Avora Residences has acquired the Seven Seas Navigator from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, marking a significant expansion of its residential cruise category into a new premium level. The ship will debut in January 2028 as the Avora Lumina, becoming the flagship of Avora's residential platform, designed specifically for long-term living at sea.
“The cruise-residential model has proven its viability,” said Mikael Petterson, founder of Avora Residences. “Avora Lumina represents the next evolution: designed specifically for extended global stays, with expeditionary capabilities and a more refined residential experience.”.
The agreement includes a nine-year charter contract with a nominal purchase option, establishing a long-term operating relationship with Norwegian Cruise Line, which provides continuity and stability.
As part of this relationship, Avora plans to preserve, to the greatest extent possible, the operational DNA of the Seven Seas Navigator, maintaining key systems, standards, and relationships with suppliers and services that have defined the ship's performance and reputation for decades of global service. This approach ensures operational consistency while allowing the experience to be carefully tailored to a residential environment.
“Our philosophy is evolution, not disruption,” said Kathy Villalba, co-founder and CEO of Avora Residences. “Navigator has a soul, forged over years of disciplined operations, experienced crews, and trusted relationships. Our intention is to honor that legacy while transforming the ship into a true long-term residential platform.”.
Prior to its launch in 2028, Avora Lumina will undergo a comprehensive conversion for residential use. Planned upgrades include greater personalization and home-like features, redesigned common areas to optimize extended onboard living, and a dedicated global connectivity and business center to support extended stays.
The residences will range from approximately 28 to 109 square meters and will feature premium finishes, expansive ocean views, and customization options. Petterson explained, “They are designed as floating homes: primary residences that travel with their owners for years.”.
The Avora Lumina is scheduled to depart from Lisbon, Portugal, for a three-year continuous circumnavigation, visiting more than 140 countries and over 400 destinations across seven continents. Unlike traditional itineraries, the ship will remain in port for up to five days, prioritizing a deeper experience and cultural immersion over a rapid rotation of ports of call. Following the first circumnavigation, residents will have the opportunity to actively participate in planning future itineraries.
“We are building a global platform driven by the residents themselves,” said Chris Cox, president of Avora Residences. “After the first circumnavigation, the owners will help decide where Lumina sails next. That fundamentally changes the residential cruise model.”.
Avora Residences will offer two ownership options: lifetime ownership of the ship or the five-year ownership program.
A central pillar of Avora Lumina's offering will be its culinary program. Avora plans to introduce gastronomic concepts inspired by the destinations visited throughout its global exploration. Rotating seasonal menus, high-level wine programs, chef-led tastings, and locally sourced ingredients—made possible by extended stays in port—will define the onboard dining experience.
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
