Mitsui Ocean Sakura Named in Yokohama Ahead of Debut
Mitsui Ocean Cruises has named its second ship, Mitsui Ocean Sakura, in Yokohama. The 458-passenger vessel will begin its inaugural domestic voyage on September 19, 2026.
Mitsui Ocean Cruises named its new ship, Mitsui Ocean Sakura, during a ceremony in Yokohama on September 16, 2026. The vessel will begin its first passenger voyage on September 19, joining Mitsui Ocean Fuji to form a two-ship fleet for the Japanese cruise line.
The naming festivities were held on the Ocean Stage aboard the ship at the Yokohama Hammerhead cruise terminal. Senior officers, crew, and company employees collectively served as the official namers, culminating in a traditional bottle smash. Inaugural master Captain Satoshi Ninomiya delivered the official naming words.
"With this ship, we pledge to travel around beautiful Japan and the world for many years to come, connecting hearts and sailing safely," Captain Ninomiya said.
A Legacy in a Name
The ship's name, Sakura, is rooted in Japanese culture and the company's own history. The cherry blossom is a national symbol, and the name was previously carried by the passenger ships Sakura Maru and Shin Sakura Maru. Captain Ninomiya reflected on the line's 140-year maritime heritage, citing a lineage of vessels that connected Japan to the world.
President Tsunemichi Mukai stated the new ship carries on this legacy while starting a new chapter. He emphasized the brand's commitment to providing guests with lasting experiences through onboard time, port culture, and personal connections.
Ship Specifications and Itinerary Focus
Mitsui Ocean Sakura is a 32,477-gross-ton, all-suite vessel with a capacity for 458 passengers. Its 650-foot length is designed to allow access to a diverse range of Japanese ports, including smaller destinations and those close to city centers. As a Japanese-flag ship, it will initially focus on domestic voyages.
| Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Gross Tonnage | 32,477 |
| Passenger Capacity | 458 |
| Length | 650 feet |
| Cabin Type | All-suite |
These will include short one- to three-night autumn scenic, Christmas, and New Year cruises. A total of 61 cruises have been announced through September 2027.
The Fleet's Foundation
Mitsui Ocean Sakura is the former Seabourn Sojourn. Its fleetmate, Mitsui Ocean Fuji, which joined the line in December 2024, is the former Seabourn Odyssey. Together, they form the operational core of Mitsui Ocean Cruises. President Mukai pledged that the company would do its utmost to make Sakura a ship loved by many guests, working in tandem with Mitsui Ocean Fuji.
Before the September 19 inaugural sailing, the city of Yokohama hosted an onboard ceremony featuring a traditional plaque exchange with Yokohama Port. The vessel now prepares to introduce travelers to Japan through its cuisine, culture, and hospitality on its initial series of domestic voyages.
