Seabourn has appointed Handré Potgieter to Cruise Director of the new ultra-luxury ship. Handré has been a long-time member of the Seabourn family and is excited to set sail with Seabourn Encore in a few months.

Born and raised in South Africa, Cruise Director Handré discovered his passion for travel, hospitality and music at a young age. He has been working in the luxury cruise industry for the past 15 years, eight of which have been with Seabourn.

From Seabourn Spirit, he transitioned to the start-up teams of Seabourn Odyssey & Sojourn and also worked on Seabourn Quest. Handré is delighted and considers it a great honor to be part of the start-up team for Seabourn Encore. As Cruise Director, he oversees the onboard Entertainment program and enjoys spending time with guests and supporting his team.

As a composer and pianist Handré has released two albums, and his music is a celebration of the sea.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Handré and asked him a few questions about why he enjoys cruising with Seabourn:

1. What is your favorite part about your job?

I love people, and the interaction with our guests and fellow crew members is something very unique to Seabourn. 

2. What are you most looking forward to about Seabourn Encore?

When you admire the history of Seabourn, you have to recognize the wonderful foundation and culture that encompasses the Seabourn guest experience. With this in mind, I am looking forward to carrying on this legacy and embracing the new ship in true Seabourn spirit.    

3. What is your favorite port of call you've visited while working for Seabourn?

Seabourn cruises to so many wonderful places, but I have to say Sydney, Cape Town and Hong Kong are my favorites.

4. Our guests love to learn more about our crew; are there any fun facts about you that you would like to share?
I am approaching 2,000 days sailed with Seabourn. Many of our guests describe me as a bit of a style guru, as I love to collect ties, bow ties and pocket squares. When it comes to food I love something simple and healthy, so a nice grilled salmon and a salad is the perfect meal for me. I love nature and I’m a keen runner. I also enjoy musical theatre and compose classical crossover music when I am at home in Knysna, South Africa.

We look forward to setting sail with Handré soon!