Regent Seven Seas Explorer evaluation: Why this all-inclusive cruise is the last word luxurious expertise for solo travellers

Despite my final title, I’ve by no means been on a ship earlier than. At 27, happening a cruise isn’t precisely on the prime of my journey bucket record, both. But when the chance arises to expertise an all-inclusive Regent Seven Seas itinerary, I can hardly say no.

After flying to Bangkok and travelling 40 minutes to the Thai port at Laem Chabang, I board the Seven Seas Explorer. Immediately, my eye is drawn to the large chandelier hanging within the coronary heart of the ship. Then it’s caught by a distinct form of sparkle – a glass of champagne handed to me by a crew member that makes the check-in course of really feel immediately glamorous. It’s additionally a style of issues to return: the employees often ask my title, bear in mind it, and use it liberally all through the journey.

While I anticipate my room to be prepared, I’m free to discover. Walking round, I initially really feel misplaced among the many 746 friends. Though I’m not the youngest passenger, or the one solo traveller, I’m not sure of what to do, so I tag together with just a few individuals who appear like seasoned cruisers.

We head to the spa and wellness centre, the place ink prints are being taken of passengers’ toes to evaluate posture. The spa boasts a steam room, sauna, chilly room, a multisensory “experience shower” and an adults-only pool.

When I later head to my cabin, I’m pleasantly shocked. My Veranda Suite is perhaps the smallest obtainable, however the 28-square-metre room nonetheless feels grand (and, like each suite on board, it encompasses a non-public balcony). My fridge is stocked with smooth drinks and water and after years of being scared of lodge minibar costs, it feels delightfully rebellious to open a complimentary can of Coke. The all-inclusive way of life takes some getting used to.

That night at Chartreuse, the ship’s specialty French restaurant, my waiter spies my black gown and instantly provides me a black serviette. Over dinner I get to know a pair from Canada who’ve been cruising for 22 years and whose final 9 voyages have all been with Regent Seven Seas.

Overnight, we journey to Koh Samui and the subsequent morning I shake off the earlier night’s indulgence with a run across the higher deck, passing the golf driving vary, bocce courtroom and different sports activities actions. Because the ship can’t dock immediately at Samui’s small port, tender boats are used to take us to shore. And whereas getting so many individuals off a ship appears like a recipe for chaos, the method is remarkably fast and environment friendly.

During a beachside Thai cooking class, I chat with two sisters and their mom who inform me that what they love most about cruising is the convenience of it. And it’s true: we’re capable of enter completely different nations with out the effort of transiting by means of a number of airports. It’s equally true that as a lady travelling solo, there’s a way of security that comes with being a part of the neighborhood on a ship. But the most effective half? Only having to unpack as soon as.

The following day is a “sea day”, which I initially concern is perhaps boring. Instead, sitting by the principle pool, studying a e book whereas meals and drinks are delivered to my chair, is an absolute dream. If you requested me to call my joyful place, this may in all probability be it.

For dinner, I head to Compass Rose, the ship’s largest restaurant. Now I’ve settled into the rhythm of ocean life, I can recognize the finer particulars, akin to how every restaurant options its personal china (in Compass Rose, it’s a Versace set). The wine and cocktail lists are additionally completely different for every venue, although all have educated sommeliers who’ll guarantee your glass is rarely empty for lengthy. After dinner, I head to the theatre for an Elton John and Billy Joel tribute present that rapidly will get the group dancing.

When we arrive in Ho Chi Minh City the subsequent day, I determine to skip the provided excursions and take a shuttle bus straight into the town. Wandering the streets provides me a style of being a daily vacationer, free from a schedule.

Even on a busy ship, I uncover, solo journey can often get lonely. That night, at one of many ship’s bars, I realise I’m hogging the cocktail menu. So when somebody approaches, I exploit it as an icebreaker, providing the menu whereas placing up a dialog. It works. I rapidly make buddies, who add me to their WhatsApp group chat. Among them is Carol, one other solo traveller embarking on her first cruise since her husband handed away.

Over the subsequent few days, the group chat pings often. One afternoon, I’m summoned to the commentary deck for trivia. I provide restricted assist, however it’s a thrill to go head-to-head with a rival group. We win, and our celebration dinner that night time is at Pacific Rim, the ship’s Asian fusion restaurant. The meals, together with miso black cod and seafood laksa, is so spectacular I want I may order the complete menu.

On my second-to-last day, I meet Captain Luksa Kristovic and ask him concerning the whispers I’ve been listening to on the passenger grapevine a few new vessel. He confirms the rumours: the Seven Seas Prestige’s maiden voyage is scheduled for December and choose top-tier suites will characteristic in-room elevators, non-public gyms and multi-deck balconies.

As I put together to disembark on my remaining day, my abdomen is full because of a breakfast particular of pancakes and mimosas. But my coronary heart is even fuller: filled with new adventures and, extra importantly, great new buddies.

The author was a visitor of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, crusing on Seven Seas Explorer; www.rssc.com.

Get the most effective of Sunday Life journal delivered to your inbox each Sunday morning. Sign up right here for our free e-newsletter.