Cruise Specialist, Gill Williams, tells us about just a few of her highlights from her experience aboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises latest addition to their six star fleet.
I was fortunate enough to be invited on the inaugural sailing of the Seven Seas Splendor sailing from Ancona, Italy to Rome. To say I have been spoilt is an understatement. Nothing is too much trouble and the crew are exceptional.
On arrival at Ancona we checked in for our cruise, and this set the tone for the next couple of nights… so smooth and stress-free! Five minute process and then we took our first steps on board. We were met by friendly staff offering us a welcome glass of champagne. How lovely!
Our time onboard
The excitement was mounting as we made our way to our suites.
We had been allocated a Category D Concierge Suite on deck 9. The first thing that hit me, on entering the suite, was the sheer size of the room. So much larger than anything I have experienced before!
A welcoming bottle of champagne set out nicely in a bucket of ice was there to greet us. One of the things that I instantly loved about the suite was that the beds were facing the balcony – so you’ll always wake to a great view. Our balcony was also very large with great quality furniture.
Storage was not a problem (so many drawers!) and we also had a walk in wardrobe. There are plenty of plug sockets, and they take both European and flat pin US adapters.
As we had a further nosey around our room we noticed the bathroom was stunning. We had a full size bath and a separate shower with rain shower features. There were 2 sinks, marble floors and stunning L’Occitane toiletries.
At this point, we had to keep pinching ourselves as we remembered that we were the first people to stay in this suite!
We also had fresh fruit in the room which was replenished daily. The TV has satellite channels, as well as many movies that we could watch, and there were also information channels on ports of call.
We also had fresh fruit in the room which was replenished daily. The TV has satellite channels, as well as many movies that we could watch, and there were also information channels on ports of call.
During our first night on board, we discovered a lovely touch… there is a welcome on board block party at 6pm . This is where you go out into the corridor and meet your neighbours. The cruise director, Captain and other ships staff will then run from top to bottom on all decks saying hello. Did I mention you have champagne as well? You are also served canapes. It’s a wonderful way to meet your neighbours and fellow cruisers.
Dining
It’s fair to say I have done nothing but eat whilst being onboard!
La Veranda – is the buffet restaurant onboard. You can choose from a selection of salads, soups and main course dishes. There is also a pasta station where they will make you fresh pasta dishes. The selection of deserts would tempt even the strongest-willed person – it’s all mouthwatering.
Along with the buffet restaurant, Regent Seven Seas also have Room service – We ordered some light bites. The room service waiter came and put a table cloth on our table, set everything out for us.
As well as Room service they also provide Afternoon Tea – served Daily in the Meridian lounge. This is also opposite coffee connections where you can have tea/coffee and also selected snacks and light bites. There is an indoor and outdoor seating area here.
Regent Seven Seas also cater for many dietary needs from vegetarian to gluten free. There is also an outside grill area that had so much choice and even served full Iberico Jamon Legs.
There are 3 speciality restaurants onboard and also one main dining room:
- The Compass Rose – Regent Seven Seas main dining room.
- Very elegant yet contemporary and light in its decor. You are seated at your dinner table and immediately see that your charger is Versace, as is your side plate. Wow!! The Menu offering includes daily favourites plus the Chefs daily recommendations.
- Chartreuse– French influenced speciality restaurant. Again wonderful menu choice with signature dishes.
- Pacific Rim – Pan-Asian speciality restaurant – with dim sums, curry’s, and other Asian favourites. The decor and art work is wonderful. To the entrance of the restaurant is a fantastic bronze dragon piece of Art – great photo opportunity. The dishes are all smaller dishes so you don’t feel over faced. The quality of the cuisine really does treat those tastebuds.
- Prime 7 – Steak and seafood speciality restaurant
Entertainment
The Cruise Director is responsible for the scheduling of the shows on board. There is a full production cast and there are broadway style shows most evenings. We were lucky enough to have a back stage tour where we learnt how the costumes are cared for/quick changes facilitated and were the sets are stored. They make use of every inch of space. Fascinating!
Before the shows even get to the ship the singers and dancers have spent months in rehearsals, perfecting the shows in Tampa, Florida. On nights where there is no production show, there will be other guest entertainment, such as comedians or tribute bands.
Before the shows even get to the ship the singers and dancers have spent months in rehearsals, perfecting the shows in Tampa, Florida. On nights where there is no production show, there will be other guest entertainment, such as comedians or tribute bands.
Service
The word ‘no’ is not used. Impeccable service. One example of this was experienced in the restaurants. If you have left your reading glasses in your suite, and you can’t read the menu – no problem. Your waitress will present you with box with a selection of different strength reading glasses! This is the level of service and shows how far Regent go to anticipate guests needs.
Artwork on board
Over 500 pieces of individual artwork hand-picked by Regent’s CEO. Art is literally everywhere you look! From paintings and sculptures to lighting fixtures!
Culinary Arts Kitchen – by reservation
Guests can book into a masterclass where a chef will teach you how to cook 2 gourmet dishes. You also get to enjoy the food at the end and have a glass of bubbles whilst cooking. Great opportunity.
Excursions
Regent include a fantastic choice of excursions, free of charge, with every single cruise itinerary. These can be pre-booked ahead of your trip so that you can plan and get excited about all the wonderful things you’ll be seeing and experiencing.
We did a walking tour of the city walls in Dubrovnik. The guide was local and told us all the history of the area – a great insight into the Pearl of the Adriatic.
We did a walking tour of the city walls in Dubrovnik. The guide was local and told us all the history of the area – a great insight into the Pearl of the Adriatic.
Serena Spa and Wellness
A cruise holiday is all about making time for you. Head to the spa onboard – there are so many treatments available! Guests in the suites can also use the Infinity-Edge Plunge Pool (at the rear of the ship), the sauna and steam room. Plus, the Hydrothermal Suite, which includes a chill room – great for circulation.
There’s also a hair salon and nail & beauty treatments are available.
There’s also a hair salon and nail & beauty treatments are available.
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Sustainability
Literally the buzzword of the cruise industry at the moment! Regent are striving to improve sustainability of the environment. They have implemented paper straws fleet wide. They have also reduced their CO2 emissions with their new efficient engines and using the most expensive fuel type.
Lasting Impressions
I doubt that I will ever stop gushing about Seven Seas Splendor, and the impeccable service Regent Seven Seas Cruises provide, for a very long time! However, the three things that really stood out to me, and elevated the cruising experience to a higher standard of luxury were:
Space – Literally so much space in the suites! And they start at 301ft²!
Choice – From restaurants and dining to excursions and destinations on port intensive itineraries.
Time – This ship allows you to take time for you. Time to relax and enjoy – all facilitated by the impeccable service onboard.
Feeling Inspired?
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