Luxury Caribbean Cruise Review: Regent Seven Seas Explorer
February 22, 2018 | By Brenda McClain
Brenda McClain during the St Lucia stop.
Last month I had the amazing opportunity to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises aboard the Regent Seven Seas Explorer on an 11-day Caribbean cruise. From the moment you step aboard with a welcome glass of champagne to the last morning’s seated breakfast – everything is included. That sounds impossible – but it’s true. Of course the initial investment is more than your typical cruise costs, but think of how much you generally spend after your cruise payment is made. You still have to pay for airfare (included with Regent); shore excursions (included with Regent); gratuities (included with Regent); unlimited WiFi (included with Regent); plus things like beverages/spirits and specialty dining (also included with Regent).
Oh, and I forgot to mention, instead of 2,000 of your best cruise friends, there are only 700 guests onboard, and everyone gets a suite — with a balcony. The suites are very spacious with a sitting area, and the bedding can be a king or two separate beds. The baths include two marble sinks, a tub, and a separate shower large enough for even a pro athlete. And you won’t believe the size of all of the public areas – the grand staircase reminded me of a five-star resort with a chandelier that seemed two stories tall.
Given the complimentary shore excursions, I drove a jetski in the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and held a live starfish larger than a dinner plate another day. I surprised even myself!
The “foodies” aboard the ship all shared the same comments – the food was incredible. We tried the specialty restaurants more than once – including Prime 7 Steakhouse, the French Chartreuse, and the inviting Sette Mari at La Veranda with candlelit tables and main courses and desserts from all over Italy. Their wine selection comes from over 10 countries. We enjoyed the Pan Pacific restaurant with friends, but didn’t have a free night for an encore.
The nightly entertainment was excellent and changed every evening, so there was something for everyone.
The ship
After years in the travel industry and many cruises, I found this was an “experience”, not just a cruise. I hope to have a chance to sail again with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, but in the meantime would love to help you plan yours and share some of my knowledge with you. Please reach out to me at Brenda.McClain@AndavoTravel.com or 205-874-8528.