My wife and I decided to do something special for our 20th anniversary so we booked a 7 day cruise of the Greek Islands on Regent Seven Seas. After the cruise was completely paid for and we were within a few months of departure, the cruise line offered to upgrade us to a 10 night cruise for the same price. We accepted the offer and selected a 10 night cruise from Barcelona to Istanbul. Although we only stopped at one Greek Island (Santorni) we were both pleased with the ports of call on the longer cruise and we had a great time.

This was our first time on an "all inclusive" cruise and I can't imagine ever going back to one where we sign "chits" for everything and pay for shore excursions and then a large tip at the end of the cruise. Regent provided a very good selection of included wines and cocktails and we never found it necessary to select one of the upgrade options.

At 700 passengers, the Mariner is about the perfect size - large enough to offer all the amenities and small enough to be comfortable without large crowds or long waits. The ship's decor is restrained but nice. No large rooms of garish purples and reds, but more conservative tans and browns. Condition of the ship was very good and everything was very clean and well maintained. The showroom was never overcrowded and the entertainment ranged from very good to outstanding. We really enjoyed the dining options. Most breakfasts were at the excellent buffet in the Veranda. We had one dinner each in Signatures and Prime 7 and both were outstanding. Most of our dinners were in the Compass Rose and the service and food were always very good. We had one lunch at the pool grille which we also enjoyed. The portions (except at Prime 7) were quite small and at first I was concerned, but they were sized to allow enjoyment of the multi course meals. I never left any dining venue hungry, so they got the portion size about right. Read more