The Regent Mariner is perhaps the most luxurious and elegant ship afloat. It has only suites and every suite has a private balcony. The entire ship has been refurbished and the common areas, as well as the suites are state-of-the-art.

But perhaps the most noteworthy feature of all, is the variety and quality of the fine dining restaurants on-board. We found it truly amazing that within walking distance of our luxurious floating home were some of the best restaurants to be found anywhere in the world. Like former President Bush, who said he will miss the food in the White House, I will miss our fine dining on board the Mariner.

Our first night we chose the Compass Rose which is an elegant formal dining room where passengers can dine as many nights as they choose without a reservation. The Alaskan Rock Fish, black mussels and crème brule could not have been better. Each course was accompanied by a distinctive red or white wine.

The second evening our reservation was for the Signature restaurant where the choices, including salmon, filet of beef, rack of lamb, halibut and even the vegetarian offerings, were outstanding.

The Prime 7, which became my personal favorite, served a full two pounds of King Crab Legs. I had no trouble making a choice that evening.

Breakfast and lunch were served buffet style in the Veranda restaurant. All meals were also available to be served in the privacy of your suite.

Poolside dining on the open upper deck was a little cool in May but that did not deter many hearty souls who preferred a more casual menu including hamburgers, hot dogs and chili filled bread cups.

The Mariners Lounge, which served a daily tea, ended the cruise with a very special chocolate-lovers tea. A chocolate fountain was surrounded by over twenty varieties of chocolate cookies, cakes, mousse and candies. Whoever said you had to wait until after dinner for dessert.

And if all of that indulgence was not enough, the butler arrived each day with a different assortment of canapés, shrimp, crab and cheeses.....accompanied of course, by a bottle of red or white wine.

I will definitely miss the food aboard the Regent Mariner.

contact info: www.RSSC.com (800) 285-1835