A Grand Preview – Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Introduction

Embarking on a new ship for a preview sailing is not something we have been lucky enough to experience before, but we jumped at the chance when Regent Seven Seas Cruises invited us to join their new ship, Seven Seas Grandeur. Our minds went into overdrive, wondering just what we would experience on the short preview cruise. Would the ship be ready, what would the food be like, and would it be similar to her sister ships? These were the questions on everyone’s mind when we boarded Seven Seas Grandeur in Ancona, Italy.

In the realm of luxury cruising, where every voyage is an exquisite affair, our recent escapade aboard the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur was more than a journey; it was a sojourn into a world of unparalleled elegance and indulgence. As guests on the ship’s exclusive 3-day preview cruise, we were treated to a firsthand experience of the Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ newest masterpiece. From the meticulously designed suites to the world-class dining options, captivating entertainment, and sophisticated bars, our preview cruise unveiled a ship that promises to redefine the very essence of opulence on the high seas.

Joining Seven Seas Grandeur

We were unsure of what we would find, especially considering we had advance warning that some areas were still awaiting the final touches. But stepping onboard and into the sparkling atrium, we were stunned by it’s beauty. The undulating grand staircase beneath a modern looping chandelier set an enchanting tone for the entire ship. Subtle greys and creams, accentuated by striking lighting and a touch of shimmer, along with captivating art pieces, created an atmosphere of opulence that promised an unforgettable journey.

Related: Cruising in Style with Seven Seas Splendor

Our Suite

Our Concierge Suite, a cocoon of comfort on deck 8 midships, featured a generous seating area with a two-seater sofa and writing desk, which could be separated from the sleeping area by a curtain. A super comfortable king-sized bed faced outward toward the veranda and the ocean. There was a large walk-in closet and a large bathroom with a double vanity, cubical shower, and separate bath. An array of L’Occitane toiletries, soaps, shower caps, make-up remover pads and earbuds were available.

A full-length mirror and an oversized mirror are helpful over the twin sinks. Overall, it is a lovely space with a light and modern decor. Adjacent to the bathroom was a generously sized walk-in closet/wardrobe area. This space also cleverly accommodates the eye-level safe, providing ample room for safeguarding your valuables and important documents such as passports. The suite impressively boasts a total of 21 drawers distributed between the suite and the closet, ensuring abundant storage for any duration of the cruise, whether it be a 7, 10, or 14-day adventure or an extended world cruise.

Adding to the thoughtful design, a substantial full-length mirror in the corridor near the suite entrance door allows you to make any final adjustments before stepping out to meet the world, ensuring you present your best self to the public.

From the moment we stepped into this opulent haven, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance and personalized service. The spacious and meticulously designed suite offers a sanctuary of comfort, with tasteful decor and sumptuous furnishings creating a contemporary and timeless ambience. The private balcony, a hallmark of our Concierge Suite, could become a personal retreat, providing breathtaking views of the open sea.

On Seven Seas Grandeur, entertainment and convenience seamlessly merge through a state-of-the-art 40-inch Samsung flat-screen. This interactive display offers a diverse selection of complimentary TV channels, movies, and music, along with the cruise director’s daily program available on demand. From this central hub, we could effortlessly access the daily cruise program and gather information on Destination services, Entertainment/Enrichment, and Serene and Spa Wellness options. The television also serves as a gateway to your onboard account, presenting bar and restaurant menus for added convenience.

A glass cabinet, thoughtfully stocked with glasses and a pair of binoculars, proves handy for those moments when you seek a closer look at the horizon. The suite is equipped with a fridge containing a selection of beers, lager, and soft drinks, complemented by the availability of a coffee machine. Although a kettle for tea is not provided, room service readily fulfills any tea cravings on demand.

Wi-Fi, integral to the all-inclusive offering, is accessible throughout the ship, with the option to upgrade the number of connected devices for a nominal fee. Notably, the Seven Seas Grandeur employs SpaceX Starlink Satellite connectivity, ensuring reasonably fast internet speeds – our measurements registered a download speed of 3.5mb/s.

Dining Extravaganza

Culinary experiences aboard the Grandeur were nothing short of a gastronomic odyssey. Compass Rose, the ship’s flagship restaurant, surpassed expectations with its diverse menu featuring international flavours and on our one sea day, hosted a Gala Brunch prepared by the ship’s culinary team. The attentive service from the dedicated staff added a personal touch to every meal, which elevated the dining experience to a level of excellence that is the hallmark of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

For those seeking a culinary adventure, the speciality restaurants on board did not disappoint. With its pan-Asian fusion cuisine, Pacific Rim offered a tantalizing journey for the taste buds. The succulent steaks and fine wines at Prime 7 made it a haven for fine dining aficionados. With its al fresco charm, La Veranda provided a casual yet delightful setting for breakfast and lunch. The transition of La Veranda into Sette Mari at La Veranda for dinner, offering Italian specialities, added an extra layer of culinary diversity to our experience.

Our particular favourite is nestled next to Prime 7 on Deck 10; Chartreuse is a culinary jewel with its refined ambience and exquisite gastronomy. This French-inspired dining haven seamlessly marries classic elegance with a modern twist, creating a dining experience that is both timeless and innovative. From the moment you step into Chartreuse, you are transported to a world where attention to detail is paramount, evident in the plush furnishings and tasteful decor. The menu was a symphony of flavours, showcasing the artistry of the chefs who craft each dish with precision and creativity. Indulge in a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds with expertly prepared dishes that pay homage to French culinary traditions.

One of the delightful surprises of our culinary journey was the Culinary Arts Kitchen. Beyond being a venue for cooking classes, it serves as a dynamic space for engaging demonstrations, allowing guests to witness the artistry behind some of the delectable dishes served on board. The Culinary Arts kitchen was not open during our voyage, but we had tried this before and loved it!

Bars

The Grandeur’s bars and lounges were sophisticated enclaves, each with its unique charm. With its leather-appointed elegance, the Connoisseur Club was a refuge for cigar enthusiasts, offering a refined space to enjoy a well-curated selection of cigars and spirits. The Pool Bar, with its casual ambience, became our go-to spot for refreshing cocktails under the sun. The Meridian Lounge had an extensive bar and relaxed armchairs; this is an ideal spot to gather with new friends for a cocktail and was also the venue for Afternoon tea, which we just had to sample!

The Observation Lounge, was not quite finished for our cruise but features live music and panoramic views.

Entertainment

There were 2 shows aboard the Grandeur, which celebrated entertainment in all its forms. With its 2 levels, plush seating and state-of-the-art production capabilities, the Constellation Theatre hosted a West End star, Phillip Brown, and a vivacious production entitled ‘Marauders Ball’.

The Meridian Lounge, with its live music and dance floor, created an atmosphere of celebration, inviting guests to revel in the joy of the night. The casino offered various ways to play, from card and table games to slot machines, in an elegant and refined setting, creating excitement for those who played.

The ship’s entertainment program was not limited to traditional performances. There was the traditional Trivia, Wellness Events, Blackjack Tournaments, and more.

On Board Art Experience

As a first at sea, Regent introduced a digital art tour – Art Experience- available through the new Regent Mobile App. The interactive digital art tour provided an immersive, interactive experience for guests to connect with the artwork and the artist who created the piece. We took the tour using our mobile phone, and it worked by scanning the object and then discovering a film connecting you to the artist, their process, and their inspiration for the piece within central guest areas, including Rauschenberg, Matta, Sophie Elizabeth Thompson and Eduardo Arranz-Bravo. Very clever and a first for Regent.

Service Beyond Expectations

One of the defining aspects of our experience was the exceptional level of service the Grandeur’s staff provided. From the moment we stepped onboard, we were met with genuine warmth and a commitment to ensuring our every need was met.

Beyond the lavish accommodations, the Grandeur’s all-inclusive nature added significant value to our experience. The all-inclusive fare covers premium excursions, fine wines, and spirits, allowing us to indulge in the diverse offerings without concern for additional charges. The complimentary valet laundry service is brilliant, ensuring our wardrobe remained refreshed throughout the voyage.

Conclusion

Our 3-day preview cruise on the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur was a tantalizing taste of this ship’s extraordinary experiences. From the lavishly appointed suites and exquisite dining options to the diverse entertainment and sophisticated bars, every facet of the Grandeur was a testament to Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ dedication to crafting the epitome of luxury at sea.

The Grandeur, with its meticulous attention to detail, redefines the standards of opulence. It invites discerning travellers to embark on a seafaring adventure where indulgence knows no bounds. As the newest jewel in the Regent Seven Seas Cruises crown, the Grandeur promises to leave an indelible mark on the world of luxury cruising, setting a new standard for maritime excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to return for a more extended voyage, ready to immerse ourselves once again in the world of grandeur that this extraordinary ship provides.