Seabourn, renowned for its ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, celebrated a significant milestone with the naming of Seabourn Pursuit. On June 29, 2024, at Ngula Jar Island, Australia, a historic expedition ceremony unfolded as guests aboard Zodiacs joined the onboard team lining the decks. The Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners bestowed the ship’s name, marking a momentous occasion as the first time Traditional Owners have named a ship.
The day-long celebration and naming ceremony were meticulously planned to honor Wunambal Gaambera Country, its people, and the Kimberley region. Guests had the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture and history throughout the eventful day. The highlight was a poignant Wunambal Gaambera welcome and smoking ceremony, known as “jimɨrri,” which invoked blessings for safe travels and respectfully ensured the spirits of the elders did not follow the visitors, as explained by Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owner Lillian Karadada.
The festivities continued with the “Junba,” a traditional storytelling song and dance performed by ochre-painted Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners. Guests also explored ancient rock art sites and listened to captivating cultural narratives. Artworks created by Wunambal Gaambera artists were prominently displayed and available for purchase. As a symbol of their burgeoning partnership, Seabourn and the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners exchanged gifts. Notably, Seabourn guests Vince and Jane Roig, esteemed for attending every inaugural voyage on Seabourn’s current seven-ship fleet, presented the Traditional Owners with art supplies, signifying gratitude for the new alliance.
The climax of the day arrived with the naming ceremony conducted in both Wunambal Gaambera language and English. Representatives from the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation bestowed blessings upon Seabourn Pursuit for abundant voyages in Wunambal Gaambera Country. The ceremony included the smashing of a specially crafted bottle, encased in sugar and coated with Ngula Jar Island sand, adhering to maritime traditions. Guests and crew aboard Zodiacs and on deck joyously cheered this symbolic moment as the vessel was officially named.
Seabourn President Natalya Leahy expressed her profound enthusiasm for the partnership forged with the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners. Their deep cultural heritage, profound connection to the land and sea, and commitment to sustainable tourism initiatives make them fitting godparents for Seabourn Pursuit, marking a promising chapter ahead. “This day marks a very special event with the christening of Seabourn Pursuit , our newest ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ship. This is a wonderful maritime tradition, and today is extra special for us because we asked the Wunambal Gaambera to be the ship’s godparents, which marks the beginning of long sustainable partnership between our brand and this community. We know our guests visit these wonderful places in the world because they believe in the transformative power of travel, and today we celebrate exactly this,” said Leahy.
“We are honoured to be the godparents of Seabourn Pursuit and share our culture with their crew and guests. It’s good to see our people working on Country and sharing our unique culture in the right way. Living and working on Country is important for us. When we are living and speaking language on Country, we are healthy. Thank you, Seabourn, for your support. Biyanga graa winya – Welcome,” said Catherine Goonack, Chair, Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation.
Ms. Divina D’Anna, MLA, and Parliamentary Secretary to Deputy Premier Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA (Deputy Premier; Treasurer; Minister for Transport; Tourism; Member for West Swan), along with Di Bain, Chair of Tourism Western Australia, attended the Kimberley naming ceremony hosted by Seabourn.
The choice of Kimberley symbolizes the ship’s ethos, fostering a sustainable partnership with Wunambal Gaambera. This alliance emphasizes Seabourn’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. As part of this initiative, Seabourn is making donations to support Wunambal Gaambera’s artisanal endeavors, promoting their cultural heritage through art and craft sales. Additionally, Seabourn is contributing resources for ongoing arts and crafts projects. The collaboration extends to showcasing the Uunguu Experience, featuring cultural immersion activities led by the Uunguu Rangers. Seabourn’s contribution complements state tourism funding, aiding in the development of tourism infrastructure and programs for Wunambal Gaambera.
Ngula Jar Island will be a highlight on Seabourn’s Kimberley itineraries, ensuring sustained engagement with Wunambal Gaambera Country. Seabourn Pursuit continues to deliver its signature luxury small ship experience, now enhanced with world-class expedition capabilities. Designed to PC6 Polar Class standards, the ship features extensive deck space, panoramic views, and advanced technology, including a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera for unparalleled guest experiences.
