Regent Seven Seas Mariner

We recently got an opportunity to do a ship tour and have lunch on board Regent Seven Seas Mariner. We jumped at the chance, as it is not often that a luxury ship opens for viewing.

First, some facts about the ship. She is 709 feet in length and 93 feet wide. She only carries 700 guests and weighs in at 48,075 tons. She entered service in 2001, however she just underwent refurbishment a few weeks ago (this is as of December 19, 2011). Seven Seas Mariner is the world’s first all-suite, all balcony ship. She also has earned the distinction of being the first vessel to offer dining by Le Cordon Bleu ® of Paris in Signatures, one of four open seating restaurants. Hallmarks include generous amenities and a welcome spaciousness. Catering to only 700 guests, her staff to guest ration of 1 to 1.6 ensures the absolutely highest level of personal service.


So, what makes the ship luxury you may ask and is it worth the price? Well, yes, you will pay a higher rate up front than a contemporary or premium cruise line. However, you really need to look at what is included in that rate. In the rate are the following inclusions: Round trip air, unlimited shore excursions, luxury hotel package, ground transfers, beverages (including fine wine, beer, premium spirits, soft drinks, bottled water, specialty coffees and teas), in suite mini bar replenished daily, 24 hour room service, no charge for specialty restaurants, gratuities, pillow menu, and a staff that caters to your needs. Wow, talk about all inclusive!


How about we do a breakdown of cost? Let’s compare a Mediterranean sailing between Regent Seven Seas Mariner and Holland America Eurodam. Both sailings leave about the same time in Spring of 2012 and sail for 10 nights.

Here is a breakdown of per person costs for Holland America
Ports Visited: 8
Cruise Fare for a Superior Veranda: $2,999.00
Government Fees: $87.00
Air from U.S. East Coast: $1,389.00
Ground Transfers: $138.00
Shore Excursions: $695.00
1 Night Pre Cruise Luxury Hotel: $300.00
Gratuities: $110.00
Bar Drinks: $288.00
Soft Drinks / Bottled Water: $115.00
Alternative Dining (3 nights): $60.00

Total Per Person: $6,181.00, or $618.00 per day


Here is a breakdown of per person costs for Regent Seven Seas Mariner
Ports Visited: 9
Cruise Fare for a Superior Veranda: $5,499.00
Government Fees: $163.00
Air from U.S. East Coast: INCLUDED
Ground Transfers: INCLUDED
Shore Excursions: INCLUDED
1 Night Pre Cruise Luxury Hotel: INCLUDED
Gratuities: INCLUDED
Bar Drinks: INCLUDED
Soft Drinks / Bottled Water: INCLUDED
Alternative Dining (3 nights): INCLUDED

Total Per Person: $5,662.00, or $899.00 per day


When you do the actual breakdown of costs, there are often times when luxury can come out less expensive, and you get the luxury experience. I for one know that I have been in “sticker shock” when I get my bar bill at the end of a cruise! And lots of times we don’t do the shore excursions because we do not want to be out of pocket the extra money.

If you are thinking of a suite on a premium line, let me do the comparison for you. No. luxury ships are not for everyone. They are usually smaller, and while there are activities, there are not as many as on larger ships. Also, keep in mind that smaller ships usually visit more ports on a sailing, so you will be spending less time on board the ship.

So, with all that said, what did we think of the tour? We were pleasantly surprised. You do notice the attention to detail in the fabrics and the woods. The staterooms (well, they are called suites) are larger than normal staterooms on other premium lines. The silver in the dining room is actually real silver. There is a casual environment on board. It is nowhere near “stuffy” and you do not have to be formal on board. The food was wonderful and the service was fantastic. I was not very thrilled that we actually had to leave the ship!

Interested in looking at an itinerary and pricing? Give me a call and let me work out some comparisons for you. Remember, as a travel agent, I have your best interest. I am not working for a single cruise line. While I do represent all major cruise lines, who I really represent is you. I do not charge a fee, and it is my goal to match the right ship and itinerary with the individual or family I am working with. Let me show you why CruiseOne is the Nation’s largest cruise retailer.

You can reach me anytime toll free at 888-882-5793, visit me on the web at www.MemorableVoyages.com for our contemporary and premium cruise lines or at www.kfreer.SeaLuxe.com for our luxury cruise lines. You can also visit us on Facebook, like us and be kept up to date on specials.

I look forward to hearing from you and helping you plan your dream vacation!