SeaDream Tops Forbes Dining Awards

Credit: SeaDream

(Press Released) Forbes Travel Guide has rated the best dining experiences at sea. On the top of the list: SeaDream Yacht Club.

Forbes Travel Guide has been setting the global standard in luxury hospitality for more than six decades. Its annual Star Awards - now in their 67th year - represent the industry's most respected benchmark, based on up to 900 exacting criteria assessed through anonymous inspections.

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Of all the dining experiences reviewed at sea, only five restaurants were awarded a star rating in 2025. SeaDream II’s Dining Salon was one of only three to receive the coveted Four-Star distinction.

“Dinner in SeaDream II’s Dining Room is an unhurried ritual, where every course feels like a celebration,” notes the Forbes Travel Guide review. “There are no rushed seatings or fixed schedules—just exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and the lingering pleasure of a meal that feels tailor-made for you.”

The rating highlights SeaDream’s commitment to daily-crafted menus featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a personalized dining experience in both its open-air and indoor settings.

“Like a Guest Aboard a Private Yacht”

In addition to the restaurant honor, SeaDream II itself earned a Recommended rating from Forbes Travel Guide—placing it among just 14 cruise ships globally to be recognized in 2025. The Recommended rating, comparable to a Michelin star in the hotel world, underscores SeaDream’s reputation for intimate, high-touch travel experiences.

“From the moment you step aboard SeaDream II, you’ll feel less like a cruise passenger and more like a guest aboard a private yacht,” the review states. With only 112 guests and a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, SeaDream delivers a uniquely personal and luxurious yachting experience.

“True Reflection of Passion and Precision”

“This recognition is a true reflection of the passion and precision our culinary team and crew deliver every day. We take great pride in offering nothing but the finest dining experience at sea,” said Andreas Brynestad of SeaDream Yacht Club.

The SeaDream yachts are the only cruise ships where all guests can dine al fresco in one single seating.

“Freedom is at the heart of everything we do. Guests are free to dine when they want, where they want, and with whom they want - whether that’s a relaxed breakfast al fresco, a private dinner under the stars, or a lively meal with new friends,” said Christophe Cornu, SeaDream Yacht Club’s Executive Hotel Manager.

“A SeaDream dining experience is fresh, flexible and deeply personal, crafted à la minute with local ingredients and global inspiration,” said Cornu.

“Setting The Standard For Authentic Experiences”

Forbes Travel Guide is the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruise ships. Now in its 67th year, FTG’s anonymous inspectors assess properties against up to 900 rigorous standards—ensuring only the finest earn a place on their annual Star Awards list.

“Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality,” says Amanda Frasier, FTG's president of Standards & Ratings.

“This year’s list reflects the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences, unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being and the delivery of unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating world-class experiences for today’s discerning guest.”

EXPLORE MORE: See more details about the award here

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