Regent Seven Seas marks 35 years

AS REGENT Seven Seas marks 35 years in business, it’s looking forward with anticipation to a set of new developments. On the horizon are a number of innovations, from expanded wellness and recreational facilities to new accommodation concepts and destination experiences. Janine Pretorius, Director of Encore Cruises, spoke to Travel News about some of the new products and experiences clients can look forward to. Active luxury One of the biggest developments will be when Seven Seas Prestige debuts in December. The new Solara Sports Deck on deck 14, will feature a competition- size padel and pickleball court, an 18-hole putting green and Regent’s first dedicated sunrise and sunset yoga area. The ship will also introduce the cruise line’s first digital gaming system, including side-by-side Conductr Supercharged Shuffleboard units. Other activities will include mini-bowling, chess, baggo and covered ping pong. The deck will be open 24 hours a day and will host social tournaments and dedicated wellness classes. The Solara Pool Deck will feature a 14,6m by 8,8m pool, two whirlpool spas and a two-tiered sunbed concept. “One of the most exciting aspects of Seven Seas Prestige is that Regent has reimagined what life on board an ultra- luxury ship can be,” said Pretorius. “Today’s luxury traveller wants more than beautiful surroundings; they want experiences that enhance their wellbeing, encourage connection and allow them to enjoy every moment at their own pace.” Wellness focus Regent will expand its wellness focus next year with the first Spotlight Voyage dedicated to wellness and longevity, developed in partnership with ELEMIS. The ten-night voyage on Prestige will depart Trieste on August 21 and sail to Barcelona, visiting Argostoli, Gythion, Athens, Mykonos, Santorini and Ibiza. Programming will centre on four pillars – Diet & Nutrition, Mind & Stress, Skin & Longevity, and Movement & Exercise. Guests can expect expert-led wellness sessions, interactive BeMoved classes, mindfulness enrichment and Blue Zone-inspired culinary programming. The sailing forms part of Regent’s seven-voyage 2027 Spotlight Collection, which will also include themed voyages focused on wine, culinary experiences and genealogy. More space Regent is reducing accommodation capacity across its Explorer Class ships during planned dry docks in 2027 and 2028. Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Grandeur will each reduce their maximum suite count from 373 to 344, increasing available space. Redesigned Veranda Suites will increase from 29 sqm to between 39 and 43 sqm and will include walk-in closets, double vanities and larger balconies. The ships will also gain Horizon Penthouse Suites, ranging from 57-67 sqm, along with three additional Distinctive Suites per ship measuring between 76 and 85 sqm. The work begins with Seven Seas Splendor in November 2027, followed by Seven Seas Explorer in April 2028 and Seven Seas Grandeur in October 2028. Festive additions For the 2026 festive season, Regent is introducing 56 new shore excursions and five new multi-day pre- and post- cruise land programmes. The experiences will be available on selected cruises on Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Prestige’s maiden voyage, with a focus on Christmas markets, regional cuisine and local festive traditions. Among the new shore experiences are Christmas celebrations in Málaga, a festive walking tour through Limassol and a Provençal Christmas experience in Marseille, centred on the traditional 13 Desserts of Christmas. New land programmes will meanwhile take guests to festive destinations including Barcelona, Rome, Viterbo and Tuscany as part of Regent’s first full winter Mediterranean season on Seven Seas Navigator.