Seabourn Cruise Line

The 6-star Seabourn Cruise Line was founded in 1987 to compete in the ultra-luxury cruise market. Carnival Group purchased Seabourn and it became one of the 'world's leading cruise lines'.

The line has ordered three 32,000-ton, 450-passenger vessels to be delivered in 2009, 2010 and 2011, costing $250 million each.

Seabourn market its ships as 'The Yachts of Seabourn' and the ultra-luxury ships do in fact feel like private yachts, or, more aptly, private clubs. The 208-passenger sister ships Seabourn Legend, Seabourn Pride and Seabourn Spirit are nearly identical, and all create an intimate environment where passengers can unwind, enjoy fine cuisine and service, and visit exotic ports around the world.

Seabourn Odyssey, due in June 2009, will be three times larger than its fleet mates yet carry only double the passengers. Beyond that, 90 per cent of all suites on the all-suite ship will have verandahs. Two sister ships, Seabourn Sojourn and the as-yet-unnamed third ship, will launch in summer 2010 and summer 2011.

All suites are well equipped with the latest and greatest amenities, including flat-screen televisions with DVD players, Bose Wave sound systems, designer soaps and champagne. Bar drinks are complimentary and refilled promptly and the dinner service is as fine as at the grand European hotels.

These small ships with a shallow draft of only 16.5 feet can visit ports of call that larger ships cannot. Itineraries include cruises to Asia, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada/New England, Caribbean (Eastern Caribbean, Southern Caribbean, Western Caribbean), British Isles/Western Europe, Northern Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean, Western Mediterranean, Mexican Riviera, Middle East/Africa, Panama Canal, South America, Australia, Trans-Atlantic and U.S.A.