Regent Seven Seas was created back in 1992, when the one-ship cruise lines of Seven Seas Cruises and Radisson Cruises merged. Starting in the late 1990s, Regent Seven Seas began putting its expansion into overdrive, adding several ships to its fleet. This cruise line is best known for offering one of the most extensive rosters of worldwide cruises on the planet; indeed, there is no one particular region that Regent Seven Seas is best known for, or specializes in. For the most part, Regent Seven Seas’ ships are designed to be floating luxury resorts, offering passengers finely appointed staterooms – which are actually suites, a relaxing atmosphere and excellent dining.
What’s New
Regent Seven Seas’ Paul Gauguin – which has been a mainstay of many of the line’s Tahitian itineraries – will be ending its long sojourn with the cruise line in 2010. However, this by no means indicates that Regent Seven Seas will be paring back its services or its itineraries. In fact, the cruise line has very ambitious plans on the horizon. Two worldwide cruises are going to become the norm each winter for Regent Seven Seas, making it the only major cruise line to offer such variety in terms of around the world cruises. Recent upgrades to the fleet include wireless services, flat screen television sets in all suites and iPod music systems in upper class suites.
Known For
Many different things come to mind when the name Regent Seven Seas is mentioned. When you book a cruise with Regent Seven Seas, you’ll be able to enjoy:
Spacious Staterooms
Regent Seven Seas refers to its spacious staterooms as “suites,” and that is actually a very apt description. Indeed, these are among the roomiest rooms on the seas today, whether you’re in upper class accommodations or more modest affairs. As such, Regent Seven Seas is an excellent option for families and for those traveling in groups.
Excellent Spas
Every ship in the Regent Seven Seas fleet has an on board spa called the Carita Spa. The Carita Spa is considered to be one of the most luxurious and accommodating of any spa on a cruise ship today. Passengers can take in phenomenal ocean views while receiving a bevy of different treatments. Being pampered is a guarantee when you cruise with Regent Seven Seas.
All Open Seating
Assigned seating is not used anywhere on any of Regent Seven Seas’ ships. This helps add to the relaxing, laid back atmosphere of this line, making it feel more like a genuine vacation and less structured and regimented. This does not mean, however, that dining on Regent Seven Seas is sub par; the restaurants on board are truly among the most delectable around.
Gratuity Included With Fare
As soon as you step on board a Regent Seven Seas ship, you don’t have to worry about tipping for the duration of your cruise. This is one of the most popular characteristics of the cruise line, and in no way reduces the overall quality of the service that you will enjoy.
Top Itineraries
Africa
Explore one of the most mysterious continents on Earth by booking a Regent Seven Seas cruise to Africa. Popular ports of call along the way include Cape Town, Walvis Bay and Durban, South Africa.
India
India is one of the true gems of the world, and Regent Seven Seas opens up the possibilities for adventure there with its excellent Indian itineraries. Ports of call include Bombay, Mangalore and Goa.
Bangkok to Sydney
Start off in Bangkok, explore ports of call around Indonesia – including Komodo Island and Benoa – then wind your way over to Sydney, Australia on this adventurous itinerary.
Alaska to China
While many cruise lines offer Alaskan itineraries, Regent Seven Seas kicks things up a notch by ferrying passengers from Alaska to China. Along the way, stops in Russia and Japan are included.
The Fleet
Seven Seas Voyager
Have you ever thought about how nice it would be to be waited on hand and foot while sailing the seas? On the Seven Seas Voyager, you can do exactly that. The butler service on this ship is one of its chief selling points; delectable cuisine and a rotating schedule of celebrity lecturers also help make this a special treat.
Seven Seas Mariner
Drinks are one of those things that can really add up; that’s why it helps that all drinks are included on the Seven Seas Mariner. The guest-to-crew ratio on this ship is amazing, meaning that the service is simply out of this world. The retro Compass Rose dining area harkens back to simpler – and more elegant – times.
Seven Seas Navigator
Considering that more than 90% of the cabins on board the Navigator have balconies, it is plain to see that this is one spacious, well designed ship. Small, specialized touches – like a cognac and cigar club – lend this ship a regal and classic air.
Paul Gauguin
As one of the most romantic cruise ships in service today, the Paul Gauguin is a natural choice for honeymooners – and for those who simply want to reconnect and add a dose of passion to their relationship. With its excellent roster of South Pacific itineraries, the Paul Gauguin is a wonderful option. Its Polynesian-themed décor adds to its romantic nature. The Paul Gauguin will be leaving the Regent Seven Seas fleet in 2010, when it will branch off into its own cruise company.