Seabourn Says "Don't Give Up on the Med This Summer"

The past few summers have been tough for travelers like myself that want to cruise the Mediterranean but must often book a cruise at the last minute due to work obligations and complicated schedules. Pamela Conover, president of Seabourn is urging us not to give up on our dream cruise, even though this season's itineraries are sailing close to capacity.

"It's true that Seabourn is having a terrific year and our ships are sailing at very nearly full capacity," admits Conover. "But we definitely have limited space on a variety of departures, and if you are flexible about departure dates and itineraries, we can still accommodate you in 2007."

For prospective travelers who have encountered full ships in the summer, but still want to visit Europe this year, Conover advises cruising later in the season, for the best value. "A cruise in August, September or October will still save you a bundle over luxury land-based options," she notes. "Besides," she added, "in many ways autumn is the very best time to visit the region."

Conover went on to suggest seven-day voyages aboard Seabourn Legend, departing from Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Rome on August 25, September 15, 22, 29, and October 13. The September 22 and 29 cruises can be combined for a two-week vacation at savings of 50 percent off brochure fares. For those who prefer the Eastern Mediterranean, Seabourn Spirit has limited space available on voyages departing September 1, October 6, and October 27. Some of these departures offer savings up to 50 percent and fares from $3,133 per person, based on double occupancy.

(Lower airfares from the states have also recently popped up from Air France, Alitalia, and Iberia. Do some comparison shopping for flights at Kayak.com.)

Carrying just 208 pampered guests each, Seabourn Legend, Spirit, and Pride have earned top ratings in guidebooks and consumer travel publications. Extremely high customer satisfaction has also translated into an enthusiastic base of multi-repeat guests, who often book their next cruises while still on board.

"But check with your travel agent or give us a call," urges Conover, "because you want to sail in Europe on Seabourn, and we don't want you to settle for anything less."

For information or to secure space on a Seabourn cruise, call 1-800-929-9595 or visit www.seabourn.com.