By
Alex Smith |
Mitsui Ocean Cruises has confirmed that its next luxury vessel will be named Mitsui Ocean Sakura and will begin operating under the Japanese flag in late 2026.
The new ship will carry the name Sakura, which refers to the famous cherry blossoms of Japan and was previously used for two earlier vessels operated by the line, Sakura Maru and Shin Sakura Maru.
Mitsui Ocean Sakura will measure 32,477 gross tons and accommodate 458 guests across 229 suites, the majority of which will feature balconies. The vessel will operate short- and medium-length cruises from a range of Japanese ports, including itineraries to islands in Okinawa and Hokkaido. Seasonal sailings will incorporate local festivals, fireworks, music and regional cuisine.
Satoshi Ninomiya, formerly captain of Mitsui’s Nippon Maru, has been appointed as the new ship’s captain, while executive chef Katsutoshi Nakayama, also from Nippon Maru, will lead the culinary team. Nippon Maru retired in 2024 after more than three decades in service.
“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 managing executive officer of Mitsui Ocean Cruises.
The ship, currently sailing as Seabourn Sojourn, was purchased earlier this year by shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. It will transfer to the Mitsui Ocean Cruises brand in 2026 following the completion of its deployment with Seabourn. The vessel will join sister ship Mitsui Ocean Fuji, which entered service in December 2024.