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Who Reigns Supreme in Luxury Cruising?
You’ve done it. You’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of luxury cruising, and now you’re faced with one of the biggest travel dilemmas—Viking vs Regent Cruises. Which one is better? Which offers the most value? And, perhaps most importantly, which one will make you feel like royalty without the stress of decision fatigue?
As someone who lives and breathes luxury travel (and has spent more time on cruise ships than on land at this point…well, almost), I’ve experienced both Viking and Regent firsthand. And let me tell you—these two brands could not be more different. So, let’s break it down and settle this debate once and for all.
The All-Inclusive Battle: Who Truly Includes It All?
Viking’s “Inclusive Value”
Viking does a good job of marketing itself as an “inclusive” cruise line, and to an extent, it delivers. With Viking, you get:
- Complimentary shore excursions (though they tend to be more generic sightseeing tours)
- Wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner
- Free WiFi (but it’s spotty at best)
- Specialty dining (limited options compared to Regent)
However, there are some notable exclusions, like gratuities (yes, you have to pay those separately), premium spirits, and more immersive, private excursions.
Regent’s “Most Inclusive Luxury Experience”
If you want true all-inclusive luxury, Regent Seven Seas Cruises takes the crown. Regent includes:
- Unlimited shore excursions (and I’m talking immersive, high-end experiences, not just a 30-minute city bus tour)
- Premium spirits, fine wines, and champagne (because if you’re cruising in luxury, you deserve the good stuff)
- All specialty dining, available as often as you want
- Pre-paid gratuities (no awkward tip calculations at the end of your trip)
- Valet laundry service (because who wants to deal with laundry on vacation?)
- STARLINK WIFI (did someone say goodbye spotty internet?!)
Winner: Regent Seven Seas Cruises. When comparing Viking vs Regent Cruises, Viking includes a lot, but Regent truly takes care of everything.
Ship Design & Atmosphere: Who Does It Better?
Viking’s Scandinavian Minimalism
Viking ships are sleek, modern, and have that minimalist Scandinavian design. Think clean lines, light wood, and neutral colors. There’s a focus on a quiet, intimate atmosphere, with no casinos and a more “museum-like” ambiance.
Great if you like a subdued vibe, but if you want a touch of grandeur, you might feel a little underwhelmed.
Regent’s Opulence & Elegance
Regent ships, on the other hand, scream luxury. Think marble staircases, dazzling chandeliers, and the kind of elegant design you’d expect from a five-star European hotel. Every suite has a private balcony, and the overall atmosphere is one of sophisticated indulgence.
Winner: Regent, for those who love a true luxury feel. Viking wins if you prefer understated elegance.
Accommodations: Who Gives You the Best Suite Life?
Viking’s Staterooms
Viking’s cabins are spacious and well-designed, with king-sized beds, heated bathroom floors, and sleek decor. However, the majority of Viking’s staterooms are not suites—they are comfortable, but they lack the extravagance that true luxury travelers might crave.
Regent’s Suite Extravaganza
Regent, on the other hand, only has suites. And not just any suites—lavish, spacious sanctuaries at sea. Did I mention that my last mid-tier suite I had on a Regent ship had a closet as big as a Carnival Cruises whole stateroom?! Some highlights:
- Regent Suite (4,400+ square feet!): Comes with a private spa, personal butler, and unlimited in-suite spa treatments.
- Penthouse Suites: Butler service, upgraded amenities, and spacious living areas.
- Even the entry-level suites are massive compared to Viking’s staterooms.
Winner: Regent by a landslide. Viking is comfortable, but Regent is luxury.
Dining: Michelin-Star Quality or Just Good Food?
Viking’s Culinary Experience
Viking offers solid dining experiences with a handful of specialty restaurants. The food is very good, but not necessarily “blow your mind” exceptional. They have:
- The Restaurant (main dining)
- Manfredi’s (Italian)
- The Chef’s Table (tasting menus)
Regent’s Epicurean Indulgence
Regent goes above and beyond with its dining. Every meal feels like it’s been crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. Dining includes:
- Compass Rose (customizable dining, with your choice of meats, sauces, and sides)
- Prime 7 (arguably the best steakhouse at sea)
- Chartreuse (French fine dining)
- Pacific Rim (pan-Asian cuisine)
Oh, and you never have to pay extra for specialty dining.
Winner: Regent Seven Seas. Viking is great, but Regent is a full-on culinary experience and when comparing Viking vs Regent Cruises for food – the winner is clear.
Entertainment & Enrichment: Culture vs. Extravaganza
Viking’s Intellectual Approach
Viking leans heavily into cultural enrichment. Expect history lectures, TED Talk-style discussions, and classical music performances. No casinos, no Broadway-style shows, and no high-energy nightlife.
Regent’s World-Class Entertainment
Regent, on the other hand, offers almost everything—Broadway-caliber performances, live music, and even high-end, stunning casinos. You can be as refined or as lively as you want to be.
Winner: Depends on what you like. Viking wins for purely intellectuals, Regent for those who want variety of sophistication.
Viking vs Regent Cruises: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Viking If:
✔️ You prefer a quieter, more academic cruising experience.
✔️ You don’t mind paying extra for certain luxury perks.
✔️ You enjoy a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic.
Choose Regent If:
✔️ You want true all-inclusive luxury—no hidden costs, no surprise fees.
✔️ You crave the best in dining, accommodations, and onboard experiences.
✔️ You want larger, more extravagant suites.
The Verdict: Viking vs Regent Cruises—Who Wins?
For those who want true ultra-luxury, Regent Seven Seas Cruises wins—hands down. Viking is a fantastic option for well-traveled, intellectually curious cruisers, but Regent is the best of the best when it comes to an all-inclusive luxury experience.
And if you’re still unsure which is right for you, Reliant Cruising is here to help. As Addison Jaynes always says, “Your cruise should be just as luxurious as your destination. Don’t settle.”
Email us at hello@reliantcruising.com, and we’ll find the perfect cruise tailored just for you.
