Regent or Silversea

[Pudgesmom]

I guess I wasn’t very clear. We are trying Regent partly because he doesn’t need a jacket at dinner. I never shared any opinion about whether we like or dislike the no jeans rule. I’m fine with it
 

I was trying to say that attitudes about jeans are different across the US. And also that customs are ever changing. 

Edited June 19, 2021 by Pudgesmom

[UUNetBill]

Of the 'luxury' lines we've only ever sailed Regent so feel free to discount my post as I haven't actually experienced any of the other lines.

 

But...we did go through the research and comparison process about 12 years ago when we started cruising and through a variety of factors we landed on Regent.  Our second choices were Seabourn and Crystal (very close) with Silversea in last place.  These decisions were based on a combination of amenities, suite size, itineraries, inclusions, and a few other intangibles that we looked at.  We ended up on Regent and have been loyal customers since 2009.  I'm sure if we'd have chosen another line, though, we'd have been quite happy with any of them.  But for us the more relaxed attitude really fits our idea of the perfect vacation getaway.

 

I've said for years that there's no one perfect cruise line...but there's likely a perfect cruise line for you.  As others have said, I'm just thankful to have the choice.

[rervousneck]

19 hours ago, UUNetBill said:

Of the 'luxury' lines we've only ever sailed Regent so feel free to discount my post as I haven't actually experienced any of the other lines.

 

But...we did go through the research and comparison process about 12 years ago when we started cruising and through a variety of factors we landed on Regent.  Our second choices were Seabourn and Crystal (very close) with Silversea in last place.  These decisions were based on a combination of amenities, suite size, itineraries, inclusions, and a few other intangibles that we looked at.  We ended up on Regent and have been loyal customers since 2009.  I'm sure if we'd have chosen another line, though, we'd have been quite happy with any of them.  But for us the more relaxed attitude really fits our idea of the perfect vacation getaway.

 

I've said for years that there's no one perfect cruise line...but there's likely a perfect cruise line for you.  As others have said, I'm just thankful to have the choice.

That is why we chose Regent for our first sail on a luxury line next year. We also considered Silversea.  I'm sure Silversea would be enjoyable though.

I don't  know this, but I suspect there are people(relatives) that dressed for dinner in the past, and it's  just a way of life for them. They enjoy it.  We enjoy a more laid back atmosphere. 

 

[tango223]

We've sailed on both Regent and SilverSea.  Here are some comparisons. 

The service on Silversea was more attentive than on Regent. For example, on Silversea, our butler knew we were on a boat tours of the city lights and recommended that she order either an early room service or she can make a reservation for a late meal when we return.  I don't think the room stewards on Regent knew which shore excursion we were on or not.

Silverseas was more formal and therefore we had to pack both sport coats and suits for my husband and more dressier things for me.  On formal nights, the butlers are white gloved and escort you to either the cocktail party or dinner.  But we like Regent better for their more casual attire and we didn't have to pack as much fancy clothes.   We also like the block party night on Regent where you meet your hall mates with cocktails and hors- d'oeuvres.

 

That being said, we would sail on either one of the lines and would choose based on itinerary and maybe price as Regent is more inclusive.

 

[boblerm]

Do you enjoy the evening production show?  If so, there is no comparison between these 2 fine cruise lines, Regent has elaborate production shows with first class singers and dancers, sound system, lighting, etc.  Our experience with SS is that there is nothing comparable.

Bob

[UUNetBill]

On 6/26/2021 at 10:34 AM, tango223 said:

We've sailed on both Regent and SilverSea.  Here are some comparisons. 

The service on Silversea was more attentive than on Regent. For example, on Silversea, our butler knew we were on a boat tours of the city lights and recommended that she order either an early room service or she can make a reservation for a late meal when we return.  I don't think the room stewards on Regent knew which shore excursion we were on or not.

Silverseas was more formal and therefore we had to pack both sport coats and suits for my husband and more dressier things for me.  On formal nights, the butlers are white gloved and escort you to either the cocktail party or dinner.  But we like Regent better for their more casual attire and we didn't have to pack as much fancy clothes.   We also like the block party night on Regent where you meet your hall mates with cocktails and hors- d'oeuvres.

 

That being said, we would sail on either one of the lines and would choose based on itinerary and maybe price as Regent is more inclusive.

 

As a rule, our stewards didn't always know what we were doing or when we'd be back, but every time we've sailed in a butler suite, the butlers were on top of our itineraries during the day.  And when we've told our room stewards that we wanted our service at a different time they've always accommodated us.

 

And yes, the block parties are great.  🙂

[Dwtlion]

A little off topic but since 2 posters have raised it, I'll ask: tell me more about the block parties. Every cruise? By deck, half deck or? Food & drinks? Assume early in the cruise?

Thanks in advance for your information.

[GOARMY]

Dwtlion:  

 

The Block Party is a roving experience--for the Captain, Cruise Director, and minions including a guy with a video camera recoding the event for posterity (and replaying during the Captain's Farewell Reception in the Theater). This happy group start their trek on the top passenger deck and proceed down the staircase to each level to meet and greet guests.  This usually occurs on the third evening.  First evening:  complete unpacking and getting over any jet-lag for late arrivals; second night--CPT's 1800H General Reception in the Theater open to all. 

 

So, on the third evening:  Purely voluntary.  Guests are encouraged to be in the hallway outside their Suites/Penthouses/Named Suites--whatever.  Time is around 1745H for the start line.  Have empty champagne or wine glass in hand.  That container will be filled by Staff preceding the Captain.  Also, canapes are available.  This provides an opportunity to meet and greet those residing next-door; or across and down the hall.  Then--bugles and Staff strewing rose petals arrive (Joke).  The Captain and Cruise Director--and the camera guy appear.  Hello, and gone down the hall.   

 

This is a fun event, and we always participate.  It is a good ice-breaker to meet your comrades sharing nearby cabins for the next days--or weeks depending on length of cruise.  Plenty of time to repair to a Lounge for a pre-dinner cocktail.  

 

Now--how COVID protocols might affect this when we resume cruising--who knows.  Even prior to the lock-down, the Captain and Staff restricted hand shakes, and such.  Maintain a certain social distance.  That did not diminish the experience.  We have often followed-up with our contiguous shipmates for later social meetings, and dinners aboard; and have established friendships which continue to the present with passengers initially-met during such a Block Party.  

 

Again--strictly a voluntary thing.  

 

GOARMY!

 

[Dwtlion]

Thanks GOARMY.

Am I correct that I will be able to meet you on Splendor's Tokyo-SF cruise?

Dwtlion

[GOARMY]

Dwtlion:  

 

Well, if you substitute Mariner for Splendor--then Yes.  If you are sticking with Splendor--

 

then no. 

 

Wife and I are currently scheduled (second attempt) to be at Tokyo in mid-April, 2022 for pre-stay "Vibrant" experience prior to beginning that hoped-for Mariner crossing to San Francisco.  

 

Who knows?  We were initially scheduled to be aboard Explorer for a somewhat similar April-May 2021 Explorer cruise.  But,  of course, that was one of many of our cruises scuttled due to COVID.

 

Hope springs eternal.   

 

GOARMY!

  

[Dwtlion]

 

2 hours ago, GOARMY said:

Dwtlion:  

 

Well, if you substitute Mariner for Splendor--then Yes.  If you are sticking with Splendor--

 

then no. 

 

 

  

GOARMY:

 Big brain hic-up. I meant Mariner, but was thinking about a Splendor  TA cruise booked for Nov '22.

I am doing the other pre-cruise offered: Tokyo & Hakone.

DWTLION

[Ladys Mom]

10 minutes ago, Dwtlion said:

 

GOARMY:

 Big brain hic-up. I meant Mariner, but was thinking about a Splendor  TA cruise booked for Nov '22.

I am doing the other pre-cruise offered: Tokyo & Hakone.

DWTLION

GOARMY and Dwtlion we look forward to meeting you on the Mariner.  We will be on for the entire World Cruise.

Norma and Mitch

[GOARMY]

Norma and Mitch, and et al:    

 

Bottom line is that spouse and I are on the last segment of that Mariner 2022 San Francisco-Far East-San Francisco itinerary.  So-much uncertainty at this point as to intermediate COVID-related situations in Australia and New Zealand which may impact the cruise.  Let us hope the pending Olympics go off, even sans spectators, at Tokyo in less than a month.  

 

At this point, all one can do is await developments.  Let's stay in touch, with the hope (springing eternal) we CAN meet at Tokyo aboard Mariner in a bit-more than nine months.  Drinks are on me!

 

In the interim--the immediate hope is to be at Barcelona in a bit less than four months (already counting the days) for an Explorer crossing to Miami.  Just-made final payment for that cruise.  

 

Safe travels, and good thoughts.  

 

GOARMY!

 

 

 

 

[ronrick1943]

On 6/16/2021 at 10:57 PM, DavidTheWonderer said:

The word "jeans" is derived from Genoa, whose tailors devised this form of serge cloth.  The word "denim" is derived from the French "serge de Nimes" because the tailors in Nimes, France adopted the Genovese type of serge. So why this Italian- and French-based material is verboten (to bring in a 3rd language) for some folks and Regent after 6 has long been a mystery to me. Even a $1000 pair of pants made of this material by Saint Laurent won't do.  Incidentally, this same form of serge has been produced in India as "dungaree" for hundreds of years.

We’ve seen jeans on Regent after six in all the restaurants from time to time.  The rules say no, but the reality is it happens.

[ronrick1943]

20 hours ago, GOARMY said:

Dwtlion:  

 

Well, if you substitute Mariner for Splendor--then Yes.  If you are sticking with Splendor--

 

then no. 

 

Wife and I are currently scheduled (second attempt) to be at Tokyo in mid-April, 2022 for pre-stay "Vibrant" experience prior to beginning that hoped-for Mariner crossing to San Francisco.  

 

Who knows?  We were initially scheduled to be aboard Explorer for a somewhat similar April-May 2021 Explorer cruise.  But,  of course, that was one of many of our cruises scuttled due to COVID.

 

Hope springs eternal.   

 

GOARMY!

  

It’s a great cruise and the Japanese ports are really fun arriving and departing.  We did this cruise a few years ago.

[ronrick1943]

Just an FYI,the difference between Regent and Silverseas-  can’t say but once cruising starts again we have a Regent booked (Grand Suite-Regent and a Owners Suite-Silverseas) coming up.  So once we’ve completed the cruises will let you know what we think.  One think for booking a Master Suite on Regent you have to take two bedrooms, on Silverseas you have a choice, one or two bedrooms.  That along is a savings not having to pay for a room you won’t use for us.

[GOARMY]

ronrick:

 

One of many a fond memory while aboard Regent ships was docking at Osaka while aboard Voyager a few years' back.  Came to Pier at about 0800H.  A high school band, together with cheer squad and a dance ensemble was in full "swing".  Great jazz and rock & roll favorites.  Took me back to the late '50s on a Friday night at a "Mixer" in the old high school gym.  

 

These kids were really good.  And loud.  Had many of us watching from our balconies singing back to them with  lyrics recalled from the old standards.  The dancers, in '50s garb,  had all the right moves.  This "concert" went on for about 45 minutes.  Thunderous applause from the ship after each song, or dance routine.  

 

My wife and I were able to get down to the Pier while some of the participants were still packing up.  Expressed our appreciation to the Band Leader.  In English, his response:  "Thank you so very much for your kind attention to our kids.  They work so hard to get it right."

 

GOARMY!

 

 

 

 

[ronrick1943]

5 hours ago, GOARMY said:

ronrick:

 

One of many a fond memory while aboard Regent ships was docking at Osaka while aboard Voyager a few years' back.  Came to Pier at about 0800H.  A high school band, together with cheer squad and a dance ensemble was in full "swing".  Great jazz and rock & roll favorites.  Took me back to the late '50s on a Friday night at a "Mixer" in the old high school gym.  

 

These kids were really good.  And loud.  Had many of us watching from our balconies singing back to them with  lyrics recalled from the old standards.  The dancers, in '50s garb,  had all the right moves.  This "concert" went on for about 45 minutes.  Thunderous applause from the ship after each song, or dance routine.  

 

My wife and I were able to get down to the Pier while some of the participants were still packing up.  Expressed our appreciation to the Band Leader.  In English, his response:  "Thank you so very much for your kind attention to our kids.  They work so hard to get it right."

 

GOARMY!

 

 

 

 

Yes, every port in Japan did this on are cruise, both and leaving.  It truly is a show not to be missed.  They are so perfect, they really works hard.  At on port they had set up a stage and the show and a small fair wasn’t all day long.  We had a port side suite (lucky) and didn’t leave the ship that day.  Except for going down to the fair, and a big marching band send off as the ship pull away from the dock.  It was a great day.