After extensive refurbishment, the M/V Sea Voyager primed for Aug. 31 launch

In the past three decades, the ship has had three names, explored the waters of two continents, was affiliated with two other cruise lines, and has experienced a series of refurbishments. This most recent refurbishment – an investment of $2 million – took place between November 2011 and July 2012. In partnership with Colombia Ecoturismo, Sea Voyager Expeditions brought the vessel up to the highest of standards and turned the Sea Voyager into one of the nicest small ships afloat today by upgrading cabins and suites, improving public areas, overhauling the galley, installing a chlorination system, and making various other changes aimed at creating a truly exceptional expedition ship that features all the latest amenities and all the comforts travelers expect . . . and more.

MV Sea Voyager

As newcomer Sea Voyager Expeditions gears up for its launch on Aug. 31 – when it begins taking guests to explore the remote waters, beaches, jungles and cities of Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Panama – one of the most exciting parts of the company's story is tied to its vessel, the M/V Sea Voyager. Built as an expedition passenger vessel in 1982 by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Baltimore, Md., the Sea Voyager has a varied history that ultimately led to its latest $2 million renovation, aimed at providing unmatched comfort for 60 guests and 31 crew members during expeditions that last from seven to 12 nights. For passengers who want to be among the first to experience the refurbished vessel, Sea Voyager Expeditions is offering special deals that apply on almost all departures between Sept. and Dec. 2012, with savings from 25 to 35%; discounted fares are $2,460 to $5,588 per person, double. Solo guests also win with no supplements, paying the same price as those booking as a couple.

Ship Offers True Adventures in Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Panama

In the cabins, all mattresses, bedding, pillows and curtains were replaced, and all suites now boast new couches, decorative lighting and original artwork. Bathrooms were retiled and resurfaced, and new plumbing and fixtures were installed to enhance both the beauty and function of the facilities. With an eye on ways to respect the environment that's the focal point of these expeditions, the ship now uses filtered sea water for toilets so that fresh water can be preserved. Each cabin has individual controls for air conditioning as well as an oscillating fan; in fact, the entire ship is air-conditioned and maintains a comfortable environment regardless of what temperatures might be like in the tropics just a few feet away.

Seeing what's happening in that tropical environment is much easier now, through a window-lined lounge that provides a 270-degree viewing perspective. Silhouette shades partially block the sun's rays or instantly transform a social facility into a learning facility, where the ship's team of five naturalists can educate guests about the wildlife, history and culture of the destination they're exploring each day. The loading deck, nicknamed "The Marina," is home to five new hard-bottom Zodiacs and a fleet of one- and two-person kayaks. Here passengers will find themselves less than a foot away from the water, allowing easy access to smaller vessels … or simply an opportunity to jump in or climb down a short ladder for a refreshing swim or snorkel.

The vessel has been brought up to the latest SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements and has passed the stringent Classification Certification to ensure the highest standards of safety. A new water chlorination system brings the ship in line with standards required by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control (as required in the United States, even though the vessel won't be visiting U.S. waters). An overhaul of the galley resulted in the upgrade of all refrigeration equipment, dishwashing units, ovens and appliances, ensuring that the facility complies with or exceeds worldwide standards for public health and proper foodservice operations.

Sea Voyager Expeditions is committed to delivering quality guest experiences, being the leader in tropical expeditions, and preserving the countries the Sea Voyager visits. Details about the ship and all its itineraries can be found in the Sea Voyager 2012 Special Edition brochure, available on the company's website. Sea Voyager Expeditions' North American sales agent is Global Voyagers Group of Bellevue, WA. Further information, reservations and brochures, both printed and electronic, are available from travel agents or via Sea Voyager's visitor-friendly website, www.seavoyagerexpeditions.com; by phone at 888-912-2572; or via e-mail at info@seavoyagerexpeditions.com.