK). Find Seabourn on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, and Pinterest. IMAGES HERE View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Seabourn Sign in to access your portfolio
Malaysian Reserve
22-04-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
SEABOURN UNVEILS 2026-2027 FALL, WINTER, AND SPRING SEASON, FEATURING NEW ITINERARIES EXPLORING JAPAN, CARIBBEAN AND MORE
The ultra-luxury cruise line announces new sailings on three of its ocean ships, including 31 departures to 73 destinations in 30 countries SEATTLE, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, unveiled its 2026-2027 fall, winter, and spring season with new itineraries to explore the spring flowers of Japan, the vibrant islands of the Caribbean, and the culinary delights of Southeast Asia. Between November 2026 and April 2027, the award-winning, ultra-luxury Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest will offer 31 departures to 73 destinations in 30 countries. Itineraries, fares, and complete details of Seabourn's schedule can be found on Seabourn's website. Seabourn will offer two new Japan voyages in early spring, giving guests the opportunity to experience the country's vibrant plum blossoms in full bloom for the first time. These include a new 12-day voyage from Hong Kong to Tokyo and a 14-day roundtrip sailing from Tokyo on Seabourn Encore. The ship will also showcase the vibrant cultures of Singapore and Southeast Asia through a series of 14-day sailings from Singapore to Hong Kong and two new roundtrip Singapore itineraries: an eight-day voyage departing December 2026 and a 14-day voyage departing January 2027. Meanwhile, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Quest will explore boutique ports and hidden harbors in the southern Caribbean on seven- to 14-day itineraries, with departures from Sint Maarten, Barbados, San Juan and Miami. 'These new itineraries are designed to immerse our guests in the beauty, culture, and flavors of worldwide destinations, and we can't wait to welcome them on board to experience it firsthand,' said Mark Tamis, president of Seabourn. 'Whether it's exploring vibrant markets with our chefs in Penang, Malaysia and Ho Chi Minh City or witnessing Japan's breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom or indulging in complimentary signature events like Caviar in the Surf at Carambola Beach, St. Croix and Ko Kood, Thailand, our curated voyages will continue to create unforgettable 'Seabourn Moments' our guests live for.' Seabourn's itineraries range from seven to 16 days, with options to combine voyages for longer, more immersive voyages. Guests can explore up to 30 UNESCO World Heritage sites while enjoying Seabourn's ultra-luxury signature experiences, including Caviar in the Surf®, Shopping with the Chef, and Marina Day. The itineraries will also feature several overnight stays and mid-voyage Seabourn Journeys, giving guests ample time to explore and savor each destination. CaribbeanClick here for high resolution images Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Quest will explore the diverse islands and stunning white-sand beaches of the Caribbean between November 2026 and March 2027, with 20 departures of seven- to 16-day voyages departing from Barbados, St. Maarten, Miami, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The season includes visits to 24 ports, 19 islands and countries and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Historic Bridgetown, Barbados; La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site; and the Volcanoes and Forests of Mount Pelée from Saint Pierre, Martinique. The Caribbean voyages will also include several signature experiences, such as 'Shopping with the Chef' excursions in Bridgetown and Marina Day and Caviar in the Surf in Carambola Beach, St. Kitts. Featured ports and highlights include the following: Little Bay, Montserrat – The breathtaking natural beauty and volcanic activity of this mountainous island have inspired nicknames such as the 'Pompei of the Caribbean' and the 'Emerald Isle of the Caribbean.' Guests can tour the Soufriere Hills Volcano observatory or the exclusion zone encompassing the southern part of the island. Enjoy a leisurely coastal tour of the island or spend the day lounging on one of the island's many black sand beaches. Carambola Beach, St. Kitts – Carambola Beach, set along the golden arc of South Friar's Bay, is home to the island's most luxurious beach clubs and restaurants. It is also the setting for Seabourn's signature Caviar in the Surf beach barbecue, where Seabourn officers, many in full uniform, wade into the sea, balancing tablecloth-draped surfboards and coolers brimming with chilled Champagne. Willemstad, Curacao – Delightful Willemstad is the capital of Curacao, a Dutch Caribbean island. Known for its colorful, colonial architecture, its gabled buildings bring to mind Dutch cities, while working windmills dot the countryside. Two bridges connect Otrobanda and Punda, the city's two halves. Japan & Southeast AsiaClick here for high-resolution images Seabourn Encore will embark on a series of immersive sailings across Japan and Southeast Asia between December 2026 and April 2027. The award-winning ultra-luxury ship will explore Japan's spring flowers, Singapore's vibrant cities and Southeast Asia's diverse culinary scene on a series of 11 sailings, ranging from eight to 14 days, visiting more than 46 ports, 11 countries and 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For the first time, Seabourn Encore will explore Japan's spring flower destinations in time for Plum Blossom Season. Guest can witness Japan's enchanting plum blossoms on two new itineraries: a 12-day 'Jewels of Taiwan & Japan' sailing from Hong Kong to Tokyo on Feb. 15, 2027, and a 14-day 'Sea of Japan & Plum Blossoms' voyage sailing roundtrip Tokyo on Feb. 27, 2027. Guests can also experience Japan's stunning cherry blossoms between March and April 2027 on three curated 14-day roundtrip sailings from Tokyo. Select voyages include extended stays in either Osaka or Kanazawa, Shopping with the Chef experiences in Nagasaki, Kushiro, or Kagoshima, and visits to hidden gems like Toba, Miyako, Sendai, and Hitachinaka. Notable port highlights include the following: Osaka, Japan – Known as Japan's Kitchen, the city of Osaka is famous for its photogenic Osaka Castle, set in a park with decorative plum and cherry trees that provide extravagant blooms in the spring. The port city also acts as the gateway for guests to visit Kyoto, which served as the old capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years and is home to numerous national treasures, shrines, temples and spring blossoms. Kanazawa, Japan – A historic castle town with over 400 years of heritage, Kanazawa blends beautifully restored districts with striking modern architecture. The city's crown jewel is Kenrokuen Garden, often regarded as Japan's most beautiful landscape garden, and its name 'Garden of the Six Sublimities,' refers to the six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden. Aburatsu, Japan – Nestled on the picturesque Nichinan Coast in Miyazaki Prefecture, Aburatsu offers an exciting blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The waterfront is ideal for leisurely strolls, and the nearby aquarium provides a fascinating glimpse into marine life. Guests can visit the historic Obi Castle ruins and the enchanting Udo-Jingu Shrine, both offering a deep dive into the region's rich history and traditions. The season will also include two new roundtrip voyages from Singapore: an eight-day 'Malaysia & Thailand: Malacca Strait Explorer' voyage and a 14-day 'Gulf of Thailand & Malaysian Peninsula.' The ship will also offer a series of 14-day itineraries between Singapore and Hong Kong. Select sailings will feature Caviar in the Surf on the pristine shores of Ko Kood, Thailand, exclusive Shopping with the Chef experiences in Penang or Ho Chi Minh City, and overnight stays in Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand, or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Notable port highlights include the following: Ko Kood, Thailand – This unspoiled tropical island paradise is the host location of Seabourn's signature Caviar in the Surf beach barbecue party. Sugary white sand, swaying palms and limpid waters invite guests to enjoy watersports, and a feast prepared by Seabourn's world-class culinary staff. Seabourn Journey – Cambodia & Laos: The Temples of Angkor & Luang Prabang – Available as a pre- and post-cruise package, this six-day package allows guests to discover the fascinating history, culture, and architecture of some of Laos and Cambodia's most famous temples, including the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. Learn how old traditions are adapting to an evolving cultural landscape and marvel at the vibrant atmosphere of the captivating cities of Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Siem Reap. Deluxe Halong Bay Cruise – This optional shore excursion offers a breathtaking journey through Halong Bay in Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its emerald waters and dramatic limestone formations. Sail aboard a traditional wooden junk, enjoying a Vietnamese lunch while passing sheer cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque islets. Along the way, explore the stunning Hang Co Cave and visit a local fishing village before returning to the ship. Holiday VoyagesClick here for high-resolution images Seabourn has also unveiled a selection of holiday voyages, inviting guests to celebrate the festive season with the ultra-luxury cruise line. New for 2026, Seabourn Encore will sail a 22-day holiday voyage, departing Dec. 14, 2026, from Singapore and concluding Jan. 5, 2027, in Hong Kong. The itinerary showcases the 'best of Southeast Asia,' with stops in Malaysia, the Gulf of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, including a Christmas Day visit to Ko Kood. Seabourn Quest will sail a 16-day roundtrip Miami itinerary, departing Dec. 20, 2026, with a Christmas Day visit to Carambola Beach and a New Year's Day call to St. John's, Antigua. Seabourn Ovation will offer a seven-day voyage from Barbados to Sint Maarten voyage, departing Dec. 21, 2026, with a Christmas Day call to Jost van Dyke, and a seven-day voyage from Sint Maarten to Barbados, departing Dec. 28, 2026, featuring a New Year's Day stop in Grenada. These can be combined for a 14-day roundtrip Barbados voyage, departing Dec. 21, 2026. Early Booking Advantage Guests who book now through May 14, 2025, can reserve their preferred suite before fares increase and save up to 10% with Seabourn's Early Booking Advantage. For more details about Seabourn, or to explore the worldwide selection of Seabourn cruising options, call Seabourn on 1-800-929-9391 visit or contact a professional travel advisor. About Seabourn: Seabourn represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury ocean and expedition travel and operates a suite of six modern ships. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships, including Seabourn Venture that launched in 2022 and Seabourn Pursuit in 2023. Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe, visiting more than 400 ports including marquee cities and lesser-known ports and hideaways. Guests of Seabourn experience extraordinary offerings and programs, including partnerships with leading entertainers, dining, personal health and wellbeing, and engaging speakers. Seabourn is a brand of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL and NYSE: CUK). Find Seabourn on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. *Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Venture, Seabourn Pursuit **Optional programs, for additional charge ^Available on Seabourn Sojourn, Seabourn Quest, Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Ovation
