The 344-foot SeaDream I docked at the island of Korcula in Croatia (top), and at sea (above).

SeaDream calls its vessels “ultra-luxury mega-yachts,” rather than cruise ships. And that’s not far from the truth. The brainchild of Seabourn cruise maestros Larry Pimentel and Atle Brynestad, SeaDream has become the epitome of intimate opulence on the high seas, setting a standard that few other cruise companies can match. “It’s yachting, not cruising” is the SeaDream motto. The oceangoing adventures are all-inclusive, with flexible sailing itineraries and overnight stays in select ports so that guests can sample the local nightlife and gourmet scene.

The Ship
From award-winning dining and service and Balinese daybeds on the sundeck, to champagne-and-caviar beach barbecues and a lavish spa, SeaDream I has been recognized as the most luxurious experience on water (short of having your own private yacht). Completely redesigned and refitted in 2002, the 110-passenger ship plies seasonal routes in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and South America. The 344-foot vessel can hit a top speed of 15 knots. Guests pass the time in two restaurants and four different bars, as well as a boutique, a card room, and a casino with two blackjack tables.

Three decks accommodate 55 guest cabins, all with ocean views. Although smaller and larger staterooms are available, the most popular are the 390-square-foot Commodore Club Staterooms, which (like Noah’s Ark) feature two of everything – his-and-her bathrooms, closets, writing desks, mini-fridges, sofas and even two beds (instead of a single king), if you prefer. The plush bathrooms are equipped with Bulgari amenities, a multi-jet shower massage and custom bathrobes, while the entertainment choices include CD and DVD players and flat-screen TVs.

The Frills
Not many ships of this size (or even larger) boast their own luxury spa and fitness center. Thai massage, tai chi and yoga are just a few of the offerings, either indoors or on deck. The workout area sports everything from elliptical machines to free weights, and the spa also features a hair and nail salon.

A retractable “marina” water-sports platform provides water skis, kayaks, wave runners, snorkel equipment and Sunfish sailboats. Mountain bikes are available for shore excursions.

SeaDream I also offers a state-of-the-art indoor golf simulator that provides guests with a selection of 30 famous courses around the world. The onboard activities director can also arrange tee times at top golf courses in various ports of call in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and South America.

The Cruise
From early July to late October, SeaDream I will be based in the eastern Mediterranean. Several seven-day itineraries are offered, including cruises across the northern Aegean to Istanbul, through the Corinth Canal and up the gorgeous Adriatic Sea to Dubrovnik and Venice, and across the southern Aegean to Santorini, Crete, Antalya and Turkey’s turquoise coast.

Given the flexible nature of SeaDream itineraries, the first and last ports are fixed, but there is always room for variation between, according to the whim of the passengers. And sometime during each voyage, the ship will anchor for SeaDream’s Champagne-and-Caviar Splash at a secluded beach. From $4,599 per person at press time.

SeaDream Yacht Club
800.707.4911; www.seadreamyachtclub.com