Seabourn Odyssey handed over to Mitsui Ocean Cruises

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines acquired the 2009-built Seabourn Odyssey in March 2023 and it continued to operate for Seabourn under a charter agreement.

That has now ended, and the ship was handed over today following its arrival to the Port of Yokohama from a 22-day farewell voyage that embarked in Seattle.

Mitsui flag raised

In a ceremony, the Mitsui Ocean Cruises flag was raised, and now Seabourn Odyssey will transform into Mitsui Ocean Fuji, scheduled to debut Dec. 1.

The event was attended by Seabourn Odyssey Capt. Krasimir Radev, who handed the ship over to Mitsui Ocean Fuji Capt. Kim Karlsson.

'It has been my honor and privilege to be one of the captains of this beloved cruise ship, and I am humbled to officially hand her over to Mitsui Ocean Cruises, beginning a new journey on the high seas,' said Radev, who started on board as a safety officer for the ship's inaugural 2009 season.

'We'll take great care of her'

Shoichiro Yamashita, chief operations officer, Mitsui Ocean Cruises, added: 'It is my pleasure to be part of this commemorative day with Seabourn Odyssey. We offer our sincerest respect to Seabourn, Capt. Radev and his onboard team for taking such great care of this ship, keeping her safe and extending their renowned luxurious service to all who have sailed on her for the last 15 years, and we promise to continue delivering exceptional seafaring experiences.'

Related:Mitsui Ocean Cruises details inaugural Mitsui Ocean Fuji itineraries

Karlson pledged to 'take great care of her.'

Mitsui employees welcome Seabourn Odyssey PHOTO: MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES

Also attending the event at the Shinko Pier Passenger Terminal were senior executives of Mitsui Ocean Cruises, senior crew members of Mitsui Ocean Fuji and Seabourn Odyssey, and Shinbo Yasuhiro, director general of Yokohama Port and Harbor Bureau.

To Mitsubishi for refurbishment

The vessel will go to Mitsubishi Shipyard in Yokohama for refurbishment, such as the addition of shower toilets in all suites, galley equipment updates and rebranding of venues. Crew training also begins in preparation for the inaugural season.

The 458-passenger, 32,477gt Mitsui Ocean Fuji will operate a series of debut cruises December through January, spring and Golden Week cruises in April-May and a 66-day 'Grand Asia Cruise' May-July.