REGENT SEVEN SEAS
Boarding from Rome Civitavecchia, the check-in process was extremely quick and efficient with no line ups. There was red carpet, drinks station, toilets and an amiable crew ready to assist. We were through the screening in less than 20 minutes and then on to the ship, greeted by a smiling face and a glass of champagne; what a fitting welcome to the luxurious Mariner of the Seas. 696 Guests, 459 Crew, 348 Suites, 8 Decks, 216.1m Length, 28.3m Wide and 48075 tons. At no point on this cruise did I ever feel crowded or have to line up for anything, even a lift. I expected it to be grand, but this surpassed my expectations.
Mariner of the Seas is a ship that warmly embraces its passengers with an authentic sense of home. From the moment you set foot on its deck, you're greeted by a genuine ambience that harks back to cherished memories of comfortable living. The carefully curated interiors feature cozy nooks adorned with plush furnishings, evoking the feeling of a familiar living room. The attentive crew members, who seem more like welcoming hosts, anticipate your every need with a sincere smile, making you feel like an esteemed guest in their own abode.
Deluxe Veranda Suite: Category G. Every inch of this suite has been thoughtfully designed to maximize interior space and embrace the magnificent scenery outdoors. From the sitting area, admire the
ocean views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, or better yet, sit outside on your private balcony to watch the world go by. Elegant finishes such as luxurious bedding and beautiful marble detailing in the bathroom further enhance your comfort. The walk-in room had plenty of storage, hanging, drawers and shelves. Once you unpacked, the suitcases slid comfortably away under the bed.
Your Seven Seas cruise fare is all-inclusive. The fare includes gourmet meals, champagne, fine wines and spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, specialty teas and coffees, laundry, Wi-Fi, and more. Uniquely, shore excursions are also included, and shuttle bus transfers to and from the port are often included. Plus, there is also a handy tote bag to take ashore. In addition, gratuities are included, which means tipping is unnecessary. Indeed, once you get onboard, there is no need to pay for anything else. In fact, it is pretty hard to spend a dime on a Regent cruise.
The Seven Seas Voyager dress code ranges from casual to formal, depending on the time of day.
Understated Elegance: The design here is both tasteful and subdued. The crowd, too, is fancy without being flashy. You can dress up if you want to (and many passengers do at night), but it's optional.
Casual wear includes resort-style apparel like jeans, shorts, t-shirts, and tennis shoes. It is appropriate only before 6:00pm, with two exceptions: Guests can wear casual anytime they dine at the Pool Grill or Pool Bar;
Otherwise, in the evening, guests wear either elegant casual or formal. This is indicated each day in the on board Passages newsletter.
For ladies, elegant casual wear includes skirts, slacks with a blouse or sweater, a pantsuit or a dress. For gentlemen, it is slacks and a collared shirt. Sport jackets are optional, and ties are not required.
The dining experience was faultless, with friendly, efficient and hospitable service. You were greeted by name by the concierge and taken to your favourite table where wait staff were ready and waiting with a smile.
Dining options include Compass Rose with its European-inspired menu, the Veranda buffet restaurant and the al fresco Pool Grill. There are also two specialty restaurants – a steakhouse called Prime 7 and the sublimely good French restaurant called Chartreuse. Light snacks and coffee are served all day at the popular Coffee Connection, and In-suite dining is available 24-hours a day. The selection on the menu was first class. Our favourite was the Compass Rose where the was always a selection of delicious seafood such as lobster tail, prawns or scallops, not to mention the perfectly cooked steaks.
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast with a view to die for, a casual burger lunch by the pool and then end the day fine dining on Versace dinnerware.
On other cruises I've taken, the itinerary typically included a few days at sea between port stops. This particular itinerary, however, had zero full sea days and was a much more land-based experience. You would dock after breakfast so there generally was no rushing to get off. The selection of included shore excursions was plentiful and a choice at each port was given. We'd head to the lounge and wait for our group to be called, pop downstairs one level, fill up the complimentary water bottle, grab an umbrella or towel if needed and away we'd go. Once shore, you are directed to your bus, where you join around a maximum number of 20 passengers. Returning to the ship each afternoon felt like coming home. It was wonderful to sit by the pool and place an order at the buffet, which was then delivered to your seat. Then, you could order another afternoon spritzer before thinking about dinner.
This has undoubtedly been the most remarkable cruise experience I've ever had. From the moment I stepped on board, every aspect of this journey has exceeded my wildest expectations. The impeccable service, the luxurious accommodations, and the breathtaking destinations have all combined to create an unparalleled adventure. Whether it's the attentive and friendly crew who anticipated my every desire or the awe-inspiring landscapes that unfolded before my eyes, this cruise has indeed been a magical experience. The attention to detail, the exquisite dining, and the myriad of activities available have ensured that every moment was filled with joy and wonder. I find myself already yearning to relive this extraordinary journey and am so passionate about Regent Seven Seas. Without hesitation, I can confidently recommend Regent Seven Seas. It is a perfect way to travel for singles, couples and also groups. Everyone is catered for.