Beyond the Bucket List: A Regent Seven Seas Cruises® Arctic Review

There are places on this earth that defy description, landscapes so vast and primordial they seem to hum with an ancient energy. The Arctic Circle is one such place. It’s a realm of crushing ice and ethereal light, of profound silence broken only by the crack of a calving glacier or the call of a seabird. For many, it’s the ultimate travel dream—a true final frontier. But how does one touch this untamed wilderness without sacrificing the very comfort and elegance that makes a journey truly restorative?

The answer, I discovered, lies with Regent Seven Seas Cruises®. This is not merely a trip; it is a masterfully orchestrated expedition into the sublime, wrapped in a blanket of unrivaled, all-inclusive luxury. Forget the rugged, spartan vessels of polar lore. Imagine witnessing a ten-thousand-year-old iceberg drift past your private balcony, a flute of champagne in hand, knowing that every detail of your journey has been meticulously perfected. This is Arctic exploration, redefined.

In this comprehensive review, we will journey beyond the brochure, exploring the soul of a Regent Arctic sailing. We’ll delve into the itinerary’s magic, the onboard sanctuary, and the moments that transform a simple vacation into a life-altering memory. If you're ready to explore pricing and availability for your own polar saga, the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page is your fastest route to discovery.

The Regent Difference: Redefining Arctic Exploration

Before we cast off, it’s crucial to understand what sets Regent apart in the world of luxury cruising, especially in a destination as demanding as the Arctic. It’s a philosophy built on a simple, yet profound, promise: absolute freedom. Freedom from planning, from worry, from ever reaching for your wallet. It’s a state of being that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the majesty surrounding you.

Unrivaled, All-Inclusive Luxury

The term "all-inclusive" is used often in the travel industry, but Regent gives it a meaning all its own. Here, it is not a package; it is the foundation of your entire experience. This includes:

• FREE Roundtrip Business Class Air on Intercontinental Flights
• FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions
• FREE 2- or 3-Night Land Programs on select voyages
• FREE Unlimited Beverages, Including Fine Wines and Spirits
• FREE Open Bars and Lounges, Plus In-Suite Mini-Bar Replenished Daily
• FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities
• FREE Specialty Restaurants
• FREE Valet Laundry Service
• FREE Unlimited WiFi

This isn't just about value; it's about the seamless quality of your journey. It’s ordering a vintage Bordeaux at dinner without a second thought. It’s choosing between a Zodiac tour of an icefjord and a cultural visit to a Greenlandic village, knowing both are included. This comprehensive approach removes every barrier between you and the pure joy of discovery. You are not a tourist; you are an honored guest on a grand expedition.

The Ship: Your Floating Sanctuary in the Ice

Your vessel, whether the magnificent Seven Seas Splendor® or the elegant Seven Seas Explorer®, is more than a mode of transport; it is a destination in itself. These are not expedition ships in the traditional sense. They are floating six-star hotels, engineered with ice-strengthened hulls to safely navigate polar waters while providing an atmosphere of pure opulence.

Step inside from the crisp Arctic air and you are greeted by soaring atriums, Murano glass chandeliers, and a museum-worthy collection of art. Your accommodation is not a cabin, but a spacious, beautifully appointed suite—and every single one has a private balcony. Imagine waking up, drawing the curtains, and watching the ethereal light of the Midnight Sun dance across a field of icebergs from the comfort of your king-sized Elite Slumber™ bed. The bathrooms are clad in marble, the walk-in closets are generous, and for those in higher-level suites, a personal butler is on hand to anticipate your every need.

The Observation Lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, becomes the ship's hearth, a place to gather with fellow explorers, sip a hot toddy, and watch the breathtaking, ever-changing scenery unfold. The contrast between the raw, formidable power of the Arctic outside and the warmth, comfort, and impeccable service inside is, in a word, extraordinary. To experience this level of luxury for yourself, we invite you to Plan Your Arctic Circle Adventure with one of our specialists.

A Journey to the Top of the World: The Itinerary

A Regent Arctic itinerary is a carefully curated narrative, a voyage that balances iconic ports with genuine, off-the-beaten-path exploration. While routes vary, they often weave a path through the mythical lands of Iceland and Greenland, sometimes venturing as far as the Svalbard archipelago.

Reykjavik, Iceland: Fire, Ice, and Viking Lore

Many journeys begin or end in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant and quirky capital. It’s the perfect gateway to the Arctic, a city powered by geothermal energy and creative spirit. Regent’s included excursions allow you to explore the famed Golden Circle, witnessing the explosive power of the Strokkur geyser, the thunderous Gullfoss waterfall, and the historic Þingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates visibly drift apart. Or perhaps you’ll choose to soak in the mineral-rich, milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, a perfect pre-cruise indulgence.

Greenland's Glacial Coasts: A Symphony of Blue and White

Sailing across the Denmark Strait, you can feel the world changing. The air grows crisper, the light softer. And then, you see it: your first iceberg. Greenland is the star of the show. This is not passive sightseeing. Regent ensures you experience it viscerally.

• Qaqortoq: You'll be charmed by the brightly colored Nordic houses dotting the hillsides, a stark and beautiful contrast to the icy landscape. You can explore the town, meet local artisans, and learn about Inuit culture.
• Ilulissat Icefjord: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is the birthplace of giants. Here, the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier calves more ice than any other in the Northern Hemisphere. On an included Zodiac excursion, you’ll navigate a sculpture garden of icebergs, some as large as skyscrapers. The sound—a deep, resonant groaning and cracking—is the sound of the earth breathing. It is humbling and unforgettable.
• Nuuk: Greenland's capital offers a fascinating blend of modern life and ancient traditions. Visit the National Museum to see the famous Qilakitsoq mummies or hike into the pristine backcountry.

The sheer scale of Greenland is difficult to comprehend. The expertise of the onboard expedition team brings it to life, providing context and spotting wildlife, from humpback whales to soaring sea eagles. Ready to chart your course through these majestic fjords? Our experts can help you choose the perfect sailing. Give us a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 to speak with an Arctic specialist today.

The Realm of the Polar Bear: Spitsbergen, Svalbard

For the ultimate Arctic immersion, select an itinerary that ventures to the Svalbard archipelago. This is a land of raw, untamed wilderness. Here, polar bears outnumber people. Under the glow of the Midnight Sun, you’ll cruise past dramatic, glacier-carved cliffs and windswept tundra. The expedition team is on constant lookout for the region’s iconic wildlife: polar bears hunting on the ice floes, massive walrus colonies hauled out on shore, elusive Arctic foxes, and countless species of migratory birds. This is nature at its most powerful and pristine.

Life Aboard: Beyond the Excursions

The magic of a Regent cruise is that the destination is only half the story. The time spent onboard is just as enriching, relaxing, and memorable.

A Culinary Expedition

Dining with Regent is a world-class event, every single night. And unlike other cruise lines, the specialty restaurants are all included, with no surcharges. You can indulge as often as you wish.

• Prime 7: A classic, elegant steakhouse serving up perfectly aged USDA Prime beef and succulent seafood.
• Chartreuse: A chic Parisian restaurant offering modern French cuisine that is both beautiful and delicious.
• Pacific Rim: A stunningly designed Pan-Asian venue where the decor, featuring a massive Tibetan prayer wheel, is as spectacular as the culinary creations.
• Sette Mari at La Veranda: Authentic Italian dishes served with passion, often featuring ingredients sourced from local markets.

The culinary team’s ability to provision and prepare five-star cuisine in such a remote part of the world is nothing short of remarkable. Have a quick question about making dining reservations or accommodating dietary needs? Our team is standing by. Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner to get instant answers.

Enrichment and Relaxation

Your days at sea are opportunities for growth and rejuvenation. The onboard lecture series features world-class experts—glaciologists, biologists, historians, and naturalists—who deepen your understanding and appreciation of the Arctic. Their passion is infectious, and their insights transform what you see from your balcony from mere scenery into a living story.

After a day of exploration, there is no better place to unwind than the Serene Spa & Wellness™. Indulge in a hot stone massage or a restorative facial, using globally sourced, natural ingredients. Or, find a quiet corner in the beautifully stocked library, curl up with a book on polar exploration, and simply let the profound beauty of your surroundings sink in.

Is a Regent Arctic Cruise Right for You?

This is a journey for the discerning traveler who refuses to choose between adventure and comfort. It is for the individual who has dreamed of the Arctic’s wild grandeur but wishes to experience it with elegance, grace, and impeccable service.

It is for the curious soul who values enrichment and learning, who wants to understand the geology of a fjord, not just photograph it. It is for the person who understands that true luxury is not about extravagance, but about the freedom to be fully present in one of the world’s most extraordinary places, with every other detail flawlessly managed.

If this sounds like you, then the answer is a resounding yes. This isn't just a vacation; it's an investment in a life-altering experience. Let us handle every detail, from your flights to your dinner reservations, so you can focus on the wonder of it all. Get a Custom Quote today and discover the true meaning of ultra-luxury polar exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a Regent Seven Seas cruise?

Regent offers one of the most inclusive experiences at sea. Fares typically include roundtrip airfare (business class on intercontinental flights), unlimited shore excursions, all meals in both main and specialty restaurants, unlimited beverages including fine wines and spirits, pre-paid gratuities, and unlimited WiFi.

What should I pack for an Arctic cruise?

Layering is key. You will need waterproof and windproof outer layers (pants and a jacket), thermal underwear, fleece or wool mid-layers, warm hats, gloves, and scarves. Waterproof boots are essential for landings. Onboard, the dress code is elegant casual, so pack as you would for a luxury resort.

Will I see the Northern Lights?

The ability to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) depends on the time of year. Summer Arctic cruises occur during the season of the Midnight Sun, where there is little to no darkness, making aurora sightings impossible. For Northern Lights viewing, you would need to travel in the late autumn or winter months.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

The Arctic is rich with unique wildlife. Depending on your specific itinerary, you may see polar bears (especially in Svalbard), walruses, seals, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and various species of whales, including humpback, minke, and beluga. Birdwatchers will delight in seeing puffins, kittiwakes, and numerous other seabirds.

How physically demanding are the shore excursions?

Regent offers a wide range of shore excursions to suit various fitness levels. These can range from gentle walking tours in coastal towns and scenic bus rides to more active pursuits like kayaking or extensive hiking. Zodiac landings on unimproved terrain require a moderate level of mobility. There is always an option for every guest to experience these incredible destinations.