Seabourn Cruises

Seabourn is small-ship luxury in two flavors. Seabourn Ovation runs classic port-to-port itineraries, while Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit are purpose-built expedition ships for Antarctica, the Arctic and other remote coasts, carrying an expedition team, kayaks and custom-built six-guest submarines.

The fare covers premium spirits and fine wine at any hour, Champagne on arrival, an in-suite bar stocked to your order, and unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi. There is no tipping on board; the one exception is an 18% gratuity added to spa and salon services. On the expedition ships, most landings and expedition outings are included, but the submarine dives, kayaking and some other guided experiences are paid extras. On classic voyages, shore excursions are bought separately.

Days are resort casual - shorts and jeans are fine everywhere - and after 6 p.m. the code is Elegant Casual, with a jacket optional. Formal nights scale with trip length: one on cruises up to 13 days, two on 14-20 days and three on 21 days or more, and none at all on Venture and Pursuit. Families should check the age rules: infants must be at least six months old to sail, at least a year old on ocean crossings and remote routes, and expedition guests must be at least six.

Silversea is the nearest match, with a similar split between classic and expedition ships. Regent includes more in the fare, notably excursions, while Seabourn's draw is its smaller ships and the expedition hardware on Venture and Pursuit.

Sources: seabourn.com, seabourn.com, seabourn.com, seabourn.com