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Regent Explorer Sydney to Bali Review

By Cruiseswithfamilyornot , February 20, 2023 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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I recently returned from a Regent Explorer Sydney to Bali cruise and I thought it would be good to post my review.  

For means of background, I have been on well over 50 cruises, mostly cruises on mainstream cruise lines when my kids were younger, but always sailing on luxury cruise lines as well more now as our kids are older.

I have always been more of a lurker on Cruise Critic and have received some great info on cruise lines and itineraries.  I was never a big poster historically as I always hated all of the drama and how people got crucified for expressing their opinions.   Having cruised as much as I do, I really believe that what each of us likes and don't like is very personal to us and does not necessarily apply to others.  Which is why I could care less about caviar or specific alcohols on board, two things that I know are very important to other people, but conversely I like to spend a little time in the casinos something I know many could care less about.   Personal opinions.  I've also seen differing reviews on the exact same cruise, and of course that is entirely possible as different people interact with other people, etc,,.

My favorite luxury line was the old Crystal previously.   I think since their ships were much larger than others and had more activities, coupled with exceptional service and very good food, and i must add people I really enjoyed meeting and cruising with, it was a no brainer.  I had tried out all of the other cruise lines and my first cruise with Crystal wasn't until 2008 but I was hooked.

With Crystal's demise, I have been going on all the other luxury cruise lines, and will be trying out the new Crystal of course, as well as Explora Journeys.

This was a tough cruise to start with as the ship had just come off of two very problematic cruises due to cancelled ports due to a problem with cleaning the hull in New Zealand waters and I had ready on line in numerous places that tempers had flared and some people were very upset.   I was concerned we might have had some backlash from that, but while there was some upset passengers, the crew was largely unimpacted despite being yelled out fairly often by upset passengers in the week before.  About 150 passengers were on a Grand Voyage from Auckland to Tokyo for 77 days.

Overall, we enjoyed our cruise.  I would definitely try Regent again, though I would do one or two things differently as you will see below.  We had about 630 people on our cruise the ship handles 750.  That number went down to 600 on the week we left.

I'd like to give a run down of what I will call four categories----The fantastic, the good, the bad and the ugly.

There are actually three things I'd call fantastic about the cruise.  In no particular order:

1)  The Ship.  It is a beautiful ship.  Hands down probably the nicest ship I've been on to date in terms of furnishings.   Some complaints about the ship being too dark in places, some columns in theaters that were fixed on Splendor, or what have you, but none of that impacted me.  Though I will say constantly announcing over the PA that it's the most luxurious ship on the ocean every day got a bit obnoxious lol...but it just made me laugh.

2)   The Food.   Was it always fantastic?  Of course not.  The first day on the ship I had some terrible food on the buffet, and if I'm to be honest there was a mix of poor things here and there.  They ran out of some things as well.  Pizza and Ice Cream weren't that hot but that might have been a blessing in disguise.     But I must say that I was extremely happy about the food overall.   Pacific Rim was incredible.  I loved Crystal's asian restaurant, I think I'd give Pacific Rim the edge.  Prime 7 was great too.   But the biggest surprise to me?   In the main dining room, they have an every day menu that consists of 12 different items with like 15 different sauces you can mix and match and tons of side options.   This includes Filet Mignon as well as other types of steak, Lobster Tail, the list goes on.  As a pickier eater, I REALLY appreciated this and more so....this dishes were fantastic.  Not the normal boring every day issues you often see.   I usually find people are desperate to try to get into the specialty restaurants as much as possible as the main dining room is nowhere near as good.  I did not find that on Regent at all, and in fact Compass Rose was packed every night.  Have to say their Chocolate Croissants and some of the cookies were fantastic.  Yes, I have a sweet tooth.

3)  The Service.  I never imagined I would find service as good as on old Crystal.  I was wrong.  We kept using the word impeccable.  It really was.   Were there a handful of snafus?  Of course, we were on the ship for almost 3 weeks.  But overall we couldn't have been happier.  I swear the service in Pacific Rim was the best I've ever had in my life and the Maitre D' there was a sweetheart.   I was told if you just show up after 8 pm even without a reservation they would try their hardest to find you a table and we did that one night and sure enough, couldn't have been nicer.  Prime 7 was great too, don't misunderstand me, but Pacific Rim was close to perfect service I've ever had in my life.  Every meal wasn't 2 hours, you could dine quickly if you wanted service was that great, something I have found to be an issue on some other luxury lines.  They take their queues from you.  Also have to add the ship was very clean.

For me, the above three are the most important things on a cruise.  While there are more "bad" items, they are all much more minor than the three listed above.  So while it may seem numerically there is more in the bad category, I would weight these much higher.

1)  Rooms.   We were in an Explorer Suite.   The room was very nice.  Can't say fantastic as a list of things that could be improved upon, including a glass door between the bedroom and the living room which is silly but they give you a velcro cover if asked.  One of the biggest reasons I splurge for a suite as I sleep a lot less than my spouse and want a separate room to go to so having the light coming through just wasn't thought out well(I was told they are fixing this on the next dry dock later this year).  A few other issues with the shower, I was surprised the veranda wasn't a little larger, but overall a very good room and I was very happy. Our butler(Amey) and stewardess(Andrea) were both excellent and very, very kind.

2)  Some of the Entertainment.   While it was a bit disappointing that there was definitely less in the form of entertainment on the ship(more on that in the bad category), I do have to give props to the two ship entertainers G Clef and the piano player Alex.   The female singer of G CLef was nothing short of amazing in her voice, and was a lot of fun to watch.   Her guitar playing male counterpart was very talented on the guitar.   And the pianist was just very good.  While there was a lack of entertainment on sea days, I will give them credit for doing a few unique fun things like a county fair one day.

3)  Floor 12 has a great track that goes around most of the ship, and also includes a paddle and pickle ball court, 18 holes of a short/mini golf game, ping pong, bocce ball and shuffle board.  My room was on deck 12, but I loved the track and used it every day and loved the views in this part of the world.  We also used everything on that floor minimally once, wasn't used much in fairness.  There are deck chairs on 12 too, but mostly in the sun.

4)  The Spa.   Yes their massages were expensive.  And yes, maybe we just got lucky.  But we had two amazing masseuses and had multiple treatments and it was awesome(some of the best ever).   Also, there is an infinity pool on the back of the boat you have to go to.

5)  Culinary Kitchen.  There are only 12 stations, and it's on sea days for the most part, but it was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed it.  Chef Stefano had a great personality and was very knowledgeable.

6)  TV.  Don't laugh.  No I don't sit in the room excessively.  But when you're on a cruise for almost 3 weeks, most cruises the programming gets old and repetitive.  There are those of us who have it on as background noise, or like to watch before bedtime or fall asleep to something.  Regent had a good number of varied selections.  All included.

1)  The Entertainment.   A bit disappointing that they just had two entertainers in lounges and other places.   They did use individual musicians from the Regent Orchestra to help bridge that gap.  Also, every guest entertainer performed twice.  Some you were happy to see twice, others not so much.  I had to stop going to the lecturers as they seemed best at putting me to sleep.  In fairness, the topics may not have been the most interesting  but for one of them they were just a bad speaker and I dont think could hold people's attention.   Compared to old Crystal, this didn't stack up well.   Also on sea days I found a definite lack of activities and was wishing there were more things later on in the cruise, but again I may be spoiled from Crystal and mainstream lines which obviously have a lot more options.  There was only one trivia per day, even on sea days.  I was happy to have a casino but it was smaller with limited games.  The staff in the casino were, of course, very friendly and nice as was the case on the whole ship for the most part.

2)  The shows were at 9 30 every night and dinners start later(I believe 6 30 in specialties and 7 pm in main dining room).  I am not an early person so I was fine, but many passengers were put off by this and the shows were never crowded due to this.

3)  Regent Air.  I would put this in the neutral category as for me this was ok.  I live in NY so never an issue with direct flights but they sent us the long way through Dubai to get to Sydney.  That said I was on Emirates Business class, so a few more hours in Emirates isn't exactly something to complain about though the flight was long.  Others complained of excessive connections and fees, which I experienced when I tried to change flights deviations as well so I didn't do.

4)  Sea day pool chair in the shade hogs.  Can't believe I'm writing this about a luxury line, but it's true.

5)  Gym was too small and constantly over crowded on sea days.

6)  The tenders.   This is most cruise lines, but I have to say, yuck.  Stuffed in like sardines, really not a pleasant experience.  I expected more from a luxury line.

7)  Internet. I still work full time, though it's my own business.  I paid for the upgraded plan.  Needn't have bothered.  It stunk.  Very basic things were ok(email and the like) most of the time, but that was it.  In fairness, there is no luxury cruise line that has this down, but the mainstream ones have gotten much better.  Thank god I was able to figure out how to do some of the things I had to do in ports but it was a pain.  I get that most people on luxury lines are retired, but even retirees want good internet!

There is only one thing here but man was it ugly.  Excursions.  For full disclosure, I have made it a habit to book private excursions for the most part for years.  Price point wise, they are not more expensive and there are a list of things I don't like about group tours(hurry up and wait, lines, someone taking longer at a certain stop, etc,,).   But excursions were included in the Regent fare and my TA said try it as they heard mostly good things so I did.  I will say, in fairness, Regent loyalists on this cruise had commented that this cruise was below average in this category.  But it's not just this cruise.  I had booked a cruise on the Splendor for June of 2023 and cancelled it because all the excursions I wanted were sold out!   This cruise, it was a lot of the same, and some really bad stuff.   It would be remiss of me not to say most of the excursions we took(probably 2/3) were fine.   Sure, we sat in the theater waiting for our number to be called, sat on a bus waiting alot even on those, but it was fine.   There were many that were not though.   Starting with some ports with no excursions available.  If you are offering free unlimited excursions how does this happen?  Also, because of the age breakdown on the ship, there are a fair number of short excursions with very little activity mostly just on a bus.   Those are always the last to go and you can get stuck on some.   Some of the excursions were just terrible.  We paid $150 to go to a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef surcharge.  Went on a boat where, again, crammed in.   I had been the reef before, and this pontoon was disgusting.   I think the only people who liked this were those that had never been before.  If you had, there were 12 loungers for 95 people.  The deck was covered in bird poop.  And the lunch they served was very bad cafeteria food.  There were people sitting on the boat waiting to go back an hour before we were supposed to leave.  Alot of people complained about this one.   We also went to Papua New Guinea.  Why?   We were fortunate in that the morning excursions were all fully booked within 48 hours of becoming available(another thing that stunk about the excursions) so when we went to get off the ship for our late morning/early afternoon one we saw the people coming back from the morning excursions and they literally looked like they went through a war.  Small buses with zero leg room and no air(very hot and humid) and nothing to see.  People said they felt unsafe.  One person said to us, and I quote "I feel like if I get Malaria, which I probably did, that was the highlight of the tour".   One excursion people paid a premium for couldn't go off.   The second day in Papua New Guinea was cancelled due to "safety" reasons an hour after we left the first port.   The staff let slip the ship has been there before and they will never get off there again, they felt unsafe.   How does the ship take us there?   This one was mind numbing.  I could on about a few other excursions that weren't great, but you get the drift.  If we did Regent again I would need to book on our own excursions, which just increases the price of an already higher priced cruise.   Hands down, this was my biggest issue.

The people on the cruise were very nice, though I did find they skewed older than Crystal and there were some more mobility issues than I used to see(which was reflected in many of the excursions I felt), but I really enjoyed meeting such a great group of people.

So I would cruise Regent again, but I'd have to factor in the cost of excursions as well and I wouldn't do too many sea days.  This is all very subjective of course.   Any questions, feel free to ask.

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As a Regent client with a lot of nights (not that it matters other than to share my perspective), I feel your description is extremely accurate and this post should be pinned as it is a great resource for others. Thank you for taking the time to write it!

We also were on this cruise, but started in Auckland.  You summed everything up perfectly!  The excursions and tendering were the absolute worst we have ever encountered.  Regent never used to fill the buses to capacity.  I never remember them sending numerous buses to the same location at the same time.  And the descriptions of the tours were not particularly accurate.  The staff, except for destination services, made up for so many of these shortcomings with their friendly attentiveness. They truly made us feel special.

Thank you for the detailed review. We are scheduled for Sydney to Singapore  January 2024 and this was very helpful. I have been reading about the poor excursions that regent offers and have been planning on a few my own. Do you specifically have any ports that you suggest we skip the regent tours all together? Sounds like Cairns may be one of them. Also our cruise has two ports of call in Papa New Guinea so this is concerning regarding the poor quality of the tours and the safety of the area. Did not plan to do a private excursion. Would you recommend just walking around and not doing a Regent tour?

Thank you all for you kind comments.  It's all just opinions, though I will say many people were vocal about their disdain for the excursions.  I actually could have said a lot more which @gabelle touched on a lot of.  But I think we got the point across.

@clelbonv Cairns was actually one port we did two tour excursions from the ship and they were both good(for cruise ship excursions).   I will say for both we were waiting about 30 minutes in the theater to be called for the bus after we were told to report, but outside of that they were solid.  The tours I am mentioning below I did pay a premium for both of them, so not sure if that's why but they were the Skyrail, Kuranda and Cairns and the Jungle Train and Amphibious Duck Tours.

After seeing people getting on the ship after their tours and what they had to say in Papua New Guinea, while we did technically did get off the boat we turned around and went right back on.   We spent the day at the infinity pool at the spa which was really nice and I will tell you we saw extreme poverty looking out over the bow of the ship.  It was heartbreaking, reminded me of the extreme poverty you see in some of the Caribbean Islands.  I'll leave for others that were on the same cruise and commented to say what they did there and what their thoughts are since I did not really go into town or anything like that.  I do have to say, while literally 30 people told me how much they hated and every staff member said they'd never get off at that port, I was sitting at the casino with someone who told me they loved their excursion in Papua New Guinea as it was very eye opening, etc,, and it was one of their favorite ones of all cruises they've done in years!    So different strokes for different folks always....

I'm sure they will change the pontoon they went to for the Great Barrier Reef as when we mentioned it casually(not complaining) to the excursions desk they cut us off and let us know they had already received an earful from many other passengers.  I have been to Australia before, and I will say that while I prefer to cruise over a land trip most of the time, the Great Barrier Reef is one of those places I think is better seen by being at one of the beautiful resorts and really being able to enjoy the location.  Crystal used to do a few day excursions where you got off the ship and went to a resort somewhere and then could get back on which was very cool.  Obviously you pay a premium for that

The descriptions for some of the excursions were not accurate so I'd have to review each one and what we did to comment on that, though I remember the cruise in Darwin was totally mislabeled, and they took us to places to describe events that happened during World War 2 that the real history buffs enjoyed, but there is no way 99% of the people remember what was said cause it just wasn't that meaningful.  We've all had those experiences so I know you can relate.  I recall there was practically a mutiny on a bus I was on as they decided we need to more of the city we were in and literally just drove around for an hour and a half after spending hours out on a tour and everyone but literally one person wanted to go back to the ship.  I'm going to stop there, as I feel like I'm being way too negative about the excursions which I have been perfectly clear on.  I could and should have booked on my own as the crew on the ship, food and the ship itself were fantastic and overshadowed so much of this

Enjoy your cruise!

4 hours ago, Cruiseswithfamilyornot said: I recently returned from a Regent Explorer Sydney to Bali cruise and I thought it would be good to post my review.     For means of background, I have been on well over 50 cruises, mostly cruises on mainstream cruise lines when my kids were younger, but always sailing on luxury cruise lines as well more now as our kids are older.   I have always been more of a lurker on Cruise Critic and have received some great info on cruise lines and itineraries.  I was never a big poster historically as I always hated all of the drama and how people got crucified for expressing their opinions.   Having cruised as much as I do, I really believe that what each of us likes and don't like is very personal to us and does not necessarily apply to others.  Which is why I could care less about caviar or specific alcohols on board, two things that I know are very important to other people, but conversely I like to spend a little time in the casinos something I know many could care less about.   Personal opinions.  I've also seen differing reviews on the exact same cruise, and of course that is entirely possible as different people interact with other people, etc,,.   My favorite luxury line was the old Crystal previously.   I think since their ships were much larger than others and had more activities, coupled with exceptional service and very good food, and i must add people I really enjoyed meeting and cruising with, it was a no brainer.  I had tried out all of the other cruise lines and my first cruise with Crystal wasn't until 2008 but I was hooked.   With Crystal's demise, I have been going on all the other luxury cruise lines, and will be trying out the new Crystal of course, as well as Explora Journeys.   This was a tough cruise to start with as the ship had just come off of two very problematic cruises due to cancelled ports due to a problem with cleaning the hull in New Zealand waters and I had ready on line in numerous places that tempers had flared and some people were very upset.   I was concerned we might have had some backlash from that, but while there was some upset passengers, the crew was largely unimpacted despite being yelled out fairly often by upset passengers in the week before.  About 150 passengers were on a Grand Voyage from Auckland to Tokyo for 77 days.   Overall, we enjoyed our cruise.  I would definitely try Regent again, though I would do one or two things differently as you will see below.  We had about 630 people on our cruise the ship handles 750.  That number went down to 600 on the week we left.   I'd like to give a run down of what I will call four categories----The fantastic, the good, the bad and the ugly.   There are actually three things I'd call fantastic about the cruise.  In no particular order:   1)  The Ship.  It is a beautiful ship.  Hands down probably the nicest ship I've been on to date in terms of furnishings.   Some complaints about the ship being too dark in places, some columns in theaters that were fixed on Splendor, or what have you, but none of that impacted me.  Though I will say constantly announcing over the PA that it's the most luxurious ship on the ocean every day got a bit obnoxious lol...but it just made me laugh.   2)   The Food.   Was it always fantastic?  Of course not.  The first day on the ship I had some terrible food on the buffet, and if I'm to be honest there was a mix of poor things here and there.  They ran out of some things as well.  Pizza and Ice Cream weren't that hot but that might have been a blessing in disguise.     But I must say that I was extremely happy about the food overall.   Pacific Rim was incredible.  I loved Crystal's asian restaurant, I think I'd give Pacific Rim the edge.  Prime 7 was great too.   But the biggest surprise to me?   In the main dining room, they have an every day menu that consists of 12 different items with like 15 different sauces you can mix and match and tons of side options.   This includes Filet Mignon as well as other types of steak, Lobster Tail, the list goes on.  As a pickier eater, I REALLY appreciated this and more so....this dishes were fantastic.  Not the normal boring every day issues you often see.   I usually find people are desperate to try to get into the specialty restaurants as much as possible as the main dining room is nowhere near as good.  I did not find that on Regent at all, and in fact Compass Rose was packed every night.  Have to say their Chocolate Croissants and some of the cookies were fantastic.  Yes, I have a sweet tooth.   3)  The Service.  I never imagined I would find service as good as on old Crystal.  I was wrong.  We kept using the word impeccable.  It really was.   Were there a handful of snafus?  Of course, we were on the ship for almost 3 weeks.  But overall we couldn't have been happier.  I swear the service in Pacific Rim was the best I've ever had in my life and the Maitre D' there was a sweetheart.   I was told if you just show up after 8 pm even without a reservation they would try their hardest to find you a table and we did that one night and sure enough, couldn't have been nicer.  Prime 7 was great too, don't misunderstand me, but Pacific Rim was close to perfect service I've ever had in my life.  Every meal wasn't 2 hours, you could dine quickly if you wanted service was that great, something I have found to be an issue on some other luxury lines.  They take their queues from you.  Also have to add the ship was very clean.   For me, the above three are the most important things on a cruise.  While there are more "bad" items, they are all much more minor than the three listed above.  So while it may seem numerically there is more in the bad category, I would weight these much higher.   The Good   1)  Rooms.   We were in an Explorer Suite.   The room was very nice.  Can't say fantastic as a list of things that could be improved upon, including a glass door between the bedroom and the living room which is silly but they give you a velcro cover if asked.  One of the biggest reasons I splurge for a suite as I sleep a lot less than my spouse and want a separate room to go to so having the light coming through just wasn't thought out well(I was told they are fixing this on the next dry dock later this year).  A few other issues with the shower, I was surprised the veranda wasn't a little larger, but overall a very good room and I was very happy. Our butler(Amey) and stewardess(Andrea) were both excellent and very, very kind.   2)  Some of the Entertainment.   While it was a bit disappointing that there was definitely less in the form of entertainment on the ship(more on that in the bad category), I do have to give props to the two ship entertainers G Clef and the piano player Alex.   The female singer of G CLef was nothing short of amazing in her voice, and was a lot of fun to watch.   Her guitar playing male counterpart was very talented on the guitar.   And the pianist was just very good.  While there was a lack of entertainment on sea days, I will give them credit for doing a few unique fun things like a county fair one day.   3)  Floor 12 has a great track that goes around most of the ship, and also includes a paddle and pickle ball court, 18 holes of a short/mini golf game, ping pong, bocce ball and shuffle board.  My room was on deck 12, but I loved the track and used it every day and loved the views in this part of the world.  We also used everything on that floor minimally once, wasn't used much in fairness.  There are deck chairs on 12 too, but mostly in the sun.   4)  The Spa.   Yes their massages were expensive.  And yes, maybe we just got lucky.  But we had two amazing masseuses and had multiple treatments and it was awesome(some of the best ever).   Also, there is an infinity pool on the back of the boat you have to go to.   5)  Culinary Kitchen.  There are only 12 stations, and it's on sea days for the most part, but it was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed it.  Chef Stefano had a great personality and was very knowledgeable.   6)  TV.  Don't laugh.  No I don't sit in the room excessively.  But when you're on a cruise for almost 3 weeks, most cruises the programming gets old and repetitive.  There are those of us who have it on as background noise, or like to watch before bedtime or fall asleep to something.  Regent had a good number of varied selections.  All included.   The Bad   1)  The Entertainment.   A bit disappointing that they just had two entertainers in lounges and other places.   They did use individual musicians from the Regent Orchestra to help bridge that gap.  Also, every guest entertainer performed twice.  Some you were happy to see twice, others not so much.  I had to stop going to the lecturers as they seemed best at putting me to sleep.  In fairness, the topics may not have been the most interesting  but for one of them they were just a bad speaker and I dont think could hold people's attention.   Compared to old Crystal, this didn't stack up well.   Also on sea days I found a definite lack of activities and was wishing there were more things later on in the cruise, but again I may be spoiled from Crystal and mainstream lines which obviously have a lot more options.  There was only one trivia per day, even on sea days.  I was happy to have a casino but it was smaller with limited games.  The staff in the casino were, of course, very friendly and nice as was the case on the whole ship for the most part.   2)  The shows were at 9 30 every night and dinners start later(I believe 6 30 in specialties and 7 pm in main dining room).  I am not an early person so I was fine, but many passengers were put off by this and the shows were never crowded due to this.   3)  Regent Air.  I would put this in the neutral category as for me this was ok.  I live in NY so never an issue with direct flights but they sent us the long way through Dubai to get to Sydney.  That said I was on Emirates Business class, so a few more hours in Emirates isn't exactly something to complain about though the flight was long.  Others complained of excessive connections and fees, which I experienced when I tried to change flights deviations as well so I didn't do.   4)  Sea day pool chair in the shade hogs.  Can't believe I'm writing this about a luxury line, but it's true.   5)  Gym was too small and constantly over crowded on sea days.   6)  The tenders.   This is most cruise lines, but I have to say, yuck.  Stuffed in like sardines, really not a pleasant experience.  I expected more from a luxury line.   7)  Internet. I still work full time, though it's my own business.  I paid for the upgraded plan.  Needn't have bothered.  It stunk.  Very basic things were ok(email and the like) most of the time, but that was it.  In fairness, there is no luxury cruise line that has this down, but the mainstream ones have gotten much better.  Thank god I was able to figure out how to do some of the things I had to do in ports but it was a pain.  I get that most people on luxury lines are retired, but even retirees want good internet!   The Ugly.   There is only one thing here but man was it ugly.  Excursions.  For full disclosure, I have made it a habit to book private excursions for the most part for years.  Price point wise, they are not more expensive and there are a list of things I don't like about group tours(hurry up and wait, lines, someone taking longer at a certain stop, etc,,).   But excursions were included in the Regent fare and my TA said try it as they heard mostly good things so I did.  I will say, in fairness, Regent loyalists on this cruise had commented that this cruise was below average in this category.  But it's not just this cruise.  I had booked a cruise on the Splendor for June of 2023 and cancelled it because all the excursions I wanted were sold out!   This cruise, it was a lot of the same, and some really bad stuff.   It would be remiss of me not to say most of the excursions we took(probably 2/3) were fine.   Sure, we sat in the theater waiting for our number to be called, sat on a bus waiting alot even on those, but it was fine.   There were many that were not though.   Starting with some ports with no excursions available.  If you are offering free unlimited excursions how does this happen?  Also, because of the age breakdown on the ship, there are a fair number of short excursions with very little activity mostly just on a bus.   Those are always the last to go and you can get stuck on some.   Some of the excursions were just terrible.  We paid $150 to go to a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef surcharge.  Went on a boat where, again, crammed in.   I had been the reef before, and this pontoon was disgusting.   I think the only people who liked this were those that had never been before.  If you had, there were 12 loungers for 95 people.  The deck was covered in bird poop.  And the lunch they served was very bad cafeteria food.  There were people sitting on the boat waiting to go back an hour before we were supposed to leave.  Alot of people complained about this one.   We also went to Papua New Guinea.  Why?   We were fortunate in that the morning excursions were all fully booked within 48 hours of becoming available(another thing that stunk about the excursions) so when we went to get off the ship for our late morning/early afternoon one we saw the people coming back from the morning excursions and they literally looked like they went through a war.  Small buses with zero leg room and no air(very hot and humid) and nothing to see.  People said they felt unsafe.  One person said to us, and I quote "I feel like if I get Malaria, which I probably did, that was the highlight of the tour".   One excursion people paid a premium for couldn't go off.   The second day in Papua New Guinea was cancelled due to "safety" reasons an hour after we left the first port.   The staff let slip the ship has been there before and they will never get off there again, they felt unsafe.   How does the ship take us there?   This one was mind numbing.  I could on about a few other excursions that weren't great, but you get the drift.  If we did Regent again I would need to book on our own excursions, which just increases the price of an already higher priced cruise.   Hands down, this was my biggest issue.   The people on the cruise were very nice, though I did find they skewed older than Crystal and there were some more mobility issues than I used to see(which was reflected in many of the excursions I felt), but I really enjoyed meeting such a great group of people.   So I would cruise Regent again, but I'd have to factor in the cost of excursions as well and I wouldn't do too many sea days.  This is all very subjective of course.   Any questions, feel free to ask.

Thank you for your objective review.

It sounds like things were par for the course on this Regent cruise since the last time I was on  (e.g., crowded non-luxurious excursions of borderline merit, crowded non-luxurious tenders, chair hogs who are not controlled by staff,  borderline entertainment, and bad internet; but beautiful facilities and hard-working staff who know how to cheerfully ignore complaining passengers).

But it was good to hear that you found food and service in Compass Rose good (when I couldn't cut my lobster even with a steak knife because it was so tough, I had to agree with a former Regent cheerleader's frequent CC advice that one should try and eat as many meals as possible *off the ship* -- but it is encouraging to hear that may not be the case anymore!).

I mix and match cruise lines predominantly based on itinerary, and know none is perfect, so I will  be back soon 🙂

7 hours ago, clelbonv said: Do you specifically have any ports that you suggest we skip the regent tours all together? Sounds like Cairns may be one of them. Also our cruise has two ports of call in Papa New Guinea so this is concerning regarding the poor quality of the tours and the safety of the area. Did not plan to do a private excursion. Would you recommend just walking around and not doing a Regent tour?

We were on that trip too AKL to Bali

We enjoyed the cairns tour to Kuranda  army duck and the train was fantastic.  We did go to the train ticket office and paid about $30 US for an upgrade to gold class with complementary food tea beer and wine and more comfortable seats.   Well worth it.  Amazing views of the waterfall.  We overnighted there and they changed us (we were supposed to go to the pontoon the first day but sounds like we made the right choice by sticking with the duck tour that day )  They have a nice aquarium there and some nice shopping in the downtown where the ship docks so easy walks albeit very warm.   Not sure why regent doesn't simply offer aquarium tickets.   

The Maitland jail tour out of Newcastle was very interesting.  The guide we had at the jail was a former guard there and wow what great stories.  

We were very disappointed with the territory zoo tour out of Darwin.  Lots of walking but not a lot of interesting animals.

The Australia zoo however was fantastic, the tender out of mooloolaba was dreadful.  Extremely hot and slow as OP mention. 

I suspect they won't be going to Papua on your cruise either unless the local authorities make some changes.

Just getting ready to leave Singapore today.  Great food but can be expensive.  Beers at hotel ($22 SGD per bottle) Yikes!    The food courts are much better.  And don't miss the cloud dome and flower dome at gardens by the bay if you like plants - phenomenal! 

Great thread and review - I'd agree more or less with everything mentioned.  We didn't do the spa just the salon which was good.  We stayed on our own in Bali and I had a fabulous 90 minute massage at the conrad for about 80USD  (cheaper outside the hotel) 

Stayed in Singapore and the Mandarin Oriental and DW and I both had some of the best treatments ever albeit pricey still not what the ship price was.   

3 hours ago, Lonedaddy said: We were on that trip too AKL to Bali   We enjoyed the cairns tour to Kuranda  army duck and the train was fantastic.  We did go to the train ticket office and paid about $30 US for an upgrade to gold class with complementary food tea beer and wine and more comfortable seats.   Well worth it.  Amazing views of the waterfall.  We overnighted there and they changed us (we were supposed to go to the pontoon the first day but sounds like we made the right choice by sticking with the duck tour that day )  They have a nice aquarium there and some nice shopping in the downtown where the ship docks so easy walks albeit very warm.   Not sure why regent doesn't simply offer aquarium tickets.      The Maitland jail tour out of Newcastle was very interesting.  The guide we had at the jail was a former guard there and wow what great stories.     We were very disappointed with the territory zoo tour out of Darwin.  Lots of walking but not a lot of interesting animals.   The Australia zoo however was fantastic, the tender out of mooloolaba was dreadful.  Extremely hot and slow as OP mention.    I suspect they won't be going to Papua on your cruise either unless the local authorities make some changes.   Just getting ready to leave Singapore today.  Great food but can be expensive.  Beers at hotel ($22 SGD per bottle) Yikes!    The food courts are much better.  And don't miss the cloud dome and flower dome at gardens by the bay if you like plants - phenomenal! 

I didn't pay for the upgrade as we had met some people and they didn't want to, I had a feeling we might have missed something!   The views from the train were amazing, I agree.  One of the highlights.   I liked the skyrail too.   You are high above the forest and you make some stops along the way that were interesting.  I love seeing animals like that, we did the Australian Zoo too.  I quite enjoyed that one but one tip I will give for that---you can actually book animal encounters there directly with the zoo where you have a chance to get up close and personal with an animal of your choice and feed them.  We did that with a Binturong(I never heard of it either before this trip) and it was a lot of fun as we had already done that with Koala's and some others on previous trips.  I thought it was well worth it, but by the time I booked it(3 months in advance) many of the encounters were either sold out totally or partially so do that in advance if you want to do it.

One other thing I will mention is that in Darwin(I had heard from others similar comments not to do the Zoo tour which we were shut out of anyway for a change....sometimes things for a reason) we went into town ourselves after the two hour "harbor boat tour" which was crap.  Not much there, but we did go to one place called Crocosaurus essentially a crocodile exhibit place.  But one thing they had there is civilians are able to pay money to go into an acrylic cylinder cage and get lowered into the water with live crocodiles.   Then they put pieces of meat on long hooks right next to the cylinder and you see the crocodiles smashing against it to get to the meat while the person inside the cylinder is making it look like they are kissing them and having a blast.  It was hilarious.  I have a video which I tried to upload but haven't been able to.   You can book yourself, again only in advance.   That was really the highlight, though there were a tremendous amount of crocodiles and some other animals too.  Not much in Darwin town otherwise.  We overnighted there too but due to cancellations of other ports.

Also ex- Crystal.  Concur 100% with your review.  We did Splendor in November/Dec.

There excursion group is just about the worst in the industry.   It mirrors Oceania who we have a similar reaction and recent experience.  Oceania you pay for in advance so you have a recourse (like disputing the charges) when they skip half of what they promise.  Regent built into the fare.  Then again private tours are so much better as you can customize them.

As fare as service -- Regent is a culture of yes - very similar to that of Crystal.

As far as air -- Regent has been using a lot if Emirates and Qatar lately.  Certainly better than you would have had if they put you on United.

We were impressed enough to book two more on our last cruise.

Thank you for all the valuable information, we have booked the jungle train and amphibious duck tour in Cairns (extra fee) and the crocodile cruise in Darwin (free), we are open to finding private tours since in the longrun it will be a small added cost to the entirety of the cruise and also open to walking around on our own, finding restaurants in town, etc.  I do hope they just reschedule the papa new guinea ports or change at least one of them. Unfortunately they changed Brisbane to Newcastle so I don't think the Australia Zoo is an option on our cruise.  But the replies thus far have confirmed that we should be open to booking our own tours, not a big deal since the other things like food, service and room appear to be positive.

irishwitchy

Great review and I was on this cruise  also.  You nailed it very well.   I was ok with with the bird poop on the snorkel trip - I was in the water most of the time.  My husband did have to clean off a chair!  I found that food to be ok, but I will peel shrimp and the wings and curry were very good.  As you said, food is subjective.  I also was the first person in the water  and got out when everyone else finally got it together.  Hence,  we got lunch before the masses got to it!  Learned this trick, years ago on other snorkel trips.    

Darwin,  actually has a bunch of great national parks,  but it would be better as a overnight to Katherine Gorge and a few other places.   The jumping crocs was while worth it and we decided to Territory Wildlife Park was better for a nice, but humid hike.  Bird show was very good. Should have made an appointment that morning when we arrived for a bird encounter.  That was a whoops -  I had done this at the Australia Zoo, as someone else mentioned months before!  We did enjoy a lovely meal at Char in Darwin and a spectacular sunset.    

We did take a Helicopter to White Haven beach from the Airlie Beach port and that excursion was very good.  There was a little problem with weigh for the six of us, which required multiple trips to the beach.  However, the view was great and landing on the beach was fun also.  I did need to put on a stinger suit to swim,  but we really had a great time.   This didn’t get an excellent,  because the one couple missed the fact they were suppose to get out of the helicopter and enjoy the beach for an hour (they didn’t bring any water, either) .  Because of this,  we stayed on the beach for almost three hours.   I think the helicopter company was very thankfully,  we were ok with this.  They did have a canopy set up for us.    

Papa New Guiana was a bust.  I was on a paid excursion that it was obvious wasn’t ready for us and Regent didn’t check out all the details.  For example,  the boat to the island.  Please describe the boat,  how many people and life vests for all?  What was there was two small boats that could maybe hold 10 people each and no vests.  Not very safe for a choppy 30 minute ride.    

got to run, maybe more later

Great review. Thanks for the honesty.

On 2/20/2023 at 12:58 PM, Cruiseswithfamilyornot said: I recently returned from a Regent Explorer Sydney to Bali cruise and I thought it would be good to post my review...

I was on the previous AKL - SYD leg of this Explorer jaunt and I found your review to be *SPOT ON*.  Your comments regarding things like the ship, cabin, service, Pacific Rim, entertainment, TV (ha ha!) etc. really echo what my wife and I experienced and did a nice job of summing up what it is currently like to cruise on Regent.

And although you did different shore excursion, our overall impression of Regent short excursions (and the shore ex staff) on our cruise was pretty similar.  More than anything, I think this is the weak link in the Regent experience.  (FREE, UNLIMITED!  Yeah, cool but if they are not any good, you shouldn't trumpet this so loudly...)

Thanks for your review!

Thank you so much for posting this review. We are booked on the 33 day cruise Auckland-Singapore in Jan 24 and have been debating whether to cancel or not following the debacle this year. We assume that lessons will have been learned and the same thing won't happen again and, so far, have decided to proceed with it. The excursions, though, are a worry. We have never been to this part of the world before and would like to make the most of it through excursions and if they are a bust, then it will be disappointing to say the least.

Excursions aside, I enjoyed reading your review. We have been on several Regent cruises, and would agree that the weak link is always the excursions. Often it isn't a deal breaker as we have the opportunity to revisit/re-do ports where excursions have been disappointing, and we have done this many times, but this is probably not an option when we have to travel 24 hours to get to the embarkation port!

I'd also agree about the entertainment, although I don't think it's any better or worse than other ships we've sailed on.

We, too, used to sail 'old' Crystal and will probably try the new Crystal. There were many aspects of Crystal we enjoyed, with the lectures/speakers being high on the list, but in our opinion the accommodations and ships generally were showing their age and we do enjoy the general ambience and decor of the 2 new Regent ships.

Anyway, enjoyed reading your review and pretty much agreed with all of your comments about Regent.

I do wonder hearing everyone's responses and the same issues across the board, if Regent is better off offering an option to have the cruise without the excursions at a lower price?  Something tells me it wouldn't be much of a reduction and it may end up upsetting people at how low it is, but you do have the option to opt out of air and get some sort of a credit why not the same for excursions?    Just a thought.  I feel bad that people get so upset(myself included) about the excursions when there was so much positive about the cruise and the cruise line that it tends to overshadow somewhat

papaflamingo

3 hours ago, Cruiseswithfamilyornot said: I do wonder hearing everyone's responses and the same issues across the board, if Regent is better off offering an option to have the cruise without the excursions at a lower price?

This is becoming a more and more expressed desire.  For me, it means the beginning of a slippery slope downward.   Next to go will be included alcohol and wine, replaced by a drink or wine package.  

Honestly, what I like about Regent is being the most inclusive cruise line out there.  I don't like to have to research ports and tour vendors anymore, I simply pick a tour that sounds good to me.  I also agree that the rebate for excursions will not be all that much.  

Honestly, other luxury cruise lines offer more of an "Ala carte" cruise.  By removing included items you are simply making Regent the same as the other cruise lines.  In my opinion it will change the business model and become the beginning of a down hill slide.  

Totally get what you are saying @papaflamingo and I agree many people like the ability to have excursions chosen and they just pick, it's definitely less hassle and work and makes alot of things easier.   I wasn't suggesting to get rid of that, just offer an option to not have the excursions included as they do with the airfare today.   But I hear your point about an all inclusive being an all inclusive and when you start going a la carte it's a slippery slope and it's a good point,

I think they need to upgrade the excursion experience to match the regent experience.    

more small group options for a premium.  More alternatives like some “city cards” that are on your own but include transport to the center of town and flexible ticket options choose 2 activities for example aquarium tickets and a museum or zoo and botanical gardens and a day ticket on the bus/metro system…..call it regent your way.

I believe many of the current issues with excursions are as a result of the tourism industry restarting after Covid.  There are staffing challenges all over the world, many businesses have changed/closed/refocused and trying to get everything back in place must be an enormous headache.  In every port, Regent can only buy into what's on offer - the same tours that are available to all cruise ships and we've seen familiar descriptions on other sites that are nothing to do with Regent.  The guides and tour operators are merely contractors and though we always hope that a premium company will employ the best, we know that's not always possible.  

We find the Regent included tours a great starting point and have had some terrific included experiences (eg visiting a family vineyard from Amalfi last October) and some awful ones (one in Stavanger in June was disappointing).  But I'd hate to see the all inclusive product go and would love to see more progress in the way things were going with the "Go Local" tours, the environmentally themed tours and the specialist architecture (?) tours (I think) that were beginning to appear here and there.  I think there were some food themed market visits with a chef too?  Covid hit those new developments I think, but with more of us returning to ports for second and third visits, looking to do something different and maybe hoping for something fresh to do, let's hope to spot a few changes.

1 hour ago, Lonedaddy said: I think they need to upgrade the excursion experience to match the regent experience.     more small group options for a premium.  More alternatives like some “city cards” that are on your own but include transport to the center of town and flexible ticket options choose 2 activities for example aquarium tickets and a museum or zoo and botanical gardens and a day ticket on the bus/metro system…..call it regent your way.

too late to edit my post,  but I could also see them partnering with a booking engine like pick your guide or viator.  where Regent has its own site and you can book your independent guide or tour and receive a discount(credit.)  They could probably make money on it if they roll it out to Oceania and NCL for "approved independent tours" and capture some of the commission these sites get. 

2012_Alaska_bound

1 hour ago, Gilly said: some awful ones (one in Stavanger in June was disappointing)

Ahh. Stavanger! I always remind my self I went to see the Stave Church! Had the same guide on another tour in the area. Same result.

15 minutes ago, 2012_Alaska_bound said: Ahh. Stavanger! I always remind my self I went to see the Stave Church! Had the same guide on another tour in the area. Same result.

Martha, I'm sure that part of the problem in Stavanger was that we were there on Navigator on the same day as P&O Iona....

(and apologies for taking this thread way off the Sydney-Bali review)

Keep in mind that Regent lost a LOT of staff over COVID.....people needed to work and they went to other types of jobs. Its takes time to replace trained people. Regent pulled from Destinations to fill gaps elsewhere....and now the Destination staff is very green.

Wendy The Wanderer

On 2/23/2023 at 9:16 AM, Gilly said: I believe many of the current issues with excursions are as a result of the tourism industry restarting after Covid.  There are staffing challenges all over the world, many businesses have changed/closed/refocused and trying to get everything back in place must be an enormous headache.  In every port, Regent can only buy into what's on offer - the same tours that are available to all cruise ships and we've seen familiar descriptions on other sites that are nothing to do with Regent.

I totally agree with you.  You could also say something similar about flights and airport experiences.

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PASSAGE TO OZ Auckland -TO- Bali (Benoa)

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• Tue, Mar 25 Auckland, New Zealand
• Wed, Mar 26 Bay of Islands, New Zealand
• Thu, Mar 27 Cruising the Tasman Sea
• Fri, Mar 28 Cruising the Tasman Sea
• Sat, Mar 29 Sydney, Australia
• Sun, Mar 30 Sydney, Australia
• Mon, Mar 31 Newcastle, Australia
• Tue, Apr 01 Cruising the Tasman Sea
• Wed, Apr 02 Cruising the Coral Sea
• Thu, Apr 03 Townsville, Australia
• Fri, Apr 04 Cairns, Australia
• Sat, Apr 05 Cruising the Coral Sea
• Sun, Apr 06 At Sea
• Mon, Apr 07 Darwin, Australia
• Tue, Apr 08 Darwin, Australia
• Wed, Apr 09 Cruising the Timor Sea
• Thu, Apr 10 Komodo, Indonesia
• Fri, Apr 11 Bali (Benoa), Indonesia
• Sat, Apr 12 Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Auckland, New Zealand

• Date Mar 25
• Depart 7:00 PM

What's Included

• 2-FOR-1 All-Inclusive Fares
• FREE Business Class Air* on All Intercontinental Flights
• FREE Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Program
• FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions
• FREE Unlimited Beverages, Including Fine Wines and Spirits
• FREE Open Bars and Lounges Plus In-Suite Mini-Bar Replenished Daily
• FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities
• FREE Specialty Restaurants
• FREE 24-Hour Room Service
• FREE Transfers Between Airport and Ship*
• FREE Unlimited WiFi*
• FREE Valet Laundry Service*
• CONCIERGE SUITES AND HIGHER INCLUDE: FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package* and more
• PENTHOUSE SUITES AND HIGHER INCLUDE: FREE Personal Butler and more

*FREE Pre-Cruise Hotel Package is not combinable with FREE Pre-Cruise Land Program. See Terms & Conditions for full details.

Suites, Fares & Availability

Deluxe veranda suite h.

• Suite Size 306 FT 2
• Balcony Size 50 FT 2

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, take a seat outside on your private balcony to watch the world go by. Elegant finishes such as luxurious bedding and beautiful marble detailing in the bath further enhance your comfort.

• European King-Sized Suite Slumber Bed®

1 Marble Bathroom

• Intimate Sitting Area

Private Balcony

Walk-in Closet With Safe

Accommodates Up To 3 Guests

• FREE Unlimited WiFi includes one log-in, one device, per suite *
• Welcome Bottle of Champagne with Fresh Fruit Arrangement
• In-Suite Mini-Bar Set-Up and Refill
• 24-Hour Room Service
• L’Occitane® Jasmin & Bergamot Soaps, Shampoos and Lotions

Regent Plush Bathrobes and Slippers

Vanity and Hair Dryer

• Interactive Flat-Screen Television With Extensive Media Library, Complimentary Movies-on-Demand
• Direct Dial Satellite Phone
• Shoe Shine Service
• Plan My Cruise

Deluxe Veranda Suite G

• Decks 6 & 7

Deluxe Veranda Suite F

• Decks 7 & 8

Concierge Suite E

• Decks 7, 8 & 9

In this superbly designed suite, you enjoy the comfort of richly furnished accommodations as well as exclusive luxuries available only in suites at the Concierge level and higher. Your suite includes amenities such as an illy® espresso maker and cashmere blankets, perfect for use in the morning when you wish to sip coffee and enjoy an in-suite breakfast on your private balcony. Take advantage of 24-hour room service when the mood strikes.

• FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package Including: - FREE Ground Transfers - FREE Breakfast - FREE Porterage
• INCLUDED & UNLIMITED WiFi includes up to four logins, four devices, per suite
• FREE 15 Minutes of Ship-to-Shore Phone Time

Priority Online Shore Excursions and Dining Reservations

10% Discount on Premium Wine and Liquor

5% savings on Pre- or Post-Cruise Hotel or Land Programs

5% savings on Regent Choice Shore Excursions

• Binoculars, illy® Espresso Maker and Cashmere Blankets
• Complimentary Tote Bag

Concierge Suite D

• Decks 7, 9 & 10

This category includes Accessibility Options in suites 761 and 762. For more information about accessible suites click here .

Welcome Bottle of Champagne with Fresh Floral Arrangement

Penthouse Suite C

• Balcony Size 80-137 FT 2
• Decks 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10

The luxurious suite has been carefully designed to maximize space and comfort. Relax on your private balcony and indulge in your lavish bath amenities as you recharge and ready yourself for new adventures in the next port of call. This suite also includes priority online reservations for shore excursions and dining, and you’re encouraged to call on the services of a personal butler for special requests.

• Guerlain & L’Occitane® Jasmin & Bergamot Soaps, Shampoos and Lotions
• Personal Butler
• Complimentary Pressing on First Night
• Selection of Bed Pillow Styles

Daily Canapés

• Personalized Stationery

BOSE® SoundLink Mini II Bluetooth Speaker

• Essentials Including Men’s Unscented Shaving Kit, Facial Wipes, Sewing Kit, Emory Board, Stain Remover and Hand Sanitizer

Penthouse Suite B

• Suite Size 320 FT 2
• Decks 6, 7 & 8

Penthouse Suite A

• Decks 9 & 10

Seven Seas Suite Aft

• Suite Size 392-495 FT 2
• Balcony Size 50-283 FT 2
• Decks 6, 7 & 9

This suite is decorated with soothing colors, pleasing artwork and comfortable furnishings. Relax in the sitting area after an exciting day ashore and enjoy the selection of fresh canapés delivered by your personal butler. Then retreat to your private balcony to watch the ever-changing vistas. In your glistening bathroom, marvel at the assortment of luxury bath soaps and shampoos as you ponder whether to use your tub or walk-in shower.

• Living Area
• Choice of Guerlain and L'Occitane® Jasmin & Bergamot Soaps, Shampoos and Lotions
• Priority boarding on Embarkation Day with Suite Access at 1:00 pm
• Luxe Fruit Arrangement

Selection of Fig and Tea Leaves Bath Salts

• Elegant Weather Clock

Seven Seas Suite Forward

• Decks 7, 8, 9 & 10
• 1 Spacious Bedroom With European King-Sized Suite Slumber Bed®

1 1/2 Marble Bathrooms

Spacious Living Room

Voyager Suite VS

• Suite Size 554 FT 2

Treat yourself to the welcoming luxury of a suite where elegance and comfort beckon in every nook. Open the sliding doors to your private balcony and inhale the fresh sea air. Enjoy your morning coffee at a cozy dining table or put your feet up in a soothing living room. Call on the services of a personal butler to assist with any needs and ensure that each moment of your journey exceeds your expectations.

Accommodates Up To 4 Guests

Choice of Guerlain, Acqua di Parma and L'Occitane® Jasmin & Bergamot Soaps, Shampoos and Lotions

Welcome Bottle of Premium Champagne

Welcome Letter from President and General Manager

Personalized In-Suite Full-Liquor Bar Set-Up

1 Sumptuous In-Suite Caviar Service

• Delivery of Up to Three Daily Newspapers

World Atlas and Elegant Weather Clock

Grand Suite GS

• Suite Size 753 FT 2
• Balcony Size 123 FT 2
• Decks 9, 10 & 11

A suite so large it has two entrances, this suite delights the senses with rich mosaics, exotic woods and luxurious touches. A living area with a couch and two comfortable chairs, a full dining table and large writing table make you feel right at home, while a leather chaise lounge beside a jacuzzi feel like holiday indulgences. A large private balcony lets you welcome friends for a quiet dinner, and a personal butler helps make life at sea a breeze.

Guerlain Fragrance and Spongelle Buffer

Priority Check-in on embarkation day with suite access at Noon

VIP Status to Include Dinner with a Senior Officer

Complimentary Cocktail Party for 8

Guaranteed Reservation Each Night in Specialty Restaurant of Your Choice†

Complimentary 25-Minute Personal Fitness Session at the Serene Spa & Wellness™ Fitness Center

• 24-Hour Room Service with Specialty Restaurant Selections During Dining Hours

Luxe Fruit Arrangement and Chocolate Leonidas

• Tea Forte Set-Up
• Complimentary Shore Excursion Bag

Master Suite MS Deck 11

• Suite Size 1152-1216 FT 2
• Balcony Size 183-187 FT 2

You’ll find Park Avenue chic onboard Seven Seas Voyager ® in this spectacular suite. Elegant rosewood furniture, luxe fabrics and a crystal chandelier create sophisticated comfort, while a personal butler is available to fulfil whatever requests you may have. With two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a large living room and two private balconies, this sublime suite is perfect for hosting new friends in luxury.

2 Spacious Bedrooms with European King-Sized Elite Slumber™ Bed

• 2 1/2 Marble Bathrooms
• 2 Private Balconies

Accommodates Up To 6 Guests

Master Suite MS Deck 7

SPECIAL OFFERS

Take advantage of our best deals and start planning your unforgettable journey to the world's most inspiring destinations.

COMBINE & SAVE UP TO 30%

Enjoy up to 30% savings when you combine this itinerary with a connecting voyage.

Bonus Savings

FREE Business Class Air* In All Suite Categories

FREE Land Programs In All Suite Categories

Seven Seas Society Savings

Become A Regent Ambassador

Land programs & hotels.

Experience the diversity of New Zealand’s North Island with Auckland and its spectacular harbor location as your base. In contrast to the gentile white sand beaches of the city suburbs, visit the rugged west coast of Auckland where the Tasman Sea pounds the black sand beaches. Visit a vineyard and travel to the fertile countryside south of Auckland to experience the glowworm caves at Waitomo and enjoy a farm to table lunch at a private homestead.

Note: Due to varying terrain, this program is not suited for guests with walking difficulties or those who rely on use of a wheelchair or scooter.

Operational note: due to cyclone damage done in 2023, the much-loved Maukatia Gannet Track and access to the Takapu Refuge / Gannet Colony at Otakamiro Point are still closed for remedial work. Should access be re-opened when our groups are visiting New Zealand, all efforts will be made to re-include this stop in the program.

Upon arrival at the Auckland Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure and dinner is on your own. Transfer time is approximately 45 minutes.

Check in is at 3:00pm. If you have an early arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night so that your room is available upon arrival.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, depart from the hotel, for a brief sightseeing tour of the city which will include a drive along the waterfront. A stop will be made at Bastion Point for views over the harbor before continuing through the eastern residential suburbs. Also see the Auckland Domain, the Auckland Museum (no visit), and Parnell Village. Then head to the farming and wine-growing areas of West Auckland - Kumeu and Huapai - to Muriwai Beach on the rugged west coast. A stop is made on the cliff tops overlooking the beach. From here there is a walk of approximately 250 meters, through native plants to the glorious black sand.

From Muriwai, travel through rural farming districts to a local winery for lunch and a tasting. West Auckland is the Cities original wine region that boasts a range of wineries to tantalize your taste buds. You will be introduced to a delicious range of artisan cheeses, honey from the vineyard, local olive oil and stone-ground sourdough bread before a delicious BBQ. There is an opportunity to meet locals and enjoy a range of locally made gifts and produce.

On leaving the winery, return to Auckland city by way of the farming areas of Waitoki and Dairy Flat to join the northern motorway at Albany. Continue into the city across the Auckland Harbor Bridge and through the downtown shopping area.

Arrive back at your hotel in Auckland. Dinner is on your own.

Today's tour will begin with a drive through the city's central business district before departing from the city and travelling along the southern motorway past the city's southern suburbs and over the Bombay Hills. Descend into the Waikato River Valley and follow the course of the river through the fertile farmlands of the region to the coal-mining town of Huntly. Continue south past Taupiri (the mountain is sacred to the Maori people) and the town of Ngaruawahia, the seat of the Maori King.

Undertake a guided tour of the world-famous Waitomo Glow-worm Caves, a true geological phenomenon of nature. Unique to New Zealand, these tiny creatures radiate a fluorescent blue-green glow that illuminates the caves and underground streams the glow-worms call home. The largest chamber of the cave is known as the "Cathedral," an acoustically perfect auditorium that has hosted a number of renowned performing artists drawn to the area for the purity of sound it produces. As you embark on a short cruise in an open boat through the limestone formations, your guide will share information, legends, and facts about this fascinating and beautiful oddity of nature.

You will have lunch at a private homestead where your hosts have been farming for many years and love to share their lovely French provincial home and gardens with you. Lunch is a delight, and all food is made on the premises, including many chutneys and sauces, from the fruit trees on the property. All meat is organic and comes from local farms.

After lunch, return through the pastoral Waikato region to Auckland. Back in Auckland and your hotel, the

remainder of the evening is at your leisure with dinner on your own.

•Bring comfortable walking shoes and a warm jacket for the visit to the caves.

•The Waitomo Glow worm Caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, with good handrails and paths

•There is no wheelchair access

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After check-out, board your coach for a transfer to the ship for embarkation.

Check out is at 11:00am.

Land Program Step by Step:

•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm.

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

Arrive in Auckland and transfer to the hotel

3:00pm Check-in at the hotel, remainder of the day is at leisure

Dinner will be on your own this evening

Overnight at the Cordis Auckland or similar hotel

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:20am Meet your guide at reception

9:30am Depart the hotel, Auckland sightseeing and travel to the west coast of Auckland

10:40am Visit Muriwai Beach

11:10am Travel to a winery in west Auckland

11:35am Arrive at a local winery for lunch and wine tasting

1:20pm Depart winery and travel back to Auckland

2:30pm Arrive at the hotel. The remainder of the day and evening are at your leisure

Dinner on your own

From 7.00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Depart the hotel and travel south into the Waikato region

11:00am Arrive in Waitomo for a guided tour of the glowworm caves

12:15pm Depart Waitomo

12:45pm Lunch at Crosshills

2:15pm Depart Crosshills and return to Auckland

5:15pm Arrive at the hotel, remainder of the day and evening are at your leisure

Overnight at Grand by Sky City or similar hotel

From 6:30am Enjoy breakfast at the hotel

11:00am Check out - please remember to settle your personal incidental account with the hotel prior to leaving

1:00pm Transfer to the ship for embarkation

Expected Weather:

New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are in June, July and August. The mean daily temperature during the month of March is 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit).

What to Bring:

As it will be summer light clothing is suggested. However, as the weather can be changeable is recommended that a rain proof jacket be carried. Sunscreen is considered essential.

Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.

US dollars are generally accepted only in establishments such as souvenir stores; however, credit cards are widely accepted.

Electricity:

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels provide 110 volt ac sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. Please note that power outlets only accept angled two or three pin Type I plugs (as also used in Australia) depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. Remember to bring a travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

Citizens of the United States do not generally require a visa to visit New Zealand however we recommend you refer to your local New Zealand embassy for further details and requirements.

Accommodation:

Cordis Auckland

83 Symonds Street, Grafton, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Phone: +64 9-379 5132

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen circumstances. If a similar hotel is required, it will be of equal ratings and standards and guests would be notified in advance of travel. If guests are not notified prior to travel of any changes, then the hotel listed above will be used.

Program includes:

•3 nights at Cordis Auckland or similar hotel including breakfast – Premier Room, Pinnacle Tower

•Lunch on Days 2 and 3 – includes 1 beer, glass of wine, juice or soft drink per person

•Tours and entrances per the itinerary

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program excludes:

Any meals not listed above

Gratuities to drivers and guides

Hotel incidentals such as mini bar and room service

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Price: $1,399 per guest based on double occupancy.

Hotel and Land Program pricing is not combinable with FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Luxury Hotel Package. If applicable, please contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises or your travel agent for multi-night pre-cruise hotel pricing information. Land program promotions are subject to terms .

Discover the joys of rural life in the gorgeous countryside on the outskirts of Auckland and on idyllic Waiheke Island by visiting a vineyard and meeting with artisans who find the setting inspirational.

On arrival in Auckland, you will be met and transferred your hotel where you will spend the next three evenings. Check in is 3:00pm. Although the hotel will do everything possible to have your room ready prior to that time, it cannot be guaranteed.

The remainder of the day will be at your leisure, although cocktails will be served at 5pm. It will be an excellent opportunity to meet your fellow travelers in a casual setting.

Dinner will be on your own this evening.

Following breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and transfer to the ferry terminal where you will take the ferry to Waiheke Island. Along the way, the guide will provide an orientation of Hauraki Gulf, which includes such scenic highlights as Devonport, Rangitoto Island, Browns Island and the Auckland skyline.

Upon arriving at Waiheke Island, you will be greeted by a local guide and commence on a private tour of Waiheke Island. On the way you’ll see stunning scenery around every corner, and you’ll be entertained by your guides commentary on the history, geography, culture, people and produce of Waiheke. Visit the spectacular Church Bay Studio of Gabriella Lewenz, who works in vivid abstract oils, followed by a visit at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery which displays works by local and national artists, bringing the best of New Zealand art to the island and offering the best of Waiheke art to the world.

Drive along the scenic northern route, taking in spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf and beyond to the Coromandel Peninsula to your lunch and wine tasting at Stonyridge Vineyard (or similar). This is a relaxing location, nestled amongst the shimmering valley of olive trees, colourful vines, and aromas of the South of France. Their menu has been created with an emphasis on fresh produce, offering a range of seasonal dishes from platters to a la carte dining.

Then onto another local vineyard for wine tasting and Oysters, learn about how the local Te Matuku Bay Oysters are uniquely farmed in a marine reserve down the remote Eastern End of Waiheke Island before heading back to the wharf for the return ferry back to Auckland.

The remainder of the day will be at your leisure, allowing you time to further relax and do whatever you please.

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will depart for a brief sightseeing tour of the city which will include a drive along the waterfront. A stop will be made at Bastion Point for views over the harbor before continuing through the eastern residential suburbs. Also see the Auckland Domain, the Auckland Museum (no visit), and Parnell Village. Then head to the countryside on the outskirts of Auckland. The land here is some of the country’s most fertile, making it ideal for growing fruits and vegetables and raising stock.

As you travel from place to place, visiting a farm and stopping for a cheese tasting, your guide will pick up ingredients for your lunch at Vineyard Cottages.

Once you arrive at the venue, owner Elle Armon-Jones will lead you on a tour of the vineyard and vegetable garden. Afterwards, you will be free to relax on the verandah as lunch is prepared or you might join in the preparation.

As lunch is cooking, Elle will present a tasting of olive oil and stone-oven baked breads. The experience will add yet another dimension to your grasp of the nuances of the cuisine. A selection of local beers and wines will be thoughtfully paired with the two courses to enhance the experience.

Back in Auckland, the remainder of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.

Following breakfast at the hotel and check out, you will begin a scenic driving tour of Auckland’s waterfront, with a stop for photos of the harbor from Bastion Point. You will also drive through residential neighborhoods in the eastern part of the city and through Parnell Village before arriving at the pier to embark the cruise ship.

Land Program Details Step by Step

3:00pm Check in at the hotel

5:00pm Cocktails with your fellow travelers

Overnight at the Cordis Auckland or similar

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

7:00am-8:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Meet your guide at the hotel

8:15am Transfer to the ferry terminal

9:00am Ferry to Waiheke

9:50am Arrive at Waiheke

10:15am Artisan studio tour

11:45am Lunch and wine tasting at Stoneyridge Winery or similar venue

2:00pm Visit another vineyard for wine and Oyster tasting

3.30pm Ferry back to Auckland

4:15pm Arrive in the city

4:20pm Transfer to the hotel

The remainder of the day at leisure, dinner on own

7.00am-10:30am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Depart for the country

11:00am Cheese tasting at shop

12:00pm Vineyard Cottages:

Garden tour, olive oil tasting and cooking class

Two-course lunch paired with wine or beer

2:30pm Return to Auckland

3:15pm Arrive at the hotel

12:30pm Transfer to the ship for embarkation

Expected Weather

New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are June, July and August. The average March high temperatures are in the high 60s F (around 19-21° C) – this is the first month of autumn in New Zealand.

What to Bring

Dress is informal and relaxed on this program. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and night spots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.

U.S. dollars are generally accepted only in establishments such as souvenir stores; however, credit cards are widely accepted.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels provide 110-volt ac sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. Power outlets only accept angled two- or three-pin Type I plugs (as used in Australia) depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. Bring a travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements

Citizens of the United States do not generally require a visa to visit New Zealand, however, refer to your local New Zealand embassy for details and requirements for your nationality.

Hotel address

Program Includes for guests

•3 nights at Cordis Auckland or similar including breakfast – Premier Room, Pinnacle Tower

•Lunch on Days 2 and 3 with 1 beer or a glass of wine

•Cocktail on day 1 – includes beer, wine or juice and a shared cheese board

Program Excludes for guests:

•Personal expenses and hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

•Any meals or beverages not listed above

•Additional sightseeing and meals not mentioned in the itinerary

•Gratuities to drivers and tour guides

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered no-shows and their hotel space released.

Price: $1,999 per guest based on double occupancy.

• Post-Cruise

Enjoy a balance of idyllic days luxuriating at your beachfront hotel and exploring cultural landmarks that include a Hindu temple, bustling markets, countryside villages and a monument that commemorate Bali’s independence.

Following disembarkation in Benoa, meet your guide and drive to Denpasar City, the current capital of Bali Province. Historically, it was the capital of the Badung Empire, controlling the southern region of Bali Island from the end of 18th century until conquered by the Dutch in 1906.

Your first stop will be at the Bajra Sandhi Monument, which commemorates the Balinese struggle against Dutch colonialism. Designed in the shape of a Hindu bell, the monument contains dozens of detailed dioramas that depict Bali’s long history, including the introduction of Hinduism and the country’s eventual independence.

Next, visit the traditional Badung Market which is located in the heart of the city. It is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day making it the busiest market in Bali. This market has become the main trade center for all convenience goods from groceries to spices, fish and meat, clothing, kitchen crafts and batik textiles. It offers a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of the lives of the locals. If you find something you like don’t be shy to negotiate!

Next, visit the Bali Museum and then on the north side of the city, visit the glorious Temple of Jagatnatha, a Hindu Kahyangan Temple.

Stop briefly at the Inna Bali Heritage Hotel for a refreshment break. This hotel was the first international class hotel in Bali and is steeped in history. World leaders such as Queen Elizabeth, Charlie Chaplin, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Ir Soekarno Untuk Megawati and other prominent figures have all stayed here in room 77.

Following your brief refreshment stop, you will drive to your hotel for check-in.

The Apurva Kempinski Bali is a luxurious beachfront hotel perched atop a majestic cliff and offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure and lunch and dinner are on your own. You may choose to enjoy the amenities of the resort or head out and see some of the local sites on your own.

Check in is 3:00pm. Although every effort will be made to have rooms available beforehand, this cannot be guaranteed. If your room is not ready when you arrive, you may temporarily store luggage at the reception desk.

Following breakfast at the hotel, the morning will be at your leisure, allowing you to explore freely and then enjoy lunch on your own.

Later in the day you will be met and transferred to Jimbaran, a typical fishing village and coastal resort town. Here you will enjoy a hearty fresh grilled seafood dinner at sunset accompanied by a traditional Balinese Dance performance.

Return to your hotel where the evening is at leisure.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel followed by a journey into the countryside to visit small villages known for their trades and local temples.

Your first stop is at Celuk Village which is known for its production of gold and silver handicrafts. Here, almost all of the villagers are skilled at crafting beautiful pieces that are sold worldwide.

Continue to Penglipuran Culture Village where you will be charmed by the beautifully landscaped homes sitting neatly in a row along a street that runs through the center of the village toward the local temple. The village people live under strict rules just like their ancestors centuries ago, and their architecture is a reflection of this tradition: the front side of the house faces Mt. Agung, home of the gods and each house has its own temple. Through the years, Penglipuran Village has evolved into a community-based tourism destination. You can enter any of the houses where you’ll be welcomed by friendly residents who are typically willing to show you around their compound, each following old Balinese spatial and architectural rules.

Following a typical Balinese lunch, your final stop will be at Kerta Gosa, an ancient court of justice. Admire the unique and traditional Balinese architecture in the gates, walls and main structures. Its distinctive highlight are the painted ceilings of the halls. These exquisite paintings are a fine showcase of the technique known as Kamasan style.

Back at the hotel the remainder of the day and evening are at your leisure with dinner on your own.

Following breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and transfer to Ngurah Rai International Airport based on your flight details. Hotel check out time is at 12:00pm. Should guests have a late flight, luggage storage is available at the hotel until the transfer time.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

8:45am Disembark the ship in Benoa

9:00am Drive to Denpasar

9:45am Visit the Bajra Sandhi Monument

10:15am Drive to Badung Market

11:00am Visit the market

11:15am Drive to Museum Bali and Jagatnatha Temple

12:00pm Walk to Inna Bali Heritage hotel for a coffee break

12:30pm Transfer to your hotel

1:15pm Arrive, lunch on own – check in is at 3pm

The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Dinner on own

Overnight at the Apurva Kempinski or similar hotel

AM Breakfast at your hotel

Morning at leisure, lunch on own

4:30pm Transfer to the Jimbaran area for dinner

5:00pm Dinner with cultural show

8:00pm Return transfer to your hotel

10:00am Drive to Celuk Village

11:10am Visit the Silver and Gold Smith shop

11:40am Drive to Penglipuran

12:50pm Visit Penglipuran

1:30pm Drive to local restaurant

2:30pm Lunch

3:10pm Drive to Kerta Gosa Court of Justice

3:50pm Visit Kerta Gosa

4:20pm Return drive to your hotel

6:00pm Approximate arrival at the hotel

AM Breakfast at the hotel

12:00pm Hotel check out

Transfer to the Ngurah Rai International Airport based on your flight details.

For guests with later flights, luggage storage will be available at the hotel.

Extra Nights: If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

26 – 33 degrees Celsius

Hat, insect repellant, sunscreen, casual comfortable clothing, good walking shoes.

Local Currency:

Indonesia Rupiah (IDR) - USD are widely accepted in many places

220V. We suggest bringing your own travel adaptor for electronic devices

A valid passport is required

Please consult your local embassy for any Visa requirements

Hotel address:

The Apurva Kempinski Bali

Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Lot 4, Benoa, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali

Phone: +62 361 209 2288

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If a different hotel is required, it will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•3 nights at the Apurva Kempinski Bali or similar hotel (Grand Deluxe Room)

•All touring and entrances per the program itinerary

•Breakfast daily

•1 dinner and 1 lunch (beverages not included)

•Mineral water in the bus during tours

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Meals and beverages other than those stated in the itinerary (beverages are not included)

•Any required visa fees

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

Price: $2,199 per guest based on double occupancy.

Land program promotions are per person for guests 1 and 2 for one pre- or post-cruise program only, subject to terms .

Delve into the fascinating Balinese culture by visiting an array of architectural treasures such as Hindu temples, traditional villages, cultural parks and markets that reflect daily life on the island of Bali.

After disembarking the ship in Benoa, meet your guide and drive to Denpasar, the capital of Bali Province. It was once the capital of the Badung Empire, controlling the southern region of Bali Island from the end of 18th century until it was conquered by the Dutch in 1906.

Your first stop will be the Bajra Sandhi Monument, which commemorates the Balinese struggle against Dutch colonialism. Designed in the shape of a Hindu bell, the monument contains dozens of detailed dioramas that depict Bali’s long history, including the introduction of Hinduism and the country’s eventual independence.

You will next visit Jro Kuta Palace, a complex of nine buildings, each with its own function. For instance, there is a hall constructed as a fortress, a living room built for the king and a room for worship. Upon arriving, you will be served a welcome drink as a prelude to watching a dance performance. In other areas of the palace, you can see artisans weaving, a cooking demonstration and musicians playing Balinese rindik on bamboo instruments.

Continuing, you will stop in Badung Market, a vibrant hub of activity that never closes. As you browse the stalls, you will find every type of merchandise imaginable, including batik textiles, exotic seafood and garden-fresh produce. The experience will leave you with a lasting impression of Bali before you head to your beautiful resort to check-in.

The remainder of the day will be at your leisure to do as you please. You may simply settle in and enjoy the amenities of the resort hotel or see some of the local sites on your own. Lunch and dinner will be on your own.

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will visit a factory that produces batik clothing, which is synonymous with Bali. Batik is the technique of dying the fabrics to create designs that typically reflect nature, although geometric patterns are also popular. It is a fascinating process, and this behind-the-scenes opportunity to see it firsthand will be eye-opening.

Continue to Sangeh Village and the Sangeh Monkey Forest. This six-hectare forest is home to giant nutmeg trees that grow as high as 40 meters (131 feet) but the main attraction here are the hordes of mischievous Balinese monkeys. Monkeys have always had a sacred place in the Hindu religion, and here they inhabit both the trees as well as a 17th Century Pura Bukit Sari Temple which is found in the heart of the forest. You will become further immersed in the culture by browsing the Subak Museum, which holds a collection of Balinese agricultural items such as traditional tools for farming.

Lunch follows, after which you will visit Jatiluwih village, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest places in Bali to see lush, green terraced fields of rice. The rice is watered with a traditional irrigation system, much like the ones you may have seen in the Subak Museum.

Following this enlightening look into Balinese life, you will return to hotel for the evening. Dinner will be on your own.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and a morning at leisure.

In the afternoon, you will meet your guide and drive to the southern part of Bali to visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana. This cultural park is a Balinese landmark whose main attraction is a gigantic copper statue of Garuda Wisnu, the Vishnu lord. It is one of the world’s largest statues and looks absolutely stunning rising above the landscape.

In Hindu mythology, Lord Wisnu is seen as the protector of the Universe, while his trusted companion, the mighty eagle-like Garuda represents loyalty and selfless devotion. The Garuda is also the national emblem of Indonesia and represents freedom.

Later in the day enjoy the sunset along with the dinner at Sundara Restaurant located at the Four Seasons Resort Bali. Following dinner return to your hotel.

A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program

10:15am Drive to Jro Kuta Palace for Blessing Ceremony and coffee

10:45am Visit the palace

12:00pm Drive to Badung Market

12:15pm Explore the market

1:00pm Transfer to your hotel

2:00pm Approximate arrival, lunch on own

3:00pm Check in, remainder of the day at leisure

Dinner on own

Overnight at The St. Regis or similar hotel

8:30am Drive to the Batik Factory

9:15am Visit the Batik Factory

10:00am Drive to Sangeh Monkey Forest

10:45am Visit Sangeh Monkey Forest

11:30am Drive to Museum Subak

12:00pm Visit Museum Subak

12:30pm Drive to a local restaurant for lunch

1:15pm Lunch

2:30pm Drive to Jatiluwih

3:00pm Visit Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – UNESCO World Heritage Site

3:30pm Return drive to your hotel

6:00pm Arrive back at your hotel

Dinner is on your own

Lunch on own

3:45pm Drive to GWK Cultural Park

4:15pm Visit the GWK Cultural Park

5:15pm Drive to Sundara Restaurant

5:45pm Arrive and dinner at Sundara

7:45pm Return drive to your hotel

8:15pm Arrive back at your hotel

It will be hot.

The average temperatures will be between 26 – 33 degrees Celsius; 79 — 91 degrees Fahrenheit.

Casual comfortable clothes, good walking shoes, a hat, umbrella, insect repellant and sunscreen.

Local Currency

Indonesia Rupiah (IDR). U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

220V. We suggest bringing your own travel adaptor for electronic devices.

A valid passport is required. Please consult your local embassy for visa requirements.

Hotel Address

The St. Regis Bali Resort

Awasan Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia

Phone: +62 361 8478111

•3 nights at the St. Regis or similar hotel – St. Regis Suite

•Breakfast buffet daily

•1 lunch and 1 dinner (beverages not included)

Resort Inclusions:

24-hours St. Regis Butler Service™ on call for all suites

Complimentary 2 pieces of light pressing service by the St. Regis Butler per person per day

Refreshing welcome cocktail upon arrival and selection of tropical fresh fruits based on guest preference, replenished daily

Unlimited still mineral water in all suites

24-hour freshly brewed coffee or regular tea served by the St. Regis Butler

Exclusively imported bathroom amenities in all suites

Use of the Athletic Club and a soak in the sauna and steam bath for all guests

Complimentary high-speed broadband/Wi-Fi in-room as well as complimentary Wi-Fi in the resort

Program Excludes for guests

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

Price: $2,999 per guest based on double occupancy.

Daytime Enrichment

You’ll find time spent on board the ship to be just as enriching as time ashore. Relax by the pool, compete in a friendly game of trivia or bocce ball, and indulge in treats at afternoon tea.

Evening Entertainment

Spa & Fitness

Boutiques & More

• Chartreuse Tucked away in the Horizon Lounge, Chartreuse is a hidden gem featuring modern French fare with attentive servers and a maître d' on hand to ensure your dining experience is flawless and accompanied by the finest French wines. Savor ‘new’ flavors to Chartreuse like frog legs in a garlic cream sauce with rutabaga or bite into the tender veal rack of loin with caramelized endive, grape chutney and the earthy tones of a walnut veal jus sauce.
• Coffee Connection Your informal destination to relax, meet fellow guests and enjoy coffee and snacks throughout the day. Hungry? Cereals, fruits, pastries and bagels are available every morning. Lunch includes cold cuts, cheeses, assorted rolls and cookies. Sandwiches, fruit and fresh cookies and cakes are available all day. While snacking, international newspapers and news magazines are available for your perusal.
• Compass Rose As the flagship restaurant aboard each of our ships, the wonderfully spacious Compass Rose serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an exceptional variety of European-inspired Continental cuisine, as well as flavorful vegetarian and kosher dishes. Elegantly decorated in blues and silvers with stunning Versace tableware, this sumptuous eatery delights with a beautifully refined atmosphere bathed in natural light during the day.
• La Veranda Serving breakfast and lunch, you’ll find La Veranda to be a popular eating spot any time of day. Spacious and comfortably casual, La Veranda offers regional specialties that often reflect the cuisines of the countries called on. Dishes are presented in a buffet style that displays the diversity of the menu. La Veranda also features an authentic pizzeria and a shaded, open-air veranda for dining al fresco.
• Pool Grill The Pool Grill is truly a come-as-you-are venue. Enjoy this casual dining experience whether you’re getting a bite after sunbathing or swimming in the pool. The Pool Grill is open-air, yet abundantly shaded for comfortable dining at lunch or dinner. Enjoy grilled-to-order burgers, grilled seafood, sandwiches, and fresh salads. Treat yourself to milkshakes and malts or an old-fashioned hand-dipped ice cream dessert with toppings.
• Prime 7 A true classic in every sense, Prime 7 sets a new standard in American steakhouse fare. Handsomely decorated with supple leather wing-back chairs, burnished woods and earth-toned fabrics, Prime 7 even allows you to watch chefs working their magic in the kitchen. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar before savoring a succulent filet mignon or mouthwatering côte de boeuf. Prime 7 is open for dinner only.
• Sette Mari at La Veranda Each evening, La Veranda transforms into Sette Mari at La Veranda, a casual, intimate dining experience. Choose from authentic Italian specialties inspired by family recipes that span generations, or opt for something with a modern twist like a spice-crusted tuna steak with braised endive, polenta and salmoriglio. Savor it all with a perfectly paired Tuscan wine. Sette Mari at La Veranda is open for dinner only.

Come on along and listen to…The lullabies of Broadway! Our fabulous Production Cast Singers pay tribute to some of the most iconic tunes from an array of the best musicals in town, and throughout the ages! Songs you’ll know and love, and maybe you’ll discover one or two precious little gems. Let us entertain you…because after all “There’s no business, like show business!”

Put on your Dancin' shoes and join us for an evening of great music and lots of dancing! We'll jive in the cotton club, salsa on the streets of Latin America, quick step in the Rainbow Room, celebrate Broadway with a little Fosse, and get down to some disco at Studio 54! Our Dancin' Fool will take you on a toe tappin' journey you won't want to miss!

Take your seats for a fast-paced journey featuring some of the best of rock and roll in town! We’re Here for the Party as we journey to some southern rock in Sweet Home Alabama and then get a little funky as we Dance to the Music. Life in the Fast Lane continues with some R&B greats made famous by Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin, before slowing things down a touch with favorites from James Taylor and Carole King. Super charged hits by The Who and a high-energy finale take us into a magical finale of Rockin’ Soul.

See your favorite cinematic classics come to life in this cultivated tribute to the most recognizable moments of the Hollywood movie musical, from the romantic glamour of the 1940s to the high-kicking can-can of the Moulin Rouge. So, curtain up…light the lights…as we proudly present… THE HOLLYWOOD MUSICAL!

• Atrium At the hub of the ship, our Atrium is an inspiring testament to the grandeur of luxury ocean travel. Center staircases connect conveniences on Deck 5 to the social spaces of the Voyager lounge and Casino, as well as Compass Rose on Deck 4. This makes it a natural gathering place for guests, signified by a beautiful compass-shaped tile floor at the landing.
• Bocce Court The originators of bocce ball 7,000 years ago couldn’t have imagined their simple game being played high atop a glorious ocean liner … but you’ll be able to do more than imagine while playing it onboard Seven Seas Voyager®. Bocce ball – also known as Italian lawn bowling – is played with a pallina and 8 larger balls, all of course provided.
• Card & Conference Room Two complete Card and Conference Rooms can be used for everything from bridge lectures and tournaments to corporate meetings and special events. Gather with a few friends for an afternoon or evening of fun competition with board games, cards and more. Larger groups may increase space by removing the dividing door and combining both rooms.
• Destination Services If the road to a richer life is paved with the lessons of new discoveries, our Destination Services is a great place to start. Learn about the adventures available to suit every taste and comfort level during your voyage from our dedicated staff. They can arrange unique shore excursions designed for smaller groups or assist with tailor-made pre-and post-cruise programs, from a simple stay in a luxurious hotel to a 3-night extension in a remote locale.
• Golf Nets The glorious ocean vistas you’ll admire every day won’t necessarily have you thinking of golf course fairways, but if you find yourself wishing you could be practicing your fairway swing, head to our Golf Net. All the clubs and golf balls you need are available. Who knows? Maybe you’ll return home from your voyage with a few kinks worked out of your golf swing...
• Internet Cafe If you prefer to travel without a laptop, our staffed Internet Cafe offers desktop computers that allow you to access your emails and browse the Internet. Printer access is available for a nominal fee. Seven Seas Voyager® provides WiFi access throughout the ship, allowing you to connect to the Internet with whatever device you’ve brought on board.
• Library Well-stocked and offering comfort for the body and mind, you’ll discover our Library is a most civil setting for reading and relaxing. Curl up with a classic novel or best-selling mystery, play a strategic game of chess or simply soak up the ambience of a sumptuous reading room. Whatever draws you here, you’ll find our library to be a welcoming, low-key treasure you just may find hard to leave.
• Pool Bar When you envision the type of activity you’re only likely to do while on vacation, sipping a frozen drink at a pool bar onboard a glorious cruise ship is probably near the top of the list. You can tick that box at our Pool Bar, where you and new friends can enjoy leisurely conversation over cocktails and frozen drinks in a delightfully relaxed atmosphere.
• Pool Deck Our Pool Deck is one of the most expansive at sea and features a large heated pool, two whirlpools and table tennis. Surrounded by luxurious teak accents, you’ll be consistently awestruck by the pool’s magnificent vistas high upon Seven Seas Voyager®. You’ll also be impressed by our amiable and dedicated crew, who stand at the ready to provide refreshing beverages and plush towels.
• Putting Green While the Golf Net is meant to help you improve your fairway swing, our Putting Greens are less about self-improvement than group fun as your ship travels from one destination to another. A popular pastime is gathering friends after an afternoon cocktail and heading to the top deck of Seven Seas Voyager® for a spirited competition as twilight approaches and a delicious dinner in one of our stellar restaurants looms.
• Shuffleboard This isn’t the sleepy version of shuffleboard. From high atop Seven Seas Voyager®, you’ll be enchanted by ocean vistas stretching horizon to horizon as you engage in a game that dates back to 15th-century England. All equipment is well-maintained and available for use – all you have to do is bring a team, or perhaps join one in need of a player.
• The Casino If you’re in the gaming mood, head to our elegantly appointed Casino for a few hands of blackjack or to try your luck at roulette, poker, the craps table or slot machines. Whether you’re a player or spectator, the excitement is contagious, the drinks delightful and the staff welcoming. Our stylish Casino is open every day at sea when not restricted by territorial border limits.
• Connoisseur Club The very popular Connoisseur Club is where you can order a rare vintage cognac or port and pick a fabulous cigar (both are available for purchase). This elegant hideaway is guaranteed to envelop you in comfortable leather armchairs and a club-like atmosphere that gives rise to good conversation and bonhomie. As you’d guess, smoking is permitted in this gathering place.
• Constellation Theater Smartly tiered for pleasing sightlines and decked out with delightfully plush seating, our Constellation Theater is an intimate venue without a bad seat in the house. Settle in, admire the grand surroundings, and be prepared to witness phenomenal performances that vary from full-scale musical revues to rousing singalongs, all backed by our incredible, five-piece Regent Signature Orchestra.
• Horizon Lounge The Horizon Lounge is an ideal destination for classic cocktails or to simply relax and engage in conversation with new friends. Resident musicians play familiar tunes throughout the day as well as before and after dinner, making it ideal for informal plans. Game shows, night entertainment and live musical events are featured regularly.
• Observation Lounge The Observation Lounge is a chic yet comfortable space to read, relax and enjoy a cocktail while admiring the spectacular views offered every time Seven Seas Voyager® enters and leaves one of its worldwide ports of call. Live music is played throughout the day, making this another inviting onboard destination to to unwind with afternoon tea, pre-dinner cocktails or a satisfying nightcap.
• Voyager Lounge Discover for yourself why the Voyager Lounge and nightclub is the perfect venue to meet new friends for a pre-dinner cocktail. As the night progresses, the spectacularly designed space turns into a nightclub where night owls gather to dance into the night or maybe sing along in a karaoke competition. Musicians entertain nightly, and during the late hours on selected nights a DJ spins records and takes requests.
• Fitness Center Serene Spa & Wellness™ fitness experts lead popular exercise classes, such as Pilates, yoga and meditation and are on hand to offer advice and demonstrate the use of fitness equipment. Equipment includes spinning bikes, dumbbells, treadmills, Technogym Strength Machines, workout mats and step benches. One-on-one training can be arranged with a fitness instructor. Guests under the age of 16 are not permitted in the Fitness Center.
• Jogging Track Whether you prefer to start your day with a brisk jog or wait until later and get in an afternoon walk, our Track is a popular destination for those who’ve developed active lifestyles back on dry land. Onboard Seven Seas Voyager® it’s an outstanding place to get your heart pumping while enjoying unforgettable ocean vistas.
• Paddle Tennis Court One look at our Paddle Tennis Court and you’ll know it’s a place of serious competition. All the equipment you need is nearby, the court is completely screened and the surface is immaculate. Whether you find yourself in a tense match or something more leisurely, you and your fellow players will be enjoying fresh ocean air and fantastic views from high atop your ship.
• Serene Spa & Wellness Serene Spa & Wellness is a globally inspired, tranquil haven of health, beauty and wellness, offering restorative treatments and activities to soothe both the body and mind. Strengthen and elevate both your body and mind as you engage with a variety of treatments and services designed to enhance your whole being, from massages, and body wraps to facials, manicures and pedicures and exclusive treatments curated especially for Regent Seven Seas Cruises®
• Boutiques Stop into our boutiques and browse a wide range of items – upscale handbags to exclusive fragrances to fine jewelry – in an intimate and unhurried setting. You’ll also find swim wear, Regent Seven Seas Cruises® logo wear and gift items to share with friends and family. Our boutiques are staffed by friendly salespeople. Opening hours vary and are printed in the Passages daily newsletter.
• Club.com It’s easy to stay connected, even while sailing the seven seas. Our ships have WiFi throughout for guests with their own laptops, and there are plenty of computers in the staffed Internet Café, which is open round the clock. Printers, e-mails, Internet access and Wireless access throughout the ship are all available for a nominal fee.
• Reception & Concierge Our welcoming Reception Desk is open 24 hours a day and staffed by personable, knowledgeable men and women who are happy to answer your questions and provide any general assistance you may need. Reception is also where you may contact the ship’s Concierge. Postcards and letters may be dropped off here as well; they’ll be delivered to the postal service at the next port of call.

All guests must ensure that their travel documents are valid, including having enough blank passport pages required to facilitate passport stamping and visas on arrival, where applicable.

Terms & Conditions

Fares and category availability are subject to change without notice. Please contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises to confirm category availability. Itinerary and/or ports of call are subject to change at any time due to prevailing weather conditions, or any other cause, at the discretion of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

*For pricing terms and conditions, click here . Advertised fare includes air-related government taxes, surcharges and fees. 2-for-1 All-Inclusive Fares include flights, hotel and transfers, where applicable. 2-for-1 All-Inclusive Cruise Fares include applicable credits for guests arranging their own pre- and post-cruise flights, hotels and transfers. Fares are per person, based on double occupancy and reflect all savings. Some airline-imposed personal charges, including but not limited to baggage, priority boarding, and special seating, may apply.

Terms and Conditions / Ticket Contracts

All itineraries are subject to change and route lines indicated on map may not indicate ship's actual navigation. Pricing is per person based on double occupancy in U.S. Dollars (unless otherwise noted). For complete information on terms and conditions, itinerary, liability of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Inc. (RSSC), health and travel documents, liability limits, etc., please contact your travel professional or call Regent Seven Seas Cruises at 1.844.4REGENT (1.844.473.4368) for more information. To read our full Terms & Conditions , including our Ticket Contract and Insurance Information , visit www.rssc.com/legal .

ALLOW US TO TAKE CARE OF EVERY DETAIL

Our exceptional service begins long before you step aboard. Your Personal Consultant will help you or your Travel Advisor plan your next luxury cruise vacation.

WILDLIFE EXPLORATION DOWN UNDER

• VIEW DETAILS
• 2-FOR-1 All-Inclusive Fares with bonus savings up to $9,200/suite.
• RISK-FREE Refundable Deposit* for only C$650/person*
• Refundable Reduced Deposit* (for only C$650/person)
• FREE Economy Air* & Transfers
• FREE Up to 30 Shore Excursions ( (details)
• FREE up to US$500 Shipboard Credits per Suite
• FREE Up to 31 Shore Excursions (details)
• FREE Unlimited Beverages Including Fine Wines & Premium Spirits (details)
• FREE Open Bars & Lounges; In-Suite Mini-Bar Replenished Daily
• FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities
• FREE US$200 Shipboard Credits per suite
• FREE Specialty Restaurants
• FREE Unlimited WIFI
• FREE Valet Laundry Service
• FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package (Concierge & higher. For bookings 61+ days prior to departure)
• FREE Personal Butler Service (Penthouse & higher.)
• ALL Taxes & Fees Included
• PLUS Travel Insurance ‡ Included Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption

Bali (Benoa) to Sydney Bali (Benoa) to Sydney

Sydney to bali (benoa), seven seas explorer.

Cruise Connections Exclusive Offer

Inventory is limited. Speak to our Cruise Specialist.

DISCLAIMER:

Offer is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without notice. All fares are per person in C.A dollars, valid for residents of United States and Canada, based on double occupancy (unless otherwise noted), for new bookings only and may be withdrawn at any time. New bookings only and may not be combinable with other offers and promotions. All Fares include government fees & taxes.

**Savings are “up to”, per couple based on double occupancy and included in advertised fares. Roundtrip Air is based on Economy Air from select North American gateways. Low air add-on available for other gateways. Some airline-imposed personal charges, including but not limited to baggage, priority boarding, and special seating, may apply. Business Class Air Upgrade for Intercontinental flights subject to availability. Ask for details.

Transfers (ship to airport; airport to ship) on days of embarkation/disembarkation are included with Air-Inclusive Fares.

Shipboard Credits is US$200 per Suite.

Fully-Refundable deposit from C$650/person* applies to voyages outside of final payment. Ask for details.

1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel for Concierge and higher applies to select voyages and bookings made 61+ days prior to departure. The 1-Night Pre Cruise Hotel also does not apply to voyages with Pre or Post Cruise Land Program. ‡Travel Insurance (Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption) is group insurance administered by Travel Guard Group Canada, Inc. and underwritten by AIG Insurance Company of Canada. The Summary of Coverage contains reductions, limitations, exclusions, termination provisions and sanction wording. The cost of the insurance is included in the price of the cruise, and the price cannot be reduced for those who reside where coverage is not available or who are not medically able to travel. Emergency medical coverage is available at additional cost. Travel insurance included is for All Stateroom Categories. Travel Insurance included is not available to residents of Quebec and residents outside of U.S and Canada. (In the event of a claim, the cost of the premiums will be deducted from your Insurance coverage)

Cruise line reserves the right to charge a fuel supplement without prior notice, including on fully paid bookings. All offers, rates & sailings subject to change & availability at the time of booking. Promotion is capacity controlled and may be pulled out at any time without prior notice. Certain restrictions apply. Cruise Connections reserves the right to correct errors & omissions. BPCPA #28364.

Bon Voyage!

Regent welcomes the opportunity to create your perfect vacation. Come aboard to discover the difference that comes from a staff and crew comprised of the very best professionals in the hospitality industry, from expert Chefs to decorated Navigational Officers. Experience service like never before.

Enjoy a true luxury experience across Europe, Asia, Australia and beyond, with FREE Roundtrip Air on Intercontinental Flights, as well as complimentary ground transfers between airport and ship. At the airport, a local, English-speaking representative waits for you at baggage claim and escorts you to comfortable transportation.

Nothing can elevate travel quite like cuisine. That’s why Regent takes so much pride in creating exquisite dining experiences that are nothing short of superb. Experience all the wonderful flavors and delightful scents of choice cuisine from around the world.

Open 6 days a week

604–1201 West Pender Street Vancouver BC Canada V6E 2V2

About Silver Spirits

What Does the Complimentary Silver Spirits Beverage Package Cover?

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Review Of My “Bali to Sydney” Cruise Onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer”!

• February 14, 2024
• Category: Asia Ocean Cruises , Australia & New Zealand , Cruise Ship & Itinerary Reviews , Luxury & Upper Premium Experiences , Regent Seven Seas Cruises

As someone who is an absolute lover of Cruises, every time I get on a “Luxury/Small Ship/All-Inclusive” Cruiseline like Regent or Seabourn or Silversea I do tend to feel pretty prosperous and like I’ve done something right in life as sailing on these types of Cruises really is the “Pinnacle” of the Cruising industry …

…it doesn’t get much better than getting on a ship where:

-The rooms onboard are all Suites and are much bigger than your typical “Big Ship/Mass Market” Cruise ship rooms

-Where the service is very gracious & refined and there’s more staff per guest than on all other lines so you get lots of personal attention

-Where you NEVER feel “nickeled & dimed” since every gratuity, every meal, every drink is included in your Cruise’s upfront price as are other items that you’re traditionally charged for on big ships like wifi, specialty dining, room service, gym classes, laundry, etc., etc.

So, I was definitely excited to take my 3rd Cruise with “Regent Seven Seas Cruises” on their “Seven Seas Explorer” Cruise Ship!! 🙂

FYI, as you’ll see here , my other 2 “Regent” Cruises were on their “Seven Seas Mariner” and “Seven Seas Voyager” ships.

Alright, let’s get back to the “main” event of my time in Bali.

As much as I loved my few weeks in Japan (Including my Tauck Tour in Japan ) and then spending 10 days in Manila & Bali, definitely the most exciting part of my 2 months in Asia was when I boarded Regent’s absolutely Beautiful “Seven Seas Explorer Ship” for my 17-night sailing from Bali to Sydney!!

Not only did I want for nothing on this stunning All-Inclusive ship where drinks, tips, all meals, wifi, laundry, etc. are included but I finally got to fully unpack for the first time in a month… there’s nothing better than Cruising!! 🙂 

FYI, above I used the words “Small Ship” Cruiseline to describe “Regent” who is the company that owns/operates this ship…this “Seven Seas Explorer” ship that I sailed on has a maximum capacity of 750 guests.

To put that into perspective, the same month I sailed on Regent’s “Explorer”, Royal Caribbean launched the biggest Cruise ship ever, “Icon of the Seas”, which has a maximum capacity of 7,600 guests …

…so, if you’ve ever sailed on those ships with 1,000s of fellow Cruisers & didn’t like the crowds or if you’ve ever been intrigued to take a Cruise but didn’t want to do so with 7,600 people onboard… no worries, you have other options like this ship! 😉

Okay, where to start??

As the ships themselves are a HUGE highlight when sailing with Regent “Seven Seas Cruises” , let’s look at the “Seven Seas Explorer” ship that I sailed on first and then later in this post I’ll talk about all the ports I visited on my 17 night sailing.

First off, let’s talk… 

One of the main things you’ll notice when you take your first “Luxury/Small Ship/All-Inclusive” Cruise on a line like Regent is that the rooms are VERY nice!!

Just like when you took your first “Big Ship/Mass Market” Cruise you probably noticed the rooms were VERY small! 😉

But, on Regent, that’s NOT the case!

ALL rooms onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” ship are considered Suites due to their size and they ALL come with a Private Balcony which, as you know, on the “Big Ship/Mass Market” Cruises you have to pay a hefty premium for rooms with balconies and a huge premium for Suites… but on Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” ship, a 285 square foot Suite with a Private Veranda is, literally, the worst room onboard… not bad!! 😉 

With that said, when I was onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” ship, I stayed in a 400 square foot “Superior Suite”…

… t his video shows you exactly what my 400 square-foot “Superior Suite” was like.

FYI, even though this is the 3rd least expensive Suite onboard (There are 7 bigger/more expensive Suite types above this one which I’ll talk about more below) it was literally one of the nicest rooms I’ve ever stayed in out of my 83 Cruises!!

I HIGHLY recommend this “Superior Suite” room type at a minimum if in budget (In my experience, you’re looking at about $75-$100 per person per day more for this room compared to the smallest room onboard but as you’re getting a 40% bigger room that’s considered quite the deal in the Cruising World to pay so little for so much extra space!), especially if you’re onboard for more then a week, which many of Regent’s sailings are, as I’m sure you’ll appreciate all the extra space as well as the much bigger bathroom with double sinks and a sperate shower/bath, you’ll have a huge walk-in closest with plenty of space for your wardrobe, etc.

This room was truly perfect for my 17 nights onboard!!

FYI, “Concierge Suites” are exactly like these “Superior Suites” but, as mentioned here , they come with more “perks” like an included pre-Cruise hotel night , more wifi logins, you get to book your specialty dining reservations & shore excursions earlier than the lower rooms which gives you access to better times/to the excursions that sell out early, etc.

If for any reason you had trouble viewing my video above, here are some pictures of my “Superior Suite” when I sailed on Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” ship.

As I mentioned above, onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” ship there are 7 bigger/more expensive Suite types than the “Superior Suite” I stayed in… and, there are 2 smaller/less expensive Suites compared to the “Superior Suite” I stayed in.

Would you like to see what ALL those Suites look like…

…if so, simply check out this picture and the dozen pictures/videos following that one where I “walk you through” (Literally! ;-)) all of the different Suite options onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer”!

Alright, now that you’ve seen all the choices when it comes to your “home” while onboard this gorgeous Cruise ship, next let’s talk about…

By far, one of the biggest reasons why my clients who sail with Regent do so (And MANY of them sail with them again & again & again!) is because they simply DON’T want to be “nickeled & dimed” when on their hard-earned vacations!!

As they know they’re going to pay for lots of different items when they travel (whether they do so upfront or when they’re at the destination) they choose to “get the money part out of the way” up front… so when on Vacation they don’t need to worry about the “money stuff”!! Which, as we all know, can take away the joy of a Vacation if you’re worried about money constantly while actually on your trip!

So, with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, they simply pay for all these things when they book & pay for their Cruise… before they ever leave home!

Here’s everything that Regent includes in their Cruise fares when you book with them:

Drinks – When you sail with Regent, there’s no having to worry about should you have that extra glass of wine at dinner due to the cost or having to feel uncomfortable if you should buy your “newfound” friends a round of drinks, etc. as they’re ALL included!! 😉 And as I talk about here in the caption under that picture & the next one, not only are drinks included all around the ship but the fridge in your room is also stocked all the time as well with whatever beverages you like in it (Alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks) and you also get water bottles in your room daily and a portable one that you can refill onboard to take with you on excursions, etc. In comparison, one of the “Big ship” Cruiselines that rhymes with “Norwegian” 😉 charges $109 per person per day for their “Unlimited” drink package yet you can’t even get a bottle of water with that package even after paying $109 per day… but for an extra $49.95 USD they’ll sell you a box of 24 water. Personally, I drink the equivalent of about 8 bottles of water every day so if I was on Norwegian for 17 days that’s about $283 worth of water… let’s just say, I’d rather go with Regent who always has water in my room plus they give me a bottle to take on my excursions, to the gym, etc. Speaking of the gym, as you’ll see in this pic , Regent even has free Gatorade & Vitamin water that you can enjoy at the gym anytime … good luck having that included when on a “big ship” Cruise!

Gratuities – Have you Cruised on the big ships lately? If not, they’re now up to around $20 per day, per guest just for your room stewards & basic staff… and then, on top of that, you have to tip on every drink you buy including non-alcoholic drinks. Let’s talk about Norwegian Cruiseline since their parent company owns both Norwegian & Regent. If you go on Norwegian for 17 nights you have to pay $340 per guest for basic gratuities and then on their “included” drink package they charge you another $370.60 per person for gratuities on that… per couple, that’s $1,421.20 JUST for gratuities for 17 days … WOW!! Their Cruises don’t look so cheap anymore when you start adding in all the “extras” like this! 🙁 Again though, on Regent, ALL staff gratuities are paid with your upfront Cruise fare so no need to be bothered by these significant extra charges like when on a “Big Ship” Cruise!!

Food – Whether it’s meals at their fine dining restaurants (including their Specialty restaurants) or room service or at the pool grill, etc. there’s NEVER a charge for food when on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise! 🙂 FYI, stayed tuned as below I’m going to talk more about the food on my Cruise, including the Specialty restaurants

Wifi – I know a lot of people tend to think they’ll “disconnect” when they go on their Vacations/Cruises but let’s get real… that’s not the World we live in anymore!! Between staying in touch with your kids/grandkids/friends, staying up to date on your Facebook groups, world news, the stock market, having to do online banking, being able to check your security camera at home while you travel, etc. we all need to be “connected” daily these days! And yes, on the “Big Ship” lines (and even on some small ship lines) even though Wifi can easily be $30+ per day, everyone onboard a Regent Cruise gets an INCLUDED wifi login and for “Concierge” Suites and above you get 4 logins per room so you can keep your multiple devices connected!

Pre-Hotel – Speaking of “Concierge” Suites… anyone who books a Regent Cruise and stays in a “Concierge” Suite or above, you’ll get an Included 1 night stay in a hotel before your Cruise which is an AWESOME perk as, as I talk about here and here , you NEVER want to fly in the “day of” your sailing as if your flight is late you’ll miss the Cruise and even if it’s on time you’ll be too tired to enjoy the first few days… I see people make this mistake on my personal Cruises ALL THE TIME!! 🙁 As I always tell my clients, the earlier you fly in the better as why not start your Vacation off right by exploring the city where your Cruise starts which is often a GREAT place to visit!! As I talk about in the caption under this picture , I got to Bali 6 days before my Cruise started and had a Great time there… so always fly in as early as your schedule & budget allows!!

Laundry – Yep, literally, Regent even includes doing your Laundry throughout your Cruise for you … as I talk about in the caption under this pic , what a nice perk this is… so prosperous!! Typically on a 17 day Cruise you could easily spend $100s getting laundry done (and at hotels even more!) so make sure to add in all these inclusions/the value of them when you’re evaluating if the price of a Regent Cruise works for you or not! 

“Unlimited” Shore Excursions – Speaking of value, this is a BIG one that accounts for a lot of the value that’s included in your Cruise fare when you book a Regent Cruise!! Not sure if you’ve been on any Cruise ships lately & have bought excursions but they’re NOT cheap!!  

In my experience, $200 per port per guest is pretty average these days… so, for this Cruise with Regent we had 10 port stops which could easily add $4,000 per couple to your “bottom line” after booking any other Cruise where Shore Excursions are not included!!

FYI, “Unlimited” means you can take as many of their included excursions in 1 day that you can fit into your schedule… for example, years ago when I Cruised with Regent and was in Shanghai I did 3 included tours in 1 day… a morning tour, an afternoon tour and that night I went to see the “Shanghai Acrobats”… pretty amazing value when you add up taking advantage of 3 Shore Excursione in one day, all included in the price of your Cruise!!

With that said, NOT all excursions they offer are included in your price … this isn’t an exact # but the way I explain it is if an excursion is around $200 per person or less, those would usually be included in your price but if they’re more then $200 you pay for them… not full price though… if something is normally $400 per person, Regent may charge you $200 for that tour as they factor in you’ve already paid for one of their included tours that day.

With that said, I personally always find their “Included” tours selection great and rarely need to pay extra for others … on this 17-day sailing for example we stopped at 10 ports and overall I personally spent $228 on excursions whereas with any other Cruiseline I’d typically spend at least $2,000 on tours at that many stops.

FYI, further down below you’ll see ALL the excursions I took during this sailing.

Pre/Post Cruise “Land Extensions” – This isn’t an “Always” included item on all Regent Cruises but, as you’ll here , on many of Regent’s Cruises they offer an Included pre or post-Cruise “Land Extension” such as a few nights in Tokyo, a few days in Rio, etc. So these specific dates are even better value than the included 1-night hotel stay I mentioned above for “Concierge Suite” rooms & above as you get to arrive even earlier into your “starting” city as I recommended doing so above… and, ALL rooms get this extra “perk” included! 🙂  

“Little Things” – Weird heading I know but what I mean by this is Regent even includes things like gym classes (Yoga, Pilates, Spin Class, etc.) that the “big ship” guys typically charge $30 or more per class for. Or, as I talk about under this picture , on their newest ships (Explorer, Splendor, Grandeur) they include their “Spa Relaxation” area which typically costs $40/day on the big ships and even on many of the smaller ships too they charge for those areas. And let’s say you’re in the card room playing a board game with friends/doing a puzzle, etc. Well, there’s a little fridge there with coke, other soft drinks, water, etc. so you’re not thirsty while you’re enjoying a game. Or, if for some crazy reason you don’t want Regent to do your Laundry for you when you sail (No idea why you’d make that choice! ;-)) they have “self-service” laundry rooms onboard where you can do it yourself for free. Let’s just say, if you’re an experienced Cruiser like me the first time you go on Regent you’ll REALLY appreciate how much is included/even the “little things” that you normally get “nickeled & dimed” for when on the “Big Ship” Cruises!!

Airfare – I left this item that Regent includes in all their Cruises till last for a reason… yes, when you book a Cruise with Regent/go on their site & look at their prices they do include airfare from/to your home City to/from your Cruise and that price also includes airport transfers. And, for many of their Cruises, the airfare included is “Business Class” Airfare/most of those flights being with “flatbeds”… basically, anything going “Overseas” is in Business Class (So Cruises in Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, Australia & New Zealand, etc,) whereas if you’re staying within North America (Alaska, Caribbean, Panama Canal, Canada/New England, etc,) then your included flight is in “Economy Class”. At first, no doubt it sounds great that Regent will handle your flights too (If they do, you have literally nothing you need to think about or plan for your Cruise as, as long as you can get yourself to your home airport Regent takes care of the rest!) but, as I talk about here , I almost Never recommend you use Regent’s airfare … nor the airfare that any of the Cruiselines or Tauck Tours, etc. offers. I won’t get into too many details here as this article VERY thoroughly explains my thoughts on that but here are the main downfalls of using Regent’s airfare:

• You have NO IDEA what airfare you’re actually paying Regent for. Unlike simply going to an airline’s website and picking a schedule and a price, with Regent, your flight doesn’t get scheduled till 75 days before you fly… by then, most of the best flight schedules are long booked up & the best seats are gone … I fly overseas 2-3 times at least each year and I book my flights on average 8-10 months before I leave/very few people wait till 2.5 months out to book flights for these big trips so do you really want to wait till then for Regent to book your flights when basically what they’re booking is the “leftovers”? FYI, if you insist on using Regent’s airfare you HAVE to get them to book your flights early in my opinion and they charge you $199 per person extra to do that … but, be aware, they charge you $75 just to call them and talk to them about what schedules are available/if you don’t like what they have to offer & you have them remove airfare from your booking/discount the price and go buy your own airfare (I simply recommend doing that from the start) you lose that $75. Imagine an airline charging you $75 to “look” at their options at their site and whether you book or not they keep that money… not the best way to spend your money in my opinion! 🙁 

2. “Business Class” is ONLY guaranteed on the “overseas” flight … for example, recently I had some clients flying to Tahiti and on their flight home their Papeete to LAX flight was in business class but their LAX to Washington, DC flight was not which is a long 5 hour flight… that sucked!! 🙁 Don’t get me wrong, more often than not Regent can get you business class the whole way, but again, it’s NOT guaranteed. Reason being, don’t forget they’re booking the “leftovers” at 75 days before so often there are simply no seats left or the prices are so high the seats are no longer available to be booked in their “contracts” they have with the airlines. Personally, I only fly business class when I fly ovrseas and when I book my flights on the airline’s sites direct I simply only book flights where it’s business class the whole way/I ignore any “mixed class” flghts where economy is included but with Regent you have No choice as you’re at the mercy of what options they can book based on their “contracts” they have with the airlines.

3. MANY times Regent’s airfare prices are simply too high … when you book a Regent Cruise, unlike with their included drinks/wifi/excursions, etc. you have a choice if you want Regent to include air or not & if you don’t they give you a discount off of your Cruise… so, for example, I just did a Bali-Sydney Cruise with them and for those who booked their own airfare Regent took $7,700 per person off of their price. Don’t get me wrong, I have seen many flights to this part of the World cost $10,000 per person so $7,700 CAN be ok depending on the flight you book but the first time I went to this area I paid $4,500 for a business class flight to/from there and the second time $5,500 so why would I give Regent $7,700 for flights when I don’t even know what they’re booking. Many people simply think they’re getting the better deal when using Cruiseline air but I’ve personally been on 83 Cruises and for 100% of them I’ve booked my own airfare as I always get a better deal with the airline direct. A lot of my clients go to Europe and Regent’s air discount there is usually around $3,000 per person which looks good to many people but I see seat sales often for around that price or less and even if you bought it on your own with the airline for say $3,200 per person, isn’t it better to do that and know your schedule/your seats/that you have business class all the way, etc.? 

4. Regent flies you in the day your Cruise starts/ends… if you “deviate” your flight dates they charge you $199 per person extra to do that. Now, as I said earlier in this post, I ALWAYS recommend flying into your Cruise’s “start” city as early as you can… as mentioned in this post, I got to Bali 6 days before my Cruise. You know how much extra the airline charges me for choosing the date of preference… that’s right, $0!! But with Regnt’s air, just because you want to fly in early to enjoy a city and get over the jetlag, etc. they charge you $199 per person… again, not the best way to spend your money in my opinion! 🙁 

I’m sure I could come up with more downfalls about using Regent’s (or any Cruiselines or Tauck Tour’s airfare) but I think that’s enough for you to understand that I DON’T recommend you use their air options and if you do/aren’t happy with your flights you get you can never say I didn’t warn you!! 😉  

Well, that wraps up Regent’s “inclusions” section and why people who simply don’t want to be “nickeled & dimed” when on their hard-earned vacation are so attracted to this style of Cruising and why many of them book with Regent Seven Seas Cruises again & again & again.

Yes, Regent charges more for their Cruises up front and their prices often look way more than the average Cruise… but you need to factor in that their prices include onboard drinks, tips, wifi, specialty restaurants, laundry, lots of shore excursions, etc. 

So on Regent, you’re not necessarily paying more to sail with them than compared to other lines, you’re just paying for it all upfront but if you break it down and add up EVERYTHING you’re paying for on other Cruises, the bottom line will always be very close.

And yes, your bottom line on “big ships” will almost always be less (That’s if you stay in basic rooms… if you do “Suites” on big ships often you’ll save money by moving to a company like Regent!) but we’re not talking an “apples to apples” comparison when you compare the quality of the food, service, etc. and what it’s like to sail on a ship with 3,000-4,000+ people onboard vs 500-700 people onboard… it’s literally a night & day difference!!

Okay, next topic when it comes to what I experienced onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer”, let’s take a look at the amazing…

Above under the “Inclusions” section I talked about how all the food onboard a Regent Cruise is included … even at the “Specialty Restaurants” which are typically $40-$70 per person (And some even higher!) on the big ships.

Well, not only is the food all-included on Regent but it’s pretty awesome!!

Yes, I’ve been on ALL the big ships and know the food is pretty great on those ships too but when you come on Regent it’s a significant “step up” when it comes to your dining experience!!

Best I “show you” rather than tell you so I’d suggest reading the caption under this picture and checking out the pictures & captions in the dozens of pictures that follow that one where you’ll see pictures of Regent “Seven Seas Explorer”:

“Pacific Rim” – This is a “Pan-Asian” specialty restaurant that’s absolutely yummy… in there, you can enjoy Asian cocktails & beers, sushi, softshell crab, dumplings & potstickers, spring rolls, sashimi, miso-glazed black cod, huge prawns, Lobster tempura, duck, yummy desserts, etc. I ate there 3 times when onboard! 🙂

“Prime 7”- This is a “Steakhouse” specialty restaurant where they serve everything from pork belly, scallops, crab cakes, amazing steak, whole Maine Lobsters, decadent desserts, etc. When you’re done a meal there, add up what a quality meal like that would’ve cost you in a major city in America and you’ll start to see how much value Regent packs into the price of their Cruises!!!

“Chartreuse”- This is a “French” specialty restaurant … in there dishes like salmon, caviar, Alaskan crab, Lobster bisque, beef tenderloin, scallops, lamb chops, creme brule, macarons, etc. are there for you to indulge in… again, eating in a place like this anywhere in our part of the World is NOT cheap but, it’s all-included when you Cruise with Regent!!

Beyond that, if you read the caption under this picture and check out the pictures & captions in the dozens of pictures that follow that one, you’ll see pictures from “Seven Seas Explorer’s” Italian restaurant, its “Main” dining room/”Compass Rose”, the buffet, the pool grill, the Cafe, “Tea Time”, room service, etc. 

As you’ll see, the food onboard is not only plentiful but truly fabulous!!

One last note about food to help point out the “quality” difference. 

If you’ve ever Cruised, you know that the main dining room’s menu changes every night and then they have a FEW “Anytime” items like chicken, a basic steak, fish, Caesar salad, etc. which you can order any night on the Cruise.

…yep, seriously, appetizers like Alaskan Crab, Lobster Bisque & Escargots and main dishes like Scallops, Lobster Tails, Dover Sole, Rib Eye steaks, Filet Mignon, Lamb Chops, etc. are available EVERY NIGHT at “Compass Rose”… if you’re a Cruiser like me you know a lot of these items are rare on big ships these days/some you’ll see maybe once per Cruise and some you simply never see anymore at all.

But, after looking above at “Compass Rose’s” anytime menu, you know you’re going to eat REALLY well when onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” Ship!! 🙂

Again, the food truly is a “step” up when you sail on a Luxury/Small Ship/All-Inclusive Cruiseline like Regent!!

Okay, so far we’ve talked about the Suites, Food & Inclusions on a Regent Cruise… now let’s talk about… 

As someone who has personally been on 83 Cruises (including on ALL the big ships like Carnival/Royal/Norwegian/Holland/Princess/Celebrity/MSC, etc.) I can assure you the service you experience on ANY Cruise far exceeds the “lackluster” service we’re used to on a daily basis as we go about our North American lifestyles … everywhere we go we hear of people talking about how it’s hard to find good help these days, no one seems to want to work, etc. Yes, there are always exceptions and some people are GREAT at what they do and seem happy doing it but no doubt you know what I’m talking about… in North America mediocre service, at best, is pretty much the norm these days. 🙁

BUT, if you’ve ever Cruised, you know that’s NOT the case… as the majority of staff onboard Cruises are not North Americans (they’re mostly from the Philipines, India, Indonesia, other parts of Asia, etc.) their work ethic is NOT what we’re used to!! Not only do they work more than the average 8 hours per day that our society does and they typically only get a day off every now & then (and they do this for 6-9 months at a time, away from home/away from their families!) but they do it all with a Smile!! 🙂 Again, if you’ve ever been on any Cruise ship I simply don’t have to explain this!

Well, on a Cruiseline like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, it’s even better when it comes to the service … if you can believe that!! Reason being, with fewer guests onboard, yet more staff per guest compared to big ships, the staff has more time to get to know you, to have chats, to remember & call you by name, etc.

On Regent, if I ask where a washroom is for example, I don’t get pointed the way… they’ll typically walk me there!

The Captain is more visible, the Hotel Manager who runs entire ship operations (beyond the “sailing” side of it) like food/entertainment/housekeeping/lounges, etc. has an open door policy to speak with him/her if you have issues… on big ships, I’ve literally had to almost beg to speak to these “higher ups” if there was an issue!

I could easily sit here & write for an hour about how good the service is on a small ship/luxury line like Regent but the bottom line is no doubt once you get onboard too you’ll “feel” the difference! So, make sure you factor that in as well when deciding do you want to pay a little extra for your next Cruise or not to make sure you “want for nothing” while onboard and to make sure that the service will be as good as it gets and if there’s ever an issue, the people who can make it better are there to help…

…in my experience of taking a lot of Cruises, having top-notch service simply makes my Vacations pretty amazing ones!

Next topic… let’s get into the onboard…

Entertainment

If there’s any downfall I can think of when it comes to being on a small/luxurious/all-inclusive ship like Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” is that the nightlife isn’t as active as on the big ships … so, if you need to be “stimulated” all night long with dance clubs and huge production shows, comedy clubs, etc. a ship like this may not be for you.

With that said, there’s still excellent quality entertainment onboard these small ships!!

During my 17-night sailing on Regent for example, they had a full team of 4 singers & 8 dancers who did 5 big “Broadway-style” shows … beyond that, they had lots of “guest” entertainers who were only onboard for a night or 2 which ranged from a pianist to a “Cirque-style” Duo to an amazing juggler , a Buddy Holly tribute performer , a Barbara Streisand tribute performer , a comedian and a “one-man orchestra” who was unbelievable… he, literally, played 14 different instruments and was an Epic entertainer!

Each night at 9:30pm there’ll be acts like above in the theatre but that’s usually it beyond singers in the 3 lounges that are open till midnight… and yes, there was some dancing in the lounges too if you enjoy that… and we enjoyed Karaoke on a couple of nights too! 🙂

So, if you’re looking for a “party ship”, best to stick with Carnival…

…but if having a beverage or two with your love or with newfound friends or if you’re onboard as a solo traveler as I was (there were “solo” get-togethers every night) you’ll always find nice people to chat with over the included drinks and you can enjoy a “night out” as long into the evenings as you choose or you can head back to your Suite for a comfy night in.

Speaking of back in your Suite… you know how at hotels the movies on the TV are usually $20 each as they are on many big ships? Well, as Regent is “All-Inclusive”, as I talk about in the caption under this picture there were 257 Free movies & TV shows on our in-Suite TVs so no worries about having to pay to be entertained back in your Suite as that’s included too! 🙂 

And then during the days, as usual, there were lots of activities like trivia, sport deck games, card rooms, a library, etc. and on “sea days” they had lectures regarding the areas we were visiting, etc. so not only were we getting to visit lots of great places but we got to learn about them too! 🙂 

This picture and the few after it show you the pool area, gym, etc. so you can see other things you can do throughout the day!

Okay, now that you’ve seen how you’re going to be entertained while onboard a Regent Cruise, next let’s talk about what happens while you’re off the ship where you can participate in their included…

Shore Excursions

Shortly I’ll get into the ports my Cruise visited and will show you what I saw & experienced in those places but first off a VERY IMPORTANT Cruise planning topic which I mentioned earlier in this post!!

As I talk about here and here I NEVER suggest flying in “day of” when you take a Cruise as if your flight is late you’ll miss your Cruise or if your bags are delayed that’ll get your long-awaited sailing off to a terrible start!!

And, even if you get in on time the day you leave, you’ll be VERY tired for the first few days due to jetlag which also won’t get your trip started on the right foot!

So, since I always follow my own advice ;-), I got to Bali 6 nights early to not only make sure I was at the Cruise on time but I heard Bali is a fabulous place (As many cities that Cruises start in are!) so I wanted to check out some of the things Bali has to offer!

As you’ll see in the few pictures below, during my “pre-Cruise” days in Bali I checked out some of its Beautiful beaches , I enjoyed some wonderful/Very inexpensive “Balinese” Massages and some foot massages , I took a VERY yummy “Street Food” tour , I shopped a little (For you shopping lovers you can’t throw a rock in Bali without hitting a store! ;-)), I watched Bali’s famous sunsets and I toured “Ubud” where I went to a private home to see how the Balinese live , I visited a Monkey Sanctuary (Who knew Monkeys could take selfies! 😉 ), I had an exhilarating “Giant Swing” experience , I had a yummy lunch , I visited the tiered Rice fields , I went to a majestic Hindu Temple famous for its “holy” spring water where believers come to bath & purify and I saw a very impressive Waterfall !!

But overall, it felt like I hardly touched Bali as there were so many other tours I could have taken too and I had heard many other people doing super fun things so I can for sure say no matter how many days you fly early into Bali before your Cruise you WON’T be bored!! 🙂

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my “Pre-Cruise” time in Bali, then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Okay, now that I have shown you what I did “on my own” in Bali before I got onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer”, next let’s look at the Shore Excursions I booked through Regent and what they included.

As I said above, I spent a grand total of $228 between everything you see below whereas that could have easily been $2,000 on almost any other Cruise so Regent’s included excursions really are a big part of the “value” you’re paying for when booking your Cruise with them!!

On day 2 of our stop in “Celukan Bawang” I had the choice to do other excursions that didn’t include visiting Temples but as Bali has over 10,000 of them and I had been impressed with all I had seen so far, I couldn’t resist and I picked a tour that visited some more Temples during my final day on that Beautiful Island. First up was the “Ling Gwan Kiong” Chinese Temple and then we went to the “Pura Beji” Temple & the “Pura Dalem Segara Madhu” Temple which were both Hindu Temples. After our morning of impressive sightseeing, we had lunch at a Gorgeous beach-side restaurant.

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in “Celukan Bawang”, Bali then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

That was the end of my time on the Island of Bali but overall I for sure had a great 8 days there! 🙂 

Lombok – After finishing our time off in Bali, we stopped at the much quieter & non-touristy Island of Lombok, Indonesia.

So interesting to see the very simple lifestyle they live here and learning about things like how they make clay bricks (Right from the earth around them/not in a fancy warehouse like we’re used to), thatched roofs (Which if done right are stronger then concrete), we saw them farming using Water Buffalo, we saw their unique fishing platforms, etc.

And then we followed that up with some nice “beach time” at one of their Beautiful resorts on the Island.

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Lombok, Indonesia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Komodo – Wow, our port stop here was quite the experience on the desert-like Island of Komodo, Indonesia! Yes, as most everyone who comes to this Island, we saw lots of “Komodo Dragons” which are amazing creatures that can grow to over 10 feet long and can be 300+ pounds but my group also literally saw one take down and kill a deer … when the guides & park rangers start yelling & screaming and pulling out their phones to record, you know you’re seeing something rare!! I only added one picture of that here (The least graphic one I took!) as I know seeing things like this isn’t for everyone but either way I always find it amazing seeing how nature works/takes its course as I’ve traveled around the world over the years!!

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Komodo, Indonesia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Darwin – For our next port stop during my Bali to Sydney Cruise on Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” ship, we made our first stop in Australia in the City of Darwin. I chose to do Regent’s “Jumping Crocodiles” River Cruise excursion on the Adelaide River… and just like it sounds like, these intimidating creatures can jump out of the water to catch their prey such as birds who fly too close to the water! We saw everything that day from little babies to one guy who was just over 17 feet long and almost 1,800lbs… unbelievable watching them move around out in the open river!! With that said, they’re all around this area so you need to be careful near the water all over… even in Darwin’s harbour they find a few hundred of them there each year!

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Darwin, Australia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Townsville – After a few “Sea Days” we began exploring the Northeast Coast of Australia. Our first stop in that region was in “Townsville” where we went up to “Castle Hill” to check out views of the City & the Coastline … for my “Newfie” followers on here, it definitely has a “Signal Hill” feel up there! 🙂 From there, we went to the “Billabong Sanctuary” where we saw lots of animals like Kangaroos, Koalas, Wombats, Crocodiles, etc. Very cool to see some of the animals that Australia is well known for!!

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Townsville, Australia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Airlie Beach, Australia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Mooloolaba – For my second-last port stop of my Cruise, that day we tendered into “Mooloolaba” which is on Australia’s “Sunshine Coast”. I took Regent’s included “Scenic Sunshine Coast” excursion which featured a Very picturesque drive along the Beautiful Australian Coastline and we also spent some time in “Noosa” which is a very popular waterfront resort in this area. If you’re in this region drop by for lots of shopping and dining on “Hastings Street” as well as endless beaches and tree-lined walking paths, hiking trails, etc. Definitely not a bad place to enjoy the Beautiful weather this area is accustomed to year round!!

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Mooloolaba, Australia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Newcastle – On the the final day of my 17 day Bali to Sydney Cruise onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” we docked in Newcastle, Australia where I took Regent’s “wine and cheese tasting” excursion in the “Hunter Valley” which is the birthplace of Australian Wines… and if you like wine, you know some pretty great wines come from this part of the World!! And after trying 13 different cheeses (And also some local cream and local jam with a yummy scone!) I found out the dairy producers in this area offer some great products as well!!

If you’d like to see more of my pictures from my time in Newcastle, Australia then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Okay, this isn’t a “port stop” as such but if you sail into Sydney, Australia’s amazing harbor make sure to do what myself & many of my fellow passengers did… even though I think it was like 5:30am, get your butt out of bed to check out the views of downtown Sydney as you sail by it’s scenic “Opera House”, etc. You’ll be GLAD you did!! 🙂

If you’d like to see more of my pictures & videos from my “Bali to Sydney” Cruise onboard Regent’s “Seven Seas Explorer” then check out my Photo & Video Gallery of this Cruise here .

Well, as I’m sure you can see from my pictures above and from my pictures & videos in my gallery … I’m for sure a “fan” of Regent “Seven Seas Cruises”!!

Any questions at all about this ship/itinerary simply contact me here and let me know.

Or if you’re ready to book your own Regent “Seven Seas Cruise” or any Ocean Cruise or River Cruise or Tauck Land Tour reach out to me and I’ll be happy to help you get that next Great Vacation planned & booked for you… and as always, your Business & Referrals are Sincerely Appreciated!! 🙂 

I Appreciate You!

Shawn Power Your Trusted Cruise & Tauck Tour Expert!

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