Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced that it will open sales for its newest ship, Seven Seas Splendor, in July 2018, rather than August, because of demand.

Upon opening reservations for Seven Seas Splendor’s 2020 inaugural Europe collection, Regent had the best single booking day in the company’s 26-year history.

The news came during the ship’s keel laying ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy, at which the first two of 210 blocks that will comprise the approximately 55,000 gross ton vessel were lifted into the dry dock, marking the start of the ship’s assembly.

Seven Seas Splendor, which debuts in 2020, has 375 suites, ranging from the 307 square-foot Veranda Suite, to the 4,443 square-foot Regent Suite, which comes with an in-suite spa with steam room, a custom heated spa on a private balcony, and ceramic heated lounge beds, as well as a butler and car and driver awaiting excursions in every port.

Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, said: “In our pursuit to exceed guest expectations, we are creating a work of art, from bow to stern. Wherever you turn on Seven Seas Splendor, you will be surrounded by elegance, comfort and hospitality.”

Luigi Matarazzo, Fincantieri executive vice president new building, Merchant Ships Business Unit, said: “We are satisfied to have the opportunity to partner for the second time with a ship owner like Regent Seven Seas Cruises. It means that we have met all the expectations of a company that has made quality and sophistication the distinguishing features of its business.”