Regent Seven Seas marks steel cutting for new Prestige class Seven Seas Prestige

Regent Seven Seas Cruises and the Italian shipyard Fincantieri have celebrated the steel cutting for Seven Seas Prestige, the first of two Prestige class ships and the first new class of ship for the cruise line in 10 years.

The steel cutting is the first major milestone in a ship’s development as it marks the start of construction. The steel pieces will now be welded into pre-built ‘blocks’, which will then be assembled in drydock like giant LEGO pieces.

The steel cutting ceremony took place at the Fincantieri-Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy where Seven Seas Prestige will be built.

“Seven Seas Prestige represents a new era for Regent Seven Seas Cruises as we once again elevate standards in ultra luxury, all-inclusive vacations,” said Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. 

“We are delighted to continue our long-established relationship with Fincantieri, a storied name in shipbuilding. This talented team will deliver a ship that transcends luxury, exuding elegance and refinement, while radiating sophistication in every way, from bow to stern,” he added.

Along with Andrea DeMarco, President, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the ceremony was also attended by Harry Sommer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, the parent company of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. 

Patrik Dahlgren, Executive Vice President Vessel Operations, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd; Francesco Semeraro, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations, Regent Seven Seas Cruises; and Alberico Trivellone, Senior Vice President, Newbuild and Refurbishment, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd were also present.

Seven Seas Prestige will feature one of the highest space to guest ratios in the cruise industry with a gross tonnage of 77,000 but carrying just 850 guests. 

The ship will introduce a range of innovations that are yet to be announced by the cruise line, but it has confirmed these enhancements will include a reimaginating of the palatial Regent Suite, new accommodation categories, and new dining experiences. 

Set to be delivered in 2026, Seven Seas Prestige will be Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years – following the highly successful Explorer-Class ships launched in 2016, 2020, and 2023, which were also built by Fincantieri.