Regent Seven Seas Navigator: All Inclusive Luxury

I often have clients that want more than the “standard” cruise experience. They want it all: superior service, excellent food and no bill at the end of the cruise. Impossible? Not anymore. There are many all-inclusive (or “more-inclusive” as I call them) cruise lines than ever that deliver a wonderful vacation experience. But what about the price? Yep, the likes of Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea and SeaDream do not come cheap. Regent is actually the only cruise line that is truly all-inclusive. Everything from airfare to shore excursions are included. Last week I had the opportunity to tour the Regent Seven Seas Navigator, the smallest in the Regent fleet at a mere 490 passenger capacity. The ship is stunning. It is slightly smaller than the Seabourn Sojourn, which carries 450 passengers. This is an “all-suite” ship, most of which have balconies. What that means in reality is that you have plenty of room to stretch out in your suite (the Regent folks hate when you call it a “cabin”). The bathrooms are luxurious and if you can spring for one of the Grand Suites, you will truly be in heaven.

The upper-end suites have their own personal Nespresso machines as well as Tea Forte stocked. Although I love my Nespresso machine at home, on vacation I tend to think I want someone else making the cappuccinos.

On board there is a to-die-for Canyon Ranch spa serving up massages (really? you need help relaxing here?), facials and most other spa services you may want/need. There are additional charges for spa services.

There is a wonderful pool deck, glass elevators and beautiful lounges. The public spaces as well as the suites are all nicely appointed and comfortable.

But when most people think of a cruise, they think of one thing: food. Regent offers a pool grill, a casual dining option, a steakhouse and the main dining room. I had a four course lunch served in the main dining room. each dish was presented elegantly and tasted great. The wine at meals on Regent is free-flowing. Of course, if you want a special bottle of wine, they are happy to sell one, but you can also take advantage of the “house” selections. During my visit, we had a Riesling and a Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon. All tables were decked out with both red and white Riedel stems.

My time on board the Navigator was short and I am looking forward to sailing on a Regent ship soon to fully experience the luxury (and more of the macaroons).

If you are planning a vacation, let me know how I can help.