Seabourn Venture was named in fast ice in the Weddell Sea
Seabourn Venture, the line’s first purpose-built expedition ship, was named during its inaugural Antarctica cruise on Sunday in the Weddell Sea.
With Venture paused in fast ice under blue sky, Seabourn passengers served as honorary godparents with godmother Alison Levine, global adventurer, mountaineer and polar explorer, carrying out her ceremonial duties virtually.
‘Bottle’ of ice
The onboard team released a ‘bottle’ made of ice that smashed against the hull.
Following the ceremony,Robin West,Seabourn’s VP expedition operations, spoke about the Seabourn brand’s expedition legacy, while Seabourn Venture expedition leaderLuciano Bernacchi praisedCapt. Stig Bettenfor finding the perfect location for the event.
‘We’ve eagerly awaitedSeabourn Venture’smaiden voyage to Antarctica since the moment the ship debuted earlier this year,’ Seabourn President Josh Leibowitz said. ‘The extraordinary continent encapsulates exactly what we hope to bring to guests who sail aboard our new ship: adventure, discovery and awe-inspiring wonder.’
The ship departed San Antonio, Chile, Nov. 7 and saileddown the scenic coast with itsfjords and glaciersbefore reaching the White Continent.
Hikes and Zodiac explorations were led by a 26-member expedition team of wildlife experts, scientists, historians and naturalists. Passengers also had the opportunity to kayak or to dive in Seabourn’s expedition submarines.
Future itineraries
Through February, Seabourn Venture will sail on 11- to 22-day voyages to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. In March and April the ship will embark on seven- to 12-day expedition voyages in Brazil and the Amazon.
Starting in May the ship will offer two new itineraries encompassing the British Isles and Iceland. Between June and August, Seabourn Venture will explore the Arctic with a series of 14- and 15-day /Iceland voyages.
On Aug. 27, 2023, the ship will embark on a 23-day journey across the Northwest Passage.
