Seaventure Undergoes Major Refit in Lisbon for 66 Degrees Expeditions

The expedition cruise vessel Seaventure, originally built in the early 1990s, has arrived at the Naval Rocha shipyard in Lisbon for an extensive drydock period ahead of its debut under the new China-based operator 66 Degrees Expeditions (also referred to in some official statements as 66° Expeditions). Scheduled for its first sailing in May 2025, the 162-guest ship will receive upgraded safety systems, a full interior refit, and a new exterior livery featuring a white hull with dark blue accents, an orange funnel, and specialized branding. These enhancements reflect the operator’s plan to blend Eastern and Western philosophies through Mandarin-language signage, culturally themed entertainment, and regionally inspired cuisine.

Journey and Vessel Transformation

Having undergone multiple charters over the past decade, Seaventure boasts a storied history. The 6,700-ton vessel was originally launched for Frontier Cruises, spent nearly 20 years operating as the Bremen with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, and was then sold to Scylla Cruises in 2019. Scylla subsequently chartered the ship to various expeditions before selling it to its current owners, 66 Degrees Expeditions, in mid-2024. According to the company, the decision to acquire this ice-strengthened vessel was driven by the ship’s proven polar capabilities and adaptable design for cultural customization.

Refit Scope in Lisbon

The current round of upgrades at Lisbon’s Naval Rocha shipyard focuses on passenger comfort, safety, and market-specific additions:

• Full interior refit of cabins, common areas, and public spaces
• New exterior livery with contrasting colors and updated branding
• Enhanced systems, including modernized navigation, fire suppression, and lifeboat equipment
• Mandarin-language services and thematically tailored onboard programs

The operator believes that the revamped Seaventure, with its enhanced facilities and cross-cultural offerings, will provide Chinese and international guests with an exceptional polar experience.

Maiden Season and Beyond

The vessel’s inaugural season under 66 Degrees Expeditions will launch with an eight-night sailing from Cardiff, Wales, to Aberdeen, Scotland, in May 2025, visiting the Hebridean Islands and Fair Isle. Over approximately 15 departures through early September, Seaventure will explore Northern Europe and the Arctic, including the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Svalbard, Greenland, and Jan Mayen. Following the Northern Hemisphere season, the ship will relocate to Antarctica for late 2025 and early 2026 voyages under a pre-existing agreement with Polar Latitudes.

Looking ahead, 66 Degrees Expeditions intends to operate a broader range of cruises in 2026, including repositioning voyages through the Atlantic and Africa. By tapping into China’s growing demand for adventure travel, the line aims to develop new polar itineraries integrating cultural exchanges and immersive experiences.

Management Transition to Ocean Advice

Marine services firm Ocean Advice, part of the Basel-based United Waterways Group, has assumed nautical and technical management of Seaventure. “We are delighted that our experienced management team will be operating the Seaventure and expanding our presence in the Asian market,” said Oliver Sassen, CEO of Ocean Advice. The company’s track record in polar travel is expected to support 66 Degrees Expeditions in delivering safe, high-quality voyages in remote regions.

With the vessel’s ice-strengthened hull and newly modernized systems, Seaventure is positioned to serve polar routes in both hemispheres. The collaboration underscores how international partnerships and niche expertise are fueling the rise of specialized expedition cruising.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the capacity of Seaventure?

The Seaventure can accommodate up to 162 guests, which creates a more intimate atmosphere for expedition voyages.

When does Seaventure’s first sailing under 66 Degrees Expeditions depart?

The inaugural cruise is slated for May 2025, beginning an eight-night voyage from Cardiff to Aberdeen across the Hebridean Islands and Fair Isle.

What upgrades did Seaventure receive during the Lisbon drydock?

Refit work has included a full interior renovation, new safety systems, and an updated exterior livery, along with Mandarin-language services and themed entertainment.

What destinations will the Seaventure visit?

During its maiden season, Seaventure will call on Northern European and Arctic destinations such as the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Svalbard, Greenland, and Jan Mayen, then reposition to Antarctica later in the year.

How is the Seaventure tailored for the Asian market?

The ship offers Mandarin-language signage, regionally inspired menus, and culturally themed onboard programming, reflecting the growing demand for polar expeditions among Asian travelers.

By upgrading a legacy vessel and combining cross-cultural offerings with proven polar cruising expertise, 66 Degrees Expeditions aims to capture the expanding market for expedition travel while showcasing the potential for specialized ships to evolve and thrive in diverse global destinations.