Seabourn Odyssey's Keel-Laying Ceremony in Italy

Seabourn’s 32,000-ton Odyssey—due to start sailing in June 2009—is a step closer to reality! A keel-laying ceremony took place on July 11 in San Giorgio Di Nogaro, Italy. The agenda included the placement of a newly minted 2007 U.S. Silver Eagle dollar coin—contributed by Seabourn president and CEO, Pamela C. Conover—and a one-Euro coin—presented by Marco Bisagno, president of T. Mariotti S.p.A.—in the keel as the first section of the hull was joined to it. The tradition invokes good fortune during the vessel’s construction and throughout its future years at sea.

According to Conover, “Seabourn's Odyssey Class vessels are being born of a time-honored Italian legacy, whereby innovative designers and skilled craftsmen team to create objects of beauty that inspire and bring delight to people over many years.” Shipbuilder Bisagno showed his passion for the project, adding, “Mariotti is honored to build the first of two ultra-luxury yachts for Seabourn, which will no doubt set a new international standard for world-class cruise vessels.”

CI.MAR is constructing the Odyssey’s hull. Once completed, the steel fabrication will be transferred to Mariotti’s shipyard at Genoa where they will construct the ship’s superstructure.

For more information on Seabourn’s new flagship, contact a travel agent, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391, or visit Seabourn's website.

Marco Bisagno, president of T. Mariotti S.p.A. and Pamela C. Conover, president and CEO of Seabourn Cruise Line, provided coins to be welded onto the keel of Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn's new flagship, now under construction in Italy.
Photo courtesy of Seabourn