The ships of Seabourn circle the globe throughout the year, sailing to the world’s most desirable destinations at their peak seasons, as they have since 1986.  Formerly known as The Yachts Of Seabourn, destination-focused line takes cruise travelers to marquee cities, lesser-known harbors and other interesting places in luxurious, all inclusive comfort. But looking past the hardware of their evolving fleet and the destinations visited, we can gain considerable insight about Seabourn’s commitment to a quality experience for travelers by looking at the prominent authorities they bring along on special themed voyages.

Our Definition Of A Good Cruise Evolves
We continue to find that one of the best parts of sailing small ships is the ability we have to meet interesting people along the way; either on the ship or ashore.  We saw that recently as Abercrombie & Kent took us on a river voyage, making connections with local people at a variety of ports.  We see that on Viking River Cruises, sailing with culturally curious travelers of a like mind that enjoy conversing with one another.

On the ships of Seabourn that dialogue has been elevated to a program that defines the Seabourn experience called Seabourn Conversations which features prominent authorities on innovation and industry, along for the sailing.

“The art of conversation is a key element onboard our ships,” -John Delaney, Seabourn senior vice president, marketing and sales.

The Icing On The Seabourn Experience Cake
We’re excited to be sailing with Seabourn again this fall on board Seabourn Sojourn for the 11-day “Best of the Riviera Food & Wine Cruise” that will visit some of Europe’s most appealing food and wine regions, sailing October 30, 2014 from Monte Carlo, through the French and Italian Rivieras to Rome.  Taking what would otherwise be a brilliant experience to the next level, celebrity guest chefs from the region will be along on the voyage as well as Seabourn’s award-winning team of corporate executive chefs and wine experts.

New Conversations Illuminate The Seabourn Experience
Adding to the tremendous value for one of the world’s finest travel experiences on an upcoming sailing of Seabourn Odyssey will be Steve Wozniak, co-founder (with the late Steve Jobs) of Apple Computer Inc., and Lord Digby Jones, former Director-General of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and Minister of State for UK Trade and Investment.

“The art of conversation is a key element onboard our ships, and nowhere will the chatter be more listenable than on Seabourn Odyssey when Steve Wozniak and Lord Digby Jones start the dialogue,” said John Delaney, Seabourn’s senior vice president, marketing and sales.

Experts On Board,  At The Right Time
In addition to interesting conversations with captains of industry, politicians or celebrities, Seabourn stacks the deck in its favor on special themed voyages, bringing along destination experts. For its 2014-2015 “Ultimate Antarctica & Patagonia” voyages aboard Seabourn Quest beginning November 2014, Seabourn has assembled a world-class expedition team.  The 17-person team will bring intimate knowledge of the “White Continent” and expedition travel to ensure guests have the ultimate experience on board and on shore during the four 21- to 24-day voyages.

The expedition team consists of naturalists, scientists, cultural and historical experts, and other lecturers who will share their wealth of knowledge and passion for Antarctica.  Especially exciting to photography fans, award-winning nature photographers will offer coaching tips on digital photography for guests to capture the diverse wildlife and remarkable landscapes.

Every step of the way, from distant sightings on-board to landings ashore, the staff will expertly guide guests to add valuable insights and depth to the adventure.

The Difference
Other luxury cruise lines have ‘enrichment’ programs that tap interesting people to bring depth to their voyages.  On Seabourn they participate in the daily social scene, sharing meals, adventures ashore and casual chats throughout the voyage. On some ships, they lecture. On Seabourn, they join the conversation. To see more of the extensive Seabourn Conversations element, click here

That’s All In Addition To An Outstanding Hotel Operation
Seabourn’s intimate, award-winning ships offer key elements that set Seabourn apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas; superb dining in a choice of venues; open bars throughout the ship; fine wines poured at lunch and dinner; award-winning personalized service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home on board.

Here is more about the Seabourn Experience:

Flickr photo by Pete