The luxury cruise liner Seabourn Sojourn has officially marked 15 years of exceptional service across the globe, sailing through some of the world’s most iconic destinations, including the majestic fjords of Norway, the rugged coastlines of Scotland, and the pristine waters of New Zealand. As it approaches retirement in 2026, Seabourn Sojourn leaves behind a legacy of ultra-luxury travel and unforgettable exploration.
Commissioned on May 28, 2010, and launched with grandeur on June 4, 2010, the ship was christened on the River Thames by British supermodel Twiggy, setting the tone for a legacy steeped in style, elegance, and social purpose. Before embarking on its maiden voyage, the Sojourn hosted a gala event benefiting the UK-based charity Breast Cancer Haven, demonstrating Seabourn’s early commitment to social impact alongside world-class hospitality.
Departing Greenwich, London on June 5, 2010, the Sojourn’s first itinerary was a spectacular 14-night cruise exploring Northern Europe with stops in Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Scotland, and the Netherlands. This debut season was a glimpse into the brand’s commitment to intimacy, curated luxury, and destination immersion.
Built at the T. Mariotti shipyard in Genoa, Italy, the Seabourn Sojourn became the second of Seabourn’s Odyssey-class vessels, following Seabourn Odyssey and preceding Seabourn Quest. The 198-suite ship set new benchmarks in comfort and service, with personalized attention, open-bar luxury, and all-inclusive pricing that redefined small-ship cruising.
During its 2010 inaugural season, the Sojourn expanded its itinerary to the Baltics, Russia, and Scandinavia, operating 12- to 14-night luxury voyages that became hallmarks of the Seabourn experience. From the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg to the UNESCO sites of Iceland’s Golden Circle, each journey offered culturally rich and deeply immersive shore experiences.
In autumn 2010, the Sojourn transitioned to the Mediterranean, sailing to destinations such as Monte Carlo, Santorini, and Barcelona. The ship’s versatility allowed it to seamlessly adapt from Arctic explorations to sun-kissed southern European escapades.
A major milestone came in January 2011 when Seabourn Sojourn embarked on its first World Cruise—a 111-day voyage that departed Los Angeles and visited more than 40 ports, including destinations across the South Pacific, Australia, Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East, and Europe, concluding in London. It was an ambitious itinerary that cemented the Sojourn’s status among the most refined global cruise ships in the luxury segment.
Since then, the ship has hosted multiple grand voyages, becoming a favorite among luxury travelers seeking culturally enriching, boutique-style travel with all the comfort of a five-star floating hotel. Passengers have sailed to remote Polynesian islands, navigated the iconic Norwegian fjords, and sipped champagne under the Southern Cross in Australian waters.
In a significant fleet update, Seabourn recently announced that the Seabourn Sojourn will leave its fleet in 2026, following the sale of the vessel to Japan-based Mitsui Ocean Cruises, the luxury arm of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. This transition follows the earlier sale of Seabourn Odyssey, now renamed Mitsui Ocean Fuji, signaling Mitsui’s ambitions to lead Japan’s ultra-luxury cruise segment.
Before its final handover, the Sojourn will embark on a farewell world cruise, departing Los Angeles on January 6, 2026. This final grand voyage will offer one last opportunity for loyal Seabourn guests to sail aboard the celebrated ship, visiting a curated selection of Seabourn’s most iconic ports. The journey promises to be a nostalgic send-off featuring signature onboard experiences, commemorative events, and global exploration at its finest.
For Mitsui Ocean Cruises, acquiring the Sojourn is a strategic move to cater to Japan’s growing appetite for luxury international travel, especially among affluent retirees and well-traveled consumers. The vessel is expected to be refitted to reflect Mitsui’s Japanese hospitality ethos while retaining the ship’s core architectural elegance.
As Seabourn Sojourn prepares to pass the torch, its influence continues to ripple across the cruise industry. The ship’s dedication to immersive itineraries, warm hospitality, and all-inclusive excellence reshaped expectations of small-ship cruising. Its contributions have been acknowledged by global awards and consistent guest satisfaction ratings.
Seabourn, part of the Carnival Corporation, has since expanded its offerings with new expedition-class ships, including the Seabourn Venture, geared toward polar exploration. While the departure of the Sojourn signals a fleet transition, the company remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of luxury travel for discerning global travelers.
For former guests and fans, the Sojourn’s farewell cruise is more than a final itinerary—it is a celebration of memories crafted across oceans, cities, and cultures. With its distinctive blend of intimate elegance and global adventure, the Sojourn’s story stands as a lasting chapter in the evolution of modern luxury cruising.
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