EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION: We joined a two-night, three-day media cruise just before the Seven Seas Grandeur’s inaugural passenger sailing. Driving from Sarasota to PortMiami’s Cruise Terminal J, we were greeted by the new ship at the dock. Parking is convenient directly across the street, allowing an easy walk from car to gangway. Check-in moved quickly and included updated photos for our ID cards. Although cabins might not have been ready, we dropped off our luggage and enjoyed a leisurely pre-cruise lunch at La Veranda — a buffet with aft views and a relaxed atmosphere. It was the perfect way to unwind after the drive and enjoy a glass of Sancerre before boarding activities began.
GUEST QUARTERS: We stayed in Suite 768, a Concierge Suite that included the ship’s all-inclusive amenities and a private balcony. The suite featured a comfortable king-sized Suite Slumber Bed, a large marble-accented bathroom with Jasim & Bergamote L’Occitane bath products, and an expansive walk-in closet. The entry hall opened into a spacious living area that led to the balcony. A tailored sofa fit against the wall and a generous table provided space for coffee or breakfast, while a built-in station housed a minibar and an Illy coffee maker beneath a large flat-screen TV. The cabin had a pleasant, fresh “new ship” scent and plenty of room to relax.
PHOTO: © REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES
SERVICES/AMENITIES: At 55,500 gross tonnage, with capacity for 744 guests across 372 suites and a crew of 548, Seven Seas Grandeur strikes a balance between space and service, offering an elevated crew-to-passenger ratio. The ship houses a significant art collection, including the only Fabergé egg permanently displayed at sea, which adds to the onboard atmosphere and sense of luxury.
The dining program is extensive. Compass Rose serves as the flagship restaurant, while Chartreuse presents French-inspired cuisine in an Art Deco setting. Prime 7 evokes a classic New York steakhouse, and Pacific Rim showcases Asian flavors, greeting guests with an impressive bonsai cherry tree sculpture by Savoy Studios. In total, the ship features seven dining venues and numerous bars, giving passengers plenty of culinary choices throughout the short voyage.
Public spaces encourage relaxed and varied experiences. The Meridian Lounge hosts afternoon tea and evening entertainment; the Grandeur Lounge opposite the casino offers a comfortable place to end the night. The Observation Lounge delivers panoramic views, and quieter corners such as the library and cigar bar provided opportunities to meet other guests. Poolside, the Pool Grill served an excellent lunch on a sea day, and the ship’s pool areas were inviting and well-maintained.
Active passengers will find options such as a golf driving net, pickleball court, bocce ball court, and putting green, plus a fully equipped spa for treatments and relaxation. Evenings feature productions in the Constellation Theater; we attended performances after dinner both nights, which rounded out each day nicely.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- I booked a haircut at the Serene Spa during our time at sea.
- We received a numbered lithograph of the Fabergé egg as a gift and framed it with our key card as a keepsake.
- Notice the Versace-designed plates used in Compass Rose — a detail that reflects the line’s attention to luxury design.
- Many guests remark that once you sail with Regent, you rarely return to other lines — the onboard service and ambiance leave a lasting impression.