Construction has begun on Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ new ship Seven Seas Explorer.
The first piece of steel for the new ship, which is to be launched in summer 2016, was cut today in Fincantieri in Genoa, Italy.
The first piece of steel will serve as the foundation for an owner’s suite.
During the ceremony at the shipyard, Kunal S. Kamlani, president of the line, and Gabriele Cocco, senior executive vice president of merchant ships for Fincantieri, began a countdown that culminated with a cork being released from a magnum of Krug Grande Cuvée. As the cork was released the laser cut the first piece of steel for the 750-passenger ship.
“We’re one step closer to fulfilling our dream of building the most luxurious ship in the world and giving our guests another exciting option to explore inspired global destinations with our special brand of all-inclusive luxury,” Kamlani said.
“Seven Seas Explorer will surpass the current standard in luxury cruising, offering a new level of grandeur throughout the ship from its lavish suites to its elegant public spaces and gourmet restaurants.”
Giuseppe Bono, chief executive of Fincantieri, said: “We are extremely excited to welcome a new partner in Regent Seven Seas Cruises and to start construction of this brilliant new ship.
“As a global leader in cruise ship construction, we’ve built some of the finest ships at sea. Building the most luxurious ship ever built is quite a challenge, but with our craftsmanship and experience building luxury ships we feel that Seven Seas Explorer will become the definition of excellence.”
The 750-passenger ship’s maiden voyage and inaugural season will go on sale early next year.