A Culinary Journey on the Seabourn Encore

The Seabourn Encore, a 690-foot luxury cruise ship, offers an intimate experience with just 300 suites. Recently, passengers embarked on a seven-night journey from Istanbul to Athens, exploring the rich history and culture of the Dodecanese islands. One of the highlights of this trip was a private cooking class at the Hatzikelis fish tavern in Rhodes. Here, guests learned to prepare traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of Xara Xatzikeli, a spirited Greek grandmother. This experience exemplifies the unique offerings that set Seabourn apart in the competitive cruise industry.

A Taste of Greece: Cooking with Xara Xatzikeli

After a morning of exploring the medieval town of Rhodes, guests eagerly gathered for lunch at the Hatzikelis fish tavern. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as Xara Xatzikeli, affectionately known as “yiayia,” began her cooking demonstration. With a mix of flour, egg, zucchini, onion, parsley, and mint, she skillfully crafted kolokythokeftedes, or zucchini fritters. Her infectious laughter and engaging personality made the cooking class a memorable experience.

As she rolled the fritters into perfect orbs, Xara shared the meaning behind the dish’s name, prompting laughter from the group. The joy of cooking together created a sense of camaraderie among the participants. After preparing the fritters, tzatziki, grilled eggplant, and stuffed peppers, the group enjoyed their culinary creations, accompanied by local Athiri wine. The afternoon culminated in a traditional Greek dance, further enhancing the sense of community and celebration. To ensure that guests could recreate the experience, Xara provided handwritten recipes delivered to each cabin on the Seabourn Encore, making it a truly unforgettable “Seabourn moment.”

Unique Experiences: The New Standard in Luxury Cruising

In the realm of ultra-luxury cruising, unique experiences have become the hallmark of a successful voyage. Seabourn, owned by Carnival Corporation, has recognized this shift and is committed to providing guests with intimate, off-board experiences that foster genuine connections with destinations. As the cruise industry rebounds from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, operators are focusing on creating memorable excursions that go beyond traditional luxury offerings.

Mike Fulkerson, Seabourn’s Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, emphasizes that the definition of ultra-luxury has evolved. While high-end amenities like caviar service and spa treatments are still expected, the true differentiator lies in the unique experiences offered. Seabourn aims to provide smaller group excursions, visits to private homes, and exclusive access to historical sites. This approach not only enhances the guest experience but also supports local communities and cultures.

The emphasis on unique experiences is evident in Seabourn’s carefully curated itineraries. For instance, guests can enjoy classical concerts in ancient Ephesus, where they can listen to live music in a historic amphitheater. Such experiences create lasting memories and foster a deeper appreciation for the destinations visited.

Expedition Cruises: A Growing Trend in Luxury Travel

Seabourn has also tapped into the growing demand for expedition cruises, which offer adventurous itineraries to remote locations. These cruises are particularly appealing to well-traveled retirees seeking new experiences. The brand’s expedition vessels, Pursuit and Venture, are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including custom-built submarines and Zodiac boats, allowing guests to explore hard-to-reach destinations.

The popularity of expedition cruises is evident in Seabourn’s impressive repeat guest rate of 60%. Many travelers return for the opportunity to explore unique locales such as Antarctica and the South Pacific. The addition of specialized courses, like the wildlife photography course called Image Masters, further enhances the appeal of these voyages. As Fulkerson notes, these expedition destinations are “selling out like hotcakes,” highlighting the increasing interest in immersive travel experiences.

The Seabourn Encore offers a blend of luxury and unique experiences that cater to the discerning traveler. From cooking classes in Greece to classical concerts in ancient ruins, each moment on board is designed to create lasting memories. As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Seabourn remains at the forefront, providing guests with unforgettable journeys that go beyond traditional luxury.