PHOTO: A view of the right side of the Seabourn Spirit sailing on calm blue water.

Luxury line Seabourn has finalized its order for a new cruise ship for delivery in mid-2016.

The 40,350-ton, 604-passenger vessel will be similar to its three Odyssey-class vessels introduced in 2009, 2010 and 2011, but will have one more deck and more public areas. The contracts for the newbuild were formally signed with Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard.

“The new ship will continue the evolution that began with Seabourn’s fleet expansion, adding modern design elements and innovations consistent with Seabourn’s reputation for understated elegance,” said Seabourn President Richard D. Meadows.

The vessel will replace capacity that will be reduced when the 208-passenger Seabourn Pride, Seabourn Spirit and Seabourn Legend are transferred to Windstar Cruises, their new owners.

The first, which is renamed Star Pride, will join Windstar in April, with the other two following in April and May 2015, respectively.

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