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Regent Seven Seas Splendor: Inside the most expensive luxury cruise ship ever

most exclusive cruise ship

Whether you want to dress up or down, high levels of personal service come as standard on these ships and intuitive crew members will greet you by name and mix your favourite drink without asking. And they serve some incredible destinations, including as part of an expedition. Ponant has a fleet of 13 luxury cruise ships with destinations dotting the globe. The award-winning French cruise line is beloved for its tailor-made voyages, in which guests have access to myriad bespoke experiences both on and off board, from in-room dining to once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions. When this luxury cruise line says it's all-inclusive, it's not overstating. Everything from shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and laundry to gratuities, top-shelf liquor, and business-class international flights are included with Regent Seven Seas Cruises' fares.

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Prepare to tuck into full-board luxury dining and stretch out on its spacious sun decks. The six-fleet cruise line is also known for its gorgeous interiors, complete with modern aesthetics, Art Deco embellishments, stunning chandeliers, and more. When traveling with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can traverse the seven seas, with destinations in Africa and Arabia, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean and more. And if you don’t want to pick a single destination, there’s always the option to book a grand voyage or world cruise, which can last up to 168 days and cost upwards of $100,000.

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This promenade leads directly into Seven Seas Splendor's main restaurant, Compass Rose. The new drinks menu also includes a lineup of fancy gin drinks that incorporate new-for-Regent Fever-Tree premium tonics and all sorts of spices, herbs and fruits. With the debut of Seven Seas Splendor, Regent is diving head first into the trend toward ever-quirkier craft drinks. The ship is home to 19 new signature cocktails made with fresh fruits, natural spices and garden-grown herbs, and served with all sorts of garnishes in picked-specifically-for-the-drink glasses.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

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As being affordable to many customers compared to yachts, cruise ships play a big role in meeting the demands of the multi-billion dollar ocean tourism industry. Alex is Director of Sales & Marketing at Mundy Cruising, having worked with the company for 10 years and in travel for over 18 years. Most recently he's cruised on Regent Seven Seas and has also sailed with Seabourn, Crystal, SeaDream, Tauck and Ponant. His favourite destination is South America however he's also enjoyed cruises in the Western Mediterranean, Middle East, East Africa & Indian Ocean, India, Myanmar, South East Asia and Antarctica.

Seabourn Venture, Seabourn

Head to the Blue Eye Lounge to spy passing marine life through two giant windows in the ship’s hull as well as on digital screens projecting live images from underwater cameras. Fares also include business-class international flights to and from the ship from the U.S. and Canada, unlimited shore excursions in ports, unlimited internet access, gratuities for crew and ground transfers. Keep in mind that such starting prices are for the smaller suites on the ship.

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At the same time, you’ll find the Mareel Wellness & Beauty spa, a choice of restaurants and a traditional British pub, the Golden Lion. You can also tuck into dinner in Steakhouse at the Verandah, a swanky New York-style grill. Pay a visit to the gorgeous library, too, spanning two decks and housing more than 8,000 books.

most exclusive cruise ship

First look: Inside the most expensive luxury cruise ship ever, Regent's Seven Seas Splendor

Northern hemisphere winters are spent in the southern hemisphere exploring Antarctica and South America, while the Arctic is among the destinations on the calling card for the summer season. On board, there are just 132 all veranda, all ocean-front suites — but this is really about getting off the ship. To that end, the ship carries two custom-built submarines, 24 Zodiacs, and a fleet of double sea kayaks for all those excursions that are included in your sailing. Best for spa loversInspired by the graceful lines and rich tones of a luxurious private yacht, the 600-passenger Seabourn Ovation is one of Seabourn’s slickest ships. A wide range of dining venues, including the Grill by Thomas Keller, offers impressive culinary choices as the ship explores Asia, Australia and New Zealand and the eastern Mediterranean.

Most luxurious décor: Seven Seas Explorer & Seven Seas

On the topdeck you'll find The Retreat, where 15 private cabanas, each withflat screen TVs and a refrigerator stocked with a personalisedselection of beverages, surround a central whirlpool. This intimate 100-guest ship is supremely comfortable, with allbalcony accommodation, plenty of deck space, two restaurants,outdoor whirlpool, observation lounge with a well-stocked libraryand a fitness centre with panoramic views. As well as the extensiveshore programme and onboard lectures there's the chance to learnmore about the archipelago's flora and fauna at the Basecamp, withits amazing interactive wall.

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Even if everyone has a different definition of luxury, it is undeniable that some of these cruise ships are the epitome of it. Oceania's fares are not as inclusive as some of the small-ship lines mentioned above, but guests can choose a higher-priced fare that is more inclusive with the line's "simply MORE" promotion. These fares include free airfare and airport transfers, complimentary Wi-Fi and a choice of a select number of free excursions, as well as free specialty dining reservations, Champagne and wine. For small ships, Scenic's yachts still manage to offer five gourmet dining venues, plus additional private dining options (such as a chef's table or teppanyaki grill), room service and culinary masterclasses in a show kitchen.

It’s also worth mentioning that the luxury cruise line took it to the next level with its spa, Aurora Spa. Crystal is renowned for its personalized voyages all over the world, not to mention its palatial suites that will leave you picking your jaw up off the floor. In addition to well-appointed design, the cruise line offers an impressive dining experience, with authentic cuisines from all over the world. So whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Peruvian, or Japanese food, you’ll have ample options to choose from.

The 750-guest Seven Seas Explorer, which launched in 2015,and sister ship Seven Seas Splendor, which followed in 2020,both offer the perfect balance of space and intimacy. Although most of the ship's public areas seemed like they would be the correct size in proportion to the size of the vessel, I found that a couple had insufficient space. What I experienced was an abridged version that lasted only an hour, during which time we made spaghetti in lemon sauce, followed by crepes with blueberries and ice cream. Normally, the classes — which start at $89 per person — last about two hours and feature several dishes. The Prime 7 steakhouse and French restaurant Chartreuse are located across from one another on Deck 10.

The locations of the craft cocktail-serving Meridian Lounge and The Coffee Connection cafe have been flipped. The Meridian Lounge is now on the starboard side of the vessel (to the right, if you're facing the front of the ship). The Compass Rose restaurant, and the adjacent Splendor Lounge and Casino, are where passengers coming down this stairway will likely be going. In the name of research, I tried a number of the new concoctions, including the Bonne Soiree -- a mix of Woodford Reserve bourbon, Chambord and citrus bitters that was slung my way in a coupe glass. Outposts of the Asian eatery Pacific Rim and French restaurant Chartreuse (found on some but not all Regent vessels) also are on Seven Seas Splendor. Still, at all levels, the suites on Seven Seas Splendor are among the most enticing in cruising.

Encore is set to sail in April 2023 on a 14-day Aegean Allure and Turkish Treasures cruise, with prices starting at $7,859 for a Veranda Suite and reaching $16,183 for the Owner’s Suite. For the best in-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship, Kelly Cochrane, executive chef of Regent Seven Seas Cruises tells T+L. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. On board, guests enjoy five-star French and Polynesian cuisine, with all beverages complimentary throughout the ship and in your in-room minifridge.

9 of the world's most luxurious cruise ships

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The atrium area sparkles with a sweeping staircase, marble floors and an overhead chandelier designed to resemble a tangle of diamond tennis bracelets. 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.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

One of the most expensive ships of Norwegian cruise lines, the Norwegian Epic, cost 1.2 billion U.S. dollars to build because of its unique design and size. Seabourn currently operate the most modern fleet of all theclassic ultra-luxury cruise lines, and we particularly loveSeabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation. The ship's high-tech features go well beyond the propulsionsystem, and there is even a scientific research laboratory onboard. When Scenic revealed the specifications of Scenic Eclipse, their first discovery yacht,they ruffled a few cruise industry feathers. Many wondered how aship of just 200 guests could offer so many dining choices (10experiences across 7 venues), along with a spa, lounge, theatre,plus a submarine and two helicopters. All of that said, the singers and dancers were phenomenal, and it's clear Regent sunk a lot of time, money and creativity into the costumes and sets.

There's a new (and hipper) drinks menu

The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens." Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum-class cruise ships are reportedly the third-largest class of cruise ships behind their owners’ Oasis-class and MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia class ships by gross tonnage. As a result, the industry attracts billions in investment annually, resulting in the entry of luxurious and expensive cruise ships into operation. However, at sea, the experiences the luxurious cruise ships and yachts can offer transcend the outnumbered choices on land. Other spaces on board include the exclusive Vintage Roomfor private dining, plenty of outdoor deck space with comfortableloungers, an indoor swimming pool in the spa and, on RiversideMozart, barbecues on the upper deck alongside a pop-up bar.

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Enjoy blissful days lounging on deck, round the pool — waiters remember your name and your favourite drink from day one, while thoughtful attendants will even polish your sunglasses. If you've ever dreamed of having your own butler, Silversea is the luxury cruise line for you. In fact, Silversea's butlers take white-glove service to a whole new level — they'll handle your laundry with more care than you do, scour port towns to find your favorite tastes of home, and even help you pack and unpack your suitcase. Further, Silversea's new culinary program, nicknamed S.A.L.T. (for Sea and Land Taste), brings the taste of destinations on board through cooking classes. Of course, there's no need to cook for yourself aboard a Silversea ship, as each one features several restaurants with multi-course menus to whet your appetite every night.

Speaking of fancy, the most luxurious cruise that Silversea offers is its 125-Day Chile to Norway sail, which rings up at $94,700. No matter which type of suite you book, you can expect butler service, optional 24/7 in-suite dining, endless access to premium beverages and craft cocktails, and complimentary caviar around the clock. Silversea is the “jewel in the crown” of the Royal Caribbean Group, not to mention the original luxury cruise line, first entering the space in 1994. The company touts 12 all-inclusive ships with destinations all over the world.

Yes, the fare in Seven Seas Grandeur's main dining room and alternative restaurants is also fantastic, but you would expect those meals to be standouts. Yet it's clear that the ship's culinary team puts effort into every meal on board, even the most casual. It truly is one of the loveliest, most luxurious ships at sea -- full stop. That's not quite the one-to-one ratio that is the Holy Grail of luxury cruising.

The Restaurants are elegant and familiar

While each luxurious suite features ocean views, nothing beats the view from the epic 4,000-square-foot, two-bedroom Regent Suite, which has two wraparound balconies, three walk-in closets, two Picasso lithographs, and a grand piano. The Allure of the Seas is one of the two most expensive cruise ships in operation around the world. The second ship in the Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis-class cruise ships, Allure of the Seas, was the world’s largest passenger ship when it launched in November 2009. Best for exploringSeabourn’s original expedition vessel launched in July 2022, Seabourn Venture combines all the luxury touches you’d expect from this cruise stalwart with itineraries in far flung corners of the world.

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Its design is exceptional, exuding an upscale air that's unrivaled on any other vessel I've sailed. Additionally, a carefully curated art collection of 1,600 pieces is spread throughout the ship, complete with a virtual tour that's offered via the Regent mobile app. The collection is anchored by a custom-designed Faberge egg that's displayed in a case at the center of the guest services area.

Oceania Cruises

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Throughout the ship, complimentary spirits, fine wines and house Champagne flow freely. If you don't get that point at first, look down at the many yards of Carrara marble under your feet, then gaze up at the Czech crystal chandeliers. Or spot the Picassos and Chagalls among your ship's stunning, mostly Latin-focused art collections. Although the onboard dress code is casual, the ships are anything but, featuring elegant, retro-chic decor and marble floors. Exquisite cuisine is prepared a la minute and accompanied by pours of fine wines.

Another Oasis-class cruise ship of Royal Caribbean International, Harmony of the Seas, is another expensive luxury passenger vessel currently in service. The features aboard this luxury cruise ship include 22 restaurants, 24 pools, a children’s water park, an ice-skating rink, a full-size basketball court, two 43-foot rock-climbing walls, etc. If you want to get the most bang for your buck when booking a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a prime pick. The all-inclusive cruise line crafts a new definition of the category with complimentary roundtrip airfare, free unlimited shore excursions, include 2- to 3-night land programs, on-the-house bar and lounge experiences, and more. While classic cruise lines have a capacity in the thousands, often edging upward of 4,000, the Ritz-Carlton superyachts offer a more curated experience to 500 passengers or less. From the outside, the yachts are sleek and serene, fitting in beautifully with the sea.

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However, the end result just didn't stack up when compared with entertainment on bigger cruise ships. Libraries are being phased out on most mainstream cruise ships, but I was pleased to learn that there's one on Deck 11 of Seven Seas Grandeur. It's a dark, cozy space with wall-to-wall books, tables for perusing coffee-table titles, comfy seating and even a couple of alcoves for people who need to focus. Best for boutique hotel vibes All polished teak, ceiling fans and elegant décor, the 68-passenger Mekong Navigator is a beautifully designed river cruiser. Luxurious touches like marble-lined bathrooms, a spa and a convivial lounge make this a comfortable way to experience the Mekong, a bucket-list journey for many.

Seabourn Square is a clever touch; a combined concierge lounge, library and convivial gathering place, serving all-day snacks and the best coffee at sea. Service is excellent — even the most junior crew members will go out of their way to help with queries. Seabourn’s ships have a sophisticated, grown-up vibe and there’s not much entertainment for little ones. Celebrity Beyond, which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board.

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