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Seabourn expedition newbuilds will have long-range capability

Seabourn Zodiac
Shell doors at the waterline will provide for easy Zodiac access
Seabourn eked out a few more details on its expedition newbuilds, which have the ability to sail to far-flung destinations. They'll be able to travel farther north and south than any ship in Carnival Corp. history.

Breakthrough order

Announced last July, the order was a breakthrough for the new partnership between shipbuilders T. Mariotti and Damen, which will collaborate on the construction under the Mariotti Damen Cruise banner.

Designed by luxury and expedition experts

'These ships are being designed from conception for expedition travel blended with ultra-luxury and personalized service by leading travel experts and seasoned professionals with great depth of experience in expedition, hospitality and luxury cruising,' said Robin West, Robin West, VP expedition operations for Seabourn.

The hulls will be constructed to Polar Class 6 standard, making them capable of summer and autumn operation in medium first-year ice in Antarctica and the Arctic. Propulsion will be delivered by Azipods, giving greater maneuverability, complemented by three bow thrusters.

Easy Zodiac access

Other features include shell doors at the waterline so passengers can step directly onto the Zodiacs. Dynamic positioning will be incorporated for increased operational flexibility in sensitive areas.

The 264-passenger ships also will provide an abundance of viewing space, including 2,750-square-meters of open decks. High quality optics will be mounted in various deck areas when conditions permit.

As earlier reported, two submarines, a complement of kayaks and 24 Zodiacs will enable the Ventures by Seabourn expert-led adventures. A 26-person expedition team will accompany each sailing.

More itinerary specifics to come

The first ship is scheduled for delivery in June 2021 and is currently planned to sail the Arctic in late summer 2021, with a full (austral) summer season in Antarctica to follow. Itinerary specifics will be announced this spring.

The second ship is due in May 2022.

Change in shipyard partnership

Given that T. Mariotti and Damen have ended their partnership, while Fincantieri has forged a new cooperation with a holding company including T. Mariotti, it's expected the Seabourn ships will be built under the auspices of Fincantieri-T. Mariotti.