17 Sep 2027
13 Nights
Seabourn Pursuit
French Polynesia & South Pacific
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17 Sep 2027
North of Nadi through sugarcane plantations and past the Sabeto Mountains is Lautoka, nicknamed the Sugar City for the local agriculture and its big processing mill. With a population of around 50,000, it's the only city besides Suva and, like the capital, has a pleasant waterfront. It's the sailing point for Blue Lagoon and Beachcomber Cruises but is otherwise unremarkable for tourists, itself having few hotels and fewer good restaurants. Locals recommend the city as a less-expensive place to shop for clothing, but note that it can take as long as 45 minutes to drive here. Legend has it that Lautoka acquired its name when two chiefs engaged in combat and one hit the other with a spear. He proclaimed "lau toka" (spear hit) and thus the future town was named.
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18 Sep 2027
19 Sep 2027
20 Sep 2027
With a population of 6,000, Neiafu is the capital city and the second largest municipality in the Polynesian nation of Tonga (a 169-island archipelago in the South Pacific). The city is situated in a deep- water harbor (Port of Refuge) on the south coast of Vava͛u, the main island of the Vava͛u archipelago in northern Tonga. The waters of this region are known for their clarity and beauty, and the area attracts many humpback whales between June and November. A popular destination in Neiafu is the Ene͛io Botanical Garden, a bird sanctuary that promotes the survival of exotic and native bird species as well as supports and conserves a diverse array of plant life. The island's city life can be experienced at the numerous cafes and restaurants that welcome visitors.
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21 Sep 2027
22 Sep 2027
23 Sep 2027
23 Sep 2027
Samoa is a group of ten islands located in the South Pacific. The tropical climate and volcanic landscape create a picturesque location for visitors to explore, together with the experience of Fa'a Samoa, the three thousand year old way of life on Samoa.
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24 Sep 2027
25 Sep 2027
25 Sep 2027
Even high praise like the 'world's most beautiful island' from Lonely Planet's co-founder, Tony Wheeler, won't prepare you for the intoxicating intensity of the coal blue ocean, the glow of the pure white sand, and the soothing ripple of the palm-tree forests at incredible Aitutaki. Breathless romance hangs thick in the air here, especially when a riot of purples, reds and oranges are spreading across the sky, accompanying the sun's descent each evening. It wasn't until 1789 that Europeans discovered this island haven, with the HMS Bounty's crew arriving, just a few weeks before a mutiny tore them apart. The Europeans were beaten to the islands, however, by the streamlined wooden canoes of the Polynesian settlers, who arrived around 900AD. While Western missionaries would eventually visit to spread Christianity to the island - evidenced by the white, coral-encrusted walls of the many churches - their efforts to repress the people’s deep love of communal singing and dancing ultimately failed, and music forms a key component of the islanders' culture to this day.The beaches here are flawless, and swaying in a hammock, suspended between leaning palm trees, as the ocean gently ruffles the sand nearby, feels gloriously indulgent. Aitutaki Lagoon is a huge aquamarine pool of water, alive with a kaleidoscopic swirl of tropical fish, which lurk just below the surface. You may even be lucky enough to spot turtles padding across the sand, scraping themselves towards the open ocean.The snorkelling opportunities here, and on One Foot Island - where you'll want to acquire the badge of honour of having your passport stamped with the island's iconic huge footprint - are sublime. Don't miss the tiny island of Moturakau either, which is crammed full of exotic birds and crabs, who have dominion over the island's tangled, jungle terrain.
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26 Sep 2027
27 Sep 2027
28 Sep 2027
Huahine is an island located among the Society Islands, in French Polynesia, an overseas territory of France in the South Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Leeward Islands group
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29 Sep 2027
Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.
Read MoreThis holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.
Before Seabourn, open-seating dining on a cruise ship was unheard of. Come when you like, with whom you please, and be seated as you wish. The room is beautiful, the cuisine is exquisite, and the service is simultaneously flawless, friendly and fun.
Our more casual, indoor/outdoor alternative, features an open kitchen, lavish buffets or table service for breakfasts and lunch, and serves regionally themed, bistro-style dinners with table service nightly.
Relaxed poolside dining offering luncheon buffets, salads, soups, grilled specialties and freshly baked pizza. Dinners feature a full menu in an alfresco setting. For The Patio, Chef Keller has developed exclusively for us, a signature Napa burger, as well as an artisanal hot dog dubbed the Yountwurst, named for the hometown of The French Laundry, Ad Hoc, and the original Bouchon and Bouchon Bakery.
Each evening, our skilled Earth & Ocean chefs create an imaginative array of fresh, inventive dishes—a sophisticated menu celebrating eclectic traditional flavors from around the world, served in a relaxed setting under the stars for a distinctive dining experience unlike any other on board.
Seabourn is pleased to offer a varied menu available around the clock for service in your suite. You may also order dinner from The Restaurant menu and have your meal served, course by course, in your suite or on your veranda.
Featuring a newly enhanced menu, including a delightful variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
More and more of our guests relish the opportunity to engage with destinations in a more interactive, experiential and participatory way. We created Ventures by Seabourn® to provide these travelers with exciting, adventurous optional activities that are expertly planned, professionally operated and escorted by skilled expert guides.
Enhance..
On select sailings featuring Ventures by Seabourn® excursions, share your voyage with a knowledgeable, experienced expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists and more. These fascinating, accomplished experts will be part of our complimentary Seabourn Conversations program, providing you an in-depth understanding of the history, ecology and culture of the places you visit. On board, their valuable insights are offered both in formal presentations and in more casual conversations over meals or at leisure.
Extend
In select ports of call and destinations, optional Ventures by Seabourn® excursions, guided by our Expedition Team, invite you to explore spectacular destinations on exhilarating sea-level adventures. Launching from your ship on board our fleet of sturdy, Zodiac® boats or paddling in double sea kayaks, these adventures will vary depending on your itinerary, but include thrills such as cruising picturesque fjords and waterways, trekking on scenic islands, viewing birds, seals, whales and other wildlife up-close, and surveying massive, white-blue icebergs.
Ventures by Seabourn vs Excursions: What's the Difference?
First launched in 2013, Ventures by Seabourn was introduced for guests who have dreamed of experiencing a Seabourn expedition, but are unable to sail on one of our expedition ships.
Unlike traditional shore excursions, the expedition team is placed aboard select sailings to offer knowledge, commentary, education on the destinations, and to lead hikes, Zodiac cruises, and kayaking in remote areas. It allows Seabourn guests to experience expedition-style encounters with the landscapes, but do it on the traditional Seabourn ships that our guests know and love.
Our guests travel with us because they want to see, hear, learn and discover new places and experiences. To ensure that our guests have memorable and enriching experiences in the over 450 ports of call we offer annually, we contract the best local agents to create and operate some 12,000 carefully curated shore experiences, offering our guests a range of choices in duration, content and the type of activity involved to fully satisfy their wishes. To assist our guests in choosing among these numerous excursion options, we are categorizing our overall Shore Experiences by Seabourn into seven ‘Collections,’ according to the general interests they are designed to captivate.
The Cultural Collection
The Cultural Collection explores the arts, ideas and legacy of places, including access to UNESCO World Heritage sites around the world.
The Bespoke Collection
The Bespoke Collection affords guests opportunities to customize their shore experiences by arranging private cars and drivers, guides, yachts, reservations and other services in ports of call
The Adventure Collection
The Adventure Collection is an array of excursions offering guests active and participatory experiences in ports, including Ventures by Seabourn™ and expedition excursions on our Expedition ships.
The Mindful Living Collection
The Mindful Living Collection consists of guided shoreside experiences in Mindful Living, designed in partnership with world-renowned integrative medicine pioneer.
The Epicurean Collection
The Epicurean Collection invites guests to explore the unique flavors of a destination by indulging their passion for tasting both traditional and contemporary foods and drinks.
The Essential Collection
The Essential Collection offers shorter-duration introductory experiences such as guided walking tours, allowing guests with general interest to learn the highlights about a port.
The Journeys Collection
The Journeys Collection offers escorted pre-, post- and mid-cruise overland experiences of two to 13 days, exploring iconic landmarks impossible to visit during a scheduled port call.
The Discovery Center, which is adjacent to the Expedition Lounge on Deck 4, acts as the teaching & academic center for natural history and cultural programming in an environment spacious enough to accommodate all guests at one time. Each day, guests will visit this venue for insightful lectures, briefings, and Seabourn Conversations enrichment programming designed to help educate them throughout their expedition experience. The world-class 26-person expedition team of wilderness experts, scientists, historians and naturalists will deliver rich, insightful lectures and discussions on a broad array of topics related to the region where guests are sailing. Inspired by the compelling landscape of some of the expedition destinations, the Discovery Center incorporates the organic shapes of topography maps against the elegant curves of the plush custom seating.
Audio-visual experiences will come to life through high-definition screens 2.5 meters high by 10 meters wide, showing a variety of programming to create a captivating experience that whets the appetite and creates excitement for each destination. Footage from submarine voyages will also be shown, providing an enticing look at the undersea world and the marine life that calls it home.
The Landing Zone is the area where exploration begins. There are two landing zones, port and starboard side on Deck 3. The launch and recovery point for landings, it's a spacious environment where guests change and clean their gear in comfort, as well as a place to store excursion essentials like boots. It's designed for functionality, accessibility and ease, offering direct access to one of the 24 Zodiacs available for Ventures by Seabourn® adventures. In tropical areas, it's the place to kick off scuba, snorkelling and similar undersea adventures.
Shopping with the Chef — at local food markets. Shop a bustling Sicilian market, gather spices in Istanbul or explore the local wines of Tuscany and Provence. Wherever you are in the world, you'll enjoy an insider's look at unique regional markets with an expert Seabourn chef as your guide
Enjoy fascinating Seabourn Conversations sessions with guest experts from the fields of arts, history, science, and more.
A place to enjoy some light reading or to socialize with your fellow passengers, Seabourn Square is what you're looking for. Seabourn Square is the true ‘living room’ of the ships. An inviting sociable space where guests will find a charming European style coffee bar, Seabourn Square has been designed as an open, comfortable environment for guests to interact with onboard officers and the expedition team and engage in conversation with family and new friends. The space is also home to the highly-trained Guest Services staff, who provide a range of concierge services such as general ship information, assistance with special service requests, port and travel information, and more.
A selection of coffees are prepared by the skilled onboard baristas some using beans roasted in Seabourn Square. For those feeling a bit hungry, Seabourn Square offers freshly made pastries and other on-the-go breakfast items in the morning, as well as an assortment of light sandwiches and desserts later in the day, along with a selection of artisanal gelati made on board. Guests will also find a wide range of books in the adjoining library, with a host of titles on subjects such as adventure, expeditions and other topics of interest to enjoy while onboard. Staying current with the news is made easy with tablets featuring the Press Reader news application available to browse each day.
The Expedition Lounge, located on Deck 4, is the heart of the ship. A gathering place for the curious, guests are invited to relax or linger with a complimentary cocktail or glass of fine wine from the bar as they share photos and stories from the day with their fellow travelers and the onboard staff. The Expedition Lounge will be central to the Seabourn expedition operation where guests convene before and after expeditions each day.
Custom furniture designed in a variety of warm, natural materials creates an inviting, tactile atmosphere. An ode to the adventurous, the Expedition Lounge features an etched glass partition displaying a vintage map of Antarctica and vitrines showcasing intricate tools and devices of the trade. Two large touchscreens will also display a wealth of information including photos, navigational charts, weather charts, and maps.
Located on Deck 6, at the forward-most part of the vessel, the Bow Lounge provides the closest access to water level via the foredeck, making it the perfect spot for guests to spend some time watching for marine life. Within a few steps, guests can be outside, with a vantage point that is ideal to watch the ship’s course, spot wildlife, or take in the beautiful natural scenery.
The Bow Lounge introduces some technological enhancements, providing guests with a first for Seabourn with touch screens showing the ship’s plotted location, as well as navigational charts and scientific information used to help guide the ship on its journey. Large screens project live footage from mounted cameras outside the ship, and from a drone when conditions permit, while the touch screen monitors invite guests to explore on their own with a live map, weather information, and notes detailing upcoming expeditions. Expedition Team members will be available within the Lounge throughout the day to interact with guests, answer questions, provide interpretation and aid in spotting wildlife.
The space provides direct access to the Bow Sprit on Deck 6 forward (when conditions permit) to give guests the sensation of standing in front of the ship and views of waves parting and ice sloughing off the bow at the waterline.
Designed by hospitality design icon Adam D. Tihany, the ship’s public spaces exude casual elegance at every turn, from the soaring sky-lit Atrium, to the inviting Expedition Lounge and into each guest suite. Rich textures and first-rate materials take shape in modern-yet-timeless settings that are made for socializing, relaxing, learning and exploring.
Overlooking the beautiful Pool Patio, the open-air Sky Bar presents you with a gorgeous setting to take a break from the afternoon sun while enjoying a refreshing tropical beverage, or spend the evening enjoying a few social cocktails under the stars.
The Constellation Lounge is the highest indoor viewing point on each ship. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls wrap around the space, offering guests stunning 270-degree, outward-facing views as far as their eyes can see, heightening their expeditionary spirit while bringing them closer to wildlife and wonders at sea and in port.
In addition, the expedition team will be in the lounge regularly to help identify points of interest, wildlife and geological wonders. Imagine glimpsing killer whales, waddling penguins, and sea lions in Antarctica; sleepy-eyed sloths, sprightly monkeys, and colorful parrots in the rainforests of South and Central America; and icebergs bobbing in the seas and waterfalls rushing over cliffs in the far reaches of the Arctic and Northern Europe – all from the comfort of the Constellation Lounge.
The Constellation Lounge offers Seabourn’s popular Early Morning Riser continental breakfast, while afternoons features the line’s popular and recently enhanced Afternoon Tea service. Steeped in the tradition of proper English tea service, yet as fresh and memorable as a newly brewed pot, the elegant daily tea service incorporates the finest luxury tea brand TWG Tea. As the sun dips and the night sky lights up, live piano entertainment delights guests as cocktails and tapas are served both before and after dinner.
One of the most FUN evenings during any cruise, Evenings Under the Stars is a night where guests can let their hair down and simply be in the moment. Enjoy Let’s Dance! with great live music, interact with fellow travelers and be spoiled in true Seabourn style by our food and beverage team with Desserts Under the Stars. A signature event, this dance party has been a part of the line’s rich culture, and a Seabourn cruise is not complete without Let’s Dance! and Desserts Under The Stars.
Weather permitting, this high-energy dance party is hosted poolside and under the stars by the entire entertainment team, featuring performances by The Band, vocalists and dancers. There is even the possibility your Cruise Director and Assistant Cruise Director might jump on stage to perform, as well! Guests can expect music that appeals to everyone’s taste with a great mix of hit songs. It’s a real treat and guests LOVE Evenings Under the Stars!
The liveliest lounge on board is the scene of daily afternoon tea service. It is a popular spot for pre-dinner drinks and dancing to live music. After dinner, the dancing music continues, and later a DJ spins dance music until late at night. Another terrace of open deck aft of The Club boasts a plunge pool and two small whirlpool spas.
Many veteran cruisers specifically choose cruises that provide at least a few days at sea. The Card Room is a great choice for the sea-loving cruiser who craves that languorous feeling of lazy leisure. There will be loads of on board activities during those days, including a great game of bridge.
For meetings and gatherings, our ships offer meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 40 guests. The meeting rooms can be arranged to guests’ specifications including theater-style or with tables; and each of the rooms have large-screen TVs for presentations. Guests may also reserve the Card Room when available. Our crew members are happy to assist guests with meeting room reservations and setup.
Whether you're buying souvenirs for your friends at home or want a memento of your vacation, our Shops will have what you need. Shop for fashion and cosmetics at The Boutique, jewelry and fine watches at The Collection, or logo cruisewear at the Shop.
A Zero-proof cocktail experience featuring a unique array of non-alcoholic cocktails
Zero @ Sea offers an inventive menu of mixology cocktails, with ingredients and flavors free of alcohol, such as elderflower, bursts of fresh citrus, botanical spirits, and more.
Zero @ Sea cocktails are available fleetwide in all bars and lounges aboard the ships together with an upgraded selection of nonalcoholic wines, sparkling wines, and beers.
The new cocktails were developed by Seabourn’s expert culinary and beverage team, led by Michael Simon, senior manager of restaurant and bar operations, and Francisco Fernandes, corporate manager service operations.
Seabourn’s spas offer a wide spectrum of massages, facials, and beauty treatments, blending traditional practices from around the world with the most up-to-date techniques. Seabourn’s spas are suitable for guests wishing to maintain a personal fitness regime or discover a new one. A well-equipped ocean-view gym and Motion Studio is staffed by professional fitness trainers, and a full-service salon for men and women complement the spas.
SPA AND FITNESS SERVICES INCLUDE*
*Class offerings may vary by ship
Our Fitness Center features high performance Technogym equipment for cardio and strength training. We also offer a series of complimentary classes including yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi. Or, if personal attention is preferred, our personal trainers will design a nutrition and exercise plan that will help you achieve results. Based on your body’s particular needs, this personalized session will expose you to the wellness program that works best with your body. Aboard Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest you may try the Kinesis System. Using a tri-dimensional pulley system, our personal trainers will guide you through a series of exercises designed to improve balance, flexibility and strength.
Offering the perfect setting for a sunny afternoon, the swimming pool is surrounded by an expansive sundeck with chaise lounges, shaded seating, two large whirlpool spas, and is within steps of the Patio Grill. Sun loungers and cabanas are arrayed in a mix of sun and shade. A stage provides occasional live music for dancing.
Grand Wintergarden Suites feature:
Wintergarden Suites feature large windows, dining for six, whirlpool bathtub, guest bath, convertible sofa bed for one, pantry with wet bar, glass-enclosed solarium with tub and day bed, two closets and two flat-screen TVs. Complimentary Internet/Wi-Fi service.
Wintergarden Suite Features
Signature Suite Features
Owner's Suites on feature a comfortable living area; private veranda; queen-size bed or two twin beds; extra-large walk-in closet for expedition gear; personal safe; interactive flat-screen TV with music and movies; fully stocked bar and refrigerator; writing desk with personalized stationery; makeup vanity; spacious bathroom with double vanities, tub and shower, plush robes, slippers, hairdryer and 110/220V AC outlets.
Owners Suite Features
Penthouse Spa Suites on board feature a comfortable living area, glass door to private veranda, queen-size-bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet with personal safe, interactive flat-screen TV, fully stocked bar and refrigerator and spacious marble bath with double vanities.
Penthouse Spa Suite
Approximate total space: 527 sq. ft. (49 sq. m.) including veranda of 97 sq. ft. (9 sq. m.) All Penthouse Suites feature a comfortable living area; private veranda; queen-size bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet; personal safe; interactive TV with music and movies; fully stocked bar and refrigerator; writing desk with personalized stationery; makeup vanity; spacious bathroom, separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers, luxury health and beauty products, hairdryer and 110/220V AC outlets.
Penthouse Suite Feautures
Veranda Suite Features
A large picture window
*Wheelchair accessible suites are roll-in shower only.
All Veranda Spa Suites onboard Seabourn Pursuit feature a comfortable living area; private veranda; queen-size bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet; personal safe; interactive TV with music and movies; fully stocked bar and refrigerator; writing desk with personalised stationery; makeup vanity; spacious bathroom, separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers, luxury health and beauty products, hairdryer and 110/220V AC outlets.
Veranda Spa Suite Feautures
*Wheelchair accessible suites are roll-in shower only.
Suites 513-516, 611-614, 711-714, 802-805; Total space: 417 sq. ft. (39 sq. m.) incl. veranda of 85 sq. ft. (8 sq. m.) All Panorama Veranda Suites feature a comfortable living area; private veranda; queen-size bed or two twin beds; walk-in closet; personal safe; interactive TV with music and movies; fully stocked bar and refrigerator; writing desk with personalized stationery; makeup vanity; spacious bathroom, separate tub and shower, plush robes, slippers, luxury health and beauty products, hairdryer and 110/220V AC outlets. *Some veranda sizes vary.
Panorama Penthouse Suite Features
*Wheelchair accessible suites are roll-in shower only.
Approximate total space: 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m.) including veranda of 75 sq. ft. (7 sq. m.)* Suites on Seabourn Pursuit feature a comfortable living area; private veranda; queen-size bed or two twin beds; extra-large walk-in closet for expedition gear; personal safe; interactive flat-screen TV with music and movies; fully stocked bar and refrigerator; writing desk with personalized stationery; makeup vanity; spacious bathroom with double vanities, tub and shower, plush robes, slippers, hairdryer and 110/220V AC outlets.
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Travel Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
SixStarCruises Manager
Sales Manager for SixStarCruises
Senior Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Travel Concierge
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Senior Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Travel Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
SixStarCruises Manager
Sales Manager for SixStarCruises
Each day is just an incredible as the next in the Galápagos; you never know what you are going to see and the scenery is just stunning, you could blink and miss something incredible.
This really is a once in a lifetime experience where no day is the same, and I can honestly say this was the most incredible trip I have ever taken in my life. The Galápagos Islands are an absolute must for your bucket list!
Celebrity Flora is a luxury yacht holding a maximum of 100 guests which is considerably smaller than any ocean cruise liner, so you have a much more intimate experience where you can get to know who you're travelling with.
The Galápagos itinerary is packed with either one or two islands being visited per day and up to three excursions. There aren't any sea days on this itinerary, and because you don’t want to miss out on any opportunities to see the wildlife, you tend to do all three everyday. We did all the activities offered, and they are catered to all ages which is great. Because of this, the evenings are laid back and relaxed which is nice.
You have a 7PM overview of the day, then at 7:15, you sign up for the activities for the following day. Dinner then starts at 7:30 and most people tend to retire to their suites once they have eaten.
It is an early start most mornings, with the first tour usually beginning around 8AM to 8:30AM, but you do enjoy around three to four hours free time in the afternoon to relax on the top deck.
The staff on Celebrity are phenomenal - I have been on a lot of cruises and this was the best service I have ever received. They knew you by name when you boarded, had your drinks ready for you after the first day, remembering exactly what you preferred. It honestly felt like the staff and guests were one big family, and they went above and beyond in every aspect.
Swimming with penguins, sharks and sea turtles was a memory that I will never forget. Although I'd have to say that my main highlight was the Giant Tortoise Ranch. These animals are just incredible to witness, and having the opportunity to be surrounded by them in the wild and walking with them was simply mesmerising.
My main advice is to immerse yourself in every opportunity to explore. The itinerary is very busy, being only a week to two weeks, so make the most of every moment you have while on your trip.
When packing, comfort is key, due to the itinerary. I'd recommend packing some water shoes or closed toed sandals for the wet landings (As you will be disembarking onto the beach with water around knee height). And make sure you bring a good camera for all of the great pictures that you will capture! Walking shoes or sturdy trainers are also important for the walks and hikes to ensure you're as comfortable as possible.
Senior Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
I travelled on a 12-night Arctic expedition on board Greg Mortimer - a trip that should be on anyone’s bucket list. The morning after embarkation in Svalbard, we had about an hour of free time, where I took the opportunity to walk on the top deck and enjoy the scenery. During the lecture we were given a Polar Bear Safety briefing, they advised us in detail on what we would do as a collective group if we were out on the Zodiacs/on land should we encounter one of these amazing creatures.
Being advised that there was a pod of humpback whales on the port side of the ship on day eight brought an overwhelming excitement on board, as we all made our way up to the top deck. They were spectacular! The ship was able to virtually anchor right beside them so we could watch these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. We were all mesmerised by their beauty and felt incredibly lucky to have seen such a magnificent pod.
We all enjoyed a Zodiac landing in Recherchefjord the next day, I opted for the long walk and thoroughly enjoyed it. We were able to see some of the flowers that we had been advised about the day before in the lecture. The terrain was very spongy underfoot but still quite rocky. We saw several varieties of birds such as king eiders, guillemots, purple sandpipers and kittiwakes.
Being able to wake up with the ship stationary and surrounded by ice was so peaceful and tranquil. Everyone was on polar bear watch and eager to find this magnificent animal.
We were all incredibly excited when we were informed that they were going to allow us to walk on the ocean. It was something I don’t think I’ll ever be able to explain as the feeling when you step on the ice sheet was overwhelming. The land where the polar bears roam was right under my feet, and being able to walk where they call home was an experience I will never forget.
Much to our surprise, we then saw a pod of about 40-50 Beluga whales, it was unbelievable, the whales were too far to photograph to get a clear image of these beautiful animals, but the sight was magnificent.
We then had our daily recap, and they gave us some further information about Beluga whales.
After dinner we then went to enjoy our evening…but then we heard ‘Ding Ding Starboard Side!’ – there was a buzz in the air as we ran to any viewing platform we could find and grabbing the binoculars and cameras for our first glimpse of the one thing we had all been searching for… the polar bear! It was a mesmerising moment seeing how gracefully this beautiful animal walked along the shore one through the water and onto the sheet ice whilst it stalked the seals it had hoped to catch. We were all in awe of its beauty and watched this magnificent polar bear until the early hours of the morning.
Watching a polar bear walking along the ridge, before entering the water and swimming in front of us - what an amazing experience! Walking out onto a floating ice sheet where polar bears roam was another experience I will treasure for the rest of my life. The childlike excitement from the passengers as they’re making snow angels in the ice was just magical. Each day is different to the next, and every moment is more surreal and spectacular than you could ever imagine. We also enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around Yoldiabukta Bay.
We had an unbelievable time, admiring the pointed mountain backdrops and tidewater glaciers. We were in awe of the amazing walrus we were able to see as they really are huge! It was incredible how close we were able to get to these amazing animals.
We were also taken to a beautiful landing spot where we were able to see many of the Arctic birds – kittiwakes, Brünnich’s guillemot and northern fulmars. It was stunning! We were even lucky enough to see some puffins!
Whether it’s diving into the Arctic waters for the polar plunge or the moment you set eyes on a polar bear, every traveller takes away something truly special from an Arctic Expedition. My advice is to throw yourself into it and grab hold of every opportunity - it is a once in a lifetime experience, so savour every moment!
Specialist Travel Concierge
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
My entire trip to Antarctica was just incredible - an absolute dream come true. The pictures do not do it justice, and it is a place one must experience and see first hand to understand the continent's beauty. I sailed with Silversea and the ship was incredibly luxurious, the food was exceptional and with a small ship, the service is unbeatable. It was a once in a lifetime adventure!
My favourite experiences were kayaking and seeing the whales whilst out on a zodiac cruise. I also loved sitting on my balcony, sailing past the icebergs and watching the penguins, which was such a surreal moment.
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
My expedition around the British Isles was an incredible experience. It was wonderful to enjoy the adventure whilst still experiencing the luxury of Seabourn. I'm going into my 15th year working in the travel industry and this was the best trip I've ever done.
The welcome/safety meeting onboard is where we first met the crew. There are 19 Expedition Team Members on board, ranging from academics, scientists and naturalists. Their knowledge, passion and enthusiasm really showed throughout the whole cruise, the tours and the lectures. You can tell they are genuinely excited to be there.
We spotted plenty of puffins and seals while exploring the Isle of Man and Isles of Scilly on zodiac excursions, led by members of the expedition team. They were always on hand to share their knowledge and expertise so we could learn more about the incredible creatures we were seeing. We had Luciano Bernacchi, the Expedition Leader, guiding our zodiac excursion. We sailed around the coast of the Calf of Man, taking our Swarovski binoculars (which are available to all guests) to spot the variety of different wildlife.
There are 24 zodiacs on board, varying in size. I was surprised by how sturdy they are on the water, even at speed. The guide gauges how fast you want to go, either a leisurely ride or a full-on jet ride as they’re taking you to and from the shore.
The onboard experience was phenomenal; exquisite dining and expedition talks really do bring the day’s activities and excursions to life. The relaxed ambience on board provided the perfect respite from a busy day of exploring. Expedition cruising with Seabourn truly combines the best of exploration and ultra-luxury cruising.
One of the notable differences with an Expedition cruise is that the schedule is fluid, plans can and do change depending on sightings, the weather and many other factors - safety will always come first. Seabourn talked about one of their Expedition cruises where the captain stopped the ship at 1am as there was a polar bear right beside them, and guests were woken up to take pictures!
The Seabourn Venture ship itself has a very different feel compared to ocean ships; you really feel like you're staying in a luxury ski lodge. There were only 160 guests on board, with maximum capacity of the ship holding 264 passengers. There are no formal nights and the dress code is much more relaxed. There are two main restaurants on board: the Colonnade, for more relaxed dining and The Restaurant, which is perfect if you want something a little more formal. We had breakfast delivered to the suite and dined on the veranda several times.
All in all, we had a fantastic trip. It really helped me get an even better understanding of the product and just how special the expedition cruises are. I cannot wait for my next one!
If you have been looking into expedition cruising, enjoy a bit of adventure, or would like some more information, I would be happy to speak with you in more detail about the operations behind the expeditions and how it all works on board.
My favourite moment has to be using the zodiacs and getting up close and personal to the all the wildlife! It was incredible to enjoy the adventure whilst experiencing the luxury of Seabourn.
Seabourn have Parka jackets, designed exclusively for them by Helly Hansen. We ordered our Seabourn Expedition Parkas six days before travelling, which I'd recommend, as they were then waiting for us in the suite when we embarked. Mine was a little on the large side, however, and this was easy to change at the Parka Exchange the following day. The parka is multi-layered and perfect for zodiac tours.
Senior Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
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