A Luxury Cruise Experience: Isaac Returns to Sea

After his first ever luxury cruise experience last summer aboard Crystal Serenity, Isaac is no longer the cruising novice he once was. As a Personal Travel Concierge, he’s also had plenty of experience with luxury on land, from Atlantis The Royal to the five-star icons of Mauritius and Europe, including Beachcomber, LUX* and One&Only.  

So when he stepped aboard Seven Seas Grandeur in October for his second cruise, he had a little more to compare it against. With a love of history, an appreciation for exceptional service and a healthy interest in discovering somewhere new, he was keen to see how Regent Seven Seas approached ultra-luxury cruising. He also had his eye on the ship’s sports and wellness facilities, its celebrated art collection and, naturally, the dining.

Three nights later, he returned with a fresh perspective on what makes a luxury cruise experience stand out – and a few new reasons to consider his next sailing.

Key Takeaways: A Round up of Isaac's Luxury Cruise Experience

• Cruise line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises, aboard Seven Seas Grandeur.
• First-hand perspective: Isaac's second luxury cruise, following a sailing on Crystal Serenity.
• Onboard atmosphere: Relaxed, quietly luxurious and characterised by distinctive interiors.
• Suites: Spacious accommodation with separate areas for relaxing and unwinding.
• Service: Attentive, friendly service that feels natural rather than intrusive.
• Wellness: Excellent gym facilities and a memorable massage at Serene Spa & Wellness.
• Onboard highlights: The pool deck, art collection, Fabergé Egg and elevated tender experience.
• Best suited to: Travellers who value high levels of service, all-inclusive luxury, time to relax and the opportunity to explore multiple destinations in one trip.

You sailed on Crystal Serenity last summer, which was your first experience of luxury cruising. What was it like returning to sea for a second cruise? Did you feel like you knew what to expect this time? 

Absolutely. My first cruise really opened my eyes to how different a luxury cruise experience can be from a traditional land-based holiday, so I stepped aboard Seven Seas Grandeur with a much better idea of what to look for. I was no longer trying to suss out how cruising worked; I was starting to appreciate what separates a good ship from an exceptional one.

I was particularly interested in how Seven Seas Grandeur used its space, how the service flowed throughout the day and whether that same sense of luxury I’d experienced on Crystal would carry across. Having been lucky enough to stay at some fantastic five-star resorts, I now know to pay attention to the little things: whether service feels natural, whether spaces are genuinely nice to spend time in and whether everything works as it should without you having to think about it or ask for it. Anyone can make a big first impression, but maintaining that feeling throughout a stay is where the real skill lies.

I was also much more confident about making the most of the ship itself. There are still plenty of preconceptions about cruising, particularly among younger travellers, and I can understand why it might not immediately spring to mind when planning a holiday. But I think people underestimate just how much freedom it gives you. You can fit in a proper workout, spend an afternoon by the pool, enjoy a fantastic dinner and wake up somewhere completely new the next morning, all without packing and unpacking or coordinating the logistics yourself. For someone who loves exploring new places but also appreciates a bit of downtime, it’s a pretty hard combination to argue with.

This time you were onboard Seven Seas Grandeur, which is a different proposition to Crystal Serenity. What was your first impression of the ship, and what differences did you notice straight away? 

Seven Seas Grandeur had a really distinctive character from the moment I stepped onboard. There’s a certain flourish to the interiors that I came to recognise as being very Regent Seven Seas – elegant finishes, interesting details and a real sense of occasion, but without anything feeling stuffy or overly formal. It has that quietly luxurious feel where you notice the quality of everything around you, without it feeling like it's trying too hard to impress.

The service was another big standout for me. Everyone seemed to have a knack for knowing when to step in and when to give you space, which I really appreciated, especially when you're still finding your way around a new ship. There was always a smile wherever you went, and a drink never seemed to be far away, but nothing felt forced or over the top. It was just really warm, natural service.

Having experienced Crystal, I knew what exceptional service at sea could look like, so I was interested to see how Regent would compare. What struck me on Grandeur was how consistent it was. Whether I was relaxing by the pool, heading somewhere else on the ship or just sitting down with a drink, the team always seemed to get the balance right. For me, that's a huge part of what makes a luxury cruise feel special – you know you're being looked after, but you don't have to think about it.

Seven Seas Grandeur underwent a multi-million-dollar refurbishment in late 2025. Having now seen the ship in person, were there any spaces or details that particularly impressed you? 

The overall finish really stood out to me, particularly the way the interiors combine that classic ultra-luxury cruise feel with some distinctive decorative details. You can see Regent Seven Seas’ personality coming through in the design, and everything feels like it belongs there, rather than the art and furnishings just being added for the sake of it.

I really liked the pool deck, too. It felt properly luxurious, there was always plenty of space to settle in and relax, and I never struggled to find somewhere to sit. A cold drink was never far away either, and the Negronis were some of the best I've ever tasted! I could definitely have spent a lot more time there.

The tender experience was another thing that impressed me, and something I can now confidently talk to clients about from first-hand experience. Going ashore was incredibly easy, and the tender itself felt elevated rather than just being a way to get from A to B. It might seem like a small part of the overall experience, but I think it's a good example of how Regent Seven Seas brings their approach to luxury into the practical side of travelling, too. Even those little moments feel thought out.

Seven Seas Grandeur is known for its extraordinary art collection, including works by Picasso and the Fabergé Egg ‘Journey in Jewels’. How much does the art add to the experience of being onboard? Did you find yourself exploring the ship almost as you would a gallery? 

I have to admit, I was a little concerned beforehand that some of the artistic side of the ship might be lost on me. I really enjoy history and can appreciate great design, but I wouldn't exactly call myself an art aficionado! In practice though I found the collection really engaging because it's woven into the ship so naturally. You turn a corridor and there's a Picasso, then you walk somewhere else and something different catches your eye. It makes you want to look around and see what else you can find without it feeling like you're walking around a formal gallery.

The Fabergé Egg was an unexpected highlight. I knew very little about the history behind these pieces before travelling, but I've actually done quite a bit of reading about them since getting home. I always think that's a good sign when something you come across on holiday sparks an interest that carries on long after the trip itself.

I think the collection adds another dimension to the whole experience, too. You're not just moving between beautiful spaces, you're discovering things that give you a better appreciation of the ship and its character. And for someone who enjoys learning a bit about the places they're visiting, that was a really nice part of being onboard.

Regent Seven Seas ships have a reputation for space, with all-suite accommodation and a generous amount of room throughout the ship. How did you find the feeling of space compared with Crystal Serenity? 

Both ships do space very well, although I think it’s worth looking beyond the overall size of a suite and considering how well thought out the layout is, too. 

Crystal Serenity felt very generous in terms of our accommodation, and that was partly because we had a suite that was more expansive than the lead-in category. Seven Seas Grandeur gave me a different perspective on how space can be used, even when you’re not necessarily staying one of the larger suites. 

Across the rest of the ship I never felt that the public areas were difficult to enjoy or that I had to compete for space. The pool deck was a good example of this: it felt relaxed and uncrowded, with room to enjoy the facilities properly. That sense of space makes a big difference to the overall experience. You can be as sociable or as private as you like, which is exactly what a lot of guests want from a luxury cruise. 

What did you make of your suite? Were there any particular details or touches that made it feel especially luxurious? 

We were travelling for work, so our suite was set up with twin beds. The beds themselves felt a little smaller than I would ideally have liked, but the rest of the suite was very spacious. I especially liked that there was a separate living and seating area, it gave us somewhere to sit and relax away from the sleeping area, which makes the design of the suite feel cleverly considered rather than just being a place to sleep. 

Having experienced a larger suite on Crystal Serenity, I could also see how the accommodation on Seven Seas Grandeur would become increasingly impressive as you move up the categories. For clients who spend a lot of time in their suite, or who want that extra room to properly relax, it’s certainly worth exploring the available options. 

I loved watching the sunrises (when I was awake in time to catch them) from our veranda as we approached ports I'd never visited before. There's something special about having that first glimpse of a destination from your own balcony, especially when you're arriving somewhere new. 

How did you find Seven Seas Grandeur’s sports and wellness facilities? Did they feel up to the standard you’d expect from a five-star hotel or resort, and are there any facilities you’d particularly recommend to active clients? 

The gym facilities were outstanding. It was always spotlessly clean, quiet and spacious, with a really good set-up for working out. I never felt rushed or like I had to work around other people, which makes it easier to keep up your usual routine while travelling. If you're staying at a five-star resort, you expect the gym to be well equipped and properly maintained, perhaps even a step up from what you're used to, and Seven Seas Grandeur absolutely delivered on that front.

I also had an incredible massage in the Serene Spa & Wellness. I've had a few on work trips in the past where it's felt like the therapist has held back a little, but this wasn't one of those! I left feeling like my back muscles had had a proper workout which was exactly what I needed.

I'd recommend the facilities to clients who enjoy staying active on holiday but don't want fitness to become a bit of a logistical challenge. You can fit in a proper workout, shower and change, then spend the afternoon by the pool with a cocktail. It's a pretty good way to spend a day, if you ask me!

Regent Seven Seas calls itself “The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience”. After actually experiencing it, are you impressed by what’s included? Does that level of inclusivity genuinely make a difference to the feel of the holiday? 

I think inclusivity makes the biggest difference when it allows you to enjoy the holiday without constantly thinking about the practicalities or the cost of each decision. When you’re considering a luxury cruise experience, it’s important to look at the overall value rather than just the headline fare. What’s included, the standard of accommodation, the dining, the service and the itinerary all contribute to what you ultimately get from your holiday. 

Regent Seven Seas’ approach is enticing because it allows you to settle into the experience and enjoy the ship without feeling like you need to keep reaching for your card. That creates a much more relaxed atmosphere, particularly for travellers who want to make the most of everything available to them. 

I’d always encourage clients to compare the inclusions carefully and consider what matters most to them personally. For some, it’s typically the dining, the facilities and the destinations visited; for others, it might be the accommodation, excursions or simply the reassurance of knowing more of their holiday has been taken care of in advance. 

Regent Seven Seas has an almost 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, which is a pretty extraordinary level of staffing. Did you notice that difference during your time onboard? 

I definitely noticed the quality of the team on board Seven Seas Grandeur. What stood out wasn't just the volume of staff, but how easily the service was delivered. There was always a smile at every point of contact, and the team seemed to have a knack for appearing just when you needed them and blending into the background when you didn't. I never found myself waiting long for a drink, and the service around the pool was particularly impressive. 

That balance is harder to achieve than people might think. Too much attention can feel intrusive, while too little makes you question the level of service. On Seven Seas Grandeur it felt very well judged. 

Having experienced Crystal Serenity as well, I know how much that consistency contributes to the overall impression of a ship. It isn't just one memorable interaction; it's the combined effect of lots of small moments throughout the day. You come away feeling looked after without having to ask for very much at all. 

You’ve now experienced two of the big names in ultra-luxury cruising. Where do you think Crystal and Regent Seven Seas differ most – in atmosphere, service, dining, design or the overall onboard experience? 

I think the biggest difference for me was the atmosphere and design. Crystal has a classic elegance that I really liked, whereas Seven Seas Grandeur had more of a distinctive character, with those decorative flourishes that I’ve come to associate with Regent Seven Seas.

The atmosphere on Seven Seas Grandeur felt really relaxed, too. Guests seemed comfortable just enjoying themselves without feeling the need to make a statement about it. It was quietly luxurious, which I think will appeal to people who appreciate quality but don't necessarily want anything too showy.

I wouldn't say one is better than the other, though. They have their own personalities, and that's part of what makes comparing them so interesting. Having experienced both, I can give clients a much better idea of what each is like and help them work out which one suits them best. It really comes down to how they want to spend their time away.

And conversely, what do Crystal and Regent Seven Seas have in common that you think is essential to getting luxury cruising right? 

Exceptional service and the feeling that you can properly switch off. Both ships understand that luxury is as much about how you feel as what you see around you. You can have beautiful interiors, an impressive suite and an extensive choice of facilities, but if the service isn't right, those things only go so far. What makes the experience memorable is being able to enjoy everything without having to think too hard about the logistics. 

I also think space is really important. Having somewhere to find a little peace and quiet, whether that's your suite, the pool deck or a comfortable lounge, makes the whole experience more enjoyable. 

And then there's the freedom to discover somewhere new almost every day. Waking up in a different destination, spending the day exploring and returning to familiar surroundings in the evening is a great way to travel. Both cruise lines make that feel easy, which is a big part of the attraction. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises are very food-focused, with multiple speciality restaurants and dining included as part of the fare. What were your standout meals on Seven Seas Grandeur? How would you compare the dining with Crystal? 

The dining experience on Seven Seas Grandeur felt carefully thought through, from the presentation to the setting. There was a great sense of occasion at the table, and the Versace tableware added a very decadent flourish, alongside some really delicious wines. As someone with Italian heritage, I can’t help but pay attention to the food wherever I travel. It’s almost expected of me! It's one of the things I look forward to most and I think dining can tell you a lot about a cruise line's personality. Whether I was dining in Compass Rose or Prime 7, Regent Seven Seas offered a lot of decadent choices – black Angus beef, Norwegian gravlax, lobster bisque, filet mignon – and, though I obviously didn’t try them all myself, they did each one especially well. I also felt that the setting and service came together to make meals feel like a proper occasion, while still encouraging you to relax and just enjoy yourself too. 

Your three-night itinerary took you from Lisbon to Portimão, Cádiz and Malaga. Did the shorter sailing feel like a good introduction to Regent Seven Seas, or did it leave you wanting to experience a longer itinerary?

It was a fantastic introduction, but I definitely needed more time onboard. Three nights gave me a taste of what Seven Seas Grandeur offers, but there were still corners of the ship I unfortunately hadn't explored properly by the time we disembarked.  

The itinerary struck a good balance between time on the ship and the chance to explore the likes of Cadiz ashore, but I'd happily have added a few more nights if I could. A longer sailing would give me the chance to enjoy the facilities at a more leisurely pace and get to know the ship properly. And to test out each lounge’s Negroni! 

For anyone considering their first luxury cruise experience, a shorter sailing can be an excellent introduction. Just be prepared to come away with a list of things you want to do next time! 

There’s been plenty of talk around Regent’s ‘World’s Most Luxurious Fleet’ positioning – and Channel 5 even put its ships under the microscope in Secrets of the World’s Most Expensive Cruise Ship. Having now sailed on Grandeur, can you see why they have earned that reputation? 

I can easily see why Seven Seas Grandeur is famous in the world of luxury cruising, particularly when I think about how the experience comes together as a whole. The quality of the interiors, the accommodation, the art collection and the service all contribute, but those elements work together to create a really special ship. With that I also mean that the luxury of the ship wasn't confined to its aesthetics or the obvious showpieces like the Fabergé Egg named Journey in Jewels. It was in the ease of going ashore, the cleanliness and calm of the gym, the free loungers around the pool and the quality of the service. 

Having now experienced both Crystal and Regent, what sort of Destinology client would you recommend Seven Seas Grandeur to? Is there a particular type of traveller you think would really appreciate Regent’s style of luxury? 

I'd recommend Regent Seven Seas to clients who appreciate understated luxury, genuinely attentive service and the freedom to enjoy their holiday without worrying about every little detail. It would definitely suit people who are used to staying at high-end resorts and want to discover a different way of travelling, particularly anyone who enjoys exploring several destinations without constantly packing and unpacking. The combination of the ship and the opportunity to wake up somewhere new is hard to beat. 

I can also see it appealing to travellers who value their own space. The suites offer somewhere comfortable to retreat to, while the public areas give you plenty of choice when you feel like being more sociable. 

For clients who enjoy history, art and discovering new places, there's plenty to engage with beyond the itinerary itself. The art collection onboard Grandeur gave me a reason to look a little closer and learn something new, which I really enjoyed, as would the included and unlimited shore excursions. They cover everything, from wildlife to geography to architecture and food and adventure, so you could quite literally try something brand new you to, in a brand-new destination, every day if you wanted to. 

As a Personal Travel Concierge, I wouldn't recommend a cruise just because of its reputation. I'd want to understand what the client enjoys about their holidays, what they value most and how they like to spend their time. But for someone looking for a polished, relaxed and ultimately very luxurious cruise, Regent Seven Seas would now be a leading recommendation from me.  

Finally, you went into your first Crystal sailing as a complete cruise novice and came away converted. After your second cruise, this time with Regent Seven Seas, has cruising officially become part of your own holiday wish list – and if you could book another sailing tomorrow, where would you go? 

I've come to appreciate how much you can experience on a cruise without losing that feeling of having time to yourself. You can enjoy an incredible butler-served breakfast on your veranda with the destination in view, spend the morning exploring, return to the ship for a workout or an afternoon by the pool, then enjoy a fantastic dinner without having to organise the next part of your journey. 

My love of history means I'd almost always be drawn to an itinerary with plenty of interesting ports to meander around. The Mediterranean would be an obvious choice, maybe with a touch of Italy to see my ‘mother country’ from the sea, but I'd also love to head further afield to Alaska – I think a cruise around all of its glaciers and tracing its volcanoes and fishing ports would be amazing.  

Having now experienced two different approaches to ultra-luxury cruising, I feel much more aware of how varied the options can be. And that's definitely one of the things I enjoy most about working in travel: there's always another destination, another ship or another experience that can change your perspective. And after Seven Seas Grandeur, I'm certainly keen to see what comes next. 

Two cruises in, Isaac has now had the chance to experience ultra-luxury cruising from two very different perspectives. Seven Seas Grandeur brings together the things he already knows matter from the world of five-star hotels - exceptional food, thoughtful service, beautiful spaces and plenty of room to switch off - with the rather useful bonus of waking up somewhere new without packing another suitcase. 

 For a second cruise, it was a serious step up in experience; and for anyone wondering whether Regent Seven Seas really deserves its reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious and inclusive cruise lines, Isaac’s verdict makes for interesting reading.