by
2011
Launch Year
2018
Refurbish Year
Small
Cruise Ship Size
458
Passengers
All-inclusive luxury line Seabourn showed it was at the top of its game in 2011 with the debut of the all-suite, 458-guest Seabourn Quest, the youngest of its three knockout Odyssey-class ships, which also includes 2009’s Seabourn Odyssey and 2010’s Seabourn Sojourn. Like its siblings, Seabourn Quest is stylish and modern. It feels as cool as a W Hotel — especially in the living room-like Seabourn Square — and as fancy as a Four Seasons, especially if you make a point of ordering Champagne at every meal.
The Art: Quest and its sister ships are nearly identical triplets, but the youngest sibling has edgier jewelry. Modern art includes sculptures of space-suited astronauts and a “diver” sculpture complete with flippers that passengers call “Aquaman.”
The Pool Options: The main pool area features one pool, two whirlpools, and cushy loungers. Best of all, the cheeseburgers on brioche, miniature grilled cheese sandwiches bathed in butter, and house-made gelato served poolside from The Patio are decadent enough to add to the luxury. And, since this is an "all you can drink" line, you shouldn't be surprised to see some guests ordering rosé with lunch or even Champagne. For a more intimate relaxation space, head aft on deck 5 to The Club, which offers a lounge and bar, plus an outdoor deck featuring a plunge pool and two hot tubs.
Special Orders: Craving a particularly decadent dinner? Ask the maitre d' to pre-order your favorite meals for later nights in the sailing, from soup to salad, entree, and dessert, and you can custom design your menus. This may just be the closest you come to having a private chef.
Bathtubs: All of the suites on board have bathtubs, and your cabin steward can bring you a variety of Molton Brown bubble baths to choose from — all you have to do is ask.
Intuitive Service: It’s like the crew can read your mind. A bartender may, for instance, hand you your favorite dirty martini before you knew you wanted one.
All-Inclusive Rates: Since drinks (and gratuities and Wi-Fi) are included in the fare, this is a great opportunity to experiment with new libations. Not sure if you like port or cognac? Try an after-dinner drink as you scroll through your favorite sports team scores and see what suits you.
Well-Heeled Travelers: These are luxury vessels, and most passengers are wealthy (if low-key) cruisers over 50. The regulars all seem to know each other, and the rest of the cruisers are a fairly homogenous group, regardless of what part of the (largely English-speaking) world from which they hail.
Organized Activities Take a Backseat: Most guests would rather lounge or borrow water toys from the marina than hear a lecture or learn napkin folding. That said, many passengers organize themselves into card games on sea days and can't image missing the trivia hour.
Seabourn Does Not Cater to Families: These are not kid-friendly ships, and the staid atmosphere reflects guests' desires for a quiet, restful experience.
