Seabourn Cruise Line:
One of the Best-Established Ultra-Luxury Lines
Luxury cruisers choose an upscale cruise line because it delivers a superior vacation. Seabourn means quality. When Seabourn first set sail in 1988, it was virtually alone in its class. Since them it's been joined by such brands as Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. However, there remain distinguishing characteristics that set Seabourn apart; the size of the ships provide a level of service that difficult to replicate and the camaraderie among the guests, which is also a function of the size of Seabourn's ships. Seabourn's three original vessels register only 10,000 gross tons and carry just 208 passengers each.
Today, the median age of guests on Seabourn cruises is 56. In the summer you're going to see a lot of guests in their 40s and 50s. Seabourn has become more casual to attract a more youthful crowd. Several years ago, Seabourn did away with formal night and made it black-tie optional. The line created itineraries that appeal to the lifestyle and travel needs of a younger clientele, also.
Most evenings the dress code in the main dining room is simply "jacket required." In addition, there are two alternative dining venues to choose from. The Veranda Cafe, overlooking the ship's wake, offers a casual, al fresco venue for breakfast and lunch. In the evening, it transforms into a reservations-only bistro. A more recent addition is the Sky Grill, introduced in September 2006. The Sky Grill, with seating for just 40, is set high atop the ship. Lunch and occasional dinners are served here, featuring grilled specialties and commanding views of the sea.
Of course, dinner in the main restaurant is a sumptuous affair, featuring stylish Porsgrund china and elegant Schott Zwiesel crystal. The line also contiues to serve its renowned in-cabin, full-course dinners. Guests may order any item from the evening's dinner menu, and the entire meal will be served course-by-course in the privacy of their suite. It's been a Seabourn hallmark from the beginning.
Another enhancement has been the creation of the Seabourn Signature Service Desk, which advises passengers on how best to spend their time in sometimes unfamiliar ports. The service is free and available either in person aboard all three ships or by phone prior to embarkation. This is just one of several recent improvements, which included a Personal Shopper service and Personal Valet luggage option.
Seabourn recently ordered new ships, the first for the line since its original trio was built. Two new yachts registering 32,000 tons and carrying 450 passengers in 225 suites; 90 percent featuring private verandas, will be delivered in spring 2009 and 2010 at a cost of $250 million each.
