Moroccan scholar Ibn Battuta said: “Travelling leaves you speechless, then turns you into a story teller.”

This was how Seabourn President Richard Meadows described how well-heeled guests would feel when they cruise on the ultra-luxury expedition ship, Seabourn Venture.

The latest expedition vessel launches on the chilly waters of Arctic and Antarctica in mid-2021, and his prediction is that guests will be bowled over by the super-luxurious decor, the expansive suites, the custom-made fittings by celebrated interior designer Adam Tihany and the sheer spaciousness of the ship.

And there will be two custom-built, six-passenger submarines for greater ocean exploration.

“Seabourn Venture is going to create lifetime memories for the adventurer that wants to go further, into more remote destinations than they may have ever seen before, in true Seabourn ultra-luxury,’’ Mr Meadows said at a media launch last week.

Mr Tihany was the creative vision behind the Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation interiors. He also designed interiors for The Grill by Thomas Keller restaurant on Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest.

The polar-class Seabourn Venture which is currently being built at the cost of US$225 million, will have 24 zodiacs, 132 ocean-fronting, verandah suites to cater for 264 passengers. Each itinerary will be accompanied by 26 experts who will bring the expedition experience to life.

What sets the line apart will be the spacious, well appointed suites, all ocean-front, superb dining with a choice of venues, complimentary premium spirits, fine wines and a relaxed sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home. Passengers can dine where, when and with whom they wish.

She will have a spa and wellness centre by Dr Andrew Weil and an open-bridge policy so that passengers can pop in at anytime to learn about the ship’s navigation.
Seabourn Venture will be joined by sister ship – yet-to-be-named – another expedition vessel to be unveiled in 2022.

The Venture will have an Expedition Lounge which will operate as the heart of the ship where guests can relax with a glass of champagne as they share their stories and photos from the day’s expedition. The lounge will have bespoke furniture with no sharp edges, as everything Tihany designs will have curved lines.

There will also be a Discovery Centre which will function as a briefing and academic venue for all 264 guests to learn about culture and history of the destinations and excursions.

There will be two 60-sq m landing zones commonly known as “mud rooms” for passengers to board the zodiacs.

The Atrium will be focal point which will have an elegant winding staircase, the sky lit space will have a central art piece.

“We are an all-inclusive line and all suites come with a personal stewardess, fabulous beds, fine cotton sheets, a walk-in wardrobe, marble bath with double sinks and an-suite bar stocked with beverages of the passengers’ choice.

“The premium suite includes complimentary private car transfer and internet and a comprehensive bar. The top suite, the Grand Wintergarden suite will have two-levels with a sculptured staircase and a second guest bedroom on the lower level.

“The master bedroom comes with a spa bath, Bang & Olufsen headphones and sound system and an adjustable bed. The in-suite bar and butler’s pantry will be stocked with Shackleton Malt Whisky and other premium beverages,” Mr Meadows said.

He said that the new expedition ship will be very attractive to well-travelled local cruisers as Australia is one of the top three markets for the line. The US is number one with Australia and the UK the next two important markets.

“Seabourn Venture is the perfect venue for collecting travel stories,” he added.
To quote Ibn Battuta: “Travelling offers you a hundred roads to adventure and gives your heart wings.”

Prices start from $1400 per person per day for a standard suite.
Details of itineraries will be released soon. Visit www.seabourn.com