Just when I thought the partying was over and time to pull out the exercise equipment to combat over-indulgences during the last celebratory quarter of 2006, I’ve found a cruise line pampering those who are foodies and wine connoisseurs.  Regent Seven Seas cruise line (RSSC) has itineraries for the 2007 year that will cause your mouth to water and ask for seconds.  However, before preparing to board one of these dining extravaganzas, be sure you have your passport with the new 2007 changes:  PASSPORT ADVISORY: Effective January 8, 2007 Regent Seven Seas Cruises will require all travelers, including U.S. citizens, traveling to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda to have a valid passport. Please obtain or renew your passports early.

Regent Seven Seas has ships which cater to the more “upscale but not uptight” guest.  These ships allow for hundreds instead of thousands to be wined and dined.  The 2003 Seven Seas Voyager with her all-suites, all-balcony rooms is just one of the luxury ladies in a fleet of six-star ships.   Seven Seas Mariner, with her capacity for 700 passengers accommodates guests in ocean view suites from a paltry 301 sq. ft. to a 2002 sq. ft. luxury suite, each with its own private balcony.  Having her start up in 2001, the 50,000 ton ship is the first with a Le Cordon Bleu restaurant at sea.  There is other open-seating dining venues aboard which will accommodate the toughest of palates.  Sister ship Voyager also has four dining opportunities including Signatures, the world’s second Le Cordon Bleu restaurant, and Latitudes, a unique restaurant developed to stimulate the American palate.  The Seven Seas Navigator and the Paul Gauguin (French cuisine inspired), along with the Antarctica touring – Explorer II, make up the rest of the Regent Seven Seas cruise line. 

RSSC features a program called “Circle of Interest.”  These interest programs allow passengers to share common experiences with one another which enhance the cruise and help to build relationships with one another.   So, foodie, you will be in the right atmosphere to enjoy food and wine with your companions and new found friends!

The 2007 itinerary is set to start off with two January Le Cordon Bleu cruises on either the Voyager or Mariner.  Those attending the Le Cordon Bleu cruises will receive a short toque (chef’s hat), apron, and classic Le Cordon Bleu cookbook plus a certificate of participation.   Other sailings throughout the year will include culinary and wine delights showcasing the flavors of Baja, Caribbean, South America, France, Spain, Portugal, Peru, Italy, Chinese, Vietnamese, Australia, and New Zealand as well as a few chocolate lovers’ cruises.  Intimate luncheons and dinners will be available with the Santiago - Montes Winery, and the Achaval – Ferrer Winery. 

Interested in one of these delectable cuisine cruises?  Then visit your travel agent or the RSSC website to view itinerary and ports-of-call to determine which fantastic opportunity customizes your taste buds.  Bon Appetite, drink up, and remember you can always exercise tomorrow!  Happy Cruise Traveling and Happy New Year!

(Photos are courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruise line and www.Santiagoadventures.com )