4 days ago
Five things to know before you board a SeaDream Yacht Club ship
SeaDream, with its two 112-passenger ships styled like private yachts, was the vision of Norwegian entrepreneur Atle Brynestad, who began work at 16 making woollen sweaters. He founded Seabourn Cruise Line in 1986 and became chairman of Cunard when the companies merged 12 years later.
But it wasn't until 2001 that he launched SeaDream Yacht Club after buying Seabourn Goddess I and II from new owners Carnival Corporation.
The near-identical ships, now called SeaDream I and SeaDream II, retain their charm despite major modernisations. The line's slogan of 'it's yachting, not cruising' sums up a lifestyle at sea with high personal service, excellent food and al fresco dining where possible.
SeaDream I and II sail mainly in the warm climes of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, giving passengers the chance to sleep on deck in complimentary personalised pyjamas. Every Caribbean cruise also includes a stop for uniformed crew to serve champagne and caviar from surfboards in the lapping waves just off a beach.
Brynestad, a 71-year-old vegan whose empire also includes restaurants, hotels, a winery and a glassware maker, is still very much involved in SeaDream. A third, new-build ship was announced in 2019 and although that plan fell through, the line has confirmed it remains an ambition.
1. Where does it cruise?
Both ships spend most of their time in the Mediterranean between April and October and the Caribbean the rest of the year. In summer, SeaDream I and II visit destinations such as the Greek Isles, the Amalfi Coast, the French and Italian Rivieras, Croatia and smaller islands such as Corsica and Hydra.
In the Med, SeaDream also offers special wine cruises that include expert tastings and visits to vineyards. From 2025, the line is back in Northern Europe, with voyages to the British Isles, Norwegian fjords and overnights in 24-hour daylight above the Arctic Circle.
If that leaves you wanting more, SeaDream is introducing grand voyages – two in 2025 and six the following year – ranging from 21 to 35 days, including one that sails along the Corinth Canal in Greece. The longest cruise, in November 2026, heads from Italy to Barbados, while another epic voyage earlier in the year will take 34 days to cross the Atlantic in the other direction from Palm Beach, Florida, to Oslo via ports such as Lisbon, Rotterdam and Copenhagen.
In winter, SeaDream focuses on Caribbean destinations including the millionaires' playground of St Barts and the British and US Virgin Islands, as well as Barbados and less-travelled areas of the Bahamas. One highlight is the tiny island of Jost Van Dyke, population 300, where cruisers can be dropped at night to visit Foxy's or the Soggy Dollar Bar, followed the next day by champagne in the surf and a beach barbecue.
When possible, crew will deploy an inflatable 23ft-long water slide from the pool deck directly into the sea – even in Norwegian waters for daredevils who want to test their endurance by plunging into chilly fjords. The swimming platform can also be used in the middle of the Atlantic when the ships transfer between the US and Europe.
2. Who does it appeal to?
The vibe on SeaDream is casual elegance, with attentive service from the 95 crew and the freedom to do as much or as little as you want each day. Passengers typically range in age from their 30s to the late 70s with a strong base of couples, active pensioners and honeymooners. For romantics, crew will arrange an overnight double bed on deck strewn with rose petals. Other couples can sleep on Balinese beds at the stern – but, wherever they rest, all passengers receive personalised pyjamas with their name sewn on the pocket.
Vegans can enjoy what's claimed to be the biggest plant-based menu at sea, though all tastes are well catered for in the range of food that extends from 24-hour room service to six-course dinner menus. Most meals are al fresco, with tables spread over three decks, and there is an opulent dining room if the weather turns. Dress code is relaxed, even in the evenings – think what you would wear on a private yacht. As well as the onboard jet-skis, kayaks and floating trampolines, active cruisers have the use of mountain bikes ashore or can join hikes and walking tours. Children aged one and above are welcome on the ships but there are no special facilities.
3. The SeaDream fleet
SeaDream I and SeaDream II (112 passengers)
The two ships are virtually identical with only the geekiest of cruisers able to tell them apart. Part of the appeal to regular customers is that they can choose either yacht and still feel at home. Built in the mid-Eighties, the sisters have been given multi-million-pound renovations with updated staterooms, teak decks and improved open-air spaces. Because of their size, none of the rooms have balconies but there is plenty of outdoor space for everyone from the Top of the Yacht bar, to the pool sunbathing area.
With only five passenger decks, few people use the solitary lift. As well as the main lounge, holidaymakers can relax in the small spa or have a go on the virtual golf range. Drinks and tips are included in the fare, while nightly entertainment is provided by a piano player, singer and guitarist.
Sails to: Europe, the Caribbean and transatlantic
4. Accessibility
Both ships have a lift and offer adapted staterooms but accessibility is limited because of the small size of the yachts and the destinations they visit. Some beach landings are made by rigid inflatable zodiac boats.
5. Loyalty scheme
After their first voyage, passengers automatically become members of the SeaDream Club reward programme which offers savings, on-board perks and advance notice of new itineraries.
Insider tips
Sweet dreams
Once on board, get your request in early if you'd like to try the very popular romantic bed made up at night on deck at the front of the ship.
Go with the flow
Don't over-plan your days – meals are open for long periods with free seating and no fixed timing, but the early arrivals bag the best tables.
Forget formal wear
'Yacht casual' is the norm even at dinner – but bring your swimsuit. Even though the pool is small, there might be a chance to try the water slide and the marina toys during your cruise
Talk to the crew
Most have been with SeaDream for years and have some great stories to tell, as well as valuable insider tips.
Money matters
Bargain hunters should book a transatlantic voyage, where 14 days – mainly at sea – costs from around £4,000 a person, much less than a week in the Caribbean.
