Seabourn has kicked off its 2026 Alaska season with the inaugural arrival of the Seabourn Encore in Vancouver, marking the first time this luxury ship has sailed the region.
This addition represents a significant expansion of the company's established Alaska program, built over decades of exploration in Alaska and British Columbia with different ships in the fleet.
Between May and September 2026, the Seabourn Encore will operate a series of seven- to 14-day itineraries between Vancouver and Juneau, sailing through narrow fjords, remote waterways and small coastal communities inaccessible to larger ships.
The 2026 program is designed to offer deeper access to Alaska, combining calls at iconic ports with lesser-known destinations. In addition to visiting places like Juneau and Ketchikan, the ship will explore more remote areas, including Alert Bay, the Inian Islands, and quieter stretches of the Alaskan and Canadian Inside Passage, inaccessible to larger vessels.
All itineraries will include scenic glacier-viewing cruises, one of the region's greatest attractions. Seabourn will also offer more opportunities to visit Glacier Bay National Park than any other luxury cruise line, allowing guests to see multiple glaciers on a single voyage.
“The arrival of the Seabourn Encore in Alaska represents a significant milestone for Seabourn,” said Mark Tamis, president of the company.
“The size and design of the ship make it an ideal choice for this destination, allowing guests to enjoy a much more immersive experience and get closer to the landscapes, wildlife and communities that make Alaska such a fascinating place.”.
The Seabourn Encore's inaugural Alaska season will also feature the cruise line's first regional dining program, with culinary offerings inspired by the destination and designed to reflect Alaska's ingredients, traditions, and essence. New experiences include the Surf & Sear Sailaway, the Alaskan Seafood Boil, Fisherman's Table, and an exclusive Midnight Sun Dinner, as well as specialty cocktails made with Alaskan glacial ice and local spirits.
The season will feature a specialized team of naturalists, historians, and wildlife experts, who will offer onboard lectures and live commentary during scenic sailing to delve into the region's history, ecology, and wildlife.
Passengers can also participate in Ventures by Seabourn, the company's optional expedition excursion program, which includes guided Zodiac boat trips, kayaking, and hiking to explore glaciers, remote coastlines, and wilderness areas. Guests will also receive a complimentary Helly Hansen Polar Shield Parka for added comfort during outdoor activities.
Those who sail through Alaska aboard the Seabourn Encore will enjoy an intimate atmosphere inspired by a private yacht, with spaces designed for relaxation and connection with the environment.
The ship offers accommodation exclusively in suites with private terraces, spacious outdoor decks ideal for observing landscapes, and a high crew-to-passenger ratio that guarantees highly personalized service throughout the voyage.
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