I started this voyage aboard Regent Seven Seas’ Splendor in Monaco where the process of checking in and boarding was very quick and easy.

The suite was towards the stern of the ship, close to the lift and near two of the speciality restaurants, Chartreuse and Prime7: a great position, with it also being one deck up to the main restaurant, La Veranda, and the pool area.

The pool deck is of course the location of the Pool Grill – my first stop for lunch with it’s mixture of buffet items and a comprehensive range of food to order. The large main pool was surrounded by a variety of chairs, sun-loungers and beds but it never felt overcrowded and I was always able to find somewhere to sit, no matter the time of day. The spa pool – an oasis of calm – was open for use at any time and was lovely. In fact this pool, an infinity pool at the stern of the ship was my favourite spot on board. It’s simply a lovely, quiet place to sit and relax

All the food options on board the Splendour were amazing, from Coffee Connections to my favourite, Prime7 steakhouse, where reservations are needed for dinner, but not for lunch (and it’s perfect for long, casual lunches). Next in my order of preferences would be the pan-asian cuisine focused Pacific Rim where the amazing full-size dragon in the entrance draws you in!

Throughout, the ship’s walls are hung with beautiful artwork: all the lounges and bars tastefully decorated giving passengers a sense of calm amid luxurious surroundings.

Entertainment aboard included live music from a range of musicians delivering a range of styles from orchestral to pop, through highly entertaining shows to very accomplished comedy. There was something for everyone in the program.

While on board I participated in the Culinary Arts Kitchen Class (prices for this vary depending on the course taken) with a focus on preparing ‘Anytime Brunch Favourites’. My classmates and I had fully equipped individual workstations laid out in a semi-circle facing the chef who showed us what to do. We made, and then ate, our dishes and it was a great experience. Lots of fun. I absolutely recommend doing this!

With unlimited shore excursions included, delivering cultural, historical and experiential tours at every destination on our itinerary, I was able to indulge and returned each day with something new to remember and talk about. I have to say that my favourite trip was to Ephesus near Kusadasi.

I think anyone lucky enough to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises or on Splendor specifically, will find it easy to recommend the experience. I certainly do.