Seabourn unveils newbuild details

**Ally** · 05-31-2007, 04:12 AM

More dining options, more types of suites, more verandahs and enhanced spa and recreational facilities characterize Seabourn Cruise Line’s next-generation ship.

The first steel plates have been cut for the vessel, to be built at T. Mariotti. The $250m ship is scheduled to enter service in mid-June 2009.

Designers Yran & Storbraaten have mirrored the silhouette of the existing Seabourn yachts, which they also designed, while adding facilities and amenities. Past cruisers will notice a familiar general arrangement and style of accommodations, Seabourn said.

Three times the size of the original 10,000gt Seabourn trio, the new ship will carry just over twice as many passengers (450), for a hefty 71.1% space ratio.

Seven of the 11 passenger decks will house 225 ocean-view suites, measuring from 277 square feet to more than 1,300 square feet. Approximately 90% of the suites will include verandas of 68 square feet to 344 square feet. Decks 9 and 10 are home to 22 penthouses with 450-square-foot interiors and verandas measuring nearly 100 square feet.

The roomiest accommodations will be five Owners Suites that measure more than 700 square feet (including veranda) and four, two-bedroom Grand Suites of more than 1,300 square feet. All suites will offer granite bathrooms with separate tub and shower, twin sinks and a glass vanity.

There will be four dining venues: The Restaurant, a gourmet, open-seating dining room; Veranda Café, a casual spot serving regional specialties, with indoor/outdoor seating; Restaurant 2, a specialty venue featuring tasting menus; and Patio Grill for pizza and grilled items poolside.

The six lounges and bars include the Grand Salon, the main showroom and home to Seabourn’s dance band; The Club, with indoor/outdoor seating and music by a pianist, duo or trio; the Sky Bar, a popular venue on the existing Seabourn yachts; the Patio Bar for live, al fresco entertainment; and the Coffee Bar. The ship’s forward-facing observation lounge is located atop the bridge.

Seabourn Square will form the heart of the ship as home to the purser’s and tour desks, Internet center, library and three duty-free shops. The Marina, a familiar feature on the original ships, will offer water sports from a fold-down teak platform. High on Deck 11, stepped terraces will offer large sun beds.

The Spa at Seabourn will feature a thalasso whirlpool as its focal point, plus Finnish saunas, aromatic steam rooms, separate gym and aerobics areas and two outdoor decks for exclusive use by spa guests. There will be swimming pools on Decks 8 and 5 plus a total of seven whirlpools.