72 INTERIOR COMMENTARY Raising the bar By Yohandel Ruiz, Studio DADO Driven by guest demand for more refined travel experiences, luxury cruise operators are focusing on creating immersive and sophisticated dining venues and culinary experiences onboard their ships Image: Studio DADO Luxury cruising has evolved dramatically over the past decade. While mass-market cruise lines continue to centre their offerings around high-energy entertainment such as waterslides, roller coasters, and neon-lit shows, luxury operators have embraced a different path. To meet demand from travellers who crave a more refined experience, luxury cruise operators are focused on creating unparalleled culinary adventures. In addition to being a response to changing consumer preferences, this new direction makes good business sense. Today’s travellers seek more than just thrills and excitement; they desire immersive experiences and exceptional dining opportunities – and these two factors tend to be the reasons guests remain loyal to certain brands. Cruise Lines International Association’s 2024 State of the Cruise Industry Report highlighted that passengers are looking for greater adventure, with expedition cruising becoming the fastest-growing itinerary category. Just as travel has become more intense, luxurious and inspiring, guests are asking for more from their dining experiences. As designers, we try to raise the bar every year, not just in the speciality venues but also in the complimentary ones – all types of restaurants have to be equally atmospheric and memorable. Regent Seven Seas Cruises and its newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, stands out as a prime example of this trend. The luxury vessel boasts an exceptional array of dining venues that offer dishes made with the highest quality ingredients, Studio DADO used bevelled glass interior walls, custom onyx and belted leather chandeliers, and a wood and stitched leather ceiling to emulate the early 20th-century New York City steakhouses in Prime 7
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