IT’S YACHTING, NOT CRUISING - WHAT A DIFFERENCE!
Travelers have been exploring the world by sea since the beginning of time. But what keeps them coming back when flight, rail, and cars have changed the travel game? Some go for the ease of unpacking once and experiencing more of a destination on a limited time frame. This is especially appealing to anyone who prefers to avoid the hassle of navigating traffic, snaking through airport security, and rushing off to catch a train. Many say traveling by sea feels more like vacation, letting a destination unfold gently, rather than meeting a busy daily schedule like the one you left at home. For my husband and me, a voyage on SeaDream through the southern reaches of the Caribbean was the most relaxing vacation ever.
THERE IS SOMETHING IN THE WATER
Traveling by yacht is simple and romantic. There is a natural, unhurried rhythm to each day that starts with waking up in a new destination and the promise of discovery. On SeaDream, uncrowded and unrushed by design, the pace is relaxed and the doting crew is always on hand to ensure your every need is met. The beautifully refurbished staterooms are made up twice daily leaving you without a single chore but to dress yourself and decide whether to do anything at all. By nightfall, the gentle movement of the boat on the water lulls you to sleep like a baby in a cradle. The cadence at sea is mesmerizing!
THE SEADREAM DIFFERENCE
SeaDream is a family company, conceived and owned by the founder and former CEO of Seabourn, a renowned luxury cruise line. Launched in 2001, there are two boutique vessels, each with a maximum capacity of just over 100 guests and a staff of 96. The guest to crew ratio is what ensures impeccable service and close attention to detail for the most personalized and pampered holiday at sea. All guest rooms are ocean view; meals are made to order anywhere you like around the clock; the spa therapists, waitstaff, and bartenders make a point to know you from the first day; and the boats visit the most intimate harbors and yachting playgrounds that cruise ships cannot reach. Guests who travel with SeaDream know they have found something special and the atmosphere onboard is clubby and social. By the end of the journey, new friendships have flourished and guests are eagerly making plans to meet again. If you know, you know!
SeaDream offers a boutique luxury experience. Fares are inclusive of all food and beverage as well as staff gratuities. There is an extensive menu of regional cuisine that changes daily and includes a full array of vegetarian and vegan options that will satisfy any wellness guru or foodie. Meals are offered with table service rather than a buffet line so guests can enjoy conversation and drinks while their selections are prepared and delivered. Need to go off-menu? The waitstaff and kitchen are ready to please.
Tips from the pros
Due to the intimate size of the yachts and the annual accolades from travelers and industry insiders, it is essential to plan ahead. You might get lucky and slip in on a cancellation but most SeaDreamers book well in advance. On our recent trip in early 2024, the itineraries for 2025 were nearly full and guests were eagerly locking in space for 2026. The good news is that booking far in advance ensures the lowest possible fare. Unlike the cruise lines with many more rooms to fill, SeaDream yachts fill quickly and pricing rises as space becomes more scarce. This is unique to SeaDream and exactly why guests are so eager to book their next trip directly from the boat, the only time when discounts on published fares are offered. With SeaDream, it is the early bird (and the repeat guest) that gets the worm!