Cruise Ships: Seabourn's Pretty Women

Isn't she lovely? So the song goes... and so it goes for Seabourn's luxurious sister-ships. The three mega-yachts are undergoing multi-million dollar renovations during drydock maintenance periods scheduled between September of 2007 and April of 2008. Renovations--the most extensive since balconies were added to 36 of each ship's suites five years ago--include major overhauls of two of the intimate ships' popular open-air alternative dining venues, which will increase seating capacities and enhance the options for guests to enjoy evening entertainment "Under the Stars."

"As we prepare for the launch of Seabourn Odyssey, we are also investing in the future of our existing fleet," said Pamela C. Conover, Seabourn's president and CEO.

The ships' indoor/outdoor Veranda Cafe, located all the way aft overlooking the wake when the ship is underway, is converted each evening into Restaurant 2, serving innovative tasting menus and themed dinners in a casual setting. The renovation will enlarge the outdoor section, increasing the venue's seating capacity and adding a new awning for enhanced weather protection and a dramatic touch of style. The Sky Bar, overlooking the sun deck and whirlpool spas, is a popular gathering spot at any time and is where Sky Grill dinners are occasionally served. During the renovation, twin staircases leading from the deck below are being replaced with a single stairway, allowing an increase in the deck space adjacent to the Sky Bar. Existing tables are being replaced with more versatile furniture, some of which can be removed to clear the deck space for occasional on-deck entertainment and dancing.

Further features of the renovations include an upgrade of the bedding in all guest suites, new carpets in many public areas, upgrades to the treatment rooms in The Spa at Seabourn, and new furniture in the card rooms and Internet centers.

One change will be immediately visible as guests arrive to embark. The ships' livery is being updated (as it is in the photo above), with the decorative line along the shear of the hull being changed from dark blue to black, and the distinctive shield emblem on the ships' stacks highlighted in gold rather than blue. Seabourn Pride has just completed her makeover in Germany. Seabourn Spirit's turn will be at Singapore in January, 2008 and Seabourn Legend's at Lisbon in April, 2008.

For more cruise industry news--updated as it happens--see Cruise Diva's Cruise News.