Engage your sense of adventure with Seabourn

I have just returned from an amazing few days on-board Seabourn Venture, Seabourn’s expedition ship which launched in winter 2022. Equipped to take passengers to some of the most remote regions in the world to channel their inner explorer and all the amenities and hallmarks of ultra-luxury guests have come to expect from the Seabourn experience, this beautiful ship was a wonderful place to call home for a few days whilst cruising along the British Isles. Having embarked on the ship late in the afternoon we settled into our Veranda Suites and prepared for sail-away drinks in The Club, followed by dinner in The Colonnade which offers a daily changing menu each evening and offers buffet breakfast and dinner.

Day 1- At Sea

After embarking in Greenwich, London we cruised along the Thames and our first day onboard was spent at sea. This provided an opportunity to see all the ship has to offer, from the elegant décor that’s reminiscent of a country club to the stunning views from the Patio infinity pools.

We were offered a guided tour of the ship by Subpilot Isaac Blanquez to see how this ship differs from ocean cruising and is prepared for expeditions, featuring two submarines onboard which allow guests on expedition voyages to get closer to the fascinating creatures in the regions they visit they provide 360-degree views it allows for a more immersive experience. With zodiac tours and kayaks available for guests to explore regions in-depth and come closer to nature, it was easy to see that this ship combines the best of ultra-luxury and expedition cruising.

Our tour of the ship ended at the bow of the ship which offers unparalleled views, it was easy to imagine the thrill of seeing the White Continent completely unobstructed for a deeper connection to a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Following our ship tour, we were introduced to some of the 24 expedition experts onboard, including Expedition Leader Luciano (Luqui) Bernacchi, who walked us through some of the expedition itineraries and experiences guests can expect to enjoy. In the evening we dined in The Restaurant, enjoying carefully selected wines and a menu that offers a daily changing offering as well as classics that are always enjoyed. After indulging in a decadent three-course meal, we rounded off the evening with a nightcap in The Club on deck 9 with the resident guitarist and singer crooning acoustic versions of popular music from the last four decades.

Day 2- Isles of Scilly

It was an early start as we approached the Isles of Scilly, although the skies were grey and overcast, we were well-equipped thanks to Seabourn providing each guest with an expedition parka. Designed for the varying weather across the expedition locations, it provided the perfect amount of rain protection and insulation to protect against the British cool breeze.

We took a zodiac from the ship to Tresco, where we explored the beautiful botanical gardens and familiarised ourselves with the local history. After a gentle morning of visiting this off-the-beaten-path island, we rejoined the ship ready to continue our British Isles voyage.

As we continued sailing the weather improved exponentially and the afternoon was spent enjoying views from the Patio on deck 6 and we took advantage of the hot tub at the aft of the ship. The ship offers so much space to relax onboard, with the Discovery Lounge providing a cosy spot that’s perfect for a bit of reading before going into the Discovery Centre for a seminar on the destinations you’ll be visiting next.

Day 3- Calf of Man & Isle of Man

Another early start as we arrived at the Calf of Man ready for a zodiac tour with expedition leader Luqui. This tour provided some truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences, we were able to get up close to puffins, see jellyfish and seals and gained a true appreciation for the wildlife we have on our doorstep.

As we continued our tour, the conditions began to change and we were efficiently returned to the ship after an hour and a half of touring the Calf of Man. With the sun beating down on us but the cold air coming off the waters giving a chilly spring day feel, we went to Seabourn Square on Deck 6 and enjoyed a hot coffee to bring some warmth back into our fingers and toes. This relaxing space offers a plethora of books and beautiful views for a tranquil afternoon.

After lunch, we sailed out to the Isle of Man, port of Douglas, where we took a zodiac to shore and enjoyed a walking tour of the area. Once again, the British weather favoured us as the afternoon progressed the temperatures kept climbing.

After a day of exploring and channelling our inner adventurers, we spent the evening enjoying a relaxing dinner in The Restaurant, acutely aware that this was our last night onboard. We reviewed our photos of the puffins and seals, amazed by how close we were able to get to these creatures we wouldn’t encounter every day. This sailing provided a flavour of expedition cruising, with seminars onboard including photography workshops and anthropology as the sailing continued to the land of the Vikings, it really does combine the best of being educational, immersive and luxurious.

I think the next time I join Seabourn Venture, it will be on an expedition in the polar regions.

See all available Seabourn Venture itineraries