Still in a Class by Itself
Sponsored Content: Seabourn pioneered ultra-luxury cruising, and continues to drive its evolution
When U.S. Ambassador and actor Shirley Temple Black smashed a champagne bottle on Seabourn Pride in December of 1988, she simultaneously launched a new paradigm of ultra-luxury cruise travel. One veteran critic summed up the revolution by stating simply: “Seabourn is in a class by itself.”
Seabourn’s president, Warren S. Titus, had developed strong relationships in the global travel agency community during his tenure at Royal Viking Line. He insisted that Seabourn be a reliable advocate for travel advisors. He listened when advisors recommended a first-class product for those who value the finer things in life. He heeded suggestions that sincere, intuitive service is a crucial metric of luxury. And he agreed that clients would pay for the club-like climate of an all-inclusive beverage policy.
Seabourn’s trio of intimate, all-suite sister-ships consistently won top rankings in guidebook ratings and readers’ polls — as well as the hearts of the most discerning clientele. Travel advisors quickly learned that selling a Seabourn vacation led to frequent repeat bookings. Seabourn initiated a 5% onboard booking savings, sent confirmations when their clients used it and always protected commissions. Seabourn remains a trusted global travel advisor partner today. Its professional field teams are experienced and passionate, and go above and beyond in their day-to-day support.
The introduction of Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest set newbenchmarks for what an ultra-luxury ship should be and garnered even more awards for ship design, onboard product innovation and professional marketing and sales support programs.
Seabourn continues to elevate its onboard product by forging prestigious partnerships with other innovators, including UNESCO World Heritage; Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller; integrative medicine pioneer Dr. Andrew Weil; luxury hospitality icon Adam D. Tihany; and Broadway and West End lyricist Sir Tim Rice.
Today, Seabourn’s five ships constitute the finest, most modern and consistent ultra-luxury resorts at sea. Seabourn is a leader in destination innovation, offering travelers curated voyages to the most desirable destinations on all seven continents, including must-see cities and hidden gems other ships cannot visit.
In 2013, Seabourn began operating voyages in Antarctica, with a veteran Expedition Team and Zodiacs to offer immersive expedition experiences, supported by uncompromising ultra-luxury amenities. The Ventures by Seabourn program expanded these active experiences to other sailing regions. In 2021, Seabourn Venture, the first of two intimate, purpose-built expedition ships will carry luxury-loving adventurers to the most coveted, remote destinations on Earth in signature Seabourn style. Each ship will be equipped with a world-class Expedition Team, Zodiacs, kayaks, aquatic toys and a pair of high-tech expedition submersibles for extended undersea exploration.
The company has also expanded its support of professional travel advisors with a new updated Seabourn Academy online educational curriculum, presenting the accumulated advice, tips and techniques garnered from the world’s most successful luxury travel sellers and offering travel agents an educational window into why Seabourn continues to be in a class by itself.
