by Ana Figueroa
Last updated: 12:31 PM ET, Fri June 29, 2018
Regent Seven Seas Cruises marked a milestone yesterday, with the keel laying ceremony for Seven Seas Splendor.
With the ship set to debut in 2020, the event took place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy.
"Seven Seas Explorer has earned remarkable acclaim since debuting in 2016 as the most luxurious ship ever built. Now, her sister Seven Seas Splendor builds upon the success of that lauded ship as it strives to perfect uncompromised luxury on the seas," said Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. "In our pursuit to exceed guest expectations, we are creating a work of art, from bow to stern. Wherever you turn on Seven Seas Splendor, you will be surrounded by elegance, comfort, and hospitality."
During the ceremony, Montague and shipyard director Giovanni Stecconi placed three coins in the keel of the ship. According to shipbuilding tradition, the coins will remain embedded there for the ship's entire life. They are said to bring good fortune for all who sail on her.
One of the coins dates back to the ancient Roman empire. It features Neptune, god of the sea, and was minted during the reign of Hadrian (117 to 138 AD).
The second coin was a Spanish Gold "Escudo" from the 1700s. It commemorates Seven Seas Splendor's inaugural voyage on February 7, 2020, from Barcelona Spain to Miami.
The third coin was a commemorative, etched with the date of the keel laying ceremony.
The first of 210 blocks were lifted into the dry dark, officially launching the ship's construction also took place during the ceremony.
The all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Splendor will accommodate 750 guests in 375 suites. Sizes range from the 307 square-foot Veranda Suite to the 4,443 square-foot Regent Suite. The latter features a private spa with steam room, a custom heated spa on a private balcony, and ceramic-heated lounge beds. Regent Suite guests also enjoy butler service and a driver for port excursions.
Guests at the keel laying ceremony toured full-size models of Concierge and Penthouse suites.
"We designed these suites, and the entire ship, with meticulous attention to every detail. The thickness of a doorknob, the sleekness of a headboard, the style of a chair, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a ship that perfects luxury," said Robin Lindsay, executive vice president of vessel operations for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a brand of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. The global cruise company also operates the Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises brands.
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