First thing to realize is that the Venture is an expedition ship. It does not offer a “sit by the pool and sip pina coladas” type experience. What it does offer is exciting, off the beaten path itineraries, education and adventures under the guidance of a highly qualified expedition staff. Most voyages are about two weeks, and the ship is small carrying about 225. There were about 150 on our trip. Camaraderie can come quickly when you are standing together on a free-floating ice floe or hiking an icy trail to an incredible viewpoint.

The ship is beautifully designed to give the feeling of a contemporary lodge and comes with all the standard Seabourn amenities from Molton Brown toiletries to caviar on demand. Within about two days, the staff knows your name. Passengers are somewhat younger than a standard Seabourn trip

Our trip was beginning of June, primarily around Greenland. On these trips, you must be prepared to be flexible. Stops and times will most likely be altered based on conditions, especially ice in the Arctic or Antarctic, but it is all part of the adventure. Read more