According to a press release issued today, Seabourn has unveiled the top 10 expedition experiences in the South Pacific during the 2024 and 2025 seasons on board Seabourn Pursuit. The line’s new purpose-built expedition ship will visit some of the least-traveled islands and atolls in the world, with itineraries designed with no two experiences alike. The voyages will offer a number of unique experiences, including exploring unspoiled coral reefs with diverse fish populations, discovering relics of World War II action in the Pacific Theater and immersing in fascinating local communities that openly share their traditions and culture.
“The South Pacific is a destination that offers the most incredible cultural encounters with indigenous communities whose ancestors explored and settled the previously untamed Pacific Ocean. Guests will be invited to witness traditional fire dances and visit local villages steeped in ancient traditions, while appreciating the natural history and beauty that is found nowhere else on the planet,” said Robin West, Seabourn’s vice president and general manager of expeditions. “These unique voyages will provide our guests with countless ‘Seabourn Moments,’ bringing them closer to the marvels of the world and the rich tapestry of human culture. And, of course, we will deliver these experiences in Seabourn’s signature personalized service and ultra-luxury elegance.”
Seabourn will offer included expedition experiences at every island visited, from Zodiac cruising along isolated coastlines, to snorkeling or SCUBA diving among untouched coral reefs, to cultural interactions and performances by local communities, and hiking to explore the subtropical climate and endemic birdlife of the islands and more. In addition, there will be optional expeditions and excursions available such as submarine dives and kayaking tours in the waters surrounding the numerous islands.
Seabourn’s top 10 South Pacific experiences include the following:
1) Visit some of the most remote and fascinating locations on the planet including two islands in the remote Juan Fernandez Archipelago: Alejandro Selkirk and Robinson Crusoe. Go by Zodiac to explore the dramatic and rocky coastlines and search for wildlife such as pink‐footed shearwaters and the Juan Fernandez fur seal. Stop at three islands in the Pitcairn group – only one of which is inhabited. Dive and snorkel over incredible intact coral reefs, look for endemic fruit doves, and meet the islanders who are direct descendants of the mutineers from The Bounty. Experience Easter Island, the easternmost reach of the Polynesian settlers and its distinctive lore and iconography. Travel inland to see the quarry where volcanic rock was dug out and carved into gigantic moai heads. See the remains of several volcanoes and learn about the Birdman Cult.
2) Snorkel among some of the more pristine coral reefs in the world at the incredibly remote Ducie Island, spend three days in world-renowned Raja Ampat, and visit the tiny, numerous atolls of Micronesia. Or dive deeper into these regions by signing up for an optional submarine experience or be a part of the select SCUBA Pass program to explore the reefs and their colorful occupants through a more intimate and fascinating perspective.
3) Be invited to witness the otherworldly Baining Fire Dance ritual under the jungle moon of Papua New Guinea, outside of Rabaul on the island of New Britain. Situated under an active volcano, the city is surrounded by volcanic ash. An included Seabourn shore excursion offers the chance to stay through the evening to experience the sacred fire dance.
4) Visit the mysterious and stunning Sawa-I-Lau Caves in the Yasawa Islands of Fiji. Walk a short distance through the jungle to visit the limestone mountain, which is host to beautiful, crystal blue lagoons.
5) Take the Zodiacs up the Sepik River to Kopar Village to encounter the people of East Sepik and observe their elaborate dances, mask-making, and life in remote Papua New Guinea.
6) Come ashore at Kitava Island to learn from the Trobriand people about their unique culture amongst the people of Milne Bay Province, including the kula ring, an important trading route of necklaces and shells amongst different island groups throughout the province.
7) Arrive at Bakawari Island in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea. See a traditional Sing-Sing dance and song presentation by the local people and browse the incredible wood and fiber handicrafts produced for our visit.
8) See the enigmatic archaeological site of Nan Madol on the island of Pohnpei. Explore its artificial islands and canals, created by large blocks of basalt. The included excursion drives around the edge of Pohnpei, the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia.
9) Take a Zodiac through the Asewet River delta of West Papua, Indonesia to a village of the Asmat people. Steeped in traditions that are still practiced today, the Asmat embraced their origins as a warrior culture, with incredible woodworking, and life in one of the most remote coastal regions on earth.
10) Stand on the deck of Seabourn Pursuit as it sails into Chuuk Atoll, formerly known as Truk. Once inside, dive or snorkel the incredibly preserved remains of the Japanese naval fleet dating back to World War II.
In March, April, September, and October 2024, Seabourn Pursuit will navigate the South Pacific islands through voyages lasting 14, 17, and 20 days, with combined voyages of up to 37 days. Additionally, 15-day voyages to Papua New Guinea and West Papua, Indonesia are scheduled for May, June, August, and September 2024, offering combination options of up to 35 days. These voyages promise unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences at protected reefs surrounding Papua New Guinea and West Papua.
In 2025, Seabourn Pursuit will embark on four voyages: two 20-day journeys departing on March 18, 2025, from San Antonio, Chile, to Papeete, Tahiti, and on October 10, 2025, from Papeete to San Antonio; an 18-day voyage from Papeete to Sydney starting on April 7, 2025; and a 16-day expedition to the Remote Shores of New Guinea & Indonesia, commencing on April 24, 2025, from Sydney to Darwin.
Seabourn Pursuit offers the same luxurious small ship experience that travelers have come to expect from Seabourn, enhanced by world-class equipment that allows the line to offer its widest range of expedition activities led by an expert 24-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more. Designed and built for remote, diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards, the ship includes a plethora of modern hardware and technology that extends the ship’s global deployment and capabilities. There is close to 30,000 square feet of deck space and special touches at every turn, as well as indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views. In addition, a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera is mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge and capable of broadcasting imagery from miles ahead on monitors located throughout the ship and in guest suites.
The ship is also equipped with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink, providing its expedition guests with faster service, greater connectivity and more reliable Wi-Fi wherever Starlink’s services are available.
