Seven Seas Navigator Review
Regent delivers on their promise of a first class experience
Rating by category
Additional details
Based on friends' recommendations, we decided to try Regent for our planned Alaska cruise. We have cruised with our children (then teenagers) on Royal Caribbean before - it was great - but this special cruise for just the two of us was perfect.
Although I say "perfect" I will emphasize any info that was actually lacking at all - just for the point of educating anyone planning a cruise on this ship - I know I read lots of reviews and got some good pointers.
Pack lots of layers and varying weather clothes. We ended up having unusually warm and dry weather but we were prepared for all climates. We brought waterproof pants that go over regular pants and come off easily, lightweight rain slicker with hood, a few pairs of hiking pants with zip-off legs, warm wool socks, good waterproof hiking shoes (sneakers). Review the "casual elegant" after 6pm dress code. I went about as casual as I could.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Suite
Cabin was very nice - the bed was very comfortable. Plenty of storage space, large closet (just needed more hangers). Bathroom spacious and clean, shower strong enough. TV and DVD player worked well, favorite station was cruise info with soft rock music. There is a blackout curtain, close the mid-room curtain as well for more noise reduction, the balcony gets a bit squeaky in rougher water.
Good temperature control. Steward service was excellent but we really didn't need anything other than hangers when we arrived.
Port Reviews
Vancouver
Love Vancouver. Great vegetarian restaurants, we had a fine dining experience at The Acorn (wish they had AC - it was unusually hot!). Walked to Granville Island morning of Canada Day on our last morning before boarding the ship. Spent the previous day at UBC - took public transport there (bus and train), easy to navigate. Botanical gardens and campus are lovely. Stayed at the Hampton Inn - good location and have to keep up our HHonors points!
Seward
Much more interesting than expected, the marine center and actual marina are worth spending some time. Also stop and hike to Exit Glacier if you can - you can get very very close with a pretty easy hike.
Anchorage
Lots to do in Anchorage - described (aptly) by a local as a "very ugly city surrounded by the most awesome beauty in nature." Highlights include Kincaid Park, botanical gardens, driving to Girdwood, stopping often to hike, and best of all Alpine Air in Girdwood. Helicopter to glacier and dogsled - truly excellent adventure.