The Seven Seas Explorer, once heralded as the flagship of opulence in the cruising world, remains a symbol of sophistication nearly a decade after its grand debut. When it launched, the Regent Suite, which sprawls across an impressive 4,400 square feet, was marketed not merely as a room but rather as a luxurious experience—infused with amenities such as an interactive navigation console that allowed guests to monitor the ship’s journey in real-time. Today, while the suite still dazzles with its tasteful gold fixtures and onyx paneling, it finds itself amidst a competitive luxury cruise landscape increasingly replete with similarly extravagant offerings. The arrival of sister ships, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Grandeur, alongside the Explorer, has altered the perception of what constitutes ‘ultimate luxury at sea.’
During my journey on the Explorer, I was struck by the ship’s striking blend of classic elegance and modern touches. Although the once standout features—like the collection of curated art pieces primarily collected under the aegis of former CEO Frank Del Rio—remain, they no longer hold the spotlight as they once did. The allure of intimately curated artwork seems secondary to what many guests are ultimately concerned with: the all-inclusive experience that Regent promotes. Discerning travelers acquire more than just plush surroundings; they indulge in high-end culinary experiences, exhilarating excursions, and engaging entertainment.
In an interview in 2016, Del Rio expressed his aspiration for the Explorer to transcend time, asserting that it would remain relevant in an ever-evolving luxury market. As I embarked on a five-night cruise segment from Vancouver to Tokyo, his vision seemed manifest through the ship’s numerous offerings, each crafted to impress. The elegant two-level lobby welcomed guests with an oversize chandelier that served as a bold proclamation of luxury and craft.
My accommodations within the Regent Suite certainly lived up to their reputation, with a striking white orchid greeting us upon arrival. The experience of dressing for formal dinners became a simple pleasure thanks to the spacious walk-in closet. Each culinary encounter presented aboard the ship unfolded as a delightful exploration of flavors, making it hard to choose a favorite.
The stand-out location, however, was undoubtedly the Pacific Rim specialty restaurant. The inventive menu and aesthetically pleasing presentation elevated my dining experience beyond mere sustenance. In contrast, the no-reservations dining option at Sette Mari proved to be a popular choice, culminating in a delicious Mediterranean swordfish steak that justified the wait. Throughout the voyage, educational experiences enhanced the journey, including insightful talks on Alaska’s rich history from destination expert Terry Breen, framing the thematic backdrop of our Alaskan adventure.
Evening entertainment sparked vibrancy on board. The comedic performance by John Fast catered to a mature audience, effortlessly hitting the humorous sweet spot expected on a luxury cruise. Meanwhile, the Explorer Production Company’s offering, “Paradis,” showcased captivating French cabaret numbers, merging sophistication with mesmerizing choreography, indicative of the caliber of performances travelers have come to expect on board.
The ship makes scheduled stops at towns like Ketchikan, showcasing newly designed docks that enhance passenger convenience. The excursion to the expanded Icy Strait Point cruise port in Hoonah offers a refreshing alternative to the increasingly congested Juneau, marrying scenic beauty with accessibility.
Looking toward the future, the Seven Seas Explorer epitomizes a new chapter in Regal’s narrative spectrum. The culmination of both design excellence and strategic vision under Del Rio’s guidance signifies a pivotal transformation in the history of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The creation of three advanced ships within the fleet, with plans for more to come in the near future, illustrates the brand’s resilience and its commitment to maintaining its identity amidst burgeoning competition.
To date, the Seven Seas Explorer stands as a testament to luxury cruising, showcasing over an acre of marble and an art collection valued at $5 million. With a staggering investment of over $450 million dedicated to the vessel, it serves to highlight the trend toward indulgent experiences designed for discerning travelers.
The Seven Seas Explorer expertly balances opulence with timeless charm, continuously inviting guests to immerse themselves in luxury while ensuring each aspect of their journey is as memorable as the magnificent landscapes they traverse. The future of luxury cruising looks tantalizingly bright with Regent leading the charge.