23rd June 2017: On a recent trip on board the Regent Seven Seas Explorer, our Cruise Specialist and Clifton branch Manager Lisa, shares with us the different types of entertainment on board. From cooking classes to a running track, the Explorer truly has it all.
Upon arrival at Dartmouth, the Regent Seven Seas Explorer was not visible as the waters are too shallow for her to dock. It was a glorious warm day and the bright yellow tender boats were the tell-tale signs that the Explorer wasn't too far away. I boarded the tender which, was pristine clean and branded with the ships name on the side, for a wonderful short trip out of Dartmouth harbour into the open sea.
It wasn't long before the Explorer was in sight and she was looked stunning!
After a quick and efficient security check, we were onto the main deck. I was keen to find out more about the entertainment, leisure facilities and other types of activities available on the Explorer as I had heard so many great things.
Outdoor Sports
I made my way up to deck 12 and I was taken aback not only the range of sports facilities on offer here, but also the type of activities on board as they differ greatly from other cruise ships I have been on. In the open air and glorious sunshine, you’re able to enjoy a running track, putting green, paddle tennis, shuffle-board, and a boccie court! Many other cruise lines offer activities but what stands out for me is that the activities reflect the high-class ship you're sailing on.
Puzzle Room
One of my personal highlights and something I've never seen on any other ship was the ‘puzzle table’ area where guests are encouraged to visit whilst on board and pop together a few pieces - the aim being to have a completed puzzle by the end of the cruise. The puzzle board is located next to big windows so you can puzzle with a view! This is a lovely and sociable touch and you can spend as little or as much time here as you please.
On Shore Excursions
All cruises offer on shore excursions but, with Regent Seven Seas there’s a twist. All of your shore excursions are included in the price! So, guests are able to choose to take part in as many or as few as they like. Each excursion can be booked before you travel meaning we can organise your days for you beforehand so your trip is hassle free. While the overwhelming majority of excursions are included in the price, there are a few which come with a supplement but these are optional and the range of complimentary excursions is extensive.
My favourite excursion, which is exclusive to the Explorer, is the 'Gourmet Explorer' tour. During which, you’ll disembark the ship with a master chef and visit the best local restaurants and food markets before the chef uses the ingredients to show you how to produce a glorious evening meal, before trying to cook it for yourself. Starting from $69pp this intimate, hands-on experience is hard to come by anywhere on land or at sea so, in my opinion, it’s definitely worth the supplement!
Luxury Entertainment
The usual entertainment facilities which you can find on most ships are also included on board the Explorer such as; a casino, card room and observation lounge etc. However, the difference here, is the sheer luxury of everything on board. This beautiful ship rates itself as a six star cruise experience and, upon seeing the ship, it is certainly worthy of this rating.
Meridian Lounge
The perfect location for an evening cocktail while relaxing in its elegantly furnished arm chairs, the Meridian Lounge is rich with entertainment in the evening. Famous for its virtuoso performances by resident musicians, this lounge is the perfect place for guests to unwind after an evening of fantastic entertainment in the Constellation Theatre.
Constellation Theatre
A super spacious area with comfortable chairs and tables make for the perfect to place for your chilled champagne. The theatre was one of the nicest I’ve seen on any ship, its two floors and ample space allows for a large stage which enables you to see from every angle. Every seat in the house is the best seat in the house! The theatre regularly puts on live music shows and theatre productions as well as film screenings where you can enjoy free popcorn whilst watching.
Its cabaret-style seats and distinctive French style, make enjoying a show in the Constellation Theatre comfortable and encompasses everything you’d hope to see in a theatre. With many original musicals such as; ‘My Revelation,' an original musical which explores how British music like the ‘Beatlemania’ phenomenon, took over North America. Definitely one to watch whilst on board.
Infinity Pool
Branded the world’s most luxurious cruise ship, the Explorer boasts the most beautiful pool deck and not only this, for something extra special, make your way to the back of the ship where you’ll find its heated infinity pool! One of the most beautiful areas I’ve seen on a ship, its limited number of sun loungers make this area the most perfect place to unwind after a busy day in port.
Culinary Arts Kitchen
The final part of the ship I was eager to see was the ship’s culinary arts kitchen – again, the first at sea. Designed with a French theme and nearly 20 individual cooking stations, each equipped with the latest culinary technology, you can book a lesson with a culinary master and fine-tune your cooking skills. Each lesson is themed and range from Nordic style to delicious deserts to Caribbean flavours, and, with so much to choose from, you’ll definitely find something to tantalise your taste buds! I can imagine this experience will be a firm favourite for those days at sea.
Final thoughts
Overall the activities and entertainment on board the Regent Seven Seas Explorer are a cut above the rest. There is a twist of luxury in everything they do on board. The facilities and activities are not particularly innovative, nor do they cater for the masses, but everything done on board is of a small scale and is done to absolute perfection. A very familiar cruise experience, but likely one that will not be out done by any other cruise ship or ocean liner.
Lisa Burnham, Manager
Phone Lisa: 01172 232096
Email Lisa: [email protected]
Address: 20 Princess Victoria Street, Clifton Village, Bristol, BS8 4BP