Seabourn Encore Construction Begins With Steel Cutting

Small ship luxury cruise line Seabourn is one step closer to the December 2016 launch of its newest vessel, Seabourn Encore, with the commemorative cutting of the first steel (pictured here) that took place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy on Monday.

"The cutting of steel for Seabourn Encore is an important milestone in the evolution of both our beautiful fleet and the ultra-luxury cruise segment overall," said Seabourn President Richard Meadows. "We're looking forward to seeing the ship come together and are excited to continue to add to our fleet. With Adam D. Tihany's innovative design vision and Fincantieri's excellent craftsmanship, Seabourn Encore will be the most beautiful ultra-luxury ship ever built."

In a special nod to the line's departing original fleet, joining the ceremony were two crew members from Seabourn Legend, the last of the three original Seabourn sister-ships currently on its final sailing under the Seabourn banner. Their presence signified the closing of a chapter in the line's history, while marking the start of a new era with the beginning of the construction of Seabourn Encore.

Seabourn Encore will expand and build on the line's highly acclaimed Odyssey-class ships, which introduced enhanced accommodations and innovative amenities when they debuted between 2009 and 2011. Seabourn Encore will maintain the line's high ratio of space per guest, enabling a personalized level of Seabourn service. A sister ship, Seabourn Ovation, will join the fleet in 2018, and, with the addition of the two new ships, Seabourn will have the youngest and most modern ultra-luxury fleet in the industry.

Designed by hospitality design icon Adam D. Tihany, Seabourn Encore will feature modern design elements consistent with the line's reputation for understated elegance. The 40,350-GRT ship will be configured with one additional deck and new expanded public areas, and is expected to carry just 600 guests, based on double occupancy. In addition, every suite will feature a private veranda.

To follow the progress of Seabourn Encore, visit the ship's dedicated microsite at encore.seabourn.com. Filled with imagery, details and updates on the ship's progress, including "sunsets until launch," the microsite offers an inside look at the most exciting Seabourn launch in years. Additional details, news and images will be revealed on the site on an ongoing basis.

Image Courtesy of Seabourn