Europe's Best Kept Secret? A Regent Seven Seas Cruise (My Honest Review)

For over two decades, I’ve sailed the world’s oceans, stepping aboard everything from mega-ships teeming with activity to intimate river yachts navigating ancient waterways. I’ve sipped champagne in the fjords of Norway and watched the sun dip below the caldera in Santorini. But every so often, a travel experience doesn’t just meet expectations; it fundamentally redefines them. My recent voyage through Europe with Regent Seven Seas Cruises was one of those moments.

In a world of endless travel options, Regent remains something of a well-guarded secret among the most discerning travelers. It’s a name whispered with reverence, synonymous with a level of all-inclusive luxury that others promise but rarely deliver. Is it truly the pinnacle of ocean cruising? Is it worth the investment? I’m here to pull back the curtain and give you my honest, unvarnished review of what it’s truly like to explore Europe the Regent way.

The Regent Promise: What Does "All-Inclusive Luxury" Truly Mean?

Let’s address the elephant in the room first. The term "all-inclusive" is thrown around so often in the travel industry that it has lost much of its meaning. On many cruise lines, it’s a marketing gimmick, a base fare that soon balloons with charges for drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and the most desirable shore excursions. This is where Regent fundamentally breaks from the pack.

With Regent, the promise is simple: An Unrivaled Experience™. This isn’t just a tagline; it’s a philosophy. From the moment you book, virtually every conceivable luxury is included in your fare. The sense of freedom this provides is, frankly, liberating. You’re not constantly reaching for your wallet or signing chits. You’re simply… enjoying yourself. Here’s a glimpse of what’s included:

• FREE Roundtrip Business Class Air on Intercontinental Flights
• FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions in every port
• FREE 2- or 3-Night Land Programs on select voyages
• FREE Specialty Restaurants without cover charges
• FREE Unlimited Beverages, including fine wines and premium spirits
• FREE Open Bars and Lounges, plus in-suite mini-bar replenished daily
• FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities
• FREE Unlimited Wi-Fi
• FREE Valet Laundry Service

When you begin to add up the cost of these inclusions on other luxury lines, the value proposition of Regent becomes crystal clear. You can start to compare sailings and see this incredible value for yourself using the interactive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. It’s a powerful tool for visualizing just how much is packed into a single fare.

Stepping Aboard: A First Impression of Unrivaled Space and Elegance

My European journey was aboard the magnificent Seven Seas Splendor, a ship often described as "Luxury Perfected." The moment I stepped across the gangway, I understood why. The atrium soars, anchored by a breathtaking multi-million-dollar art collection and a cascading crystal chandelier. But what struck me most wasn't the opulence—it was the profound sense of space.

With a maximum of just 750 guests and one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios at sea, the ship never feels crowded. There are no lines. There is always a quiet corner to read a book, a perfectly positioned lounge chair by the pool, or an intimate table for two at the Observation Lounge, where a pianist plays softly as the coastline drifts by. It’s a private club atmosphere, where personalized service is the gold standard.

The Sanctuary of Your Suite

Regent’s fleet is composed entirely of all-suite, all-balcony ships. There are no inside cabins, no obstructed views. My Veranda Suite was a masterclass in residential design. Far from a standard cruise cabin, it felt like a beautifully appointed apartment. A plush Elite Slumber™ bed faced a spacious private balcony, the perfect spot for an in-suite breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee as we sailed into Portofino.

The details are what elevate the experience: a sprawling walk-in closet with more space than I could possibly use, a marble-clad bathroom with an oversized shower and luxurious L'Occitane amenities, and a welcome bottle of Jacquart champagne chilling on ice. For guests in Concierge Suites and above, the perks multiply, culminating in the legendary personal butler service for those in Penthouse Suites and higher. Imagine every need anticipated before you even think to ask. If you're curious about the different suite categories and their amenities, our experts can walk you through the options. Why not Inquire About This Sailing? We’ll send you a no-obligation quote with detailed suite layouts and pricing.

A Culinary Odyssey: Dining at Sea, Redefined

For many, the culinary experience is a cornerstone of any luxury vacation. On this front, Regent doesn't just compete; it dominates. With up to five complimentary specialty restaurants, the dining is a journey in itself, rivaling Michelin-starred establishments on land. And unlike other lines, you can dine in these venues as often as you wish, with no surcharges.

Prime 7: The Quintessential Steakhouse

A classic American steakhouse with a sophisticated, contemporary twist. Think supple leather armchairs, rich woods, and intimate lighting. The menu is a celebration of timeless favorites, executed flawlessly. My 28-day dry-aged New York strip was cooked to such perfection it was almost a religious experience, paired with a bold California Cabernet recommended by the sommelier.

Chartreuse: A Parisian Dream

Stepping into Chartreuse is like being transported to a chic Parisian restaurant. The ambiance is light and elegant, with stunning sea views. The menu is modern French, featuring dishes like roasted scallops with quince marmalade and a duck confit that was simply divine. It’s romantic, refined, and utterly delicious.

Pacific Rim: Pan-Asian Perfection

The entrance to Pacific Rim, guarded by a magnificent, floor-to-ceiling Tibetan prayer wheel, sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. The menu is a masterful exploration of Pan-Asian cuisine, from delicate sushi and sashimi to Korean-style barbecue lamb chops and a sublime miso black cod. The presentation is as artistic as the flavors are complex.

Compass Rose: The Surprising Star

Often, a ship's main dining room can feel like a compromise. Not Compass Rose. This is arguably the most ambitious and impressive restaurant at sea. The menu is vast, but its genius lies in the ability to completely customize your meal. You can choose from a list of exquisite proteins (lobster, steak, veal) and have it prepared exactly to your liking with your choice of sauces and sides. The level of personalization is astounding.

Have a question about the dining options or need help securing reservations for a special occasion? Our team of cruise specialists are experts on the Regent experience. Just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner to start a conversation right now.

The Heart of the Journey: Immersive European Ports of Call

A beautiful ship is one thing, but the destination is the soul of the journey. Regent’s European itineraries are thoughtfully curated, often blending iconic marquee ports with smaller, more exclusive harbors inaccessible to larger vessels. But the real game-changer is their approach to shore excursions.

Beyond the Tourist Trail: Unlimited & Included Shore Excursions

This is, without a doubt, one of Regent’s most significant advantages. In every single port, a wide variety of tours are included in your fare. This isn't just a handful of basic walking tours. We’re talking about high-quality, enriching experiences. You can take a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Ephesus, participate in a hands-on pasta-making class at a Tuscan farmhouse, or explore the charming canals of Bruges. On other cruise lines, a family could easily spend thousands of dollars on tours over a 10-day cruise. With Regent, it’s all included.

This freedom allows for incredible spontaneity. You can book multiple excursions in a day or decide on a whim to join a tour that morning. It removes the financial calculation from your exploration, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of Europe.

A Glimpse into a Mediterranean Masterpiece Itinerary

Imagine waking up to the pastel-hued cliffside villages of the Amalfi Coast. You enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your balcony before heading ashore for a pre-booked, included tour to the breathtaking ruins of Pompeii. The next day, you’re in Sicily, tasting volcanic wines on the slopes of Mount Etna. Then it’s on to the walled city of Dubrovnik, walking the same ramparts featured in "Game of Thrones," before sailing into the majestic, fjord-like Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. This isn’t a dream; it’s a typical week on a Regent Mediterranean cruise.

The Magic of Northern Europe & The Baltics

Regent’s expertise extends to the dramatic landscapes of Northern Europe. Picture sailing through the deep, emerald fjords of Norway, visiting the vibrant, historic capitals of the Baltic like Tallinn and Stockholm, or exploring the windswept beauty of the British Isles. The included excursions bring these destinations to life, whether it’s a visit to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg or a search for the Loch Ness Monster in the Scottish Highlands.

Ready to find your perfect European itinerary? Use the Cruise Booking Toolbar above to explore sailings by date and destination, or let us do the work for you. Plan Your Europe Adventure and our specialists will craft a personalized voyage that matches your dreams, complete with exclusive amenities you won't find anywhere else.

The Onboard Vibe: Relaxed Sophistication, Not Stuffy Formality

A common misconception about ultra-luxury cruising is that it’s stuffy, formal, and filled with rigid rules. My experience on Regent was the complete opposite. The atmosphere is best described as "country club casual." During the day, guests are comfortable in resort wear. In the evenings, the dress code elevates to elegant casual—no formal nights, no tuxedos required unless you choose to wear one. It’s about being comfortable and chic.

The service is the epitome of this ethos: it is impeccably professional yet genuinely warm and personal. The crew remembers your name, your favorite cocktail, and how you take your coffee. This intuitive, friendly service creates an environment that is both luxurious and wonderfully relaxed.

My Honest Verdict: Is a Regent Seven Seas Cruise Worth It?

After 10 days of unparalleled service, exquisite dining, and effortless exploration, my answer is an unequivocal yes. A Regent Seven Seas cruise is an investment, but the value is immense. When you factor in the business class airfare, the unlimited premium drinks, the specialty dining, the gratuities, and especially the unlimited shore excursions, the price is not only competitive with other luxury lines but often presents a better overall value.

This cruise is for the traveler who values their time and peace of mind. It’s for those celebrating a milestone, for food and wine lovers, and for intellectually curious explorers who want to connect deeply with a destination without the hassle of daily logistics. It is, in essence, the ultimate way to experience the magic of Europe.

The value is undeniable, but the experience is priceless. If you're ready to unlock Europe's best-kept secret, my best advice is to speak with an expert who can navigate the nuances of different ships, suites, and itineraries. Call our dedicated Regent specialists at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for personalized advice and access to exclusive offers that add even more value to your voyage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Regent Seven Seas Cruises

What is the dress code on Regent?

The dress code is elegant casual. During the day, resort-style clothing is appropriate. In the evening, for ladies, this means a skirt or slacks with a blouse or sweater, a pantsuit, or a dress. For gentlemen, slacks and a collared shirt are recommended. Jackets are optional. Jeans, t-shirts, and shorts are not permitted in most public areas after 6 p.m.

Are gratuities included on Regent Seven Seas?

Yes, all gratuities are included in your cruise fare. There is no need to tip any of the staff, including room stewards, dining staff, or butlers. The service is exceptional without any expectation of additional compensation.

What is included in a Regent Seven Seas cruise fare?

Regent offers one of the most inclusive fares at sea. It includes roundtrip airfare (business class on intercontinental flights), unlimited shore excursions, all specialty dining, unlimited beverages including fine wines and spirits, pre-paid gratuities, and unlimited Wi-Fi.

Which Regent ship is the best?

This is a matter of personal preference. The newest ships, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer, are renowned for their opulence and extensive art collections. The recently refurbished Seven Seas Mariner, Voyager, and Navigator offer a similarly luxurious experience, often with more intimate and port-intensive itineraries. Our cruise experts can help you choose the ship that's perfect for your travel style. Just give us a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460.

Can Regent accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely. Regent's culinary teams are exceptional at catering to a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other allergies or restrictions. It is best to advise the cruise line of your needs at the time of booking to ensure they are fully prepared.