MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA has debuted new and renovated spaces before its debut in Japan in Sept. 2026.
As the first Japanese-flagged cruise ship available to North Americans for leisure travel, MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA itineraries will be announced and open for sale in early 2026. The 458-guest, 32,477-ton MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA is currently sailing as Seabourn Sojourn and will be the sister ship to MITSUI OCEAN FUJI.
The launch aligns with MITSUI OCEAN CRUISES’ brand philosophy, “FUNATABI – Beautiful Encounters with Japan,” which focuses on delivering an immersive onboard and shore experience rooted in Japanese culture, cuisine and hospitality.
A Culinary-Centered Onboard Experience
Dining will play a central role onboard MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA, with venues highlighting both Japanese and Western influences. The ship’s main dining room, Restaurant Sakura, will serve rotating daily menus, including a traditional Japanese breakfast each morning.
The buffet-style Terrace Restaurant Yae will feature seasonal dishes alongside Western and Asian selections, while Sushi Bar Shiosai will offer sushi, sake and an omakase experience.
A specialty highlight is Hokusai Fine Dining, created in partnership with renowned Japanese chef Kiyomi Mikuni, who is known for blending Japanese flavors with classic French techniques. Additional casual options include a poolside terrace and bar, serving comfort foods such as pizza, karaage chicken and burgers.
Wellness & Entertainment
Recreational features include the centrally located Grand Pool with heated whirlpools and a new footbath, as well as a quieter aft pool area. Wellness offerings include Spa & Wellness Kodama, a fitness center and multiple outdoor spaces. Entertainment venues include Ocean Stage, which will host live performances and cultural programming such as Rakugo storytelling, and Ocean Club, a smaller venue for activities and live music.
MITSUI OCEAN SAKURA will be able to access smaller ports and remote destinations that are off-limits to larger ships. Planned itineraries will sail throughout Japan, including the Seto Inland Sea, Okinawa and Hokkaido, with seasonal voyages tied to festivals, fireworks and regional culinary traditions.
For more information, visit mitsuioceancruises.us.
