In the cruise world, seasoned cruise travellers will often put Regent Cruises in the luxury category, while Viking Cruises more often gets tied to the semi-luxury category.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is classic ultra‑luxury and nearly fully inclusive. Your fare typically covers unlimited premium beverages, speciality dining, Wi‑Fi, gratuities, transfers, and a broad selection of included shore excursions in most ports. Air is often included—and on many intercontinental itineraries that means business‑class, which is a huge win if long‑haul comfort matters. Concierge‑level and above usually adds a pre‑cruise hotel night and extra perks. In this Regent Seven Seas vs Viking comparison, we compare both cruise lines to see which is the better value.
Viking takes a different approach. The base fare includes Wi‑Fi, at least one included excursion in every port, beer/wine/soft drinks at lunch and dinner, no‑surcharge speciality dining, thermal spa access (on ocean ships), 24‑hour room service, and complimentary self‑service laundry. Gratuities are typically additional on Viking and alcoholic drinks outside mealtimes cost extra unless you buy the Silver Spirits package. Air is typically a low‑cost add‑on or part of promotions, with paid upgrades to premium economy or business. Note: for Australian residents booking with Viking, gratuities are included in the base fare.
Ship Size and Atmosphere: Opulent Intimacy vs Calm Scandinavian Design
Comparing Luxury Lines: Regent Seven Seas vs Viking
When evaluating Regent Seven Seas vs Viking, many travellers consider the unique offerings of each cruise line. While Regent focuses on ultra-luxury experiences, Viking offers a different kind of comfort that appeals to a broader audience.
Regent’s ships carry roughly 490–750 guests and feel intimate and opulent—think marble, art, chandeliers, and a classic luxury vibe. Viking’s ocean ships carry about 930 guests and are intentionally serene: light woods, fireplaces, cosy nooks, and clean Scandinavian lines. Viking removes polarising extras—no casino, no art auctions, no pushy photographers—so the ambience is refined and relaxed. Regent maintains an upscale take on traditional cruising, including a casino and broader evening entertainment.
Suites and Staterooms: All‑Suite vs All‑Veranda
Regent is all‑suite, often with walk‑in closets, marble bathrooms, and residential styling. Higher categories bring butler service and in‑suite dining from speciality venues. Viking is all‑veranda across every stateroom—a big plus for fresh air lovers. Cabins are beautifully designed but generally smaller than equivalently priced Regent suites, and Viking does not offer butler service.
Dining and Drinks: Unlimited Indulgence vs Smart Value
Understanding the differences in dining experiences can greatly influence your decision in the Regent Seven Seas vs Viking debate. Both cruise lines provide exceptional culinary options, but their approaches differ significantly.
On Regent, order what you like—premium spirits, fine wines, speciality coffees, and speciality restaurants are included. If your day includes a pre‑dinner martini, a post‑show cognac, and sparkling water in your suite, you may never sign a slip. Viking’s food quality is excellent, and Manfredi’s and The Chef’s Table carry no cover charge, but drinks outside meals are extra unless you have the beverage package. Light drinkers often find Viking exceptional value; cocktail enthusiasts may see Regent’s higher fare pay for itself.
Excursions and Enrichment: More Included vs One Per Port
The excursions offered on Regent Seven Seas vs Viking are another important aspect to consider. Regent’s extensive shore excursion offerings often include unique cultural experiences that enhance the overall journey, while Viking’s excursions focus on immersive, local interactions.
Regent includes a large menu of shore excursions in most ports, typically with an additional tier of extra‑charge “Regent Choice” experiences for small groups or special access. You can frequently take multiple included tours on longer calls. Viking guarantees at least one included highlights tour per port, plus a robust catalogue of optional paid experiences for deeper dives.
Quick Value Test: Which Model Fits Your Habits?
- If you mainly drink at meals, are happy with one included city tour, and don’t mind separate gratuities, Viking typically wins on price—especially on port‑intensive itineraries.
- If you want top‑shelf cocktails anytime, prefer two tours on long port days, don’t want to think about tips, and value lie‑flat business‑class air on intercontinental trips, Regent’s fare makes sense once you add Viking extras.
Cost Comparison
Example scenario (prices always subject to change): a 10‑night Mediterranean cruise in May 2027 showed a Regent Deluxe Veranda Suite H at $8,200 pp including gratuities, drinks anytime, and unlimited shore excursions. A comparable Viking 11‑day Mediterranean itinerary in May 2027 listed a Veranda V1 at 8,199 (V2 typically $200 less when available), not including gratuities or drinks outside meals. Add suggested gratuities 17 pp/day) and a drink package ($27 pp/day) to Viking and Regent can come out ahead for some travellers.
Service Culture:
Service culture is paramount in the Regent Seven Seas vs Viking conversation. Regent prides itself on a high staff-to-guest ratio, ensuring personalised service, while Viking offers a more streamlined, efficient approach.
Regent’s crew‑to‑guest ratio is among the best at sea. Staff learn your preferences; butlers handle details in higher suites; you’ll hear more “of course” than “that’s extra.” Viking’s service is warm, polished, and efficient with Scandinavian calm—slightly fewer visible staff, operations that run like clockwork, and very well‑managed dining rooms.
Wellness and Spa: Daily Thermal Bliss vs Classic Luxury Spas
Wellness offerings can influence your choice in the Regent Seven Seas vs Viking decision as well. Viking’s complimentary thermal suite is a highlight for many, whereas Regent’s spas focus more on luxury treatments.
Viking’s thermal suite—sauna, steam, pools, and the snow grotto—is complimentary on ocean ships, a standout perk if you’ll use it daily. Treatments are extra. Regent’s spas are luxurious; access to thermal areas varies by ship, sometimes complimentary and sometimes tied to treatments or suite categories. Fitness centres on both lines are modern and well-equipped.
Entertainment, Nightlife, and Dress Code
When it comes to entertainment options, a key point in the Regent Seven Seas vs Viking discussion is the type of performances and activities available during the evenings on board.
Viking favours intimate performances—string quartets, guitarists, destination‑themed shows—and has no casino. Regent offers traditional production shows, guest headliners, dancing, and a modest casino. Evenings on both brands are elegant‑casual; Regent leans slightly dressier, with jackets more common (not required).
Who’s Allowed On Board: Adults‑Only vs Family‑Friendly
Family-friendliness is another factor in the Regent Seven Seas vs Viking comparison. Families may appreciate Regent’s Club Mariner programs, while adults-only cruises on Viking attract a different demographic.
Viking Ocean is adults‑only (18+), keeping spaces serene even in school holidays. Regent welcomes families and offers seasonal Club Mariner youth programs; you’ll see more multigenerational groups on holiday and summer sailings. Outside of school holidays it is rare to see any children on board Regent.
The Little‑Known Tiebreaker: Guest‑to‑Space Ratio
Viking’s guest‑to‑space ratio is around 51 on many ships (gross tonnage divided by guests). Regent averages over 70 on most ships—a considerable difference that translates into noticeably more space per guest in public areas. If elbow room and a sense of spaciousness are priorities, this metric can tip the decision.
Lastly, understanding the guest-to-space ratio can play a significant role in your choice between Regent Seven Seas vs Viking. More space often translates to a more comfortable cruising experience.
Bottom Line: Price the Trip You’ll Actually Take
List your real habits—air class, pre‑cruise hotel, transfers, daily drinks, number of tours, spa time, laundry—and compare the true totals. If adults‑only serenity, destination‑focused programming, and Scandinavian design speak to you, Viking shines. If you want top‑shelf everything included, ample space, and to never sign a check, Regent often wins. Both deliver excellent cuisine, thoughtful service, and rich itineraries; the “best” is the one that matches how you like to travel.
Ultimately, your decision in the Regent Seven Seas vs Viking debate should reflect your personal travel preferences, ensuring you choose the cruise line that aligns with your ideal vacation experience.
You can also check out our other cruise line comparisons here.
