Seabourn Celebrates Indigenous Culture: Wunambal Gaambera Named Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit

Seabourn, a luxury cruise line, has recently made a significant decision to name the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of their expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit. This bold move not only acknowledges the rich indigenous culture of Australia but also serves as a symbol of respect and stewardship towards the environment and the communities that Seabourn visits.

The term “traditional owners” refers to native people who have a deep ancestral connection to a specific area of land. In this case, the Wunambal Gaambera are the traditional owners of a region in the Kimberley, which includes Ngula Jar Island, Yirinni, and Ngauwudu. By naming them as godparents, Seabourn is recognizing and celebrating the cultural heritage and history of these indigenous people.

During the ship’s 10-day cruise in Australia’s Kimberley region, representatives from the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation will welcome the Seabourn Pursuit at Ngula Jar Island and participate in a dedication ceremony. This ceremony, scheduled for June 29th, will involve the sharing of indigenous culture through welcome and smoking ceremonies, rock art tours, native songs, dances, and stories from the Uunguu Rangers.

In addition to honoring the Wunambal Gaambera as godparents, Seabourn has also pledged to support their community by providing resources for the production of arts and crafts. This support includes donating pearl shells, art supplies, and polishing materials to assist the Wunambal Gaambera in their cultural activities and economic sustainability.

Traditionally, godparent roles are reserved for individuals. However, Seabourn’s decision to honor an indigenous community as godparents of the Seabourn Pursuit represents a new and innovative approach. By involving the Wunambal Gaambera in this significant role, Seabourn is setting a precedent for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive way of engaging with local communities during their voyages.

Seabourn’s decision to name the Wunambal Gaambera as godparents of the Seabourn Pursuit is a commendable gesture that not only highlights the importance of indigenous culture but also promotes responsible tourism practices. This collaboration between a luxury cruise line and an indigenous community sets a positive example for the travel industry as a whole, emphasizing the value of cultural exchange, support for local communities, and environmental stewardship.