A family recently embarked on their first Mediterranean cruise aboard the Seven Seas Splendor, a mid-sized luxury ship operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC). Departing from the port of Piraeus in Athens, Greece, the 732-passenger vessel began a 12-night Radiant Coasts itinerary, with stops including the Italian city of Livorno and Valletta, the capital of Malta.
The cruise experience was a new venture for the family, comprising a parent and her 14-year-old son, Ned. Prior to the trip, they had not considered cruising but were drawn by the appeal of an all-inclusive holiday offering a seamless combination of dining, entertainment, and travel. The ship features 373 suites across ten categories, all of which include balconies. Their accommodation, a Deluxe Veranda suite located midship, boasted spacious twin beds, ample mirrors, and a modern bathroom, enhancing their comfort at sea.
During the first day at sea, the family explored the vessel’s amenities, including a full-circle jogging track on deck 12, table tennis, a golf net, and a pickleball court. These facilities provided recreational opportunities aligned with the son’s interests in golf and paddle sports. Additional onboard attractions include a card room for games like Risk and chess, a spa, and an infinity pool positioned aft with panoramic ocean views, which quickly became a favored relaxation spot.
The Seven Seas Splendor also houses a notable art collection, including three Picasso pieces, as well as decorative elements such as chandeliers and sculptures, contributing to an upscale ambiance. Dining options are extensive with seven restaurants and 24-hour room service. Highlights for the family included Pacific Rim, serving Asian cuisine like beef tataki rolls and black miso cod, and the Prime 7 steakhouse for surf and turf. Casual dining was available at the Pool Grill, with items such as chicken wings and sweet potato fries garnering favorable reviews. The menu primarily caters to American tastes, reflecting the predominantly U.S.-based passenger demographic.
Social interaction formed a significant part of the cruise experience. The passenger demographic skewed older, with the family’s youngest members being adolescents, yet the staff ensured an inclusive environment. Ned participated in Club Mariner, an onboard program for teenagers, and forged friendships with peers and other passengers from various countries during communal meals and activities. The ship employs 547 crew from 39 nationalities, maintaining a high staff-to-guest ratio and a reputation for attentive service.
Although the family enjoyed exploring shore excursions, the extreme summer heat in early August limited the son’s enthusiasm for onshore activities, leading him to prefer spending time aboard. Overall, the cruise was described as a successful introduction to cruising, combining comfort, entertainment, and international travel along the Mediterranean coast.