Seabourn gave the first glimpse of select public spaces onboard the line's 2 new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition vessels scheduled to launch in June 2021 and May 2022.
Due to the work of renowned designer Adam D. Tihany, the Atrium, Discovery Center, Expedition Lounge, and Landing Zone are masterfully designed spots that are expected to act as the communal hub aboard Seabourn Venture and an yet-to-be-named sistership (2022).
The Discovery Center, Landing Zone, and Expedition Lounge are new spaces for the cruise line that will be fundamental in creating a sense of adventure for expedition cruisers onboard amidst an environment of exceptional service. Each of the new spots aims to capture the romanticism of early explorers along with the thrill of discovery with materials and details that are very tactile and capture the sense of ruggedness which comes with expedition travel. Tihany is also creating all guest areas on the two newbuilds.
Details on each of the new spaces include:
- The Atrium is the focal point on all ships of Seabourn with its stylish winding staircase. On the expedition ships, this skylit space continues the metal and wood detailing present throughout the cruise ship with details like rhythmically placed ropework in place of traditional spindles and topography-inspired wall treatment. An art display is suspended at the Atrium's centre emulating wind measuring instruments.
- The Discovery Center is adjacent to the Expedition Lounge on Deck 4 and acts as the teaching and academic centre for cultural programming and natural history in an environment that is spacious enough to accommodate all passengers at one time. The venue hosts briefings, lectures, and Seabourn Conversations enrichment programming. The 26-person expedition team of scientists, historians, naturalists, and wilderness experts deliver insightful lectures on a variety of topics related to the region where passengers are sailing. The Discovery Center features topography maps, plush custom seating, high-definition screens (2.5 m high by 10 m wide) showing various programming to create excitement for each destination. The Discovery Center will also feature footage from daily submarine voyages.
- The Expedition Lounge is the heart of the cruise ship and the gathering spot for all passengers who are invited to relax with a glass of fine wine or complimentary cocktail from the bar as they share stories and photos with their fellow travellers. The lounge features custom furniture designed in warm, natural materials for an inviting atmosphere. There is also an etched glass partition displaying an Antarctica vintage map and vitrines showcasing a range of devices and tools of the trade. A pair of large touchscreens display information including navigational charts, weather charts, photos, and maps.
- The two Landing Zones (Port and Starboard) are the launch and recovery point for landings, both located on Deck 3 and a generous 60 m2 (646 ft2) in size. The Landing Zone, commonly popular as a mudroom, has been specifically designed for extreme accessibility and functionality with durable materials and optimum location on the vessel to allow passengers direct access to the 24 Zodiacs for off-ship adventures. The Landing Zones will also be used for snorkelling and similar activities in tropical areas, with storage space for masks and fins.