The passenger ship SeaDream II connected to shore power for the first time this week during a visit to Bergen, Norway.
This marks a major step in reducing emissions, as the ship operated with zero emissions during its 14-hour stay. With shore power now enabled, both SeaDream ships can switch off engines while docked in ports offering this capability.
SeaDream II was upgraded for shore power connectivity in 2023 to prepare for emission-free port stays. Her sistership SeaDream I underwent its upgrade in 2024 during a yard stay at Naval Rocha Yard in Lisbon, Portugal. This is part of SeaDream’s long-term environmental focus and commitment to sustainable luxury yachting.
Since launching in 2001, SeaDream Yacht Club has redefined yachting as an intimate, eco-conscious alternative to mass tourism. The latest shore power upgrade strengthens SeaDream’s position as a pioneer in sustainable maritime travel.
SeaDream optimises itineraries for slower cruising speeds, significantly reducing fuel use and emissions at sea.
The family-owned and operated company maintains high standards in boutique yachting and environmental responsibility. Their sisterships, SeaDream I and SeaDream II, offer casually elegant voyages for a maximum of 112 guests in total.
Each ship carries only 56 couples and a crew of 95, delivering exceptional personalised service. They offer 7- to 15-day voyages to exclusive harbours and remote destinations around the world.
Yachting, not cruising
Their “It’s Yachting, Not Cruising” philosophy reflects a focus on experience, not scale or passenger volume. The small size of SeaDream vessels allows access to secluded ports that larger ships cannot reach.
Onboard, guests enjoy gourmet cuisine, premium drinks, all-inclusive service, and a wide range of included activities. Water sports equipment, luxury spa services, and open-deck sleeping experiences are all part of the offering.
SeaDream was the first luxury cruise line to ban polluting heavy fuel oil (HFO) across its fleet. Since 2013, its vessels have used lighter, cleaner fuel to cut sulphur and particulate emissions significantly.
The company also pioneered plant-based dining at sea, introducing a full vegan menu more than ten years ago. It remains the luxury cruise leader in plant-based cuisine and offers the widest selection of vegan meals afloat. Menus also feature locally sourced ingredients to support regional producers and reduce the supply chain footprint. Food waste is actively minimised, contributing to the company’s lower carbon impact.
No single-use plastics
SeaDream was the first luxury cruise line to eliminate unnecessary single-use plastics on board its yachts. Plastic straws, stirrers, bottles, and packaging were replaced with eco-friendly or reusable alternatives wherever possible. Guests receive refillable glass water bottles to use at stations throughout the yachts. This has significantly reduced plastic water bottle consumption on all voyages.
Luxury bath amenities by Elm Organics are provided in all suites and staterooms. These organic, biodegradable products are both sustainable and indulgent.
SeaDream itineraries include late-night port departures and overnight stays to enhance local immersion and cultural experiences. Longer port visits also benefit local businesses, artists, and tourism operators in the communities visited.
