Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent traces its roots to 1992, when Radisson Seven Seas Cruises was formed from earlier small-ship lines. It was renamed Regent Seven Seas Cruises in 2006 and has been part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings since 2014, alongside sister line Oceania Cruises. Regent built its reputation on spacious suites and the most comprehensive inclusions in luxury cruising.

The fleet has six ships. The Explorer class, made up of Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Grandeur, carries around 750 guests in opulent surroundings with crystal chandeliers, marble and large art collections, topped by the lavish Regent Suite. Seven Seas Mariner, the first all-suite, all-balcony ship, and Seven Seas Voyager carry around 700 guests, while Seven Seas Navigator, the smallest at about 500 guests, handles more intimate itineraries.

Regent sails worldwide, from Europe and Alaska to Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the South Pacific, and its multi-month world cruises are some of the most sought-after in the industry.

Regent is elegant, spacious and relaxed in a polished way. Guests are typically affluent North Americans, mostly 60 and older, including many retired professionals and repeat luxury cruisers. The space-per-guest and crew-to-guest ratios are among the best at sea, so lines are rare and service is personal. Dress is elegant casual most nights, with formal optional evenings on longer voyages where many guests wear jackets or tuxedos. Ships are quiet, with lectures, fine dining and conversation favored over nightlife. Because nearly everything is included, there is little signing for drinks or dinners, which is a big part of the appeal.

Compass Rose is the main restaurant, with a flexible menu where you can build your own combinations. La Veranda serves buffet breakfast and lunch and becomes Sette Mari, an Italian restaurant, at night. Specialty restaurants are included and reservable: Prime 7 steakhouse, plus Chartreuse (modern French) and Pacific Rim (Pan-Asian) on the Explorer class. The Culinary Arts Kitchen runs hands-on cooking classes for a fee on several ships. Room service is available around the clock.

Evenings feature production shows in the theater, cabaret performers, a pianist in the bar and a small casino. The enrichment program brings lecturers on history, culture and wildlife, and the included shore excursions are a major part of the experience, with options from walking tours to Regent Choice premium tours, which carry a supplement.

Children can sail, and Regent offers a youth program on select summer and holiday sailings, but families are uncommon. The atmosphere and itineraries suit older children and teens best.

All accommodations are suites, and nearly all have private balconies. Entry-level Veranda Suites are generous, Concierge Suites add perks such as a pre-cruise hotel night, and Penthouse Suites include butler service. At the top, the Regent Suite on the Explorer class offers multiple rooms, a private spa area and a large wraparound balcony, among the most lavish accommodations at sea.

Unlimited drinks are included, covering premium spirits, fine wines, beer, soft drinks, specialty coffees and bottled water, plus an in-suite minibar replenished daily. Only rare and ultra-premium wines and spirits cost extra.

Gratuities are included in Regent fares, so there are no daily service charges and tipping isn’t expected.

The Seven Seas Society rewards past guests with tiers that rise with nights sailed. Perks include member events, onboard benefits and, at higher levels, extras such as free laundry service and additional onboard services.