By
Laura Hyde |
Avora Residences will launch its first residential cruise in January 2028 after acquiring Seven Seas Navigator from Regent Seven Seas Cruises on a nine-year charter, with a nominal purchase option arrangement.
The ship will undergo a “full residential conversion” to reimagine cabins and common spaces for long-term living. Accommodation will range from approximately 300 to 1,173 square feet and will feature premium finishes and ocean views. while Residents will be given the opportunity to personalise their spaces. A dedicated business and global connectivity centre will also be created to support those who want to work and travel.
“Residential cruising has proven its viability,” said Mikael Petterson, founder of Avora Residences and creator of residential cruise line Villa Vie Residences. “Avora Lumina represents the next evolution – purpose-built for long-duration global living, expedition capability and a more refined residential experience. The cabins are not cruise cabins; they are designed as floating homes – primary residences that travel with their owners for years at a time.”
As part of the charter agreement with Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Avora Residences will “preserve the operational DNA” of Seven Seas Navigator wherever possible. This includes maintaining established systems, standards and key vendor and service relationships
“Our philosophy is evolution, not disruption,” said Kathy Villalba, co-founder and CEO of Avora Residences. “Navigator has a soul – built through years of disciplined operations, experienced crews, and trusted relationships. We intend to honour that legacy while transforming the ship into a true long-term residential platform.”
The ship is scheduled to launch in Lisbon, Portugal, and will sail a three-year continuous global circumnavigation, visiting more than 140 countries and over 400 destinations across seven continents. Following this inaugural circumnavigation, residents will have structured input into future 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.”