Ramping up Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ all-inclusive food and beverage offerings for its largest ship might seem like a gargantuan undertaking. But the line’s culinary mastermind said not only will there be no dip in service and product offered, but the new restaurant designs should elevate the level Regent cruisers have come to expect.

The first Seven Seas Explorer passengers sailing around the Mediterranean this summer found an old favorite joined by two new restaurants, said Bernhard Klotz, senior director of culinary for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Chartreuse and Pacific Rim are brand new concepts that will be making their debut, and Prime 7 is our steakhouse that will feature an exciting new interior design.”

He continued: “One of the highlights of the food experience is the variety of offerings found throughout the ship. At Chartreuse, we offer a classic French menu with a modern twist, highlighted by a poached Brittany blue lobster tail glazed with caramelized lobster roe butter on a bed of Sologne white asparagus and Romanesco. At the Pacific Rim the menu offers artfully plated Pan-Asian creations such as grilled Korean barbecue lamb chops, wok-fried beans, eryngii mushroom and gochujang dressing. As part of our all-inclusive offering, each evening at dinner our master sommelier can artfully pair a wine with the meal with no additional charge.”

“With Seven Seas Explorer we have ample space, the ship will feature one of the highest space to guest ratios in the industry,” Klotz said. “Which means, we have plenty of tables available at all of our gourmet restaurants onboard, so no matter when you want to dine, our guests will never have an issue getting seated in one of our restaurants.”

At 54,000 tons, the new ships will only carry 750 passengers.

Being worry free at this price point is perhaps the true meaning of luxury. Enjoying a carefree hotdog night or day is one thing, ordering another bottle of champagne without a second thought is something wholly different.

“Beverages, including beer, fine wines and spirits are all included – whether you are enjoying a wine with your meal, a pre-show cocktail in one of the lounges, or enjoying a beverage from the comfort of your suite. It really enhances the social aspects of the cruise, as guests can socialize in one of our lounges without having to worry about who is going to pick up the tab,” Klotz said.

Excerpt from Cruise Industry News Quarterly Magazine: Fall 2016