Seven Seas Explorer vs Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Explorer

Launched in 2016, the Seven Seas Explorer was heralded as "the Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built," and it certainly lives up to that reputation with its opulent and art-filled ambiance. Spanning 14 decks and weighing 55,254 gross tons, the ship showcases an acre of granite and marble, nearly 500 chandeliers, and 2,500 pieces of art, including works by Picasso. The overall feel is one of grand sophistication and meticulous detail, offering a lavish setting for a refined cruising experience.

Seven Seas Splendor

As a newer vessel launched in 2020, the Seven Seas Splendor aimed for "luxury perfected," building upon its predecessor's foundation. This 55,498 gross ton ship, across its 14 decks, presents an all-suite, all-balcony design with a cohesive and exquisitely glamorous aesthetic. It offers a sophisticated yet comfortable environment, where every detail, from tactile artwork to designer dinnerware, contributes to an atmosphere of refined indulgence.

Seven Seas Explorer

The atmosphere onboard Seven Seas Explorer is distinctly sophisticated and adult-oriented, catering primarily to affluent, experienced cruisers. With a comfortable capacity for 750 passengers and a dedicated crew of 542, the service ratio ensures a highly Personalized experience. While the vibe is generally serene, families do find their place during summer and holiday sailings, adding a gentle buzz without disrupting the overall tranquil elegance.

Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Splendor cultivates an atmosphere of all-out glamor and intimate luxury. Designed for a discerning, mature clientele, the ship carries 750 passengers with a crew of 551, providing an exceptional staff-to-guest ratio of 1.36:1. The ship is noted for not being specifically geared towards young families, making it an ideal choice for adult couples and those seeking a quieter, unhurried pace of sophisticated indulgence.

Seven Seas Explorer

Dining on Seven Seas Explorer is a world-class affair, featuring an impressive array of complimentary specialty restaurants. Guests can savor Pan-Asian flavors at Pacific Rim, experience modern French cuisine at Chartreuse, or enjoy classic American steakhouse fare at Prime 7. The main Compass Rose offers customizable multicourse dinners, though some experiences there have been noted as inconsistent. Casual options like the Pool Grill and Coffee Connection, along with 24-hour room service, complete the culinary offerings.

Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Splendor elevates the gastronomic journey, boasting some of the best dining at sea. Its specialty restaurants, including Pacific Rim, Chartreuse, and Prime 7, deliver outstanding culinary experiences. The Compass Rose, adorned with Versace tableware, offers an extensive, customizable menu for dinner. Guests can also enjoy relaxed Italian evenings at Sette Mari at La Veranda, casual fare at the Pool Grill, or specialty coffees at the expanded outdoor seating of Coffee Connection.

Seven Seas Explorer

Entertainment on Seven Seas Explorer is designed to be engaging, if not overly extravagant. The Constellation Theater hosts large-scale production shows, cabaret, and guest headliners, all backed by the Regent Signature Orchestra. For evening socializing, the Explorer Lounge and Meridian Lounge feature live music, while the Casino offers table games and slot machines. The Observation Lounge transforms for dancing, and quieter pursuits include daily trivia, a Card Room, and a Library.

Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Splendor offers a varied nightlife, with nightly performances in the two-deck-high Constellation Theater, including musical shows and stand-up comedy, enhanced by large LED screens. The Splendor Lounge is a vibrant spot for live music and DJ sets, while the Meridian Lounge provides a more intimate setting for pianists and experimental cocktails. The Casino is available for gaming, and the Observation Lounge serves as a versatile space for scenic views, afternoon tea, and late-night dancing.

Seven Seas Explorer

Seven Seas Explorer features 375 all-suite accommodations, each with a private balcony. Entry-level Veranda Suites, at 219 sq ft with an 88 sq ft balcony, offer comfort, though some guests find them a bit compact. Higher categories like Concierge Suites (332 sq ft) add significant space and perks like pre-cruise hotel stays. The opulent Regent Suite, a sprawling 2,917 sq ft, includes a personal in-suite spa with a sauna, a Steinway piano, and exclusive services, representing the pinnacle of luxury at sea.

Seven Seas Splendor

On Seven Seas Splendor, all 375 suites boast private balconies, emphasizing luxury and space. While Veranda Suites are 219 sq ft with an 88 sq ft balcony, Concierge Suites (332 sq ft) are particularly well-appointed with bathtubs and beds facing the balcony. The top-tier Regent Suite is even more expansive at 3,151 sq ft, featuring a $200,000 Hastens Vividus mattress, a Picasso painting, and a master bathroom designed as a personal spa retreat with unlimited in-suite treatments.

Seven Seas Explorer

Service on Seven Seas Explorer is highly Personalized, supported by an impressive crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.38. The experience is designed to be virtually hassle-free, with butler service available in Penthouse Suites and higher. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable, though the casual ordering process at the Pool Grill has been noted as less refined than other aspects of the ship's luxury offering. Valet laundry service is complimentary for all guests.

Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Splendor exemplifies luxury through its intuitive and dedicated service, maintaining a favorable passenger-to-crew ratio of 1.36:1. The onboard style is one of cohesive glamor, where every interaction and detail contributes to a pampered experience. Butler service is a highlight for guests in Penthouse Suites and above, while the inclusion of valet laundry service for all guests underscores the ship's commitment to effortless luxury.

Seven Seas Explorer

Seven Seas Explorer offers a rich tapestry of inclusive shore excursions, from half-day cultural tours to deeper historical explorations, all led by knowledgeable guides. For those seeking unique adventures, premium excursions like helicopter tours are available for an additional charge. The ship also features its distinctive Gourmet Explorer Tours, offering unique opportunities to experience culinary culture, along with Go Local and Behind The Design Tours, providing diverse ways to engage with destinations and cultures. Guests can also enhance their skills with hands-on classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen.

Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Splendor provides an extensive array of included shore excursions, allowing guests to delve into destinations through walking tours, boat trips, and cultural experiences, often facilitated by the SmartGuide app. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in chef-led Epicurean Explorer Tours, unique to both Splendor and Explorer, and hands-on classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen, though fees apply for the latter. The ship also offers Go Local Tours and In-Port Overnights, encouraging deeper immersion into the local nightlife and rhythms of each destination.