Seabourn Sojourn Will Become MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA

Seabourn Sojourn will be renamed MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA when it joins the MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES fleet in late 2026.

The word “Sakura” refers to a popular flower in Japan and has previously been given to two cruise ships MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES operated, the Sakura Maru and the Shin Sakura Maru.

“The name ‘MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA’ is therefore in honor of Sakura, which symbolizes the beauty of Japan, and the cruise ships loved by many people,” the line said in announcing the new name.

“While passing on the ‘spirit of omotenashi’ cultivated through past cruise ships operated by our company, including Nippon Maru, MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA will maintain our 140-year legacy and connection with the people and ports of call around Japan, showcasing the special experiences in those places,” said Tsunemichi Mukai, president and executive officer of MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES. “Our loyal and experienced crew will extend heartfelt hospitality, and our chefs will continue to delight our guests with the praise of delicious cuisine for which we are famous.”

The 458-guest MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA will offer a wide range of itineraries, mainly short- to medium-length cruises, departing from and visiting various ports in Japan. This includes visits to remote islands in Okinawa and Hokkaido.

Inaugural itineraries of MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA will be announced and go on sale in early 2026.

MITSUI also named the incoming captain for MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA – Captain Satoshi Ninomiya who most recently served as captain of the Nippon Maru.

TMR will be onboard MITSUI OCEAN FUJI with a group of travel advisors next week to find out more about the cruise line, which only opened to North Americans this past February.