Q – The online reviews have all been quite positive for the new Regent Explorer. We’re wondering if Regent will be ordering another one as I understand it takes three years to build? We missed the Inaugural of the Explorer but we may like to book the first sailing of any new ships they launch. By the way, how did all these “reviews” come out about the same time the ship made its first sailing? Do these people who write their evaluations actually sail on these ships?
A – Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Regent’s Owner, has formally announced that a sister ship to the Explorer will be built at the Fincantieri yard in Italy with scheduled delivery in 2020. She will be 54,000 GRT and carry 738 passengers. (GRT is gross registered tons. The ship will also carry approx. 500 crew)
As is often the case, the Explorer sailed a short voyage prior to the formal “Inaugural”. Top agents and the cruise-specialized press were invited. It was a complimentary invitation and the result was immediate buzz online and in the press even before the first sailing was completed. When we say “press” we mean it in the traditional sense. Anyone can blog anything about anything without ever having been near a ship. It is maddening but it is where technology has led us.
By the way, you might note that our evaluation of the new Regent Explorer was not entirely positive. But then again, we didn’t accept the free trip.