Seabourn Odyssey visits some of the most magnificent destinations around the world, and on Friday morning, it sailed through the Bosphorus strait in Turkey.  One of the narrowest straits in the world, connecting the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus divides the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.  Odyssey approached the opening and cruised in between, sailing by some of the city’s most famous sights.  Guests gathered on deck or on their balconies to soak in the amazing scenery, capturing photos of the Blue Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge.

On Wednesday, July 21, the Executive Chef de Cuisine Rob van Leeuwen and the staff on Seabourn Odyssey organized a special private celebratory dinner to honor the Belgian National Day. Among the 29 Belgian guests who attended the dinner were legendary Belgian chef Pierre Wynants and his wife Marie, who are vacationing on board.  Chef Wynants is one of the world’s most honored chefs, having earned three Michelin stars for his Brussels restaurant Comme Chez Soi (“Like at Home”).  Chef Wynants professed himself amazed by the food and service on Seabourn Odyssey.

Shown below, left to right: Chef van Leeuwen, Maitre d’Hotel Antony Bernardi, Chef Wynants, Mrs. Wynants, Captain Mark Dexter and Guest Services Manager Jo Poelmans.

On Monday morning, Seabourn Odyssey dropped anchor off the lovely island of Skiathos in Greece, one of the crowning jewels of the Aegean Sea.  It was quite a sight to see as the yacht sailed along the coastline so gorgeous that it can take your breath away.  It is a charming island, offering spectacular scenery and a very friendly and relaxing atmosphere.  We’re happy to share several photos from the Odyssey’s visit to the beautiful Skiathos.

On Saturday, Seabourn Odyssey departed Athens for an exciting 14-day cruise to the Black Sea.  First stop was Mykonos, one of the most popular destinations in the Greek Isles known for its white cubic buildings with blue doors and shutters, friendly locals, and a laid-back, casual atmosphere.  It was a beautiful day, with a pleasant and welcoming breeze that made it perfect for exploring this charming island.

Seabourn Odyssey in Mykonos

Valerie Wilson of Valerie Wilson Travel is truly enjoying her cruise onboard the Seabourn Odyssey with her extended family, sailing in the Greek Isles and Turkey. On July 6, Captain Gier-Arne Thue-Nilsen invited Mrs. Wilson and her family to the bridge to watch and even assist the onboard bridge officers as the yacht was sailing out of Patmos, Greece, that evening.

Steady as she goes: Valerie Wilson takes the wheel of Seabourn Odyssey under the guidance of Odyssey’s Captain Gier-Arne Thue-Nilsen.

Captain Thue-Nilsen and Staff Captain Sean Whalley even spent some of their time to teach Mrs. Wilson’s grandchildren some basics in ship navigation!

We are absolutely delighted to share the fantastic news that Seabourn has won top honors again.  For the second year in a row, the discerning readers of Travel + Leisure magazine have selected Seabourn as the World’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Line in the magazine’s 2010 World’s Best Awards readers’ poll.” And what’s even more exciting is that we outscored all ocean-going cruise lines regardless of size!  We’ve earned this honor four out of the last five years, winning this award in 2006, 2007, 2009 and now 2010.

We are elated and so very proud to receive this wonderful distinction.  It speaks volumes about the entire Seabourn crew and staff and the tremendous service they provide to guests.

“We are always gratified when our guests make the effort to award this honor to the staff on board our yachts,” said Seabourn’s president & CEO, Pamela C. Conover. “I always tell them they are the best,” she continued, “but I know it means so much more coming from the guests themselves. I really want to thank Travel + Leisure for giving their readers the opportunity to cast their votes for our outstanding crew.”

Travel + Leisure readers vote on various aspects of each line, and the total scores are tabulated from those votes. Seabourn’s formula of intimate guest capacity, gracious service, interesting itineraries and spacious accommodations is enhanced by a relaxed, club-like social atmosphere and an inclusive value that encompasses fine dining in all onboard venues and complimentary open bars throughout the voyage.

It is obviously a combination that readers of Travel + Leisure find a winning one.

Seabourn Spirit is anchored off the Dalmatian island of Korcula, Croatia, the largest in an archipelago of 48 islands.  The medieval walled city of Korcula is rich in centuries-old history, and today the island produces some of the country’s best wines and olive oil. Croatia’s distinctive and famous orange and red tile rooftops dot the landscape and are a stark contrast against the bright blue Mediterranean sky.  It makes for a picture-perfect shot, and Seabourn’s Personnel and Training Manager Paul Charsley delivered this stunning photo of Seabourn Spirit.

Seabourn Spirit in Beautiful Korcula