Avora Buys Regent's Seven Seas Navigator for Residences
Avora Residences has purchased the Seven Seas Navigator from Regent Seven Seas Cruises and plans to relaunch the vessel in January 2028 under a new name, Avora Lumina.
According to the company, the ship will become the flagship of Avora’s residential cruising concept, created specifically for people who want to live at sea for extended periods rather than take traditional short-term cruises.
“Residential cruising has proven its viability,” said Mikael Petterson, Founder of Avora Residences as well as Villa Vie. “Avora Lumina represents the next evolution — purpose-built for long-duration global living, expedition capability, and a more refined residential experience.”
Avora said the acquisition strengthens its position within the growing residential cruise sector. The brand aims to sit between Villa Vie Residences’ more contemporary offering and The World, which is known for ultra-luxury residential cruising.
The deal was structured as a nine-year charter agreement that includes a nominal purchase option. It also establishes a long-term operational partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH).
NCLH had previously arranged to sell the Navigator, along with an Oceania Cruises vessel, to Crescent Seas. However, that transaction did not proceed.
As part of the new arrangement, Avora intends to retain much of the ship’s established operational framework. The company said it will maintain core systems, standards, and important supplier and service partnerships that have shaped the vessel’s performance over the years.
“Our philosophy is evolution, not disruption,” said Kathy Villalba, Co-Founder & CEO of Avora Residences. “Navigator has a soul — built through years of disciplined operations, experienced crews, and trusted relationships. We intend to honor that legacy while transforming the ship into a true long-term residential platform.”
Before entering service as Avora Lumina the ship will undergo a comprehensive transformation to adapt it for long-term living.
Planned upgrades include:
- Interior personalization and residential-style enhancements
- Redesigned common areas tailored for extended stays
- A dedicated business and global connectivity center to support remote work and long voyages
Residences onboard will range from approximately 300 to 1,173 square feet. Avora said homes will feature high-end finishes, large ocean-facing views, and customization options for owners.
“These are not cruise cabins,” Petterson said. “They are designed as floating homes — primary residences that travel with their owners for years at a time.”
Avora Lumina is expected to begin operations from Lisbon, Portugal, embarking on a three-year continuous circumnavigation of the globe. The itinerary is set to include more than 140 countries and over 400 destinations across all seven continents.
The vessel plans extended stays in port, remaining in some destinations for up to five days, giving residents more time ashore compared to traditional cruise itineraries.
“We are building a resident-driven global platform,” said Chris Cox, President of Avora Residences. “After the first circumnavigation, owners will help shape where Lumina sails next. That fundamentally changes the residential cruise model.”
Ownership Options
Avora Residences is offering two different options for buyers:
- Life-of-Ship Ownership, with prices ranging from approximately $545,000 to $4.2 million for 242 private residences
- A Five-Year Ownership Program, starting at approximately $219,600, providing long-term access with a lower overall financial commitment
With the acquisition of Seven Seas Navigator, Avora is positioning AvoraLumina as a purpose-built residential vessel designed for full-time living at sea, blending established cruise operations with a long-duration, owner-focused model.