Summary: Seabourn has confirmed the expedition team that will join the Seabourn Encore for its inaugural Alaska season in 2026. The group of expedition leaders, naturalists, scientists and cultural specialists will lead guided shore excursions, lectures and immersive experiences focused on glaciers, wildlife and local communities.

Seabourn Encore Alaska will debut in 2026 with a specially assembled expedition team to guide guests through the region’s glaciers, wildlife and cultural sites. The luxury line says the onboard experts — including expedition leaders, naturalists, scientists and cultural ambassadors — will deliver in-depth briefings, commentary and tailored shore activities during the ship’s first Alaska season.

Seabourn Encore: Luxury Meets Expedition

The Seabourn Encore is built to combine upscale amenities with immersive exploration. For its inaugural Alaska sailings, the ship will pair Seabourn’s signature comforts — spacious suites, attentive service and high-end dining — with an expert-led program designed to deepen guests’ understanding of Alaska’s landscapes and ecosystems.

Who’s on the Expedition Team

  • Expedition leaders who will guide shore outings and provide context on Alaska’s natural and cultural history
  • Naturalists and scientists offering lectures, interactive sessions and live commentary on wildlife and ecosystems
  • Cultural experts and local ambassadors who will introduce guests to indigenous traditions and regional heritage

Seabourn says these specialists will enrich each day at sea with briefings and interpretive talks, and will accompany guests on small-boat explorations, wildlife viewing trips and guided walks to enhance educational value and safety during excursions.

Shore Excursions and Activities

  • Glacier explorations via zodiacs, guided walks or kayaking to view ice formations up close
  • Wildlife encounters including opportunities for whale watching and bear observation with expert guidance
  • Cultural immersions that introduce guests to indigenous communities and regional history
Seabourn Encore near an Alaskan glacier with a zodiac approaching the shoreline for a wildlife and glacier excursion
Seabourn’s expedition program will support glacier, wildlife and cultural shore excursions during the Encore’s Alaska season

Shipboard Comfort and Enrichment

After active days ashore, guests can return to the Encore’s refined onboard environment. Seabourn highlights the ship’s spacious accommodations, upscale dining that emphasizes local ingredients and a range of wellness and enrichment offerings to complement the expedition program.

  • Fine-dining venues showcasing regional seafood and produce
  • Private balconies and suites offering views of fjords and glaciers
  • Wellness facilities, including a spa and fitness centre, plus onboard workshops such as photography classes

Who Will Benefit from These Voyages

Seabourn’s Alaska season is positioned for travellers seeking a blend of luxury and education. The programming is particularly suited to nature enthusiasts, guests interested in indigenous cultures, and active travellers wanting guided experiences in remote environments without sacrificing comfort.

  • Nature enthusiasts seeking close-up wildlife and glacier viewing
  • Cultural travellers wanting deeper context on Alaska’s communities and history
  • Adventure-oriented guests looking for guided exploration with specialist support

Practical Notes for Travellers

The expedition team will sail with the Encore for the ship’s inaugural Alaska voyages in 2026. Guests can expect a mix of onboard learning and guided shore activities; travellers should book early for limited-capacity excursions and consult Seabourn for specific itinerary details and any required equipment or preparations.

Why this matters: Seabourn’s approach ties luxury cruising to specialist-led education and local engagement, raising expectations for high-end Alaska travel. For travellers, it promises more meaningful encounters with wildlife and culture while retaining the comforts of a luxury ship. For the industry, it reinforces a trend toward combining expedition-style programming with premium onboard services — a model likely to influence future luxury offerings in remote destinations.