As I was flying from Sardinia to Rome, Seabourn took the keys to its newest yacht, the Seabourn Quest; completing Seabourn tremendous three year expansion program and completing its growth from three 208 guest ships (the Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Spirit) to six luxury ships also including the Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest.

The irony of my being in Rome to board her on June 3, 2011 is that Seabourn’s product is so consistent – even with the rapid growth of its fleet – that I am not anticipating any surprises…”just” another of the world’s best luxury cruises.

While I will be meeting privately with Seabourn’s president, Rick Meadows, and it senior vice president, John Delaney, the fact is I am more excited to see which of Seabourn’s staff and crew have found their way over the the Seabourn Quest.  I know Captain Geir-Arne Thul-Nilsen’s arrival has been delayed a couple of weeks, but I do enjoy the surprise when staff from last year or even three years ago give me that warm welcome that reminds me that I am home.

I do have much to tell you about my trip to Sardinia and my time here so far in Rome, so stay tuned!