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The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built Returns to Sailing

Seven Seas Explorer® Commences Inaugural Season from Trieste, Italy

MIAMI, October 19, 2021 – Seven Seas Explorer® , has welcomed luxury travelers back on board for the first time since the voluntary industry-wide pause in operations. Excited guests embarked the ship known as the most luxurious ever built on October 15, 2021, in Trieste, Italy, for an unforgettable journey through Italy, Croatia and Greece, whilst experiencing the highest benchmarks of service in lavishly designed suites, restaurants, bars and lounges.

Sailing with the cruise line’s enhanced SailSAFE™ Health and Safety Program - which includes 100% vaccination of both guests and crew – Seven Seas Explorer is the second of the Regent Seven Seas Cruises® fleet to return, joining their newest ship Seven Seas Splendor® which has been enjoying a hugely successful inaugural season since September 11, 2021.

“It’s truly amazing to be back on board Seven Seas Explorer , and it is fantastic to see our guests being treated to the unrivaled Regent experience once again,” said Jason Montague, president and CEO, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, speaking from onboard Seven Seas Explorer . “Our crew have done an outstanding job in preparing for the ship’s return, with the service so seamless it is as if we were never away.”

Helmed by Captain Rosario Vasta, Seven Seas Explorer is cruising the Adriatic and Mediterranean Sea on an 8-night itinerary, visiting Ravenna, Italy; Zadar, Croatia; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Bari, Italy; Corfu, Greece; Taormina, Italy; and Sorrento/Capri, Italy. The ship arrives in Rome, Italy on October 23, after which she will continue to cruise Southern Europe before crossing the Atlantic to Miami, Florida for a season in the Caribbean from mid-November until March 2022.

The next ships in The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet ™ to resume sailing will be Seven Seas Mariner® on December 18, 2021, and Seven Seas Navigator® on January 6, 2022, both from Miami, Florida. Seven Seas Voyager® , Regent’s final ship to return will sail on February 15, 2022 from Barcelona, Spain.

Multi-Layered SailSAFE Health & Safety Program During its voluntary suspension of sailings, Regent Seven Seas Cruises built upon its existing comprehensive health and safety protocols by establishing the SailSAFE™ health and safety program and safety program, a robust and science-backed strategy that creates multiple layers of protection against COVID-19. The Program was developed with guidance from a team of public health and scientific experts including the SailSAFEGlobal Health and Wellness Council.

By visiting RSSC.com/HealthSafetyProtocols , guests and travel partners can see an overview of current requirements to sail - such as all guests and crew being fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure - which the cruise line believes will provide a uniquely safe and healthy cruise experience. These and other requirements will be in place until a time when the protocols can be confidently adjusted, and Regent will constantly monitor the global health environment to protect the safety and security of guests, crew and communities visited.

For more information or to make a reservation call 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-873-2381), visit RSSC.com or contact a professional travel advisor.

About Regent Seven Seas Cruises Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the leading luxury cruise line, delivering An Unrivaled Experience™ for over 25 years. Carrying no more than 750 guests, the line’s spacious and stylish ships - Seven Seas Explorer ®, Seven Seas Mariner ®, Seven Seas Navigator ®, Seven Seas Splendor ™, Seven Seas Voyager ® and from 2023 Seven Seas Grandeur ™ - form The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™ and explore more than 450 immersive destinations globally. Offering Unrivalled Space at Sea™, guests enjoy sumptuous all-suite accommodations, nearly all with private balconies, which are among the largest at sea, as well as highly personalized service throughout lavish public areas and expansive outdoor spaces. Unique to Regent Seven Seas Cruises, unlimited complimentary shore excursions are available in every port, making it the only truly all-inclusive cruise line. Voyage fares also include round-trip business-class air on intercontinental flights from the U.S. and Canada, gourmet cuisine in a range of specialty restaurants and al-fresco dining venues, fine wines and spirits, entertainment, unlimited internet access, free valet laundry, gratuities, ground transfers and one-night, pre-cruise hotel packages for guests staying in Concierge-level suites and higher. For more information, please visit RSSC.com , call 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-873-2381) or contact a professional travel advisor.

Matador Original Series

What It's Really Like Aboard the 'World's Most Luxurious Cruise Line'

W hen Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveiled the Explorer in 2015, it made headlines for being the most expensive cruise ship ever built, costing an estimated $450 million. That title was usurped by the $600-plus million Seven Seas Splendor in 2020, which only solidified Regent’s reputation as the world’s most luxurious cruise line.

Barring a trip to Alaska when I was a child, I’d never set foot on a cruise ship before boarding the Seven Seas Explorer at the Piraeus port in Athens, where I was welcomed with a glass of bubbly beneath the even sparklier chandelier that crowns the lobby. I didn’t know what to expect from a 10-day international voyage across Greece and Turkey, let alone one aboard a cruise ship so lavish that it’s designed to render your destination of choice secondary to the overall experience.

To say that it spoiled me for future cruises is an understatement. While cruising will likely never be my favorite mode of travel, or even my preferred way to experience the open seas, Regent convinced this onetime cruise-scoffer that there’s a time and a place for big shared ships — if you’re able to afford the best in class.

The Seven Seas Explorer feels surprisingly private, even at capacity. Photo: Alex Bresler

Before setting out for Mykonos, the first stop on our voyage, I struggled to reconcile the idea that any large shared ship could feel exclusive enough to justify the four to five figures the average Regent cruiser pays. While the Seven Seas Explorer maxes out at 746 guests — a fraction of the thousands of passengers that the world’s largest cruise ships can hold — I somehow felt as though I only ever saw the same 50 people, excluding the well-organized boarding process on the first day.

The gym was almost always empty during my pre-breakfast workouts, after which I always opted to take my first meal of the day on my suite’s balcony. The restaurants rarely felt more crowded than those of much smaller hotels, and I never had to fight for a sun lounger on the top deck or a quiet corner in either of the two pools.

It helps that the guest-to-crew ratio on the Seven Seas Explorer is nearly one-to-one. It also helps that Regent attracts an older crowd. I only saw two children on board — one time, on the top deck, halfway through the trip — and later learned they were the captain’s kids. All ages are welcome, but the ship isn’t designed for younger cruisers, favoring features like a jogging track and shuffleboard to waterpark-style slides. The evening entertainment similarly caters to adults, with 10 bars and lounges and an on-board casino.

Photo: Alex Bresler

There was, however, a shadow of the other guests when it came to making reservations, from the spa and specialty restaurants to the shore excursions. (Luckily, I decided to book all of my spa appointments on the first day, and even then the slots were limited.) Shore excursions can be requested well in advance of the departure date, and guests would do well to submit their preferences as early as possible.

The only masses I ever saw were at the Constellation Theater for pre-excursion briefings. The excursions themselves mitigated crowding by splitting up passengers into smaller groups for boat and bus transfers, and later for relatively intimate guided tours. Moments like this were a reminder that the Seven Seas Explorer is no private yacht, but I was surprised how private it felt — so much so that I inquired if pandemic apprehensions had impacted bookings, to which I was told that the vessel was completely full. That’s just the Regent experience.

Every guest gets a suite.

The Seven Seas Explorer has 373 staterooms, all of which are classed as suites and come with private balconies. Suites range from 307 to 4,443 square feet, with balconies spanning 55 to 994 square feet. (For reference, rent-financing app Flex cited the average size of a newly built one-bedroom apartment in the US as 757 feet as of 2018.)

Suites are split into 10 classes, culminating in the two-bedroom, two-balcony Regent Suite, which comes with butler service, $150,000 Savior N°1 mattresses and $150,000 Mollissima duvets, a $250,000 Steinway grand piano, and an in-suite spa with unlimited complimentary spa services, among other amenities — for a whopping $10,000 per night. (Yes, even the Regent Suite was booked during my cruise.)

I stayed in a Concierge Suite. At approximately 450 square feet, Concierge is the fourth-smallest suite class, but my stateroom was plenty spacious for two guests. Every suite on the Seven Seas Explorer comes with a separate sitting area and walk-in wardrobe. Butler service kicks in at the Penthouse level, one above Concierge, but my floor had a dedicated attendant who was always available to assist with services like in-room dining and laundry, as well as answer any questions.

Yet it was my suite’s marble bathroom that sold me on Regent’s promise of optimum luxury. Even after learning that the Regent Suite is adorned with two original Picassos, seeing the separate bath and shower came as the biggest shock to me. The flush toilet alone was a step up from the majority of the boats I’ve been on, and the complimentary L’Occitane bath products set a new bar for basic amenities.

On Regent cruises, all-inclusive really means all-inclusive.

The concept of an all-inclusive is a bit misleading. More often than not, it means that essentials like room, board, and entertainment are included in your booking price while non-necessities that, let’s be honest, are pretty essential to a fun and relaxing vacation, typically come with hidden fees. Not on Regent cruises.

To start, alcohol is included. That may sound relatively superfluous in the grand scheme of things, but specialty food and drink sales is one way many all-inclusives make a significant amount of their money. On the Seven Seas Explorer, alcoholic beverages are not only complimentary but also flow freely. Wine stewards circulate diligently during meals to make sure your glass stays full from the moment you sit down, and bars and lounges are stocked to make any premium cocktails you might want.

The Seven Seas Explorer also has three specialty restaurants that require reservations but are included in the upfront cost: modern-French Chartreuse, pan-Asian Pacific Rim, and steakhouse Prime 7. That goes a long way when the menus feature expensive ingredients like black truffles, whole Maine lobsters, and USDA Prime steaks for two. Nothing compared the food I ate in Mykonos, Santorini, and Kavala in Greece and Istanbul and Kuşadası in Turkey, but considering the majority of our evenings were spent traveling between ports, it was comforting to know that there was always a nice meal awaiting us on board.

As a travel writer on assignment, even less spendy complimentary amenities had a surprisingly big impact on my enjoyment of the cruise, such as free WiFi and laundry. The only time I managed to incur a sizable bill on board was at the spa, between the treatments I booked and the products I brought home. Unlike most cruise lines, Regent also takes pride in offering free unlimited shore excursions, but it’s worth noting that some excursions do cost extra — more on that below.

The shore excursions are excellent, but the on-ship entertainment leaves something to be desired.

No matter how luxurious a cruise ship is, disembarking is integral to the experience. After all, what is a cruise if not a vehicle for seeing new places. Of the five destinations our cruise visited, excluding Athens where the trip began and ended, I booked shore excursions in three, opting for a self-guided ATV tour of Mykonos and a full-day private tour in Istanbul, our only overnight port, which I took advantage of the Seven Seas Explorer concierge to arrange.

Prior to the trip, cruisers are sent a list of all available excursions detailing the type of activity, time, and level of fitness required for each. The excursions I chose centered on historical tours that relied on local guides and transfers to secondary locations, including the ruins of ancient Philippi in Greece and ancient Ephesus in Turkey. I was most excited about my excursion in Santorini, a combination volcano hike and winery visit. Though the hike was less active than I would have liked, and the wine tasting more rushed, I appreciated that the shore excursions also budgeted time for travelers to eat and explore independently.

It’s possible to make itinerary changes on board, availability permitting. Availability for the most popular excursions can be slim, even if you request them in advance. Regent also offers “choice excursions” for its most coveted activities, such as gourmet food tours and off-the-beaten-path adventures, but these cost extra, albeit at discounted rates.

Shore excursions were widely enjoyed. Some guests found that their experiences didn’t align perfectly with the tours that were advertised, such as a farm visit in a Turkish village that I was disappointed to miss due to availability. That particular excursion ended up being more of a dining experience, I was told, but none of the attendees I spoke with complained about the traditional feast they’d been fed.

The only complaint I heard repeatedly was that the evening entertainment, while nice, paled in comparison to the rest of the experience. Similar feedback exists online, comparing Regent’s live music, comedy, and more elaborate shows to the Broadway-caliber performances on cruise lines such as Norwegian. Fortunately for travelers, Norwegian acquired Regent Seven Seas Cruises in 2014 and has pledged to improve the on-board entertainment.

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First look: The new, $11,000-a-night cruise ship suite that's bigger than a house

For the record, I'm the kind of guy who rarely spends over $10,000 a night for a cabin on a cruise ship. And by rarely, I mean never.

Shave a couple zeros off that number, and you're getting closer to my idea of a reasonable per-night charge.

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Apparently, not everyone is like me. The new Regent Suite on luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises' just-unveiled Seven Seas Splendor, which Regent executives showed off to U.S. media for the first time on Sunday, already is booked solid through November at $11,000 a night for two.

Yes, you read that right: $11,000 a night.

Given that many Seven Seas Splendor sailings run 10 to 16 nights, we're talking about a total spend here of $110,000 to $176,000 in many cases.

What do you get for that kind of money? For starters, a suite that is very, very big.

The sprawling complex measures 4,443 square feet -- nearly twice the size of the average American home.

For those of you keeping track, that makes the suite more than three times the size of the much-ballyhooed, two-deck-high Ultimate Family Suite that Royal Caribbean recently put atop Symphony of the Seas , the world's biggest cruise ship. It's also way bigger than the giant Sky Suites that Princess Cruises just unveiled on its new Sky Princess .

As I saw during Sunday's preview, the Regent Suite features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a living room, a separate dining area and what is perhaps the most spectacular balcony at sea.

"It's unique," Regent president and CEO Jason Montague said of the suite when I asked him where he thinks it falls among the list of top suites at sea. "There's nothing like it, not just in the cruise industry but the overall [travel] industry."

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That's a big boast. But, having seen quite a few super-suites in my 20-plus years of travel writing, I can say that Montague may have a point.

As Montague noted, there aren't any super suites on land where you can get a sweeping view of a different iconic destination -- Monaco, Portofino, Venice -- every few days.

"Look at that view behind you," Montague said, pointing to floor-to-ceiling windows framing a vast expanse of island-dotted water (the suite unveiling was taking place during a short sneak-peek sailing for travel agents from Miami to the Bahamas ). "You're going to wake up [to a view of] a different port almost every day."

Located at the very top of the ship, the Regent Suite really does have one of the best views at sea. Even the captain of the vessel, three decks below on the bridge , doesn't get quite the line of sight that a Regent Suite guest can get through its seemingly endless glass walls.

The bridge also doesn't have such luxury touches as a Steinway grand piano, designer furniture and an art collection worth thousands of dollars.

Cruise suite connoisseurs will tell you the footprint of the Regent Suite is similar to the footprint of a suite of the same name on Regent's 3-year-old Seven Seas Explorer. Until now, that suite has widely been considered the be-all and end-all of suites at sea. But some of the new Regent Suite's features are even more extravagant.

Among the craziest things that I saw: A bed with a handmade mattress that Regent executives claim cost more than $200,000. I didn't see the receipt, so I can't confirm it really was that pricey. But, given the way they described its making, I'm taking their word for it.

Regent says the bed was handcrafted by four artisans at the renowned Hästens workshop in Köping, Sweden. It's made with horsetail hair, layered in with flax, and cotton and wool batting. The frame, I was told, was made of pinewood. That last part seems a little Plebeian to me, given the cost of the bed. No rare black walnut or 1,000-year-old redwood?

Pine frame or not, the bed is quite comfortable. I know this because, when nobody else was looking, I sneaked a dive right on top of it.

Before you chastise me, know that I did fluff the comforter back up and straightened out the top sheet.

The super-pricey bed is within the Regent Suite's master bedroom area, which is the centerpiece of the complex. In addition to a main bedroom and adjacent lounge space, there's a massive master bathroom that doubles as a personal spa , complete with its own sauna and steam room. It's big enough that it also can be used as a personal spa treatment room.

To that end, the Regent Suite -- get this -- comes with its very own spa therapist on call. Unlimited spa treatments are included in the cost of the suite.

Need we even mention that the suite comes with its own private butler?

The master bath also has a walk-in shower so big that we suspect a couple of the other writers at Sunday's event got lost inside and are still there. Notably, the shower has a floor-to-ceiling glass wall overlooking the ocean. You can also enjoy the view from two heated relaxation loungers.

Still, the best view of the ocean from the Regent Suite is from its forward-facing, glass-enclosed solarium (which comes with a fully stocked bar).

That is, unless you walk out on the adjacent wraparound balcony. You can watch the sunset on the balcony from a custom Treesse minipool spa. Just don't forget to grab an always-on-hand, complimentary bottle of Veuve Clicquot first.

If, like me, you're still a little blown away by the fact that anyone is shelling out $11,000 a night for a room on a cruise ship, one other thing to remember is the Regent Suite comes with a lot of extras.

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In addition to unlimited spa treatments, perks of staying in the complex that come at no extra cost (well, after the initial five- or six-digit payment for the sailing) include first-class domestic flights to reach the ship. Those staying in the suite also get a personal car, driver and guide in every port. They have a concierge on call before they sail to help them plan their trip and, of course, the dedicated butler to help make arrangements once they're onboard.

The butler isn't just any butler, mind you, but the head butler for the entire vessel.

Built at a shipyard in Ancona, Italy , Seven Seas Splendor was christened on Friday in Miami by American model and actress Christie Brinkley. It will sail from Miami with paying passengers for the first time on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

Seven Seas Splendor will spend the next couple months sailing out of Miami, San Diego and New York City before moving to Europe for the spring, summer and fall. European itineraries will include voyages to the French Riviera , Greek Islands , Iberian Peninsula and United Kingdom .

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Regent Seven Seas Explorer: Is this 'The Most Luxurious Cruise Ship Ever Built'?

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The Most Luxurious Cruise Ship Ever Built

Kelly Allen discovers the beauty in the understated luxuries aboard the new Seven Seas Explorer.

Regent Seven Seas’ new Seven Seas Explorer has been touted as “the most luxurious ship ever built”. Crafted at a cost of US$450 million (about A$569 million), it oozes extravagance, with hundreds of crystal chandeliers, custom-made Versace place settings, and 2,500 pieces of art including works by Chagall and Picasso. No expense has been spared.

My daughter and I are on a voyage from Rome to Barcelona, and we are both eager to see what all the hype is about. Embarkation is seamless and we are soon standing in the grand atrium with a glass of bubbles, our mouths hanging open in awe of our surroundings. The first impression is very good indeed.

This might sound silly, but my biggest worry about cruising is the feeling of confinement often felt aboard a ship. I needn’t have worried on Explorer . Here in the atrium, open, curved staircases climb opposing walls under the gaze of the largest crystal chandelier I have ever seen. Italian marble gleams underfoot. The area is spacious and bright, and feels more like the lobby of a luxurious hotel than a ship. It makes sense – Explorer has one of the highest space-to-passenger ratios in the industry.

Prior to Explorer , Regent hadn’t launched a new ship since 2003, and it appears they have spent that time well – perfecting this beauty. All of the ship’s 375 suites have spacious balconies, a separate sitting area, walk-in wardrobes and marble bathrooms. Our Superior Suite on Deck 8 was large at just under 40 square metres and stylishly decorated with dark-wood panelling and furnishings in cream and soft blue. The bathroom had a separate tub, double sinks, plenty of drawers and more than enough counter space, and the walk-in closet was very generous in size.

The ship’s masterpiece is the 412-square metre Regent Suite. The two-bedroom suite comes with an in-room spa (and unlimited complimentary treatments), a US$250,000 Steinway piano, and a glass-enclosed sitting area providing views over the ship’s bow. And to ensure a good night’s sleep, there’s a custom-made bed that took one year to construct (rumour has it the Queen of England has the same bed).

The Explorer carries 750 passengers and has a near 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio. This level of service was a welcome bonus when looking to change dinner and excursion plans. We never waited in any lines while on board, even when settling our bill. Regent is known for their all-inclusive offering, which makes for no unpleasant surprises at the end of a beautiful holiday. Premium wine and alcohol, all dining (including specialty restaurants), most excursions, WiFi and gratuities are all included.

Wanting to see as much as possible, we booked excursions at every port and found them all top notch. Luxury coaches with knowledgeable tour guides seamlessly shuttled us around the sights without any hiccups. Our favourite was a half-day trip to the ancient walled city of Lucca in Tuscany. One of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen, Lucca was settled by the Romans in 180BC, and much of the original layout has been preserved. We had an unforgettable guided bike ride along the top of the old city wall with free time to wander through the narrow cobblestone streets. My only complaint is that I would have loved to stay all day, with so many boutiques and cafés to explore.

We had one full day at sea during our voyage, and I must admit, at first I was a little apprehensive, wondering how we were going to occupy our time. After a wander around the ship, my daughter and I discovered the state-of-the-art fitness room and Canyon Ranch spa and decided to have a health retreat day. The gym has every fitness machine you could imagine. We started with an abs class and then made the most of the Technogym machines (which keep count of your reps, just like having a personal trainer). After that, we spent several hours enjoying the spa’s steam room, sauna, pulsating rain showers, cool room and private infinity pool on the back deck. Surprisingly, except for the treatment rooms, the gym and the rest of the spa facilities were virtually empty. We finished the day with a massage and decided it was too much effort to get dressed for dinner, so ordered room service followed by a movie.

For me, food is always one of the most important elements of a trip and every meal on Explorer was outstanding. The choices were plentiful with eight restaurants available. The elegant Chartreuse impressed with foie gras and lobster while Prime 7, an upscale steakhouse, served the biggest and most succulent rib-eye I have ever eaten. Our favourite restaurant was Pacific Rim. To enter, you walk past a huge bronze sculpture inspired by a Tibetan prayer wheel, before descending into the spacious dining room lined with dark timber and with pops of brass, olive green and grey. The pan-Asian menu offers delights such as beef tataki, soft shell crab, lobster tempura and miso black cod.

While we were usually exhausted from sightseeing every day, there were some great after-dinner entertainment options. The casino always looked lively and there are four glamorous lounges that often have live music. The highlight each evening was a performance in the two-tiered, 694-seat Constellation Theater, with entertainment ranging from magicians to Broadway-themed shows. If you see only one, make it My Revolution, a new production from Burn the Floor themed around Beatlemania. The show was fantastic, with talented singers and dancers performing all of your favourite songs from the swinging ’60s.

It’s a big claim to declare a ship the most luxurious ever built. But as we disembarked in Barcelona, after five exceptional nights on Explorer , I think I agree.

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See What It Will Be Like to Travel on Seven Seas Explorer, a $10,000 per Night Cruise Ship

By Christine Ciarmello

Photography by courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Billed as the most luxurious ship ever built, the newest addition to the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet, Seven Seas Explorer , is also one of the most expensive, with a price tag of $450 million and a suite that costs $10,000 per night. The extravagant interiors of the 750-passenger ship are currently being readied for a big debut by three firms: ICRAVE, RTKL, and Tillberg Design. The design is filled with luxury materials, from mahogany and crystal to cashmere and Murano handblown glass.

Once the Hermès toiletries are laid on each suite’s marble vanity and white gloves snapped onto butlers’ well-schooled fingers, the Cristal Champagne–fueled party can begin. Launching on July 20, 2016, Seven Seas Explorer will set sail from Monte Carlo and cruise the Mediterranean and Ionian Seas with stops in 11 ports, including Barcelona, Ibiza, St. Tropez, and Taormina. But with five restaurants, a culinary instruction center, a theater, a casino, and a Canyon Ranch Club Spa, there’s almost as much to do on the ship as there is on land.

For those who can’t make it aboard for the maiden voyage, here’s a sneak peek at what it will be like to sail on the Seven Seas Explorer.

Guests are welcomed on board by two etched glass staircases and a cascading crystal chandelier.

The $10,000-per-night Regency Suite is 3,875 square feet of opulence. It has two large bedrooms, a living area, a glass-enclosed sitting area called the Vista Garden, and a 958-square-foot balcony for dining with panoramic views.

The Regency Suite also boasts the industry’s first in-room spa, featuring a sauna, a steam room, a massage table, and a deep tub overlooking the ocean. Therapists from the ship’s Canyon Ranch Club Spa provide in-room treatments. The icing on the already decadent cake? Spa services are included in the fare.

Furnituremaker Dakota Jackson designed the 925-square-foot Seven Seas Suite, as well as the limited-edition Steinway Arabesque piano in the Regency Suite.

Shallow waters around the perimeter of the pool are perfect for wading. Deck 11 also includes two hot tubs.

By Katherine McLaughlin

By Sarah Archer

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By Michelle Duncan

What It’s Like to Sail on the World’s Most Luxurious Ship

Everything about the seven seas explorer—from the rooms to the amenities—is truly over the top..

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The pool deck on the Seven Seas Explorer.

Photo by Kelsey Walker

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, one of the top luxury lines, splashed out for its first new ship in 13 years. The “most luxurious ship ever built” is how the line touts its all-balcony-suite Seven Seas Explorer , inaugurated in July in Monte Carlo.

As we saw firsthand during a Mediterranean cruise, Seven Seas Explorer has grand entryways, lots of gold leaf, inlaid marble floors, intricately detailed ceilings, and enough hand-blown crystal chandeliers to rival Versailles. The accommodations feature large private balconies, oversized marble bathrooms, and ample walk-in closets.

Seven Seas Explorer’ s $10,000-a-night Regent Suite is literally the top address. Deck 14 was added to make room for this 2,917-square-foot apartment with its 958-square-foot wrap-around balcony that has an even loftier view than the captain’s on the bridge below. It also sports its own spa. And, speaking of spas, Seven Seas Explorer’ s pampering haven is run by Canyon Ranch. Before or after treatments, spa-goers can luxuriate in a secluded outdoor infinity pool.

Seven Seas Explorer is finished with almost an acre of marble, half of it from Carrara, Italy, and nearly an acre of granite. There are 473 crystal chandeliers (158 in public spaces), custom Versace and Bernardaud china, and artworks by Picasso, Chagall, Miró, Weidemann, and Arranz Bravo.

No wonder Regent CEO Frank Del Rio dubs Seven Seas Explorer a “trophy ship.”

But passengers don’t have to get their diamonds and furs out of the vault to take a cruise. Seven Seas Explorer actually has a relaxed, country-club style ambiance. The standard evening dress code is elegant casual—no ties required, and sport jackets are optional. Del Rio says his customers are “not showy [but] . . . low-key, nice people . . . like ‘the millionaire next door.’”

Of all the luxury lines, Regent’s fares may be the steepest because they include more than others. Many Regent cruises are packaged with airfare and a pre-cruise hotel night. All include an excursion in every port, fine wines, premium spirits, gratuities, and Wi-Fi. You’ll pay extra for spa treatments and laundry—unless you want to wash your own clothes in one of the self-service launderettes—but not much more.

Seven Seas Explorer carries 750 passengers, served by a whopping 552 crew. That means passengers hardly lift a finger for anything.

Walk into even the most laid-back dining spot, the pool grill, and a waiter glides you to a table set with crisp linen napkins. There’s no standing by the hot grill, plate in hand. The waiter takes your order from a printed menu, and even a simple veggie burger is elevated with finesse, the condiments in a silver and porcelain dish, the french fries in a flute. Before you know it, you’re washing down that burger with chilled rosé then ordering homemade gelato.

Should you call room service, there’s no extra charge, and en suite meals are served course by course. There’s no charge for dining at any of the five gourmet restaurants either. At the main one, Compass Rose, a noontime seafood buffet one day featured a tub of help-yourself Osetra caviar with homemade blinis and all the trimmings, oysters on the half shell, a mountain of king crab legs, and trays of jewel-colored sashimi. Lobster and foie gras are always available.

The steak house, Prime 7, serves USDA prime meats, with choices like filet mignon, an 18-ounce Porterhouse, prime rib, and a whole Maine lobster. Chartreuse, the French restaurant, offers hand-cut Charolais beef tenderloin tartare topped with caviar, Brittany blue lobster, rack of lamb, and duck magret. And Pacific Rim’s menu includes gigantic pink tiger prawns, lobster tempura, and Korean-style barbecue lamb chops. La Veranda, with indoor/outdoor seating, transforms from a buffet by day into Sette Mari, with candlelit tables and an Italian dinner menu.

In a christening fitting for such a ship, Princess Charlene of Monaco served as the godmother at festivities in Monte Carlo, highlighted by an Andrea Bocelli concert. Charlene arrived on the arm of Prince Albert II and snipped a red velvet ribbon that swung a massive Primat of Veuve Clicquot champagne, a bottle that holds the equivalent of 36 regular bottles, against the hull.

>>Next: These New Luxury Cruises Are for True Explorers

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Home Trends Inspiration Blogs Regent Seven Seas Explorer Is She The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built

Regent Seven Seas Explorer – Is she “The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built?”

By Tully Luxury Travel | 01-17-2020 |

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W e look at all the top suites so you can find the best one for you, her multitude of dining options, onboard life and the expansive Canyon Ranch Spa.

OVERVIEW The luxury cruise space at the large ship level is getting more crowded with more options. Alongside Silversea, Seabourn, Cunard and Regent Seven Seas, premium lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and MSC have introduced expansive suites and various luxury oriented offerings. Perhaps with the increasing clutter of new launches, renovations, new concepts , Regent figured one way to get extra coverage for the launch of its Seven Seas Explorer was for its parent company chairman Frank Del Rio to make provocative statements, such as crowning his newest addition, “The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built.” From a PR standpoint it certainly worked. There was live television coverage by CBS, CNBC and Bloomberg from Monaco to mark her maiden voyage earlier this month. While making dramatic pronouncements about your new vessel has not always worked out well (see, Bruce Ismay, Chairman, White Star Line, Titanic), we wanted to get an expert view on whether or not Seven Seas Explorer is going to live up to the hype. Industry newsletter Cruise Week, which was on the maiden voyage reported, “Regent Seven Seas Explorer features hundreds of crystal hand-crafted chandeliers, classic décor, lots of Murano glass, and scads of Carrera marble and granite, over an acre of each.” It continued, “In the restaurants, you will find custom Versace and Bernardaud china. Artwork, nearly all handpicked by (parent company Chairman Frank) Del Rio and his wife Marcia, includes a pair of Picassos that adorn the entrance to the Regent Suite. Another pair of Picassos hangs in the bar of Prime 7, the steak house on Seven Seas Explorer.” It noted Regent budgeted $450 million and went over budget, writing, “One estimate puts Seven Seas Explorer at $609,000 per berth. Even at budget, the vessel is the most expensive luxury ship ever built.” At the same time, as they say, “Horses for courses.” We all have different tastes, and what one calls elegant and refined, another may not like. Most importantly, the experience in a luxury hotel or ship is often dependent on whether or not you are happy with your accommodations. Mary Jean Tully is Founder/CEO of Tully Luxury Travel. A perennial A-List travel advisor as named by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, she is a top seller of luxury cruises across virtually every line. In other words, her expertise is matching the right customer to the right ship, and putting them in the right cabin. To that end, I asked Tully to give you a walk through, specifically on the different cabin types, as well as her review of the ship, and most importantly, her take on what type of traveler will enjoy the Seven Seas Explorer experience. Tully’s overall assessment is positive, and she says anyone who appreciates the décor and vibe of a Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton will feel at home. It’s upscale, but not stuffy. She calls the décor “timeless elegance, well-done, not overdone, but with attention to detail.” But first of all, where will Seven Seas Explorer be sailing? This year she will be in the Med until November, before returning next April and May, then spending June to September 2017 in Northern Europe (Russia, Scandinavia, UK, Ireland). This winter she will be in the Caribbean (10 to 20 nights including St. Barts, Belize, Honduras, Guatemala and some other interesting ports). In between, she will do trans-Atlantic repositioning cruises, which if you prefer being at sea over in port, are good choices. The ship itself is 735 ft. long and 102 ft. wide, and has 552 crew and 750 guests. It was built by the Fincantieri yards in Italy and weighs in at 54,000 gross tonnes and can make 23.5 knots. For comparison, if you sailed on Seabourn Odyssey, it goes 650 ft. by 84. ft., with 450 passengers and 335 crew. The Queen Mary 2 goes at 148,528 gross tonnes, is 1,132 ft. by 135 ft. and carries 2,695 passengers with 1,253 crew. In other words, in the luxury category there are some big differences. Compare Luxury Over 50 Cruise Ships Tully says Seven Seas Explorer’s layout has “a very nice flow,” meaning that there are plenty of small private spaces to find a comfortable chair and catch up on email or sort photos on your tablet. Outside, she says, there is no shortage of deck chairs for those of you who like the sun, and “you never feel crowded.” If you have concerns about staying in touch while on a cruise, Tully (above) says, “WiFi was excellent. Everyone was on WiFi and it was amazing. The bandwidth is exceptional.” The ship is mainly no-smoking, although there is a cigar lounge and Tully noted for smokers, there is an enclosed dome near the pool so they can conveniently grab a hit without impacting other guests. Regent offers free unlimited shore excursions. In this case, she said for some ports they work, but in others not so much. She says in about half of ports she will organize private tours for her customers so they can maximize the time they spend doing what they want as well as getting a more personalized experience as opposed to following a group. That said, it means on Regent you are subsidizing the tours for everyone else. Tully lauds the variety and quality of dining as “outstanding,” as well as the Canyon Ranch Spa and the interactive onboard cooking school (More details on all of these below). Luxury cruise lines very much want to attract the 30 to 50 year old customer, and to that end, she thinks Seven Seas Explorer is a good choice if you fit into that category by birth or mindset. “It’s like going from place to place in a Four Seasons (hotel).” There are extensive fitness facilities, a lap pool and even handball courts, so you can be as active as you are on land. The drawback Tully says is the ship is still working through service issues as the crew gets its rhythm.  “I would give it two or three months,” she told DGAE.  At the same time, she notes there are some of us who like to be first and understand it takes times to get the kinks  out. ACCOMMODATIONS The wide variety of cabin types (all are called suites, although the lower categories don’t have truly separate living and bedroom areas), means a number of interesting options, according to Tully. And while modern cruise ships have state-of-the-art stabilization, she says cabin choice is particularly important. Midship tends to be the smoothest ride. There are also very nice suites, not necessarily the most expensive, but top notch, and large enough so you will be comfortable in your cabin. Lastly, she says, while Deck 10 has some excellent suites, for customers who are noise sensitive, it is right below the pool deck, and you may hear footsteps as well as the crew moving chairs early in the morning. Regent Suite At 3,026 sq. ft. of interior space and $10,000 per night, the 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom Regent Suite is designed to be competitive with top hotel suites around the world, and by all reports it is. There are two Picasso lithographs personally picked by the company chairman. There is a $250,000 Steinway grand piano designed by Dakota Jackson, and a $90,000 Savoir No. 1 bed that reportedly cost $60,000 to install. You get a private car and driver in each port, something that could easily run over $1,000 per day, and you get unlimited Canyon Ranch treatments, including in your suite if you prefer. Tully says, there is a post treatment area in your suite, with specialized shower, and an ocean-view hot tub (see video in the Overview). There are also full bottles of top shelf liquor complimentary, and unlimited free laundry and dry cleaning, and of course as with all guests, all dining throughout the ship is included. The suite has a 1,417 sq. ft. wraparound balcony on Deck 14 at the front of the ship (three decks above the bridge), so when you come into port, you have the best views in the house. Adding it all together, I would rate the suite an excellent value when I compared it to the top suites at the top hotels in many of the ports you will be visiting. Tully says the suite is great for entertaining, as well as for those of you who want to enjoy the vacation in privacy. There are 10 additional suites on Deck 14, and Tully sees selling it as a nice area to “takeover” if you want to travel with friends and family in close proximately, in essence creating an entire deck dedicated to your group. As with the Master and Grand Suites (below), you are guaranteed a reservation at the restaurant of your choice each night. There are three walk-in closets and two personal safes. You can also have room service from any of the fine dining restaurants, and you have butler service, something included in the higher category suites. Master Suite There are four 2-bedroom Master Suites at the stern of Decks 8 and 9. Size of each ranges 1,064-1,114 sq. ft. and wraparound balcony size ranges from 831-994 sq. ft. There is a large living room, separate dining area for four and a bar with stools. Again, you can have room service from any restaurant during their service hours, in addition to the regular 24-hour menu. There are two full marble and stone detailed bathrooms. Tully says the Master and Grand (below) are good choices for those customers who want to be able to entertain, or would like their suite to be the gathering places for their group. The location in the stern also provides excellent views as you watch ports fade away in the wake of your vessel. Grand Suite There are four 1-BR, 2-full bathroom Grand Suites, two that split the front of Deck 12, below the Regent Suite, and two at the stern of Deck 7. There is a full living area, dining table that seats six and balcony that ranges 732-916 sq. ft (Deck  7 has the larger balconies). Interiors range from 854-920 sq. ft. Couples will appreciate the 2 full baths in a 1-BR suite Tully says, “So they can both get ready at the same time.” The same goes for the Explorer Suite (below). Explorer Suite There are four 1,013 sq. ft. Explorer suites, two on Deck 10 midship, which is where you may be impacted by noise on the pool deck above. The  two Tully recommends are at the front of Deck 9, each with a 336 sq. ft. balcony. “If I had a choice of any suite, I would pick the Explorer Suite,” Tully says. Seven Seas Suite SS1/SS2 The difference between 1-bedroom, 1.5. bath SS1 (below) and SS2 is the former have larger balconies. Interior space ranges from 577-655 sq. ft. Balconies range from 166-263 sq. ft. Of the six SS1s, two are on Deck 10 with four on Deck 9. For SS2, there are two each on Deck 10 and 9 midship. On Deck 8 and 7, Seven Seas Suites are at the front of the ship. Tully says, “They’re very comfortable. They have large verandas, so you can have two lounge chairs and a table. Penthouse Suite The 450 sq. ft. Penthouse Suites can be found on multiple decks with balconies ranging from 111-176 sq. ft.  This is the lowest category with butler service. The bedroom and living room area are divided by a wall that encompass large flat screen TVs on either side, but there is not a formal separation, so it is more akin to what traditionalists would call a junior suite. Concierge Suite This category ranges 415-464 sq. ft. and Tully calls them “good size,” and a choice for somebody who doesn’t spend much time in their cabin and thus doesn’t want to spend more for space they don’t need. This category is a good example of why to use a good travel agent. For example, Deck 6 from 608 to 617 are all the same price, but 614 and 617 have smaller verandas, Tully pointed out to me, something it might be hard to discern if you haven’t been aboard the ship. You can divide the bed and living area by a blackout curtain that pulls across the width of the room. Other Accommodations Superior Suites are 332 sq. ft. with an 83 sq. ft. balcony. Deluxe Veranda Suite/Veranda Suite categories are 219 sq. ft. with 88 sq. ft. balconies. The bedroom and living area is separated by a curtain in these suites. DINING Bloomberg reported that Seven Seas Explorer is paying top chefs more than the captain, as the line makes its play to live up to its luxury promise. One key is diversity of fine dining restaurants, says Tully. All of the restaurants are included in the price, and you can eat as many times as you want at each one, but only the Regent, Master and Grand suites guarantee your selection every night. Tully says they will source virtually anything you want off menu with 24 hours notice, and while it’s always smart to communicate dietary restrictions before you embark, there are special vegan menus available. Pacific Rim “Outstanding,” says Tully of the pan-Asian menu at Pacific Rim on Deck 5 that includes dishes like grilled Korean barbecue lamb chops, wok-fried beans, eryngii mushroom and gochujang dressing. Large windows provide ocean views as you dine. Chartreuse Chartreuse is “a classic French menu with a modern twist…chic Parisian fine dining” restaurant discovered during an evening stroll. Occupying the rear half of Deck 10 large windows provide high-level views. According to Regent, the kitchen uses “both classic and modern techniques for a multiple course celebration of French gastronomy.” Prime 7 Prime 7 is on the opposite side of the stern across from Chartreuse so has similar nice views, and “is probably the best crab legs and Bone-in  Ribeye I have ever had,” says Tully. Cruise Critic calls it “one of the best chop houses at sea.” Décor features glass, metal and granite, creating a feel “you have arrived at an iconic members-only club.” There is an attractive bar for a pre-dinner drink before being taken to your personal banquette. Compass Rose Compass Rose is the flagship restaurant of the company. It is what one might call the main dining room, and is outfitted with rich woods contrasted by light marble stones and mother of pearl with an elegant color theme of light shades of blue, white, gold and silver, and a notable oversize chandelier. There is ice blue lighting in the evening to help set the tone for a romantic dinner. The menu is Continental, and breakfast is served here, as well as a special Canyon Ranch low-calorie/low-fat menu. The editor of Cruise Critic traveling on the inaugural recommends the ravioli stuffed with fontina cheese and osso bucco. La Veranda Serving breakfast and lunch, La Veranda is “casual” and offers regional specialties that often reflect the cuisines of the countries called on, such as Grilled Lamb Chops with Spanish Sherry Sauce or pan-sautéed Mediterranean Sea Bass. Dishes are presented in a buffet style that displays the diversity of the menu. La Veranda also features pizza and a shaded, open-air veranda for dining al fresco. Sette Mari At La Veranda Inspired by the views of the Italian Riviera, the ambiance is Med glamour. Deep blues and whites, contrasted with terrazzo floors and teak wood accents, adorn the interior spaces and there is an al fresco dining area. In the evenings, La Veranda transforms into Sette Mari at La Veranda, where tables are candlelit. The menu features a variety of antipasto, homemade pastas, and main courses and desserts from various areas of Italy. The Cafe Located on Deck 5 mid-ship, The Café is for barista prepared coffee drinks, pastries, gourmet sandwiches and homemade cookies. Pool Grill Adjacent to the swimming pool on Deck 11, the Pool Grill offers all-day casual dining, and the menu rotates to reflect local ports. It also includes an ice cream stand and favorites such as chicken wings and a Cuban sandwich. ENTERTAINMENT Tully says entertainment aboard is more than suitable, with the cliché Broadway style shows catering to traditional luxury passengers. Beyond that is a variety of live entertainment, such as a Spanish guitarist and other musical performers in various lounges. Located on Deck 5 mid-ship, the Meridian Lounge is a gathering point before and after for those attending performances in the Constellation Theater. “The casino (on Deck 4) is a little small but it works,” says Tully. She likes the Connoisseur Club forward on Deck 11 as a place for a cigar with its leather armchairs and a club-like atmosphere. She also likes the numerous small and private spaces such as the library, which she says is a great place to catch up on iPad activities or do emails. The Observatory Lounge, forward on Deck 11, Tully says is “great for sailing in.” It features music, afternoon tea, as well as a good venue for pre-and after-dinner drinks. ACTIVITIES Of course a large part of cruising is exploring the ports you visit, however, Seven Seas Explorer is trying to add to the depth of programming aboard the ship. The Culinary Arts Kitchen is getting lots of early praise, with its open teaching kitchen and floor to ceiling sea view windows providing an inspirational venue. Tully says, “The cooking school is unbelievable. It’s like you’re part of a TV show. My husband thought it was fantastic.” The culinary workstations are equipped with top-of-the-line induction cooktops, stainless steel sinks and a comprehensive collection of cooking essentials. Guests attending classes receive individualized hands on instruction. The curriculum is designed for a wide range of tastes and cater to all levels of aptitude, from beginner to experienced chef instructors. Classes vary by voyage, and include Everything French, Majestic Mediterranean, The Beautiful Bird, Gone Fishing, Cooking With Fire, At Home Italian, Who Wants Dessert, Teatime at the Abbey, Modern Classics, Viva Fiesta, and Healthy Kitchen, utilizing Canyon Ranch techniques. There is also a class to teach you to prepare appetizers from around the world, and more. Canyon Ranch Spaclub/Fitness Tully says the two-level Canyon Ranch Spaclub is the best she has seen at sea, and is comparable to visiting a top land-based spa. “I was blown away. I felt like I was at Canyon Ranch. It’s the best spa I’ve ever seen on any ship,” she says. There are eight treatment rooms, including one for couples. An extensive menu includes Ayurveda, Shirodhara, Reiki, Reflexology, Shiatsu, Thai Massage, plus a half-dozen wraps (Seaweed, Detox), and a South Atlantic Coffee Scrub. Except for the Regent Suite, treatments are not included and run between $90 and $350, about the same as you would find at 5-star land resorts. There is also an infinity pool and massive gym area. Cruise Critic says the variety of machines, including free weights is pretty close to what you would expect from any top end city gym. There is an array of classes, including yoga, aerobics and Pilates. You can also arrange personal trainers, take a class on shedding pounds and even get a Gait Analysis. Tully likes the four-chair hair salon, which offers full and partial highlights as well as tints. I counted six different options for manicures and seven for pedicures, including one for athletes. On Deck 12 is a dedicated sports area featuring a deck shuffleboard, putting greens, golf nets, bocce court and paddle tennis. Business Center While there is WiFi throughout the ship, there is also a full-service business center in case you didn’t bring your laptop or need support services, including printing. There are ship services 24 hours a day much like a hotel front desk. NOTES Cruise Critic notes there is no swimwear allowed indoors, so bring cover-ups. Dress is generally relaxed, upscale and casual. Jeans, t-shirts, baseball caps, shorts and sneakers are out for the public areas after 6 pm. There are optional formal nights, but for the most part, you will see men with at least a blazer for the evenings, and you won’t be out of place if you want to wear a suit, but ties are not necessary. And Tully points out, the size of many suites make private dining on your veranda an attractive option. PRICING While the Regent Suite is $10,000 per night, depending on the sailing, lead-in pricing is under $2,000 per night for two people in a cabin, and the higher end suites range from $3,000 to $5,000 per night. Tully can help you get the most value for your dollar, and is in the know about special pricing. I’m always amazed at how she knows about the best cabins in each category, and the ones to stay away from, which as I have said, can make all the difference. – The Tully Team

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Aboard the Regent Seven Seas Explorer, ‘the most luxurious cruise ship ever built’

Sarah Pollok

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You’ve got to admit, it takes a fair amount of confidence to market your product as the most luxurious, ever.

At the minimum, you’re basically asking your customers to have sky-high expectations, with the belief you can match, if not exceed them.

Well, that’s exactly what the Regent Seven Seas Cruises did. In fact, after launching the ‘Seven Seas Explorer’ ship in 2015, the cruise line went ahead and trademarked the line “The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built™”.

Not “A Really Luxurious Ship” or “One of the Most Luxurious Ships”. Oh no, the most luxurious ship ever built.

So, when we heard this uber-luxe vessel was arriving at Auckland on its inaugural voyage to New Zealand, we were more than a little curious to check out the “unrivalled luxuries” it promised passengers.

We’re shown around by Steve Odell, who, as of a week ago, is the ex-managing director Asia Pacific, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. After seven years at the helm, Odell is cruising into early retirement, literally; departing Auckland on the ship as a passenger.

After stepping aboard, we pass tables of champagne set up in front of a four-metre-tall crystal chandelier dangling over a spiral staircase. So far, so luxurious but it’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Everywhere you look there are nods to opulence; 473 Swedish-designed chandeliers and 4,262 square metres of marble, Versace-designed dinnerware and crystal glasses from Eastern Europe. Some lavish touches are more subtle than others, like certain pieces of the ships $11 million collection of art.

“You’ll see some Picasso and some Chigalls around,” Odell said casually as we walked from the two-storey theatre to the Serene Spa and Wellness™ centre.

Our first stop is to check out the rooms, or more accurately, the suites. That’s right, like Regent’s last two new ships, all 366 rooms are suites.

The smallest cost $600pp, per night, and sleep two people. While at the top end of the spectrum, the one Regent suite takes up a staggering 281 square metres, almost double the size of the average house in Aotearoa. Inside, guests can enjoy an in-suite spa and two massive bedrooms, a mini pool and a lounge featuring a Steinway piano.

Luxury of this tier obviously doesn’t come cheap. The room costs US$11,000 (NZ$17,200) per night, making a 14-day journey like the one from Auckland to Sydney around $240,800. Although, perhaps the pricetag is softened by the fact that, like all rooms on board and unlike most ships, it’s genuinely all-inclusive.

From meals to unlimited drinks (including spirits and fine wine), cooking classes and shore excursions, after paying for your room, guests don’t have to pull out their wallet for a thing if they don’t wish to. In-suite liquor and mini-bar are replenished daily, valet laundry service is covered and even gratuities are prepaid.

Regent suite guests do get some additional perks, like an on-call butler, private guide and car at all ports, a pre-cruise hotel and transfer and guaranteed spots at all onboard restaurants. Plus, a private secret dining room is hidden behind a sliding door in one of the restaurants.

All other onboard amenities are available for everyone to use and cover almost every leisure activity one could want. There’s the infinity pool and the golf putting green, a fully stocked library and hair salon, culinary arts kitchen (where chefs are brought on board to teach classes), puzzle tables and fully operating casino.

Aside from the lavish décor and countless activities, the other thing that hits you is the sense of space, and for good reason. The ship boasts one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the world, Odell tells us as we pass through massive atriums, a giant two-floor theatre and the largest restaurant at sea, Compass Rose. If it wasn’t for the ocean views around us, it would be impossible to tell you were floating at sea.

The world of private butlers and crystal chandeliers may be out of reach for most Kiwi travellers, but if you were in search of the most luxurious cruise ship in the world, well, it’s hard to imagine anything better than this.

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The Best New Cruises in the World: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech , or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises Arrow

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent ’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that make a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From $710 per person for a seven-night sailing. —Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara — Emerald Cruises Arrow

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August, the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles. Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia , has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From $3,850. —David Dickstein

Explora I — Explora Journeys Arrow

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where aging meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs—such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic—curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From $698 per person per night. —Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International Arrow

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map—forgetting your sunscreen, for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the specialty seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crew members dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From $2,249. —Charlie Hobbs

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

MSC Euribia — MSC Cruises Arrow

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the European cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details—this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. From $519. —Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva — Norwegian Cruise Line Arrow

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima . There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over the top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From $979. —Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista — Oceania Cruises Arrow

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilizers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience— Vista ’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley, and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul, Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025 From $2,699. —Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II — Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Arrow

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse . Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs—and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveler. From $7,455. —Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit — Seabourn Cruise Line Arrow

Pursuit is a small “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear—or damp Arctic expedition gear—in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From $10,799. —Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises Arrow

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travelers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving specialty pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur 's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jeweled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From $4,699 . —Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova — Silversea Cruises Arrow

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool, the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova ’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova ’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate—as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture, and place, before even disembarking. From $3,050. —Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton — Viking River Cruises Arrow

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio–designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration—just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travelers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real time, to shepherding travelers through modern night markets with endless fervor. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen—and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travelers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until, that is, your next Aton sailing). From $5,999. —Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady — Virgin Voyages Arrow

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai. Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship—20-plus to be exact—and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From $2,000 . —Rachel Dube

World Voyager — Atlas Ocean Voyages Arrow

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by. Back in your cozy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant—think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favorite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From $1849. —Celeste Moure

'Most luxurious ship ever' begins cruises from Miami

The new face of luxury at sea is now sailing out of Miami. 

Regent Seven Seas' four-month-old Seven Seas Explorer , which is being billed as the world's most luxurious cruise ship, kicked off a series of winter cruises out of the port town over the weekend, marking its North American debut.

Costing more than $450 million, the 750-passenger ship is the most expensive luxury vessel ever built and boasts one of the highest ratios of space to passengers in the history of cruising.

Built at a shipyard in Italy, Explorer features some of the largest, most elaborate accommodations at sea, including a two-bedroom complex overlooking the bow of the ship that measures 4,443 square feet. That's more than 50% larger than the average house in the USA.

Monaco's Princess Charlene names 'most luxurious cruise ship ever'

Explorer also has a wide range of upscale eateries including new-for-the-line contemporary French and Asian restaurants, and a newly designed version of Regent's signature steakhouse, Prime 7. A stylish spa operated by Arizona's Canyon Ranch; a two-tiered, 694-seat theater; and an opulent observation lounge that evokes the 1920s are other notable features.

Explorer is Regent's first new ship in more than a decade. Christened in July in Monaco , it initially sailed in the Mediterranean before re-positioning to North America with a trans-Atlantic crossing. It'll now operate a series of Caribbean voyages as well as trips through the Panama Canal. 

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Step Inside The World’s Most Luxurious Cruise Ships

Posted: February 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

When it comes to cruising, it's definitely more about the journey than the destination – and today's cruise ships focus more and more on the passenger experience. Designs and aesthetics are constantly improving and being elevated with spaces curated by top interior designers, high-end suites that rival those in 5-star hotels, and even extensive art collections on board. We take a look at the world's most beautiful cruise ships that bring a little extra sparkle, inside and out.

MS Rotterdam, Holland America Line

The 2,668-guest MS Rotterdam is the third in the Pinnacle Class series for Holland America Line. At 984 feet (300m) in length, the craftmanship used to create the classic nautical lines of the ship’s exterior reflects almost 150 years of expertise within the company. Her interiors dazzle too, with fluid lines, vibrant colors and airy, light-filled spaces from the shared areas to the staterooms and suites.

Music is the ship's main inspiration, on show everywhere from the atrium’s dramatic harp-like sculpture to the impressive World Stage, where musicians play against a wraparound LED screen. Thoughtfully curated art is displayed throughout the decks and staterooms too, from museum-quality antiques and works by the masters to avant-garde sculptures and thought-provoking photography by emerging artists. Together, they make up a floating gallery of 2,645 pieces of work ranging in value from around $500-$620,000.

Silver Moon, Silversea

Silversea's  Silver Moon maintains the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodation that the cruise line has become known for – yet takes it to a whole new level. The ship's high-end suites have been enriched with elegant decor, premium amenities and luxurious details such as handcrafted beds by Savoir. Bespoke crystal panels by luxury French brand Lalique have been incorporated into the brand's signature restaurant, La Dame.

The innovative new culinary enrichment programme Sea and Land Taste (SALT) is designed to immerse guests in culinary experiences, from classes and market trips to extra-special meals. Dining spaces are filled with unique objects and arts and crafts pieces that draw on influences from all over the world, while color palettes throughout are used to enhance the dining experience. Lighter tones brighten the demo area, the main restaurant has rich details and accents, while the bar has a darker, more mysterious feel.

Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Cruises

Scenic Eclipse  promises to deliver an ultra-luxury cruise experience for up to 228 guests. Her indulgent suites are flooded with natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, which open onto a private veranda or terrace. All 114 suites are furnished with king-size beds, ambient lighting and lounge areas. The Owner’s Penthouse Suites are even more incredible, each with its own spacious curved terrace, private spa pool and sun loungers, plus a private lounge and dining area.

The shared spaces are pretty decadent too. There's the 550-square-foot (51sqm) Senses Spa, emblazoned with gold leaf, and multiple pool areas. The stylish Whisky Bar has a floor-to-ceiling translucent quartz display case with 110 varieties of the spirit, while a sculpture of a gown – consisting of 5,400 spoons – marks the entrance to French Champagne bar Lumière.

Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line’s imagineers have once again created a world of enchantment, this time aboard the Disney Wish . The ship welcomed her first guests in summer 2022 and has a distinctly Disney design concept inspired by timeless tales. The motif of 'enchantment' manifests throughout the ship, from the magical forest setting of the Walt Disney Theatre and storybook-inspired staterooms to the fairy-tale-castle Grand Hall, where a dazzling wishing star descends from the shimmering chandelier above.

The Wish Tower Suite, set high in the forward funnel of the ship (which displays the cruise line’s Micky Mouse logo), is a 1,966-square-foot (183sqm) penthouse in the sky and the most unique Disney Cruise Line accommodation yet. Another of the ship's magical features is Disney’s first Frozen -themed theatrical dining experience, which brings the world of Arendelle to life through immersive live entertainment and world-class cuisine infused with Nordic influences.

Regatta, Oceania Cruises

Regatta is the flagship vessel of Oceania Cruises' fleet and a shining example of the OceaniaNEXT rebuild of the brand’s four 684-guest Regatta Class ships. Her 342 lavish suites and staterooms showcase designer furnishings, while the reimagined public spaces feature Tuscan marble, a revamped color palette of soft sea and sky tones, works of art and a tasteful renewal of fabrics, furnishings and light fixtures.

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Regatta has four restaurants including the iconic Grand Dining Room, which has been decked out with new bejeweled chandeliers. Other beautifully refreshed spaces include Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, eight lounges and bars and a casino. Her decks are made from the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms have luxurious Neoclassical furnishings.

Royal Clipper, Star Clippers

Royal Clipper is one of Star Clippers’ three tall ships and officially the largest square rigger in service. The elegant vessel cuts through the water gracefully, just like the legendary clippers from a bygone era. The five-masted, fully rigged tall ship, which has 42 sails, is beautiful to look at. Her Clipper heritage is reflected in polished brass and gleaming brightwork, expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, a convivial tropical bar and a comfortable piano bar.

The balance of maritime nostalgia and modern cruising is spot-on. Passengers can recline in the bowsprit net suspended above the sea or climb the mast to the Crow's Nest for stunning panoramic views as they sail. The 18,944 square feet (1,760sqm) of open deck and three swimming pools create an expansive outdoor environment. Another notable feature is the Captain Nemo Lounge, the ship's spa and health club, with underwater glass portholes.

Seabourn Encore, Seabourn

Seabourn Encore is the newest striking ship in the cruise line's ultra-luxury fleet. Modeled on the trio of ships introduced with Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Encore represents another stage in the evolution of small ship cruising. There are 300 suites in total, including 16 penthouse suites and five penthouse spa suites, all with verandas facing the ocean.

Seabourn Square, designed to be an innovative concierge lounge, invites guests to access every shipboard service in a relaxed, living-room atmosphere. The Square's thoughtful layout includes a library, upscale shops, an outdoor terrace and a coffee bar, all arranged across a light-filled space with dark-wood accents, a subtle color palette and striking blue velvet armchairs.

Le Ponant, Ponant

Le Ponant  is the flagship vessel of French cruise company Ponant. The three-mast cruise yacht, which relaunched in summer 2022, has undergone a complete refit and refurbishment. Designed by French studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, her common areas have refined, clean lines with an elegant finish. The color palette – consisting of off-white, taupe and caviar gray – reflect the classic, sophisticated style, with no need for embellishments or bling.

The accommodation is equally streamlined and elevated, with the number of staterooms and suites halved to just 16, housing a maximum of 32 guests. These are spread over three decks, each benefiting from large windows, and include a particularly lovely and spacious Owner Suite. The company has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant, giving guests the sense of being on their own private yacht.

MSC Virtuosa, MSC Cruises

MSC Virtuosa was named in homage to the skill and expertise of the architects and shipyard partners who designed and built it. The ship carries all the signature features of an MSC Cruises’ ship. At its heart are glamorous, gleaming mirrored surfaces in the atrium, centered around a sparkly Swarovski-studded staircase linking all three decks of the ship.

The beautifully designed indoor promenade has the longest LED dome at sea and images on the high ceiling can change from an underwater adventure to a space exploration scene. The ship has 21 bars and lounges all with their own style and unique decor, from the futuristic white and blue of the Starship club featuring Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, to the earthy colors of traditional pub Masters of the Sea.

Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Apex is part of Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series. The ship showcases the talents of British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE, American designer Nate Berkus, Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku and British architect Tom Wright. Hoppen’s inspiration for the accommodation was to create an outward-facing design emphasizing the outdoor scenery. Each of the ship's two Iconic Suites, positioned high above the bridge, have more than 2,500 square feet (232sqm) of opulent indoor and outdoor space, complete with private terrace and hot tub.

The Grand Plaza is one of the ship's most interesting spaces, inspired by the piazzas of Italy. Its chandelier transforms the atmosphere from day to night, with the lighting changing from warm and inviting to bright and dramatic. Other beautifully imagined areas are the Rooftop Garden and the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered, floating platform set 13 floors above sea level.

Queen Mary 2, Cunard

Cunard’s flagship  Queen Mary 2 exudes classic style and elegance. Designed by a team of British naval architects, the traditional ocean liner has a long, sleek bow that makes her ideal for transatlantic crossings. Its black hull, red stripe, distinctive red-and-black funnel crown and bright white decks evoke the appearance of ocean liners of a bygone era.

The lavish accommodation includes beautiful duplex suites, each with a spiral staircase, walk-in closet, marble bath and private balcony. A daily afternoon tea is served by white-gloved waiters in the Queens Room restaurant, while Godiva at Sir Samuel’s has a decadent display of pralines and truffles. Elsewhere, the planetarium 3D cinema sends guests on an epic voyage across the solar system.

Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Seas

An art collection worth around $5 million is displayed throughout the  Seven Seas Splendor . The impressive floating gallery includes more than 500 crystal chandeliers and more than an acre of Italian marble which fits in well with the ship's sophisticated style. Other standout aspects are the mythical dragon that greets diners at Pacific Rim restaurant and the alcoves that jut over the ocean at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Each of the beautifully appointed suites has a private balcony, while the palatial Regent Suite – perched on the 14th deck – has a wraparound veranda over the ship’s bow. Its custom-made Treesse mini-pool spa is situated on the front balcony, while the king-sized Vividus bed was handcrafted by upscale Swedish brand, Hästens.

Viking Octantis, Viking Cruises

The new Polar Class  Viking Octantis  is imagined by the same interior designers, nautical architects and engineers who designed the cruise line’s longships and ocean ships. An integrated bow creates a longer waterline for the ship, featuring the company’s signature Scandinavian influence. Each stateroom has a Nordic-style balcony and a sunroom, while floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass allows guests to take in the views and keep the elements out. The top of the panoramic glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout.

The stunning Explorers’ Lounge, pictured, has two decks at the bow of the ship with double-height windows to take in the scenery. Other cleverly laid-out areas include the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area just above sea level with has recessed couches and lava rock fire pits, and the Aquavit Terrace and pools, set under a retractable glass dome. The design of the spa and fitness center is in keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, featuring a thermal suite with traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub).

Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises’ first-ever luxury superyacht, Emerald Azzurra , launched in March 2022. She stretches to 361 feet (110m) in length and carries just 100 guests across 50 deluxe suites and staterooms. The yacht's sleek design enables her to venture to ports and harbors many other, bigger cruise ships are unable to access. Onboard, the infinity-edge pool offers incredible views of passing scenery.

There are six suite and stateroom categories on the Emerald Azzurra, each wonderfully luxurious (though some a little more so). The oversized Owner’s Suites are the most opulent, with separate bedroom and lounge areas. Best of all, guests can soak up the sun from the large private curved terrace with uninterrupted views. Designer wing chairs and footstools are a fixture in the Observation Lounge, and can be taken outside on clear days and for cinema evenings.

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