Regent Seven Seas cruises commenced construction on the Seven Seas Prestige, a ship that will soon transcend what we currently consider cruise luxury.

The vessel’s steel cutting ceremony took place today, 29th October, at the Fincantieri-Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy.

Cruise line president Andrea DeMarco said of the vessel: “Seven Seas Prestige represents a new era for Regent Seven Seas Cruises as we once again elevate standards in ultra luxury, all-inclusive vacations. We are delighted to continue our long-established relationship with Fincantieri, a storied name in shipbuilding. This talented team will deliver a ship that transcends luxury, exuding elegance and refinement, while radiating sophistication in every way, from bow to stern.”

Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division general manager Luigi Matarazzo added: “We are proud to partner with Regent Seven Seas Cruises on what will be a revolutionary ship for the ultra-luxury cruise industry. With our long history of building first-class vessels and Regent’s heritage in delivering unrivalled luxury travel experiences, we are excited to begin work on Seven Seas Prestige.”

Along with DeMarco, the ceremony was attended by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings president and CEO Harry Somme and executive vice-president for vessel operations Patrik Dahlgren; Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ senior vice-president of hotel operations Francesco Semeraro, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s vice-president for new build and refurbishment Alberico Trivellone.

Marco Lunardi, shipyard director of the Marghera yard, joined Matarazzo as representatives for Fincantieri.

Bigger and better

Being built by legendary shipbuilder Fincantieri, Seven Seas Prestige will boast one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry with a gross tonnage of 77,000 and hosting up to only 850 guests. 

With more Unrivalled Space at Sea than ever before, the ship will introduce a series of innovations, such as the reimagination of the palatial Regent Suite, new accommodation categories, new dining experiences, and more. These new features will emphasise The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience that Regent is renowned for.

Set to be delivered in 2026, the ship will be the first of two Prestige-Class ships – Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years – following the highly successful Explorer-Class ships launched in 2016, 2020, and 2023, also built by Fincantieri.

Sailing to over 550 destinations globally, the cruise line provides an expansive array of luxuries, so guests enjoy a pampered voyage with unlimited included shore excursions, gourmet cuisine in speciality restaurants and open-air venues, fine wines and spirits, in-suite liquor and mini-bar replenished daily, entertainment, access to spa facilities, unlimited WiFi, valet laundry, gratuities, and a 1-night pre-cruise hotel in Concierge suites and above.