Regent Seven Seas Cruises®: Your Arctic Circle Adventure Awaits

Imagine a world painted in shades of impossible blue and stark, brilliant white. A realm where glaciers, ancient and colossal, carve their way to the sea, and the sun either never sets or gives way to a celestial ballet of green and violet light. This is the Arctic Circle—not a destination, but an experience that redefines your understanding of our planet. It is a place of profound silence, raw power, and breathtaking beauty. And there is no more refined, comfortable, or enriching way to witness its majesty than aboard a Regent Seven Seas Cruises® vessel.

For decades, the words "Arctic exploration" conjured images of rugged icebreakers and spartan accommodations. It was a journey for the hardy, a trade-off of comfort for access. Regent has shattered that paradigm. They have perfected the art of bringing uncompromising, all-inclusive luxury to the world's most remote and awe-inspiring frontiers. This is not merely a trip; it is a masterfully orchestrated symphony of adventure and elegance, where every detail is anticipated and every moment is designed to immerse you in wonder.

In this guide, we will journey through the heart of a Regent Arctic sailing. We’ll explore the dramatic landscapes you'll visit, delve into the unparalleled sanctuary of your ship, and discover why this is the one adventure that will forever be etched in your memory. Let's begin our voyage to the top of the world.

The Regent Difference: Redefining Arctic Exploration

Before we chart a course through icy fjords, it's essential to understand what sets a Regent Seven Seas cruise apart. It’s a philosophy they call "An Unrivaled Experience®," and in the context of the Arctic, it transforms the entire journey. This is luxury that is both liberating and profound.

At its core is the most genuinely all-inclusive offering on the seas. While other lines add charges for excursions, drinks, or specialty dining, Regent includes it all. This means:

• FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions: This is perhaps the most critical element in the Arctic. You won’t be choosing between a Zodiac tour of an icefjord or a cultural visit to an Inuit village based on price. You can do both. Immerse yourself fully in every port of call without ever seeing a bill.
• FREE Business Class Air on Intercontinental Flights: Your journey begins in stress-free comfort before you even reach the ship, ensuring you arrive rested and ready for adventure.
• FREE Specialty Restaurants: Savor a perfectly aged steak at Prime 7 or classic French fare at Chartreuse after a day of whale watching. There are no surcharges, just exquisite culinary experiences.
-
• FREE Unlimited Beverages: From the fine wines at dinner to the craft cocktail in the Observation Lounge as you gaze upon a passing iceberg, it’s all included.
• FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities and Wi-Fi: The seamless service is part of the experience, not an extra line item on your final statement.

This all-inclusive model fosters a unique onboard atmosphere. It’s one of relaxed camaraderie and effortless enjoyment. You are not a passenger; you are an honored guest, free to focus solely on the magnificent wilderness unfolding outside your suite’s private balcony.

A Journey to the Top of the World: The Itinerary

Regent’s Arctic itineraries are thoughtfully crafted to showcase the region's diverse and dramatic beauty. While specific routes vary, they often weave a path through the legendary landscapes of Iceland, Greenland, and Norway. Each stop is a chapter in an epic saga of geology, wildlife, and human resilience.

Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Often the gateway to the high Arctic, Iceland is a geological wonderland where the Earth’s raw power is on full display. Your journey typically begins in Reykjavik, a vibrant, cosmopolitan capital powered by geothermal energy. From here, a world of natural marvels awaits.

You might embark on a journey around the famed Golden Circle, witnessing the explosive eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, feeling the mist of the colossal Gullfoss waterfall, and standing on the very rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park. In ports like Ísafjörður, nestled deep within the dramatic Westfjords, you can kayak in serene fjords or hike to puffin colonies. In Akureyri, the "Capital of the North," you can venture out on whale-watching tours in search of humpbacks and minkes. Iceland is the perfect overture for the grandeur that lies ahead.

Greenland: A Realm of Monumental Ice

Sailing across the Denmark Strait to Greenland is like traveling back to the dawn of time. This is a land of superlatives. Home to the world's second-largest ice sheet, its coastline is a breathtaking panorama of towering icebergs, some the size of city blocks, calved from gargantuan glaciers.

Ports like Qaqortoq, with its colorful Nordic houses dotting the rugged landscape, offer a glimpse into modern Inuit life. The true highlight for many is the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Ilulissat Icefjord. Here, you can take a Zodiac or a local boat to navigate a surreal sculpture park of ice, listening to the thunderous crack and groan of the most productive glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. The sheer scale is humbling, a visceral reminder of nature’s immense power. Our travel advisors can help you choose the perfect itinerary to witness these natural wonders. Plan Your Arctic Circle Adventure and let us secure your front-row seat to this spectacle.

Norway's North Cape & Spitsbergen: The Edge of Civilization

As your ship navigates the Norwegian Sea, you'll approach the very apex of Europe. The journey to the North Cape is a pilgrimage for travelers, a chance to stand at the cliff's edge and gaze out over the Barents Sea towards the North Pole. During the summer months, you can experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun dips towards the horizon but never sets, bathing the landscape in an ethereal, 24-hour glow.

For the ultimate Arctic prize, select an itinerary that includes Spitsbergen, the main island of the Svalbard archipelago. This is the realm of the polar bear. Onboard enrichment lectures from naturalists and expedition leaders will prepare you for what to look for, and then, from the deck or a Zodiac, you’ll scan the ice floes for a glimpse of the magnificent King of the Arctic. It is a moment that, for many, becomes the defining memory of their entire lives.

Life Aboard: Your Floating Sanctuary in the Arctic

The genius of a Regent Arctic cruise is the seamless transition from wild, untamed nature to sophisticated, serene luxury. After a day spent marveling at glaciers, you return not to a cabin, but to a sanctuary.

Unrivaled Suite Accommodations

Regent’s fleet, including vessels like the magnificent Seven Seas Splendor® and Seven Seas Explorer®, is comprised of all-suite, all-balcony ships. Your private balcony is your personal, moving viewpoint over the world’s most spectacular scenery. Imagine sipping your morning coffee as a majestic fjord glides by. The suites themselves are residential in feel, with expansive living areas, marble-appointed bathrooms with L'Occitane® or Guerlain amenities, and walk-in closets. In higher-tier suites, the personal attention of a dedicated butler elevates the experience to one of pure, anticipatory service.

A Culinary Expedition

Dining aboard Regent is an event in itself. Forget the notion of a single, massive dining hall. Instead, you have a collection of intimate, gourmet restaurants, each with its own distinct ambiance and menu—and all are included.

• Compass Rose: The flagship restaurant offers an unprecedented level of customization, alongside daily specials and classic dishes.
• Prime 7: A lush, sophisticated steakhouse serving perfectly prepared USDA Prime and Dry-Aged cuts.
• Chartreuse: A tribute to classic Parisian fine dining with a modern twist.
• La Veranda/Sette Mari: Enjoy casual buffet-style breakfasts and lunches with stunning ocean views, transforming in the evening into an authentic Italian trattoria.

The quality is uncompromising, the service is impeccable, and the freedom to dine where and when you please adds to the relaxed luxury of the voyage.

Enrichment and Relaxation

An Arctic cruise is as much a journey of the mind as it is of the senses. Onboard, enrichment lectures from esteemed experts—geologists, biologists, historians, and naturalists—provide fascinating context to the landscapes you are exploring. You'll learn about glaciology, Viking history, and the unique adaptations of Arctic wildlife, making your shore excursions even more meaningful.

When it's time to unwind, the Serene Spa & Wellness™ offers a tranquil haven for restorative treatments. The Observation Lounge, with its panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows, is the perfect place to relax with a book and a cocktail, ever-watchful for a breaching whale or a soaring sea eagle. Finding the right suite and securing reservations is seamless when you book with us. Call our dedicated Regent specialists at 1 (888) 883‑0460 to discuss your preferences and let us handle all the details.

Your Unforgettable Journey Awaits

An Arctic cruise with Regent Seven Seas Cruises® is more than a vacation; it is a transformation. It’s the feeling of profound awe as you navigate a channel choked with icebergs. It’s the thrill of spotting a polar bear on a distant shore. It’s the quiet comfort of returning to your elegant suite, a glass of champagne in hand, to watch the Midnight Sun paint the sky.

This is an adventure for the discerning traveler who seeks to explore the world’s final frontiers without sacrificing an ounce of comfort or elegance. It is an investment in a memory that will last a lifetime.

The first step to making this dream a reality is simple. You can explore specific dates and pricing right now using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. If you have a quick question or wish to speak with an expert, our team is standing by. Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner or give us a call on our dedicated line at 1 (888) 883‑0460.

For a truly personalized experience, allow us to craft a bespoke itinerary for you. We can handle everything from pre-cruise hotel stays in Reykjavik to specific shore excursion requests, ensuring every moment of your journey is flawless. Inquire About This Sailing and let one of our Regent Seven Seas specialists provide you with an obligation-free consultation and exclusive insights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Arctic Cruise

What should I pack for an Arctic cruise?

Layering is key. Pack thermal underwear, fleece or wool mid-layers, and a waterproof/windproof outer jacket and pants. Waterproof boots, a warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses are also essential. Regent often provides a complimentary parka for you to use and keep, but it's best to confirm for your specific sailing.

Is an Arctic cruise physically demanding?

It can be as active or as relaxed as you wish. Shore excursions range from gentle walking tours in coastal villages to more adventurous pursuits like kayaking and hiking. Zodiac landings can require some mobility to get in and out of the boat, but the crew is always there to assist. You can always choose to simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery from the ship.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights vs. the Midnight Sun?

The Midnight Sun, where the sun doesn't set, is a phenomenon of the summer months (typically June and July), which is when most Arctic cruises sail. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) require dark skies, making them visible from September through March. Some late-season "autumn in the Arctic" itineraries may offer a chance to see them.

What is truly included in a Regent Seven Seas cruise fare?

Regent's fare is one of the most inclusive in the industry. It covers your suite, all meals in all restaurants, unlimited beverages (including fine wines and spirits), unlimited shore excursions, pre-paid gratuities, Wi-Fi, and often roundtrip airfare (including Business Class on intercontinental flights). There are virtually no surprise costs onboard.

Why should I book my Regent cruise through your travel agency?

Booking with us provides a layer of expert service and value that you won't get by booking directly. Our specialists have deep knowledge of Regent's ships and Arctic itineraries. We act as your personal advocate, handling all the details, offering exclusive insights, and often providing access to special amenities or offers. We ensure your journey is perfectly tailored to you, from start to finish. Get a Custom Quote to experience our personalized service.