Sale now on - Receive a FREE two-category suite upgrade* *Prices already include 2 category suite upgrade. Available on selected suite grades only. All offers are subject to change and maybe withdrawn at any time.
Veranda Suite
WAS £11929pp From £11332PP
Serenity Suite
WAS £12429pp From £11807PP
Concierge Suite
WAS £13309pp From £12643PP
Penthouse Suite
WAS £14699pp From £13964PP
Veranda Suite
WAS £12519pp From £11893PP
Serenity Suite
WAS £13019pp From £12368PP
Concierge Suite
WAS £13899pp From £13204PP
Penthouse Suite
WAS £15289pp From £14524PP
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Just call our team of cruise specialists to help build your dream cruise holiday today!

Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Regent Seven Seas Cruises under ATOL number 10297

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Itinerary

Reykjavík

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and t... Read More

Day 1
28 August 2027

Reykjavík

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Day 2
29 August 2027

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

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Day 3
30 August 2027

Cruising the Labrador Sea

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Day 4
31 August 2027

Nuuk (Godthaab)

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Day 5
01 September 2027

Paamiut (Fredrikshaab)

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Day 6
02 September 2027

Cruising Prince Christian Sound

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Day 7
03 September 2027

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

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Day 8
04 September 2027

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

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Day 9
05 September 2027

Tórshavn

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Day 10
06 September 2027

Cruising the Norwegian Sea

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Day 11
07 September 2027

Trondheim

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Day 12
08 September 2027

Mangalore

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Day 13
09 September 2027

Olden

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Day 14
10 September 2027

Bergen

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Day 15
11 September 2027

Haugesund

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Day 16
12 September 2027

Cruising the North Sea

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Day 17
13 September 2027

Southampton

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*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

Whats Included with
Regent Seven Seas Cruises

A truly all-inclusive holiday with regent seven seas. With FREE unlimited shore excursions, you can taste, tour and savour every moment in over 450 ports. The cruise line offers an unrivalled ultra-luxury experience from start to finish, with everything included - from exquisitely prepared cuisine to opulent all-balcony suites.

Entertainment

Return flights included (UK airports)

WiFi

Gratuities included

24-hour room service

Self-service laundry

Shuttle service to and from ports and airport where available

Unlimited beverages

In-suite mini bar replenished daily

Butler service for selected suites

1:1.5 staff to guest ratio

Unlimited shore excursions

Luxurious, all-suite accommodation

Explore Seven Seas Splendor

There's so much to do on the Seven Seas Splendor. On-board facilities include entertainment venues such as the Constellation Theater and Observation Lounge, as well as the Culinary Arts Kitchen which offers cookery classes to on-board passengers. 

Indulge in fine dining experiences with an array of eating options, including Compass Rose, Coffee Connection, Pacific Rim, Chartreuse, Prime 7 and La Veranda. Out on deck, you will find an infinity pool and putting green - while the ultimate relaxation options can be found in the on-board spa.

The Seven Seas Splendor ship embraces intricate marble patterns and sparkling chandeliers which will guide you deck-by-deck through the cruise's interior, adorned with inspiring spaces which provide sophistication and ambience - a signature Regent Seven Seas Cruises experience.

Deck 14

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 14.png

  • Regent Suite
  • Penthouse Suite A
  • Concierge Suite D

Deck 12

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 12.png

  • Putting Green
  • Paddle Tennis Court
  • Bocce Court
  • Shuffleboard
  • Golf Net
  • Sports Deck
  • Jogging Track
  • Grand Suite GS
  • Splendor Suite SP
  • Penthouse Suite A
  • Concierge Suite D

Deck 11

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  • La Veranda
  • Sette Mari
  • Pool Bar
  • Pool Grill
  • Pool
  • Culinary Arts Kitchen
  • Library
  • Connoisseur Club
  • Card Room
  • Observation Lounge

Deck 10

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  • The Study
  • Prime 7
  • Chartreuse
  • Bridge
  • Grand Suite GS
  • Concierge Suite D
  • Splendor Suite SP
  • Seven Seas Suite SS
  • Penthouse Suite A / B
  • Superior Suite F1

Deck 9

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 9.png

  • Master Suite MS
  • Grand Suite GS
  • Splendor Suite SP
  • Seven Seas Suite SS
  • Penthouse Suite A / B / C
  • Concierge Suite D / E
  • Superior Suite F1 / F2

Deck 8

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 8.png

  • Master Suite MS
  • Seven Seas Suite SS
  • Penthouse Suite B / C
  • Concierge Suite D / E
  • Superior Suite F1 / F2
  • Deluxe Veranda Suite G2

Deck 7

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 7.png

  • Grand Suite GS
  • Seven Seas Suite SS
  • Penthouse Suite B / C
  • Concierge Suite D / E
  • Superior Suite F1 / F2
  • Veranda Suite H

Deck 6

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 6.png

  • Fitness Centre 
  • Concierge Suite E
  • Penthouse Suite B
  • Deluxe Veranda Suite G1 / G2
  • Veranda Suite H

Deck 5

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 5.png

  • Atrium
  • Coffee Connection
  • Constellation Theater
  • Infinity-Edge Plunge Pool
  • Meridian Lounge
  • Pacific Rim
  • Serena Spa & Wellness
  • Destination Services
  • Reception & Concierge
  • Business Centre

Deck 4

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Splendor Deck Plans Deck 4.png

  • Atrium
  • Boutiques
  • Casino
  • Compass Rose
  • Splendor Lounge

Seven Seas Splendor Cabins & Suites

On-board accommodation will comprise a range of suites - from a Veranda Suite to Regent Suite. Many include free unlimited Wi-Fi, luxurious bathroom amenities, plush bathrobes and slippers and a personalised in-suite mini-bar. Discover your Seven Seas Splendor cruise cabin or suite below. 

Meet Our Luxury Cruise Concierge

Our luxury cruise concierge have been on board a vast array of the finest ships at sea and are always happy to share their first-hand experiences to help curate your dream ultra-luxury voyage. From advising you on the best cruise lines and ships to helping you select from a variety of phenomenal destinations and itineraries, your dedicated concierge is on hand to ensure booking your next cruise is as seamless, smooth and tailored to you as possible.

Join us on our social media and take part in the conversation

Related Blogs

The Top 4 Destinations to Visit on a Luxury Cruise in the Autumn

The Top 4 Destinations to Visit on a Luxury Cruise in the Autumn

The Top 4 Destinations to Visit on a Luxury Cruise in the Autumn Autumn is upon us, and as the air grows crisp and the landscapes begin to evolve, there’s no need to halt your travels. In fact, there are plenty of incredible locations you can enjoy across the globe with a luxury cruise, some even more beautiful for visiting them in these colder months. Vicky Chapman reviews some destination highlights to consider as we welcome a new season. Explore Japan Cruises 1. Japan No autumnal destination inspiration would be complete without a mention of Japan. Whilst renowned for its infamous cherry blossom season, the destination is nothing short of breathtaking during the cooler season, boasting an array of foliage, from fiery reds and golden ginkgo to vivid maple leaves across temples, gardens and mountains. The country is home to an endless number of beautiful temples, from Kyoto to Nara and Mount Takao, which glow amongst the seasonal colours. The pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds make it a far more suitable time for sightseeing, hiking and exploring many of Japan’s spectacular cities like Osaka and Tokyo. You can also enjoy the outdoor hot springs whilst surrounded by the colourful scenery in Hakone, Kusatsu or the Japanese Alps. 2. Canada and New England Famed for its vibrant foliage, this beloved area of North America is simply stunning during the Autumn season. With foggy mornings and cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect hiking weather, where you can marvel at the sea of red, orange and golden leaves flooding acres of land. If you’d like to extend your journey pre- or post-cruise, it’s highly recommended to drive one of the region’s iconic routes, like the Kancamagus Highway, Route 100 and Mohawk Trail. Embrace the festive spirit with apple picking, harvest festivals and pumpkin patches. Explore historic sites and discover the many restored 18th and 19th Century buildings. 3. Alaska A destination that is a common highlight of any frequent cruiser, Alaska is an astonishing part of the world, offering unrivalled views of its towering mountain ranges, pristine waters and fascinating wildlife. Aside from the alpine tundra and boreal forests exploding in deep reds, golds and oranges, the autumnal months are also a particularly active time for resident wildlife. Witness bears and moose in their natural habitats and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of whale-watching, so you can see these incredible creatures up close. Autumn also means clear, darker nights, which offers explorers a prime opportunity to witness the northern lights while they’re cruising. 4. Mediterranean While beautiful, the Mediterranean summer often involves rocketing temperatures and intensive crowds. Sailing along this part of the world during the autumn allows you to enjoy the iconic landmarks and sites in comfortable weather without the business. Enjoy less queueing and more exploring, whether you’re sailing around the west from Barcelona or Lisbon, or around the east from Athens or Rome (Civitavecchia). The autumnal season is also the perfect time for river cruising, where you’ll still enjoy lots of sunlight but a more serene, peaceful voyage. Explore the heartland of Europe, from the Rhine or the Seine in France or meandering through Vienna and Budapest down the Danube. If you’re interested in booking a last-minute cruise for this Autumn, or perhaps booking ahead, call our luxury cruise concierge today and let us secure your next dream cruise! destinations Alaska, Australasia, Mediterranean  

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Our Expedition cruise on board Seabourn Venture

Our Expedition cruise on board Seabourn Venture

Our Expedition on board Seabourn Venture Embark upon the adventure of a lifetime with Seabourn Venture! Designed for those curious to explore further and discover the intricate beauty of remote destinations, Seabourn expeditions are truly exceptional voyages that will create memories of a lifetime, one I was fortunate enough to experience. Discover all Seabourn Venture sailings Whether you're an adventure-seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about life on an expedition ship, here’s a glimpse into what awaits you... Steph's expedition cruise with Seabourn I recently had the chance to experience one of our expedition cruises first-hand aboard Seabourn Venture in a Veranda Suite around the Shetlands and Orkneys. One of the main things that drew me to an expedition cruise was the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors in harder to reach places and see incredible wildlife in their natural habitats and this certainly didn't disappoint. I started my journey in Lerwick in Shetland, where I enjoyed a coastal walk and an excursion to Jarlshof, an extraordinary archaeological site in Sumburgh. This prehistoric and Norse settlement offered a fascinating glimpse into thousands of years of human history, with remnants of Bronze Age, Iron Age, Viking, and medieval buildings all in one location. The guide brought the site to life with stories and historical context, making it a truly enriching experience. Our next port of call was Fair Isle, and it quickly became one of the highlights of the trip, marked by my first experience disembarking via zodiac. We began with a scenic hike up to a lighthouse, taking in sweeping views of the rugged coastline while accompanied by the calls of noisy oystercatchers. From there, we made our way to a spot known for puffin sightings and were lucky enough to observe these charming birds up close as they landed, interacted with one another, and caught fish. Before returning to the ship, I took a peaceful walk along a small beach with crystal-clear waters. On our zodiac ride back, we made a brief detour through a sea cave, where we were delighted to spot a playful seal swimming nearby - an unforgettable end to an incredible visit. Explore Expedition Voyages While in port at Kirkwall, I had the chance to explore some of Orkney’s most fascinating cultural and historical landmarks. We began with a visit to St Magnus Cathedral, a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Following that, we took a shore excursion to the Ring of Brodgar, part of Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Neolithic stone circle is set in a dramatic landscape of lochs and rolling hills and our guide painted a vivid picture of the ancient rituals that may have taken place there. We concluded the tour in the charming fishing village of Stromness, where we enjoyed the highly recommended local ice cream. At Copinsay Island, we embarked on a zodiac cruise that offered an incredible opportunity to observe the island's rich birdlife and thriving grey seal population up close. The cliffs and shoreline were alive with seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, shags, and fulmars, while the seals basked on the rocks or bobbed curiously in the water nearby. As if that wasn’t memorable enough, I also had the chance to take part in a submersible dive—an unforgettable experience that took us 30 meters beneath the surface. From the comfort of the sub, we watched jellyfish drift silently by, surrounded by the peaceful, otherworldly atmosphere of the deep. This was a bucket-list moment and a true highlight of the expedition cruise. On board Seabourn Venture   I would highly recommend Seabourn Venture to anyone looking to embark on an expedition cruise. The ship provided a stunning selection of elegant and comfortable spaces to relax in between explorations and the team on board really brought the journey to life, sharing expert knowledge on the surrounding areas and their fascinating history. There are four hot tubs, a small infinity pool, a gym and wellness spa facilities, as well as several bars and lounges on board. At meal times, Seabourn Venture offers dining excellence in terms of range, themed options and quality from The Colonnade, which provides informal dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner, to The Restaurant, a more formal venue, though relatively relaxed based on the Expedition environment. The service was exceptional - friendly, intuitive, and personal. Whether it was remembering your coffee order or keeping your wine glass full, the crew consistently went above and beyond. Discover all Seabourn Venture sailings If my experience has inspired you and you think you may like to embark on your own voyage, please get in touch with our expedition specialist concierge. Deals for Seabourn ships Seabourn Venture  

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Expedition cruises: Why these once-in-a-lifetime holidays are the new way to explore

Expedition cruises: Why these once-in-a-lifetime holidays are the new way to explore

Expedition cruises: Why these once-in-a-lifetime holidays are the new way to explore Have you always wanted to walk in the footsteps of explorers, treading where Charles Darwin formed his theory of evolution or where Sir Ernest Shackleton conquered an ill-fated voyage with no loss of life? Expedition cruises sound like your dream holiday. Offering once-in-a-lifetime journeys to some of the most remote and captivating destinations on the planet, luxury expeditions with cruise lines like Silversea offer unique experiences you will remember forever. Here are six reasons why expedition cruises are the new way to explore. The wildlife Sailing to destinations including the Arctic, Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands and the South Pacific, expedition voyages come complete with a host of bucket-list wildlife. The animals you may see often can’t be found anywhere else on Earth, especially those found in the Galapagos. This living museum is home to Godzilla (the marine iguana), prehistoric relics like the giant tortoise, and iconic birds like the blue-footed booby and diverse Darwin’s finches. The icy fringes of the Arctic are patrolled by polar bears and dominated by walruses, while as well as your fellow passengers and expert guides, your constant companions of Antarctic expeditions are penguins. In the South Pacific, red-footed boobies and exotic frigatebirds dominate the skies, and beneath the waves, expansive coral reefs boast astounding biodiversity. The cruise ships Expedition cruise ships are no like no luxury vessel you have ever seen. Some are armed with reinforced hulls allowing them to slice through Polar ice with ease, while others have been refurbished with environmentally-friendly features that reduce their impact on your destinations. All expedition ships are small in stature, but this doesn’t mean they scrimp on luxury. The experience on-board expedition cruise ships includes gourmet restaurants, stunning public spaces, and plush staterooms and suites. Your every whim is catered for, and there is no better place to rest your feet after a day fuelled by exploration. The guides Experienced local guides will accompany you on every expedition cruise. Experts in their field; historians, botanists, ornithologists, biologists and more will lead your on-shore explorations and treat you to fascinating lectures on-board your ship in the evening. These professional guides will use their knowledge and experience to offer authentic experiences in your destination of choice. From tracking must-see species to offering photography tips and answering all of your burning questions, their expertise will make you feel like a true explorer. The itineraries Luxury expeditions sail to the most remote corners of the planet, and regardless of where you sail, you itinerary will be based around new, unique experiences that you can’t enjoy on everyday luxury sailings. Trek across frozen Arctic landscapes one day before chasing the Northern Lights by snowmobile the next. Hop into a Zodiac and sail right up to looming glaciers, and go in search of polar bears on expansive sea ice. On Galapagos island expeditions, get up close to giant tortoises on Genovesa Island and dive with marine iguanas as they forage for algae beneath the waves. Experience native life among the tribes in Madang in Papua New Guinea, and see Adelie penguins raising their chicks along the Antarctic Peninsula. Luxury cruise lines like Silversea will even help you craft an expedition that is truly bespoke. The cultures Expedition cruises offer cultural immersion like never before. After all, it isn’t every day you can go fishing with local villagers, take part in traditional ceremonies with ancient tribes, and be guided through your destinations by local experts. You will gain incredible insights you simply can’t pick up from documentaries or guidebooks, and feel your view of the world transform forever. The number of guests Their small size doesn’t just mean expedition cruise ships can reach the most remote ports; they are also intimate vessels offering relaxing experiences accompanied by unrivalled service. With as few as 100 passengers on-board, the guest to staff ratio is often 1:1, meaning you can enjoy personalised service from crew members who will get to know your individual tastes. Small passenger numbers also mean more intimate experiences on-shore, with no crowds disrupting the natural behaviour of the wildlife or impacting the natural landscape. Would you like to indulge your inner Attenborough or follow in the footsteps of the world’s great explorers? Book an expedition cruise and discover the world on some of Silversea’s most stunning luxury cruise ships. Click the button below or call our Cruise Concierge team to plan your perfect exploration.

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Spotlight on: Asia

Spotlight on: Asia

Spotlight on: Asia One of the most up-coming luxury cruise destinations, Asia is a perfect combination of cosmopolitan cityscapes, exotic ecosystems and historical highlights. Follow the cherry blossoms of Japan to the temples of Angkor in Cambodia, the vast region is a patchwork of vibrant and tropical landscapes, wonderful local life and truly unforgettable experiences. India Rich in tradition, architecture and history, India needs no introduction. It’s home to some of the most favoured cuisine in the world, varied in its cultural climate, and the perfect place to warm your soul in spirituality. The many elements that make up the greatness of India are ingredients in a smorgasbord of pancake-flat plains and crumbling forts, dusted with spice and washed down with a cooling glass of lassi (a yoghurt drink favoured across the country). Visit Mumbai and experience grand architecture, unique bazaars to barter in and temples to explore. The lively and chaotic streets are a great place to people-watch, while there are still many religious sites, lakes and parks to catch your breath and relax. Alternatively, you could see India on a tour of the Golden Triangle. Usually spread across four- or five-days, the tour combines ancient history with modern life, perfectly introducing three of the region’s top destinations: Jaipur, Delhi and Agra. Enjoy rickshaw rides and visits to iconic landmarks, alongside luxury hotel stays. Bali Bali was voted TripAdvisor Travellers’ Top 10 Choice in 2018 and it’s easy to see why. The region is brimming with exotic wonder and spiritual moments. Lush green paddy fields stretch out from paradise beaches where you can snorkel, surf or simply lie on the sand soaking up the sunshine. It is pristine and peaceful. Tranquillity rests along the remote coast of Candidasa (also known as Segkidu Village) where serene sunsets shine down upon lagoons of blooming water lilies and infinity pools. However, if you can endure the hustle and bustle, it’s well worth a trip to popular Ubud and its busy cultural scene. Here lies one of Bali’s most iconic scenes: the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. Cascading down into the depths of the valley, this innovative irrigation system is the epitome of the regions beautiful scenery and Balinese traditions. Vietnam Another popular region is Vietnam, with a stunning location between Cambodia and the South China Sea. Its home to a plethora of life, from its beaches and mountains to its busy cityscapes. As the country’s capital, Hanoi is a top choice to visit in Vietnam. It’s a city that primes the senses: the blaring horns, the delicious cuisine, the yellow-hued architecture and the delicate scents of spice markets. Meanwhile, in the mountainous north, Sa Pa offers another layer to the dynamics of Vietnam. Perched at the edge of the Hoang Lien Son range, local life dissipates into small villages and magnificent scenery. Watch as the sun sets behind the Fan Si Pan (Vietnam’s highest peak) and breathe in the Vietnamese fusion of old and new – where incense-infused temples feature alongside 21-century skyscrapers. Japan Japan offers a dazzling mix of traditional culture and sci-fi streetscapes. Designer boutiques – check! Utopian mega-malls – check! Centuries-old marketplaces on cobblestone lanes – check! It seems that there is a surprise around every corner in Japan, whether it is reminiscent of the past or hints at the future to come. The capital city, Tokyo, is one of the most populous cities in the world, with more than 13 million residents. The city also tops the list for the most Michelin stars, with over 300 handed out to restaurants across the region. Aside from local life and dining, Japan is also popular for its cherry blossom season – an annual event that is as symbolic as it is beautiful. This worldwide phenomenon offers a stunning display of pink and white that has been celebrated for centuries. Not forgetting another natural wonder, Japan’s Mount Fuji is the country’s largest mountain and an iconic landmark. Rising at 3,775m above sea level it pierces the skyline and can be seen from Tokyo or Yokohama on clear days. Malaysia Supported by the catchy tourist slogan, ‘Malaysia, Truly Asia’, this region is a melting pot of Asian cultures, with no other country hosting Asia’s three major races: Malay, Chinese and Indian. This makes it the perfect place to experience all of Asia in one go – from the dazzling lights of Kuala Lumpur to Malacca’s UNESCO World Heritage city centre. The country is multi-ethnic and multicultural, making it the perfect place to experience all of Asia in one go. Of course, this also means you can enjoy a platter of Asian cuisine, as Malaysia is an all-you-can-eat buffet for visitors to the region. As well as dining, you can also enjoy some of the most ancient ecosystems on earth with treks to unveil national parks, conservation projects and biodiversity like you’ve never seen before. For urban delights, a trip to iconic Kuala Lumpur is a must, as the glitz and glamour of this capital city contrasts perfectly with the cultural landscapes hiding just beyond the trees. Sri Lanka According to the 2016 Mastercard Global Destinations Cities Index, Sri Lanka’s Colombo was the world’s fourth fastest-growing destination for international visitors. But it comes as no surprise when you see the delight and diversity you can feast your eyes on. The region boasts 2,000-plus years of history, highlighted by the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites across the island. With timeless ruins, wandering wildlife and endless beaches, Sri Lanka is a hidden gem and its shining star is Colombo. This tropical city boats coconut palms and bright blue seas alongside colonial architecture and exciting restaurants. It’s a gateway to wild paradises like Weligama and Lunugamvehera national parks, where life remains authentically Sri Lankan. As for wildlife, Sri Lanka will introduce you to herds, packs and flocks of it, from blue whale watching trips to sloth bear spotting. Tick almost everything off your must-see animals off your list and rewrite another, because you will most definitely be returning! Singapore What was once merely a stopover for travellers on their way Australia, Singapore has now become a beacon of the future. Step into a world like no other and experience the wonder of a city fast becoming a firm favourite with cruisers. The vibrant city boasts exceptional tourist delights such as the efficient public transport links that whizz around the region in just a matter of minutes, and Michelin-starred fine dining in renowned restaurants. But it’s not all contemporary living, there is a still a history to the region beneath its futuristic veneer. Ancient treasures such as the Sri Veeramakaliamman (the oldest temple in Singapore) and the architectural gem of the 837-year-old Raffles Hotel are nestled amongst the urban oasis. And oasis it is – Singapore is renowned for its green spaces with the Botanic Gardens a top attraction and the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve just 20 minutes from the centre. Combining the skyscraper-feel of a bustling city with a jungle of horticulture and treetop walkways, Singapore is sneaking up the list of top Asian destinations that everyone will soon be shouting about. With Michelin stars and floating fish farms, cherry blossoms and gleaming skyscrapers, Asia is a continent shrouded in mystery and magic. A pace to wander among colourful culture and flavoursome festivals. Complete with captivating coastlines and majestic mountains, it is a top cruise destination no matter what you want from your voyage.  

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More than a cruise: Cherry blossom season in Japan

More than a cruise: Cherry blossom season in Japan

More than a cruise: Cherry blossom season in Japan Japan’s cherry blossom season is a worldwide phenomenon. The stunning display of pink bursts through the cities and towns of Japan has been celebrated across the region for centuries. The season resides in Japan, where it holds a very prestigious place in the country’s culture. There are a number of cruise lines which visit this region during the cherry blossom season, just so you can experience it first-hand. Read on to find out more about what makes this experience truly unforgettable. What is cherry blossom season? Cherry blossom, also known as sakura, is a beautiful flower which blooms from several trees of the genus Prunus, in particular, the Japanese cherry. The flowers have an affinity with Japan as they bloom once per year across many of the regions in a stunning display of pinks, plums and white. The season is named hanami (flower viewing) which represents not only the cherry blossom blooming but also when locals enjoy cherry blossom viewing and are at their most relaxed. Typical hanami spots include city parks, gardens and rivers, where the trees create a beautiful display of petals. Locals also hang lanterns in the trees which lights up the trees during the evenings for a cosy, alternative perspective of cherry blossom viewing. What do they symbolise? In ancient Japan, cherry blossoms would symbolise the rice-planting season and they were used to bless the year’s harvest. The beauty of the flowers also signified the metaphor of life as the Japanese believed that sakura trees contained spirits which made offerings to them with rice wine. This then grew into the tradition of feasting during the season which eventually evolved into the celebration that we see today. When is cherry blossom season? Japanese cherry blossom season differs from region to region, but it typically starts at the end of January to early May. It only lasts one to two weeks in each region due to the delicate nature of the flowers, sometimes less if it’s raining. The season starts earlier in the south, because of the higher altitudes. Japan’s cherry blossom first begins to bloom in Okinawa in January-February, before moving to more central Japan in March-April, then ending with Hokkaido in May. Where can you see the cherry blossoms in Japan? There are endless places to see the cherry blossoms in Japan, no matter where you choose to go. With luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas, Crystal Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises venturing to a number of Japanese cruise ports, here are the best places to view the cherry blossoms on a cruise. Mount Yoshino, Osaka Mount Yoshino is situated in Yoshinoyama, in the Nara Prefecture. This has been Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spot for years as it is covered in over 30,000 trees. Carpeted in pink and white blossoms, Mount Yoshino offers the perfect place for hanami. The closest cruise port to here is Osaka, which is an hour and a half’s drive from the port. Worth it for the spectacular views from the cherry-tree covered slopes! Cruise lines which sail here include Silversea, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto Walk along the cherry tree-lined canal and enjoy the endless canopies of blossoms above the Philosopher’s Path. The walkway is named after the philosopher, Nishida Kataro, who would meditate as he walked along this path during his daily commute to Kyoto University. The path is approximately two kilometres long, beginning in Ginkakuji and ending in Nanzenji. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes dotted along the line of the canal, perfect for a pit-stop during your relaxing walk. The Philosopher’s Path is situated inland of Kyoto, meaning that cruises to Kyoto would have to travel almost two hours to reach the path. An alternative would be to cruise to Osaka and catch the Shinkansen bullet train from here to Kyoto, taking a remarkable 15 minutes! There are four different lines you can take, depending on where you’re travelling to and from. The fastest is from Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station, which is covered by the JR Pass. Cruise lines which sail to Kyoto include Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Fort Goryokaku, Hakodate This star-shaped citadel is Japan’s first Western-style fortress which was initially built during the Edo Period to defend Hakodate. After losing is military importance as the years have moved on, the fort is now a public park and home to over 1,000 cherry trees. One of the best places to take it all in is from the top of Goryokak Tower, a 107m tower which has an observation deck. Goryokaku Fort is situated close to Hakodate’s port, only a 30-minute bus ride from the dock. Cruise lines which sail here include Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Seabourn, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Shinjuku Garden, Tokyo As one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, Shinjuku Garden is an excellent place to sit back, relax and enjoy hanami in peace and quiet. The gardens have more than 1,000 cherry trees which blossom into a magnificent display during the season. The garden features French, English and Japanese-style gardens and is perfect for watching the world goes by. Many of the trees which blossom here are of the late blossoming variety, so you can opt to visit here after peak season to avoid the busiest time. The garden is situated close to Tokyo cruise port, just a 25-minute drive from the dock. Cruises which sail here include Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Nara Park, Osaka Another prime Osaka hanami spot is Nara Park, which offers a pleasant place to walk not only amongst 1,700 cherry trees but also over 1,000 wild sika deer. The park is a designated Place of Scenic Beauty, and the deers are classified as a national treasure. According to folklore, the deer are considered sacred and believed to be messengers from the gods. You can even purchase deer crackers in the park and feed them! As well as witnessing the stunning cherry blossoms, you can also visit the Nara National Museum and Todai-ji, where the largest wooden building in the world houses a 50 ft tall statue of Buddha. Nara Park is less than an hour’s drive from Osaka’s cruise port, so you can visit here on a sailing quite easily. Cruise lines which sail here include Silversea, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Mount Fuji, Tokyo An iconic natural landscape in its own right, you can tick two natural wonders of Japan off at once by visiting Mount Fuji during cherry blossom season. Visibility of Mount Fuji is usually best in the early morning with a trip to the Fuji Five Lake region, comprising the lakes of Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko and Motosuko. Lake Kawaguchiko is the easiest to reach by public transport, opting to take the train from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko. From here you can view Mount Fuji with its stunning backdrop amidst the beautiful cherry blossoms. Cruises which sail here include Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Hirosaki Castle, Aomori View sakura at Hirosaki Castle and you can look forward to blossom tunnels, boat rides, petal-filled moats and nighttime illuminations. With over 2,500 cherry trees the area bursts into a delicate display of pink petals that makes for a really magical hanami spot. The castle itself is a national important cultural property, with the views of the snow-capped Mount Iwaki in the background offering a wonderful snapshot of Japanese history and nature as one. There’s even a festival in Hirosaki where you can enjoy fireworks, parades and plenty of food stalls serving Japanese delicacies such as yakisoba (fried noodles) and takoyaki (octopus fried in balls of batter). The castle is around an hour’s drive from Aomori’s cruise port, though it’s well worth it just for the experience of the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival. Cruise lines which visit here include Silversea, Seabourn, Oceania Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. Book a luxury cruise to Japan Are you left longing to view the stunning displays of pink blossoms in Japan? Take a luxury cruise here and experience not only this unique natural phenomenon but also the scenery throughout Japan as it offers immersive heritage and history galore. Cruise lines which visit Japan include Azamara Club Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea and Seabourn. See all of our cruises sailing to the region by clicking the button below, or call our Cruise Concierge team on 0808 239 7631 for expert advice and award-winning customer service. See all cruises to Japan

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