Prior to our Western Caribbean cruise on the Navigator we have limited experience of cruising other than two fantastic Mediterranean cruises on the iconic, elegant and very special Club Med 2. We chose Regent Seven Seas because of the small size of the ships (Navigator has a maximum capacity of 490 passengers) and its all truly inclusive approach that included excursions. The cruise visited Key West, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Belize City, Guatemala, Roatan (Honduras) and Costa Maya.
We can honestly say that our expectations were high as a result of the fantastic standard set by Club Med 2. We were not disappointed and, in many respects, our expectations were exceeded by our excellent cruise experience on the Navigator. Having read some of the previous reviews we did have our concerns eg. over reports of surly staff, tired decor and a noisy ship. We are fussy people so we went with eyes wide open. The ship is lovely - true the decor is sometimes 'beigey' and lacking some vibrancy but, considering the ship was built in 1999, it is luxurious, spotlessly clean and extremely well laid out. The ship was full to capacity but we never felt crowded or squeezed and the facilities are of a high quality.
Our Penthouse A suite (1109) was on the highest deck for accommodations and towards the front of the ship. It was spacious -- with an ample walk in wardrobe, large bathroom with a separate and effective separate shower compartment, a lovely lounge area, Queen size bed and balcony. It was really well equipped including your own iPad, daily-replenished mini-bar and the usual TV/DVD player/iPod docking station. It lacked a Nespresso coffee maker but, apparently, that will be corrected from June this year. Suites have their own designated butler and hostess -- Ignatious and Florence were absolutely superb. Nothing was too much trouble and we often had chats about the weather, their origins and aspirations for the future. Ignatious was an outstanding butler -- pre-cruise we indicated online what our soft drink and alcoholic preferences were and, on our arrival, everything was as requested, down to the copious supply of soft fruit. Our daily preference for champagne was never a problem and the quality of all wines and refreshments were outstanding. Premium quality spirits such as Macallan and Glenmorangie malt whiskies and Armagnac were freely available. Florence was meticulous about every detail and kept our suite in tiptop order. With constant supplies of Hermes and L'Occitane toiletries we were truly spoilt.