oceania cruises for 2023

Oceania Cruises 2023

Oceania Cruises

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Cruising with Oceania

Oceania Cruises' seven ships – Marina , Riviera , Regatta , Nautica , Insignia , Sirena and the brand new Vista (which debuted in May 2023) – stand apart from other midsize cruise ships thanks to their low 1-to-2 crew-to-passenger ratios, gourmet cuisines and comprehensive itineraries. An eighth ship, the Allura, will debut in 2025. Oceania sails around the world, with 2024 trips spanning Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, South America, Antarctica and the South Pacific, among other regions. Oceania's shore experiences are just as varied as its sailings: passengers can sign up for activities ranging from swimming in the Dead Sea to snorkeling with sharks and stingrays in French Polynesia to wildlife spotting in the Arctic Circle. Should you wish to extend your time on shore, you can sign up for a pre-or post-cruise land tour with Oceania, which includes most lodging, dining and transportation costs.

On board, you'll find plenty of ways to fill your time at sea. In addition to wine and martini tastings and educational presentations, a library with more than 2,000 books is available to all passengers. Cooking demonstrations and art classes take place aboard larger ships like Marina and Riviera, which can carry up to 1,250 guests. During your voyage – which, for 2024 cruises, can last anywhere from seven to 196 days – you can also take advantage of the casino and the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. And if you're a foodie, be sure to sample the offerings available across the fleet's numerous open-seating dining venues – including the Grand Dining Room, which serves a gourmet global menu that changes daily. If sailing on the new Vista, two new options have been added – specialty restaurant Ember for classic American fare with an elegant twist and Aquamar Kitchen emphasizing dishes with an eye on wellness cuisine without sacrificing taste.

Pros & Cons

Ships make voyages to off-the-beaten-path destinations

Wide selection of both regular and specialty dining venues

Can earn benefits, such as shipboard credits, through the Oceania Club loyalty program

Not all onboard services are included in the cruise fare

No programming, facilities or supervision for children

Fewer daily activities than larger luxury ships from other lines

• Expert Rating » 4.1
• Traveler Rating » 4.2
• Health Rating » 4.8

Oceania Cruises has been ranked based on an expert evaluation of the line's level of luxury, as well as an assessment of user reviews and health ratings.

• # 4 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines
• # 4 in Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean
• # 7 in Best Cruise Lines for Couples

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Oceania Cruises Ships

Before You Book

• Note: To see Oceania's updated deposit, cancellation and rebooking policies visit its website .
• The price of your cruise includes lodging, meals at specialty dining venues, soft drinks, bottled water and most onboard entertainment, including internet access.
• Shore excursions, baggage handling, alcoholic beverages, travel insurance, gratuities, spa services and other onboard services (such as laundry and medical services) are not covered in the cost of your cruise. However, the new “simply MORE” program includes roundtrip airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, and Champagne, wine and beer at lunch and dinner.
• Those who require medical care during their voyage or have an existing medical condition must notify Oceania in writing at the time of booking to ensure the cruise line can accommodate their needs.
• A 20% deposit per person is required for those booking Owner's, Vista or Oceania Suite category rooms, and a $500 deposit per person is required for all other cabin categories. (Deposits for Grand Voyages are $1,500 per person.) Full payment is due 150 days prior to departure on all cruises unless otherwise noted.
• Cruise cancellation fees depend on how far in advance the cruise is canceled and whether you purchase the cruise line's Travel Protection Program. For more information regarding cancellation and refund policies, consult Oceania's  website .
• Infants must be at least 12 months old to sail with Oceania.

Before You Board

• You must acquire all necessary travel documents (such as any applicable visas) for your selected itinerary. This includes a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after the cruise ends, as well as any essential inoculation records. You may be denied boarding if you do not possess the necessary documentation. 
• Depending on your itinerary, you may need to get vaccinated before setting sail. Prior to departure, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , which features a list of routine and additional vaccines you may need for certain international destinations. 
• You must be on board the ship at least two hours prior to departure. Priority boarding is available for guests staying in Concierge (or higher) cabin categories.
• Suitcases exceeding 70 pounds are prohibited.
• The number of specialty dining reservations you can make depends on your ship, stateroom selection and trip duration. 
• Shore excursions can be booked up to 365 days prior to embarkation.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Oceania Cruises: The Complete Guide

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Oceania Cruises is a high-end cruise line with a reputation for excellent dining and the ability to visit a wider variety of ports because its ships aren’t as large as the typical cruise liner.

Oceania Cruises, part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, launched in 2002. It focuses on travelers who want more privacy and personalized service when they sail. Oceania sits between its two sibling lines — the higher-end Regent Seven Seas and family-friendly Norwegian — when it comes to ship size and prices.

Here’s what you need to know about Oceania.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises sails to all seven continents and visits more than 600 ports in more than 100 countries. The line recently introduced a new base fare, which includes round-trip airfare and Wi-Fi.

Cabin types: The cruise line offers cabins at various prices, ranging from inside staterooms to oceanview rooms with furnished balconies. Suites are also available in a variety of sizes. Oceania ships have a concierge level, which gives passengers access to a private lounge and concierge assistance.

Main U.S. routes: Oceania covers the globe. Those who want to depart from the U.S. will find itineraries for Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Mexico and New England, among others.  

Loyalty program: Oceania Club awards credits based on the length of the trip. The more credits you earn, the higher the elite status you’ll achieve. Benefits include perks like onboard credit, discounts on spa treatments and complimentary wine and prepaid gratuities. 

Oceania Cruises destinations

Oceania Cruises ships' smaller size gives them access to ports that larger ships can’t visit. The line also offers world cruises that circumnavigate the globe in 180 days, as well as a range of longer, regionally focused sailings.

Antarctica.

Canada and New England.

Middle East.

New Zealand.

South Pacific and Tahiti.

Panama Canal.

South America.

Depending on how long you want to sail and where you’re going, you can find itineraries as short as seven days and longs as a whopping 200 days.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of cruises

Oceania cruise prices

Oceania sailings range in price depending on such factors as cabin type, ship, destination and length of trip. Keep in mind that Oceania is an upscale brand that prides itself on gourmet cuisine and onboard service — and its rates tend to reflect that.

For those looking for a weeklong cruise in the Caribbean, a trip departing from Miami and stopping in Mexico, Belize and Honduras starts at $1,399 per person. If you’re interested in Europe, a 10-day trip from Rome to Barcelona starts at $2,470 per person. Both rates are based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom.

Those who want to make like Magellan can book the 180-day around-the-world cruise starting at $48,499. A shorter, but still luxurious, 72-day itinerary in Asia starts at $19,599. Suites will increase the cost of the cruise but add more space for you to relax in your cabin.

The cruise line has announced a new base fare package called “simply MORE,” which comes with a host of inclusions. These include round-trip flights, airport transfers, shore excursions and a beverage package for all guests in the cabin.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

What is the best Oceania ship?

Oceania has eight ships in a range of sizes; the smallest accommodates just under 700 passengers, while the largest can hold up to 1,250. The cruise line has a low staff-to-passenger ratio, between 1.5 and 1.7 staff per passenger, which allows for more personalized service. Many of its ships have capacity for 684 passengers, which means they can feel less crowded than larger ships.

The best Oceania cruise ship is its newest one — Vista. Every room has a veranda, plus space for storage, rain showers in the bathrooms and upscale furnishings.

What is the newest Oceania ship?

The newest Oceania ships are the Vista, which set sail in 2023, and the Allura, which is scheduled to sail in 2025. Both of these are on the larger end of its fleet, with a capacity for 1,210 passengers.

They’re also part of a new class of Allura ships, which feature more onboard amenities and features compared with the other six ships in the fleet. Some examples of this on the Vista include four new dining venues, concierge-level staterooms for solo travelers and larger standard staterooms with over 290 square feet of space.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

What’s included on Oceania cruises?

Accommodations in the category you select.

All meals and snacks at buffet restaurants, dining rooms and specialty restaurants. 

Water, juice, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas.

Champagne, wine and beer during lunch and dinner.

Wi-Fi access for two devices.

Fitness center with guided classes.

Shows and entertainment.

Pool access.

Onboard activities.

Round-trip airfare and airport transfers.

Shore excursions.

In-port shuttles.

Cooking school sessions with chef instruction.

Government fees and port taxes.

The mostly all-inclusive nature of Oceania sailings makes the pricing and experience simpler, since you won't need to pull out your credit card for every soda or latte. That said, there are still some things you’ll need to pay extra for, such as spa services, gratuities and certain beverage packages.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Oceania Cruises loyalty program: Oceania Club

Oceania Club members earn credits on each cruise they take, with more points awarded for longer cruises. For example, a cruise that lasts up to 24 days earns one credit, cruises for 25-34 days receive two credits, and trips longer than 158 days get 15 credits.

Earning status can take a while unless your first cruise is lengthy. If you’re looking for elite status on a cruise line, Oceania isn't especially rewarding for people who cruise occasionally.

Oceania Club elite status tiers

The Oceania Club loyalty program has seven levels:

President’s Circle. 

With your first cruise, you automatically become a Blue member after signing up. The more nights you spend on Oceania ships, the higher your status tier and benefits. Here’s how to reach each tier along with some of the best benefits at each level.

To earn: Accrue at least five credits.

Best benefits: $100 shipboard credit, members-only offers and discount on Wi-Fi packages.

To earn: Accrue at least 10 credits.

Best benefits: $250 shipboard credit, complimentary prepaid gratuities and VIP shore excursion check-in.

To earn: Accrue at least 15 credits.

Best benefits: $400 shipboard credit, $300 spa treatment credit and two custom air fee waivers (worth $398).

To earn: Accrue at least 20 credits.

Best benefits: $500 shipboard credit, a free cruise, priority terminal check-in and an invitation to dine with the ship's officers.

To earn: Accrue at least 40 credits.

Best benefits: $750 shipboard credit, $400 spa treatment credit and complimentary wine tasting.

President’s Circle

To earn: Accrue at least 60 credits.

Best benefits: $1,000 shipboard credit, complimentary prestige beverage package and free laundry service.

How to earn Oceania Club credits

Travelers earn credits based on the length of a sailing. Even a three-week cruise earns just one credit, which means it can take some time to reach the first elite tier — Bronze, which requires five credits. Even though they’re part of the same holding company, you won’t earn Oceania credits when sailing with Norwegian or Regent Seven Seas.

How to redeem points

There are no points to redeem with Oceania Club. The primary purpose of the program is earning credits to reach different elite status tiers. At each level, there are various benefits you receive when on a cruise.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

What is Oceania Cruises known for?

Oceania is best for travelers who want to go beyond the most commonly visited ports and foodies who prioritize onboard dining. Its smaller ships usually make for a more customized and personal experience. While Oceania has launched a new Allura Class of ships that nearly doubles its average passenger count, the staff-to-passenger ratio is still excellent.

Yes. There’s no need to worry about paying an additional fee to stay connected aboard an Oceania cruise ship, as it’s included in the cruise fare. Each cabin receives two free Wi-Fi logins.

Yes, for the most part. Oceania sailings include accommodations, shore excursions, port shuttles, activities, food and most beverages, specialty dining and entertainment. Not included in the fare are some beverage packages, gratuities, spa treatments, laundry and specialty excursions.

The recently-introduced new base fare, “simply MORE,” also includes round-trip flights, airport transfers and a beverage package for all guests in the cabin.

House Select (included for all passengers)

Premium wine, champagne and beer with lunch and dinner. Specialty coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices.

Prestige Select ($30 per guest, per day)

All House Select drinks.

Unlimited premium wine, champagne, beer and spirits anywhere and whenever you like.

How to maximize your rewards

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Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

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Oceania introduces 180-day 2023 World Cruise aboard Insignia

Oceania Cruises introduced its 2023 Around The World in 180 Days voyage . Bookings open for the general public on January 27.

Departing from San Francisco CA on January 15, 2023, world travellers can enjoy the 684-passenger liner Insignia to visit a total of 96 ports/destinations in 33 countries across 4 continents.

Vacationers will have in-depth experiences with overnight stays in 20 ports (South America, Africa, Asia, Alaska) as well as the opportunity to witness Antarctica with 3 full days scenic cruising in Half Moon Island , Admiralty Bay ( King George Island / South Shetland Islands ) and Paradise Harbor (Graham Land).

The itinerary provides access to 60+ UNESCO sites and vacationers sailing the full world cruise have the opportunity to take part in 5 included shoreside events.

All passengers on Oceania's World Cruise 2023 receive 64 free shore excursions or a free USD 6400 shipboard credit, or a free beverage package.

In addition to those inclusions, guests receive Oceania Cruises' Exclusive Prestige Package featuring the free perks, including first-class roundtrip airfare from over two dozen North American air gateways, pre-paid gratuities (up to USD 8200), onboard medical care, unlimited internet, laundry services, shoreside events, visa package, luggage delivery for passengers from Canada and the U.S., 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in the embarkation port, roundtrip transfers for all passengers and for residents within 50 miles from the departure port.

For passengers who want to extend their travel, Oceania offers the ability to extend the Around The World experience up to 218 days.

• January 15, 2023 – 180-day roundtrip from San Francisco
• January 15, 2023 – 200-day from San Francisco to NYC New York
• December 28, 2022 – 198-day from Miami  to San Francisco
• December 28, 2022 – 214-day roundtrip from Miami
• December 28, 2022 – 218-day from Miami to NYC

Vista cruise ship review: What to expect on Oceania’s first Allura-class ship

"Is this a luxury cruise ship?" That was the question on everyone's lips during the maiden sailing of Oceania Cruises' Vista, the first new Allura-class vessel to debut for the upscale cruise brand.

We gawked at the beautifully designed public spaces, with their detail-oriented accents, eye-catching light fixtures and highly textured materials. (Yes, I petted the walls of the elevators and stroked every chair.) We luxuriated in enormous standard cabin bathrooms and sumptuous Tranquility Beds. We dined on exquisite freshly made pasta, perfectly cooked fish and decadent desserts. We ordered smoked, bubbled, herbed and ice-balled cocktails at the ship's craft cocktail bar and took photos of each creative concoction.

Vista is clearly a ship for travelers who love to explore new destinations, prioritize fine dining and premium beverages and immerse themselves in chic surroundings. However, in the cruise space, this ship is clearly in the upscale category and not true luxury.

Then again, when you're curled up on a circular day bed, drink in hand, on a resort-style pool deck in the Mediterranean, Vista might just provide all the luxury you need.

Overview of Vista

Vista debuted in May 2023, the first new ship for Oceania Cruises in a decade and the flagship of the line's new Allura class. It carries 1,200 passengers in cabins and suites that all have either a true balcony or a French veranda (meaning you can open doors to the fresh air but can't step outside).

The ship's target demographic is well-off, mature couples who are looking for destination-focused itineraries on a ship with elevated dining. For a small, 67,000-ton ship, Vista wows with eight restaurants, plus a bakery and private dining rooms for wine-paired meals. It also stands out for its expanded Culinary Center, for cooking classes and demos, and Artist Loft, where passengers can get crafty under the tutelage of resident artists.

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Fans of the line will appreciate that Vista is modeled from sister ships Marina and Riviera, and the layout is strikingly similar.

Vista is not an all-inclusive ship, but it's more inclusive than lines such as Celebrity Cruises or Holland America. Its fares cover all dining (except for private, wine-paired dinners), fitness classes, nonalcoholic beverages and in-port shuttles. Its booking promotions may offer additional inclusions, like free Wi-Fi, airfare, excursions, beverage package or shipboard credit.

What I loved about Vista

Dining choice.

Some people love to return again and again to their favorite restaurants; others prefer to try a new venue every time. I fall into the latter category, so I loved that I could eat at a different restaurant each night of my cruise on Vista.

I could get dolled up and go to a steakhouse or Italian restaurant, or I could play it casual and eat on the buffet's outdoor terrace or at the pizzeria. I could enjoy a multi-course sit-down lunch or take my pick of eight burgers at the grill. Vista also had plenty of options for between-meal grazing – a quiche from the Bakery, a scone at Horizons' afternoon tea, or a cookie from the Concierge Lounge.

Not only did Vista's large selection of eateries keep my meals interesting, but there wasn't a bad option in the bunch. Sure, sometimes I didn't order the right dish, but I enjoyed every meal I ate on board.

Vista will wow you with its gorgeous looks from the moment you step on board. The atrium gives a knockout first impression with its stunning floor-to-ceiling sculpture with a changing light display.

The bold center archway of the Grand Dining Room will immediately catch your eye, as will the ceiling design of the intimate Privee dining room. Each specialty restaurant has been designed with care, from the brick oven-inspired ceilings of Ember to the pagoda-style floor lamps in Red Ginger.

The noteworthy Grand Lounge sports geometric chandeliers and glass shelves of vases and glass sculptures, while the faux wood paneling on the pool deck sets it apart from any cruise ship Lido you've ever seen. The glam settings make you feel like you're a movie star and add to the decadent feeling of being on vacation.

Cocktails and mixology program

The new mixology program on Vista is one of its standout features. I happily ordered cocktail after craft cocktail at the Founders Bar in the name of research, trying drinks with smoke bubbles on top, frozen fruit balls in their center and unique ingredients (like tea) in their centers. The concept turns your standard pre-dinner drink into a playful and exciting event. It also makes a ship carrying mainly retirees feel hip and trendy.

Vista also carries a line of nonalcoholic "liquors" to make zero-proof cocktails that taste like the real deal, as well as nonalcoholic beer. It's a fabulous option for sober cruisers or travelers who need to rest their livers after a lively evening. Unfortunately, not all bars carry nonalcoholic cocktails. On my cruise, I found them on the menu at the new Aquamar restaurant and Horizons observation lounge.

What I didn't love about Vista

I failed to find anything serious to critique about Vista, so what I didn't love about the ship is more about my personality than any real failing of the cruise line.

Evenings on Vista do not offer a variety of pursuits. You can go to a bar, with or without music. You can try your luck at the casino. You can attend the one show each evening, but only if your dinner time allows for it. That's pretty much it.

My cruise did not offer karaoke night, evening trivia and games, or a pool deck party. I missed the two special-guest acts, a pianist and a guitarist, and the song-and-dance performances by the onboard cast failed to impress. The ship didn't offer any secondary shows at night — no comedians or musical acts you came to listen to and not talk over.

To be fair, small-ship upscale cruising isn't about nightlife, and most travelers on Oceania are perfectly content with a long dinner, an evening dancing or drinking in Horizons and an early bedtime. The library does have some board games you can borrow, so consider that as an alternative activity.

One should never judge a ship's service based on its first sailings when the crew is still getting used to each other and the layout and procedures of a new ship. I mention service solely to answer the question of why Vista isn't considered a luxury ship.

In terms of hardware, Vista is one fine ship, which rivals the vessels belonging to luxury lines like Silversea Cruises and Seabourn, even nipping at the heels of over-the-top sister line Regent Seven Seas Cruises. It's in the "software," so to speak, where the line relegates itself to the upscale sector. And that's fine.

In addition to not offering truly all-inclusive fares, Vista doesn't offer the personal, often fawning service you find on true luxury lines. I barely met my room steward. No one offered to carry my plate at the buffet. The chefs weren't offering to make me dishes off-menu, and on occasion, I had to work to flag down a waiter to bring me a drink. Personally, I'm fine with this level of service, but it does not put Vista in competition with ultra-luxury ships.

The few service issues will improve over time. But Vista, by nature, will never offer the crew-to-guest ratio or over-the-top service levels you'd expect to find on a more expensive cruise line.

Vista cabins and suites

Vista has only eight major cabin and suite types, making cabin selection a relatively straightforward process. Its three main non-suite cabin types – French Veranda, Veranda and Concierge Level staterooms – have identical interior layouts, so you're really only choosing between perks and exterior space.

New and noteworthy on Vista are Oceania's first dedicated solo cabins, 270-square-foot balcony cabins with a twin bed, smaller bathroom and slightly narrower design than a regular veranda room. They're Concierge Level rooms, so solo travelers get extra benefits, such as access to the Concierge Lounge and Aquamar Spa Terrace.

My cabin was a regular Concierge Level room with a private veranda. At 291 square feet, it was the same size as a Veranda room, but with a slightly nicer interior design. (French Veranda rooms are identical to Veranda rooms in design, but where the Veranda cabins have a private balcony, French Veranda rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a railing; you can get fresh air but you can't step out.)

I was very happy in my Concierge Level room on Vista. Oceania's Tranquility Beds are some of the best in the business, and I loved falling asleep between a snuggly duvet and 1,000-thread-count sheets. Even better, the bed is flanked by three-drawer nightstands, 100V plugs and USB ports and reading lights.

Storage is decent with a two-door closet, two deep drawers in the desk, two coat hooks on the wall and a few additional shelves. It was the perfect amount of space for me, but I could see how a couple might fight over the drawer space.

The room had a mostly forgettable love seat, other than it looked nice and pulled out into an extra bed. The oval marble table was a perfect size for room service breakfast.

The highlight of the room, in my opinion, was the spacious, marble-tiled bathroom. Here, there was storage in spades: two glass shelves in the large shower, one large drawer and shelf space in the vanity and a corner unit with four deep drawers and three shelves in a mirrored cabinet. The shower had a rain head and a wand on an adjustable mount. The large no-fog mirror lit up at the touch of a button, perfect for putting on makeup.

I also appreciated the comfortable, padded balcony furniture. Standard balconies on Vista come with two upright chairs and a round drinks table, but the cushions made the seating comfier than the mesh-and-metal versions you find on many big-ship cruise lines.

Other thoughtful touches in the room include an electronic thermometer and do not disturb sign touchpad, quiet-close drawers, wooden hangers and carafes of Vero water, plus reusable water bottles to take on tour (to reduce single-use plastic water bottles). The mini fridge was stocked with soft drinks, though my cabin attendant didn't seem to notice that I was drinking exclusively club soda. You'll also find the requisite safe and hair dryer (neither of which I used), an umbrella and a shoehorn.

Concierge Level rooms come with extra perks, most of which are useful but not necessary. You get access to the lovely Aquamar Spa Terrace, with its hot tubs, day beds and thalassotherapy pool. You also get access to the Concierge Lounge on Deck 9; I don't know why you'd want to watch TV in this windowless lounge, but I appreciated the 24/7 drinks and snacks and access to a concierge.

Other amenities include a welcome bottle of Champagne, pashmina-style cashmere lap blankets for use in your cabin and a tote bag. Perks include priority embarkation, lunch and dinner room service from the Grand Dining Room menu (I totally missed this one), priority specialty restaurant reservations, and complimentary laundry (up to three bags), pressing (on embarkation day) and shoeshine service.

For those with an urge to splurge, Oceania has four additional suite categories, each with butler service and access to an Executive Lounge. The Penthouse Suites are simply an expanded version of the balcony rooms, with additional closet and seating areas. The Oceania Suites have a full living and dining room, a separate guest or TV room, large balcony, guest bathroom and marble-clad master bath and dressing area. They are mostly found on Deck 12, but two on Deck 11 aft have wraparound corner balconies.

The eight Vista Suites, which I didn't see, are even bigger than the Oceania Suites and located at the front of the ship, so they have extra-long wraparound balconies. The three Owner's Suites span the entire aft width of the ship, with two balconies, and are designed by Ralph Lauren Home. A light-filled grand foyer opens onto the living, dining and bar area on one side and the enormous master bedroom with king-sized bed, walk-in closet and generous bathroom with soaking tub and ocean-view shower.

Vista restaurants and bars

Oceania prides itself on being a foodie cruise line, and Vista carries on the line's tradition with six major dining venues included in the cruise fare, over-the-top extra-fee wine-paired private dinners and a new mixology program that goes above and beyond what its competitors are offering.

It's hard not to nitpick a line that brags it has "the finest cuisine at sea" (and has even trademarked that tagline). Each meal may not be the best you've ever had on a cruise ship, but each meal you have will be solid, with plenty of choice of both where to dine and what to select from the menu. Vista is certainly a ship foodies will appreciate.

Restaurants

I made a point to try every restaurant on board during my weeklong cruise, and it actually took some scheduling to make it happen. It's a good thing most of Vista's sailings are 10 days or longer, so you have ample time to sample all the dining venues and even make repeat visits to your favorites.

You are allowed to make at least one advance reservation for each of Vista's four specialty restaurants — possibly more depending on the length of the cruise and the type of cabin or suite you book. Once on board, you can ask if there's walk-in availability for additional meals.

The Grand Dining Room is perhaps the most gorgeous main restaurant I've ever seen on a cruise ship. The design, with white archways in the center of the room, is also functional; it separates the giant venue into nooks, so it doesn't have that hotel ballroom feel.

At breakfast, you can order everything from grilled lamb chops and broiled kippers to omelets, pancakes and lighter fare, such as yogurt parfaits. The highlight of the lunch menu is the "Taste of the World" sampler platter themed around a different country each day.

The dinner menu makes three suggestions for themed meals: selections from Jacques Pepin's namesake French restaurant on Vista's sister ships, global cuisine and Aquamar Vitality cuisine (ie lighter dishes). Don't miss the creative Humphry Slocombe ice cream for dessert, with flavors like Elvis the Fat Years and Harvey Milk & Honey Graham.

The Terrace Café is Vista's buffet venue with indoor and outdoor seating. The stunning wall mosaics set the tone for the sophisticated spread you can sample here. Think daily sushi, an array of fine cheeses, made-to-order omelets, pasta and steaks and premium ice cream (including one Humphry Slocombe flavor at lunch and dinner). The vegetarian options weren't always the best at the Terrace Café, though it often had gluten-free pasta.

On either side of the Terrace Café are several new and returning casual dining venues that should not be overlooked.

Waves Grill has always been one of my favorite grill venues at sea. Midday, it serves sandwiches, hot dogs, grilled entrees (mahi mahi, cajun chicken) and a huge selection of burgers, including Wagyu, veggie and salmon, in addition to the classic cheeseburger.

In the morning, it offers a downsized breakfast buffet with made-to-order omelets. At night, it transforms into a pizzeria with Italian-style pizza, a burrata menu (do not miss the burrata and tartufo dish) and a sinful Nutella pizza dessert. Pro tip: You can place an order at Waves and ask for your dish to be delivered to your table at the Terrace Café, so you don't have to choose between the options.

Past Oceania cruisers might wonder where Waves' famous smoothies and power bowls got to. The answer is Vista's new "healthy" dining venue, Aquamar, set up on the opposite side of the Terrace Café from the Waves Grill.

In the morning, don't miss Aquamar's selection of avocado toast or its freshly made juices, unusual lattes and smoothies. (You haven't lived until you've spiked your morning OJ with turmeric and cayenne pepper.) Energy bowls, banana pancakes and omelets round out the breakfast menu.

The lunch menu at Aquamar is vast. You can order poke-style bowls or compose your own, do a breakfast repeat with omelets and avocado toast, or order sandwiches from around the world, including tuna tacos, falafel pita, a Mexican chicken wrap or an Impossible burger. Wash it all down with a nonalcoholic cocktail that will have you convinced you're drinking the real thing.

All the previously mentioned restaurants allow you to dine at will, but Vista has four reservations-required dinner spots that are the stars of the show. Three return from sister ships Marina and Riviera, while one is new, replacing French restaurant Jacques.

The new entrant to Oceania's food scene is Ember, serving inventive American fare. Though the venue is one of Vista's signature restaurants, it has a more casual vibe than the others, and meals here don't take quite as long. Consensus on my sailing is the standout dishes are the spinach and artichoke dip, lobster mac and cheese (with an actual hunk of lobster-in-the-shell on top) and the triple chocolate brownie sundae.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Polo Grill, Vista's fanciest restaurant, where dinners can take hours. It's a classic steakhouse in a dimly lit setting with an enormous menu where protein is the star.

While it was perhaps not my favorite dining venue on board, the salmon I ordered was cooked perfectly, so moist and tender that I raved about it for the rest of the cruise. Folks at my table ordered everything from filet mignon to a whole Maine lobster, and everyone was satisfied with their choices.

Also, you may be understandably tempted to order the Polo Quartet of four desserts to finish your meal. I will save you the trouble by telling you the key lime pie is hands down the best of the bunch, and you should order the full-size version and skip the tasting plate.

Toscana is Oceania's long-standing Italian restaurant, but on Vista, it's newly enhanced with dishes created by the ship's godmother, Italian food star Giada De Laurentiis. If you enjoy veal, this is your spot; nearly half of the secondi menu consists of veal dishes (you can also order lamb and roast suckling pig here). I tried Giada's branzino and wasn't wowed.

Whatever you order, make sure to order at least one pasta dish with Toscana's incredible ship-made pasta. You can't go wrong with Giada's lemon spaghetti or the pesto gnocchi. If you need to skip dessert at one specialty restaurant, this is where I'd pass … unless you are a die-hard tiramisu fan.

The final specialty restaurant is Red Ginger, a pan-Asian dining experience. Perhaps it's because I love Asian food, but I have a hard time choosing what to eat at Red Ginger because everything looks so good. You could make a meal on appetizers alone.

To start, try the sushi, duck and watermelon salad or summer rolls. For your main, consider the miso-glazed sea bass, lobster pad thai, bulgogi ribeye steak or red curry chicken. You might think dessert is a non-starter, but the caramel tapioca was tasty, and the soft ice cream with Japanese togarashi is a fun mix of sweet and spicy.

Vista also offers multiple options for intimate or private wine-pairing lunches and dinners on board. They include a wine-pairing lunch at Ember and wine-themed dinners in private dining rooms attached to Toscana and Polo Grill. Hidden between those two restaurants is Privee, another intimate dining room where two special dinners are held: Odyssey (described as a "gustatory journey for the senses") and the Dom Perignon Experience that pairs special Champagnes with equally special dishes.

But the food options don't end with the restaurants. The Bakery by Baristas was a popular spot for daily beignets, quiches and pastries. Afternoon tea in Horizons is an Oceania specialty, with your choice of Twinings tea, scones with jam and clotted cream, tea sandwiches and cakes and petits fours all wheeled around in glass carts by formally dressed waiters.

Vista's bars are hopping before and after dinner because there's not much else to do on board at night.

The Martini Bar is the most happening lounge, located near the Grand Dining Room, several specialty restaurants and the casino. A pianist performs here on and off throughout the evening. You can find all your standard mixed drinks here, as well as a special martini menu. At peak times, you might not be able to find a seat.

On the other side of the casino is the Founders Bar, a new concept for Oceania, dedicated to creative craft cocktails. If you like your drinks topped with smoke bubbles, frozen balls of fruit or sprigs of herb or dried fruit slices, this is your spot. Seating is limited, but you can request your drink be delivered around the corner to the Grand Lounge, a stunning scenery area where a classical string quartet plays in the evening.

Be careful — it's so fun trying out all the crazy concoctions that you might bust your drink budget if you haven't upgraded to the premium beverage package.

Horizons is the observation lounge at the top of the ship, looking forward. We heard rave reviews of the live band here and some choice words about the resident DJ, but if you want to watch the sunset or get your groove on after deck, Horizons is the bar for you.

Baristas is the coffee bar by day and aperitif bar by night. Get your daytime caffeine fix with Illy espresso, macchiatos, cremas and more, including coffees spiked with booze. After 6 p.m., you'll find an Italian-influenced list of aperitifs and digestifs (amaretto, Campari, limoncello), as well as wines and cocktails (such as an Aperol spritz or negroni).

The pool bar serves all the daiquiris and coladas you can drink while lounging on Vista's gorgeous, resort-style pool deck. You can also order drinks at any of the restaurants. Aquamar has a lovely menu of nonalcoholic cocktails, fresh juices, lattes and smoothies.

Vista is also introducing new immersive cocktail experiences for the cruise line, which unfortunately had not yet debuted on my sailing. These will include a customizable Bubbly Bar in Baristas, a Bloody Mary Bar at lunch in the Terrace Café, a Macallan whisky and chocolate pairing, and cocktail-making seminars pairing Brugal 1888 rum with ice cream or tea.

Vista activities and shows

An Oceania cruise is a destination-focused trip, so onboard activities are kept to a minimum. You'll find trivia contests, spa seminars, casino tournaments and technology classes at the LYNC Digital Center, such as travel photography and photo editing for social media.

Where Oceania excels in onboard activities are with cooking classes and demos in the Culinary Center and art classes at the Artist Loft. Oceania brings on real chefs and working artists to lead the workshops. Sign up as soon as you get on board because these popular classes fill up quickly.

I tried a "drip technique" painting class where we decorated glass plates, and it was a far cry from the watercolor or needlepoint classes you might find on other ships. The two-part class explored a unique technique, and even though I'm not experienced in crafting and my plate looked pretty bad after the first class, the artist knew what he was doing, and my final product was surprisingly good. It's also a fun way to socialize with other passengers and the artists in residence.

Vista's culinary center is three times larger than the versions found on sister ships Marina and Riviera. In addition to the test kitchen with 24 individual cooking stations, a second room can be arranged for lectures or even dinners. Classes are themed, often related to the ship's destination, and yes, you can eat what you cook. They do cost extra; fees start at $79.

On a warm, sunny day, Oceania's gorgeous resort-style pool deck is the place to be with padded loungers and day beds, a main pool with a wading area around it and a couple of hot tubs. Sporty types should head to the ship's topmost half decks for an outdoor running track, shuffleboard, croquet/bocce, pickleball, mini-golf and a golf-driving cage.

The Aquamar Spa on Deck 15 offers a barber shop, salon, fitness center with aerobics studio and sauna and steam rooms in the men's and women's locker rooms. Concierge Level and suite guests receive complimentary access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace at the front of the ship, with two hot tubs and a thalassotherapy pool.

If it's cool and rainy, consider decamping to the nook- and book-filled library, where you can borrow games, settle in with your laptop or peruse guidebooks. Baristas is right around the corner. The ship also has the requisite shops selling fine jewelry and logo items.

In the evenings, you can find a singer-pianist in Martinis, a string quartet in the Grand Lounge and a band followed by a DJ in Horizons. I heard great things about Vista's Music Station Band, but somehow I was always eating dinner when they were performing.

Each night, there's a show in the Vista Lounge, either a guest performer or a typical cruise ship song and dance show by the onboard performers. One of the new shows on Vista was choreographed by Britt Stewart, a professional dancer who's worked with "Dancing with the Stars."

Vista itineraries and pricing

Vista will spend its summers in the Mediterranean and winters in the Caribbean. In fall 2023, the ship will also visit Canada and New England and transit the Panama Canal twice. Cruises range in length from seven to 90 days, but most are one to three weeks in length.

Cruise-only prices start from $1,799 for a French Veranda cabin or $2,049 for the lowest-category balcony room on a seven-night Caribbean cruise. Alternatively, you can choose Oceania's more inclusive and expensive OLife fares; these start from $2,599 for the French Veranda cabin or $2,849 for a regular balcony room.

The current OLife promotion runs through June 30 and includes round-trip airfare and transfers, plus your choice of four shore excursions, a beverage package or $400 onboard credit per cabin. Starting in July, the line will offer a set of included perks, without the need to choose, but the actual inclusions may change during promotional periods.

What to know before you go

Required documents

The travel documents you need for your Vista cruise are determined by your itinerary and homeports. For most cruises, you will need a passport that is valid for six months after your trip ends. For round-trip sailings out of U.S. homeports, a birth certificate and government photo ID will suffice. It's up to each passenger to determine if any of the ports of call require additional visas.

When you finish checking in online for your cruise, Oceania will email you a boarding pass that you should print out and bring with you to the terminal.

Crew gratuities are added to your onboard bill and amount to $18 per person, per day, in Concierge-class rooms and below, or $23 per person, per day, in upper-level suites. Gratuities can be prepaid. You are always welcome to tip above the auto-gratuity for exceptional service. All tour guides should be tipped in cash at the end of a tour.

A 20% gratuity is added to onboard bar and spa bills.

Vista is one of the first Oceania cruise ships to use Starlink high-speed internet. I can attest to the speed of Oceania's premium plan after attending a 90-minute Zoom meeting with only the slightest of lag.

Every cabin comes with one free Wi-Fi login (for one device at a time), or you can pay to add additional devices or for the premium plan that accommodates music and video streaming.

Carry-on drinks policy

Passengers can bring up to six bottles of wine per cabin for consumption in their room. If you wish to drink your own wine in a restaurant or public area of the ship, you will need to pay a $25 per bottle corkage fee.

Smoking policy

Vista offers designated areas on the Deck 12 pool deck (forward, starboard corner) and in the smoking lounge on Deck 14 forward, outside Horizons. The latter is a gorgeous space with forest-green walls, but it is entirely indoors. This policy applies to e-cigarettes, pipes and cigars, in addition to regular cigarettes.

Smoking is forbidden everywhere else on board, including in cabins and on private balconies. Passengers who are caught in violation of the smoking policy will be disembarked at the next port of call and may also be required to pay additional fees to cover costs for cleaning or replacing damaged furniture or decking.

Vista has complimentary self-service launderettes on decks 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11. Each is outfitted with a detergent dispenser, washers and dryers, an ironing board and a seating area with a TV if you choose to wait for your load to finish. You can walk away while your load runs, but set a timer because folks will remove your clothes if you don't pick them up in a timely fashion.

Alternatively, you can pay to send out your clothes to have them washed and/or pressed.

Electrical outlets

Vista's cabins and suites offer electrical outlets and USB ports on both sides of the bed and by the desk. You'll find both U.S. 110V and European 220V outlets. Americans may want to bring an adapter for charging devices in public rooms where the outlets are all European-style.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar. The reception desk can change dollars for the local currency.

Drinking age

You must be 21+ to drink alcohol onboard all Oceania cruises. When the ship is in international waters, young adults ages 18 to 20 may purchase and drink beer or wine (as well as the House Select beverage package).

Oceania does not have a complicated dress code with specific attire required on certain evenings. Instead, the line suggests "elegant casual resort wear" for evenings and requests that guests do not wear casual jeans, shorts, T-shirts, baseball caps, casual sandals or sneakers in the restaurants after 6 p.m.

For casual dining, choose the Pizzeria or Terrace Café for your evening meal. Shorts and baseball caps are allowed; athletic wear is not.

Elegant casual resort wear translates into date-night dresses (but not full-on cocktail attire), skirts and blouses or dressy pants and tops for women, and collared shirts and slacks for men. Jackets and ties are not required.

During the day, casual attire is fine, but please don't wear swimwear, bathrobes or pajamas in public areas. You'll need footwear if you leave the pool deck.

Bottom line

Vista is an elegant mid-size cruise ship that's the perfect home base for travelers who appreciate dining variety, enjoy interesting cocktails and fine wines and wish to explore the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Cabins and suites are thoughtfully designed, though, for longer voyages, you might need to take advantage of onboard launderettes as cabin storage might be tight.

Vista offers a high-end experience on a beautifully designed ship, but you'll have a choice in how you spend your vacation budget rather than paying upfront for all-inclusive fares.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Review: Oceania Riviera

Reviewed by Janice Wald Henderson

What is the line?  Oceania Cruises

Name of ship?  Riviera

Passenger occupancy? 1,238

Itinerary? Venice to Athens

Riviera hits the sweet spot for food and wine devotees, delivering exceptional cuisine, wine pairing extravaganzas, and culinary and vintner-driven shore excursions. 

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?  

Oceania Cruises maintains a strong focus on quality food and wine with complimentary specialty dining. Its loyal clientele, often younger than on luxury lines (Oceania Cruises is ranked premium, with luxury-level cuisine), love to eat and drink in style as they sail the globe. And sail the globe they do, as Oceania’s six ships cover more than 450 destinations. (Vista, Oceania’s newest and most glam ship, debuts in May 2023.) Port-intensive itineraries, including many late-nights and overnights. Among the well-maintained vessels, Riviera and twin Marina rank the largest, and arguably, the most stylish. The two were purpose-built for foodies, showcasing more dining choices and a Culinary Center offering hands-on cooking classes. 

Tell us about the ship in general  

The 1,238-passenger Riviera was built in 2012 and underwent a massive refurbishment in late 2022, including all staterooms and suites and many public venues. Its smart design emphasizes contemporary cool with lavish flourishes, like the Lalique-embellished grand staircase and gleaming Italian marble. Designed for foodies, this vessel lures connoisseurs with seven complimentary dining venues, mostly astonishingly good. Fares depend on the category of stateroom or suite booked, and can run from budget-minded to as pricey as a luxury line (with similar amenities.) Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center includes a large, well-equipped fitness center and features complimentary wellness lectures and fitness classes, a comprehensive list of treatments and medi-spa services. Come nighttime, passengers move between the casino, bars, and Riviera Lounge for primarily musical revues. 

Who is onboard?  

Riviera draws an active crowd of repeat guests, mostly American, who indulge well onboard and explore energetically ashore. While 55+ might cover the age range, I saw plenty of couples and groups of friends who looked younger. These cruisers are a friendly bunch and engage with other passengers in bars and lounges. Passengers definitely utilize the fitness center, although I always found a treadmill or free weights when needed. The jogging track draws many cruisers, too, if not to run, then leisurely walk at sunset. Complimentary classes, like yoga, do fill up. I packed casual-to-elegant country-club-ish attire, and fit right in. 

Describe the cabins  

Staterooms and suites were gutted during the recent redo, receiving a more modern design in tasteful neutral-driven brown and grey hues. Bathrooms were enlarged for all but the largest suites (Oceania, Vista and Owner’s), with passengers losing tubs but gaining oversized showers. The makeover also added better storage space, roomier closets and more USB outlets and power sources. 

The variety of staterooms and suites do provide distinctly different experiences. Entry-level inside staterooms are but 174-square-feet yet still possess Riviera signatures, like a custom plush bed and granite and marble bath stocked with Bulgari toiletries. Veranda staterooms kick it up a big notch, with 291 square feet of space including a furnished teak veranda, and a larger bath. Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms are the next notable level, providing a private lounge with a dedicated concierge, complimentary laundry and Grand Dining Room (main restaurant) room service. 

I stayed in a Penthouse Suite, the lowest suite level. I loved it. My 440 square feet included a dining table, spacious veranda and access to the Executive Lounge with its concierge and coffee, soft drinks and snacks. I only used the lounge once, but I really appreciated Penthouse amenities, like welcome Champagne, priority restaurant reservations and laundry service. I didn’t interact with my butler other than for breakfast room service, but I liked the idea of  having one. The biggest, fanciest suites are dubbed Oceania, Vista and Owner’s and grouped behind an etched glass door. Those lucky occupants wallow in more than 1,000 square feet and up, with media rooms, indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas and other luxurious appointments.  

Tell us about the crew  

Enthusiastic servers in lounges and restaurants were keen to please. I actually felt sad saying goodbye to a few. They struck the perfect chord midway between formal and casual. Butlers, who service Penthouse Suites and up, leaned more formal, befitting their roles. Concierges, including those available to all passengers, calmly handled questions about, well, everything. A shoutout to the shore excursion desk, who fielded lots of questions and kept their cool. I came away impressed with the sommeliers, too; they knew their wines and sometimes gently steered me to better selections than what I chose.

What food and drink options are available on board?  

The absolutely best aspect (besides the ports) of my sail was the food and wine. There are now seven venues; the newest (which I have yet to experience) is an al fresco trattoria and pizzeria. Reservations are needed for Toscana, Polo Grill, Jacques and La Reserve; passengers are promised at least one reservation in each (other than La Reserve) per cruise. Book as far in advance as possible; once onboard, add your name to waitlists to score additional bookings.

It’s astonishing that all complimentary restaurants use primo ingredients with abandon. You can indulge on lobster or aged prime beef every night. I tried, and liked, many new plant-based plates, such as power bowls with sea vegetables.  Main restaurant Grand Dining Room felt as festive as specialty eateries and delivered sophisticated delicious plates night after night.

I had my favorites. French restaurant Jacques presented exquisite onion soup. Polo Grill steakhouse’s bacon rolls were insane; don’t do as I did, which is eat the entire breadbasket before the big beefy main event. If Asian-fusion Red Ginger ever loses the lobster pad Thai, I think passengers (including me) would revolt. I often revisited Toscana, for its hand-fashioned pastas and rolling olive oil cart. What’s better than dipping fresh-baked focaccia into markedly different olive oils?  I barely went to the beautiful afternoon teas but when I did, the flaky scones made me swoon. La Reserve, the only fee-based eatery, offers multi-course meals with wine pairings. The Dom Pérignon six-course extravaganza was worth the decidedly steep $295 charge per person on my cruise; different vintages were paired with excellent cuisine and glasses were generously refilled. The passionate head sommelier explained each vintage and pairing in depth. Speaking of wine, I adored the bin finishing sheet added to restaurant wine lists; I found really good bottles at substantial discounts.       

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?  

Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center is a rather glam and worthwhile destination for its vast array of services, from facials, detox wraps and massages to medi-spa. It offers complimentary fitness classes, like spinning and Pilates. The sauna and steam are open to any guest; no need for a treatment. Same goes for relaxing on heated ceramic loungers. Aquamar Spa Terrace features a thalassotherapy pool and whirlpools, open post-treatment or to spa-dwellers. The big adjacent fitness center offers the typical TechnoGym equipment like stair climbers, weight machines and treadmills. This spa also offers specific shore excursions dubbed Wellness Discovery Tours, like visiting hammams in port.

Activities and entertainment  

Riviera offers activities galore – even pickleball. My favorite was a hands-on cooking class with recipes from Red Ginger in the Culinary Center. Our chef instructor expertly demonstrated each dish and then we tried – and succeeded – in duplicating them at our well-equipped stations. In the Artist Loft, a resident artist displays his work and offers workshops. The big library tempts with diversified tomes and beckoning comfy chairs with ottomans. I saw lots of the same faces playing table tennis, paddle tennis, putting, croquet, bocce and shuffleboard. Some passengers attended port enrichment lectures. The pool and hot tubs stayed popular. Pre-dinner, I relished a talented female string quartet playing classical music in the Grand Bar, although the adjacent Martinis lounge was the busiest and buzziest. Post-dinner, I attended a musical show or two starring shipboard singers and dancers in the Riviera Lounge, which were okay, much like those on luxury lines. The casino was sometimes busy when I looked; with many early morning excursions, passengers tend to turn in early, although some head to Horizons for nightcaps and dancing to a live band. Props, too, to Riviera’s inclusiveness; my cruise featured an LGBTQI+ social evening.  

How was the experience for families?  

Riviera vibes like an adults-only ship, although children aged one-year-old and up are allowed to board. There are no kids clubs or programming and I didn’t see any little ones on my cruise.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?  

My cruise sailed from Venice to Istanbul, with visits to Athens, Mykonos and Croatia’s Split and Rovinj. It’s a fairly common route with competition from other premium and luxury lines. Plentiful shore excursion choices meant choosing was challenging. My standouts were food and wine-driven. In Kusadasi, Turkey, when most visitors toured Ephesus, I joined a small group for a cooking demonstration and sumptuous Turkish lunch prepared by local cooks at a mountain resort hideaway. In Santorini, our guide whisked us to vineyards and wineries. How fascinating to learn how grapevines here thrive on dew alone, and that many island residents make wine with grapes grown in their backyards. 

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

On all ships, Oceania Cruises offers Go Green Tours, where cruisers engage with residents and businesses on conserving and sustaining surrounding environments. For example, in St. Kitts passengers may learn about hydroponic farming in rainforests, or in Athens, observe injured and ill sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation.

Anything we missed  

My food memories astonish me. Months later, I can still taste the illy crema, a frozen blend primarily of espresso and cream, at Baristas. I currently crave Waves Grill’s fragrant vanilla-forward milkshakes, and Wagyu burgers, their juices dripping down my hands. I see the tall chef in a tall toque expertly carving a crackling-skinned whole suckling pig at lunchtime in the Terrace Café. Long story short, the cuisine pretty much blew my mind.   

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

If you’re passionate about food and wine and exploring the world in style, you’ll love life onboard Riviera. 

Oceania Cruises Launches Simply MORE Program to Offer More Included Amenities

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: June 27, 2023  - Last updated: February 6, 2024

With free airfare, shore excursions, and an upgraded drink package, Oceania’s simply MORE aims to give cruisers an all-inclusive experience.

Premium-plus cruise line Oceania Cruises has announced a new program, simply MORE , that will offer cruisers a range of complimentary amenities including free roundtrip airfare, free airport transfers, free shore excursions, and a free beverage package for every guest.

The new program, which will apply to all new reservations beginning July 1, 2023 for sailings departing October 1, 2023 or later has been designed to elevate the guest experience according to a press release from Oceania.

Simply MORE will replace Oceania’s OLife Choice program, which offered a limited range of inclusions.

“Over the past 20 years, we have continued to adapt and evolve to the wants and needs of our valued trade partners and guests. We are always seeking to enhance the Oceania Cruises experience and raise the bar in offering the best value in luxury cruising. So, we asked our key audiences, guests, and travel partners, what they wanted, and that was simplicity, choice and value. Through our new  simply  MORE value promise, they now have all three,” said  Frank A. Del Rio , President of Oceania Cruises.

Simply MORE from Oceania will make the brand more all-inclusive

Oceania’s new  simply  MORE promise will include an easier arrival and departure experience with complimentary roundtrip airfare and airport transfers, a shore excursion credit of up to $1,600 per stateroom, and a comprehensive beverage package (available during lunch and dinner) featuring dozens of vintage Champagnes, premium wines, and international beers.

The new inclusions are in addition to Oceania’s already-included amenities, which feature gourmet dining at specialty restaurants, complimentary soft drinks including fine teas and coffees, sodas, and Vero still and sparkling water, 24-hour room service, unlimited Wi-Fi, and fitness classes.

Related: Which Cruise Lines Have All-Inclusive Cruises?

“Thanks to the launch of  simply  MORE, our guests will enjoy even more value, more choice, and more convenience than ever before,” said Del Rio.

“For me, the cornerstone of this exciting new value promise is the generous credit offered to every guest to be spent on shore excursions of their choice. Oceania Cruises is renowned for our imaginative and immersive itineraries, journeying to every part of the globe, which are enhanced even further by our industry-leading array of enriching adventures ashore,” Del Rio continued.

Using the simply MORE shore excursion credit on an Oceania cruise

Oceania Cruises offers more than 8,000 unique tour choices in its 600-plus ports of call. Cruisers can choose to explore iconic cities, lesser-known gems, and tranquil islands during a single sailing thanks to the line’s destination-intensive itineraries.

With the new simply MORE program, Oceania guests will now be able to take advantage of a generous shore excursion credit to choose tours on each voyage—but the credit amount will vary based on the length of your itinerary.

Shore excursion credit amounts will range from $600 per stateroom for an itinerary of seven to nine days, up to $1,600 per stateroom on sailings of 31 to 35 days.

The included credit can be redeemed for any available excursions, including Food & Wine Trails Tours and Culinary Discovery Tours , sustainability-focused Go Green Tours as well as luxurious private tours with a dedicated car and driver.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll get for a free shore excursion credit on different Oceania sailing lengths, per stateroom:

According to Del Rio, “The  simply  MORE shore excursion credit can be applied to any and all of our tours, from witnessing an active volcano from a helicopter in Montserrat and learning how to tend and herd sheep at a shepherd school in Northern Spain on one of our Go Local tours to enjoying an insider’s view of iconic modernistic buildings in the Finnish capital of Helsinki on a Beyond Blueprints excursion, which takes travelers behind the scenes of landmark buildings with an architectural guide.”

Simply MORE’s new included drink package

Oceania’s new  simply  MORE concept, which replaces the brand’s OLife Choice program, will now include a beverage package featuring free premium-label Champagnes and wines along with over 20 American and international beers, during lunch and dinner.

“Our guests appreciate fine food and fine wine, and we have always included all gourmet specialty dining. Now we are thrilled to be able to offer them a generous array of wines—not just house pours—to choose from, plus Champagnes and beers to enjoy too. With over three dozen wine choices on offer, and a broad range of beers as well as premium-label sparkling wines and Champagnes, there is something to suit every palate,” Del Rio commented.

Free airfare and transfers for Oceania cruisers

Oceania’s new press release states that cruisers will enjoy free roundtrip airfare and airport transfers as part of the simply MORE program.

The brand hasn’t yet released details about potential restrictions or exclusions, so check Oceania’s Promotions Terms and Conditions page for the most updated information.

Included Wi-Fi with the simply MORE program on Oceania

With Oceania’s old OLife Choice program, the free internet amenity included one login per stateroom, except for cruisers sailing in Owner’s, Vista, and Oceania Suites, who received two logins per suite.

According to Oceania’s latest release, the new simply MORE concept promises to offer unlimited Wi-Fi for all guests.

More news about Oceania Cruises

Be sure to subscribe to Should Be Cruising so you don’t miss any breaking news about Oceania Cruises and your other favorite luxury cruise lines!

What do you think about Oceania’s new simply MORE offering? If you’ve cruised on Oceania before, do you feel it’s a welcome upgrade from the OLife Choice program? I’d love to hear your opinion in the comments below!

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Travis Schmitt

Saturday 1st of July 2023

If the credit is only for shore excursions, it is a downgrade. I usually book my own experiences while onshore or many times in the Caribbean, I just enjoy the ship and the spa. Also, I drink very little so paying a higher cruise fare for something I don’t really use is a downgrade. One reason I enjoy Oceania is you pay for what you actually want or use. If I go on Regent, I have paid for their shore excursions which are great for the older crowd, but I prefer to do my own thing and paying for something twice isn’t smart. So I have chosen Oceania over Regent or Silversea because of this

Hi Travis, you bring up some very valid points! Although lots of cruisers would enjoy having the included amenities (if you were planning on buying them à la carte anyway), it doesn't make sense if you're not planning to use them. I'd 100% rather that shore excursion credit be a spa credit instead :D Thanks for stopping by and happy cruising!

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Oceania Cruises, British Isles from Belfast, June 29, 2023

Cruising from: Belfast, Northern Ireland ;

Departure Date: 29 June, 2023 ;

Cruise Line: Oceania Cruises ;

Cruise Ship: Riviera ;

Duration: 10-day cruise ;

Ports of Call: Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Bantry Bay, Killybegs, Isle of Lewis, Kirkwall, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Southampton ;

10-day cruise to Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Bantry Bay, Killybegs, Isle of Lewis, Kirkwall, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Southampton on board Riviera.

Day 0 belfast, northern ireland.

Belfast is Northern Ireland's capital. If passing through as part of a cruise, be sure to head straight for the so-called Golden Mile, which runs from Belfast City Hall to Queen's University, and is where you'll find the majority of the city's historic attractions as well as its best bars, restaurants and cafes.

Day 1 Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, capital of the Republic of Ireland is steeped in Celtic legend, and is one of the liveliest and most historic cities in Europe. Among the many must-see highlights that the city offers is the National Museum of Ireland, which is spread out over several venues, each covering a different speciality. The famous Book of Kells can be seen in the Old Library at Trinity College, while the Christ Church Cathedral is Dublin's oldest building.

Day 2 Cork, Ireland

Cobh is a town on the south coast of Ireland, on an island in Cork city's harbour. It's known as the Titanic's last port of call which sailed from here on 14 April 1912. The centre of Cobh is compact and quite flat with a large waterside park and a good selection of bars, shops, cafes and restaurants.

Day 3 Bantry Bay, Ireland

Bantry is a lovely little harbour town at the head of Bantry Bay, where visitors can find peace and tranquillity. Wonderful coastal countryside, hidden glens, hills, woods and forests are what every nature lover is looking for. And for adventurers there are well-organized outdoor activities like sailing through the various peninsulas, see kayaking or visiting nearby islands.

Day 4 Killybegs, Northern Ireland

Killybegs is a town in County Donegal in Ulster, Ireland and the second largest fishing port in Ireland. Killybegs is famous for its tapestries and carpets, some of which were produced on the biggest carpet loom in the world at the "Donegal Carpet Factory". Fintra beach, located on the outskirts of Killybegs town, consists entirely of fine golden sand and it is regarded as one of the safest beaches in Ireland.

Day 5 Isle of Lewis, Scotland

Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of Lewis and Harris in Scotland. Stornoway is an important port and the major town and administrative centre of the Outer Hebrides. Stornoway offers a warm welcome to anyone choosing to visit Lewis as part of their Outer Hebridean explorations. Strolling along the quay at Stornoway Harbour and hearing the shouts of the fishermen, visiting the historic Lews Castle and the adjoining Lews Castle Museum and Archive, a key cultural centre for Outer Hebrides heritage, are among things visitors can experience. The largest island of the Outer Hebrides, Lewis is the northern part of Lewis and Harris, the largest island of the Western Isles or Outer Hebrides of Scotland. The island is blessed with a diverse range of habitats many of which are rich in wildlife. Although Lewis is the most densely populated of the Western Isles, much of the population is centred in and around Stornoway.

Day 6 Kirkwall, Scotland

Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands of Scotland. The town has two museums, the larger being Tankerness House Museum, which contains items of local historical interest within one of Scotland's best-preserved sixteenth-century town-houses. At the heart of the town stands St. Magnus Cathedral, which was founded in memory of Saint Magnus Erlendsson, Earl of Orkney 1108-1117 by Earl (later Saint) Rognvald Kali.

Day 7 Edinburgh, Scotland

The harbor is an excellent starting place for excursions to the city's Old Town, as well as to the medieval castle and other historic landmarks in the area. The Old Town, which was constructed during the Middle Ages when there was a continual fear of assault, huddles high on the Castle Rock with a view over the surrounding plain below. On the other hand, the New Town is comprised of a breathtakingly beautiful series of streets, crescents, and terraces.

Day 8 Newcastle, England

Newcastle has now re-invented itself as a cultural centre and Science City, and is possibly one of the most vibrant cities in the north of England. The North East is an area of outstanding natural beauty and home to beautiful coastlines, gardens, castles, cathedrals and the cradle of Christianity. The region is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Hadrian's Roman Wall and Durham City, as well as Alnwick Castle, known as the Windsor of the North.

Day 9 At Sea, At Sea

Wonderful day at Sea.

Day 10 Southampton, England

Known as the cruise capital of Europe, the Port of Southampton is a passenger and cargo port located in the central part of the south coast of England. There are four dedicated cruise terminals at Southampton which play host to a wide variety of cruise lines. Southampton is one of the most lively and dynamic cities in the south of England. From bustling shops and marinas to seaside resorts and areas of outstanding natural beauty, the city and region have lots to offer.

Sail with Oceania Cruises from Belfast to British Isles on board Riviera cruise ship. Discover the best of Northern Ireland, Ireland, Scotland, England on this British Isles cruise and discover amazing Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Bantry Bay, Killybegs, Isle of Lewis, Kirkwall, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Southampton. Riviera leaving Belfast, Northern Ireland for 10 days from June 29, 2023.

British Isles cruise June 2023

British Isles cruise from Belfast June 2023

Please note that port orders, dates, and itinerary details, including content, are subject to change. Verify specific details for your chosen sailing date on the Oceania Cruises website.

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Oceania Cruises 2023

Looking for an Oceania cruise in 2023? Take to the seas on a luxury cruise with Oceania Cruises. Browse all 2023 voyages below and indulge in your dream cruise holiday, whether it’s in the beautiful Mediterranean, catching some winter sun in the Caribbean, or take the plunge and head further afield to Asia or Australasia.

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Oceania Cruises Announces New 2025-26 Tropics and Exotics Collection

• April 14, 2024

Oceania Cruises unveiled its 2025-26 Tropics and Exotics Collection which opens for sale on April 17, 2024.

The new collection features 135 itineraries ranging from seven to 180 days, including Vista’s debut Around The World Voyage. Oceania will visit five continents and a total of 329 ports, including new overnight destinations in Willemstad, Curacao; San Juan, Puerto Rico and Port Louis, Mauritius, the company announced in a press release.

“Our new Tropics and Exotics Collection is one of our most exciting yet, featuring a heady mix of iconic cities, remote islands and hidden gems to discover for the very first time,” commented Frank A Del Rio, resident of Oceania Cruises.

“With various voyages allowing guests to explore a region for weeks or months at a time, and several new overnight port stays, the collection offers a wealth of opportunities for our guests to explore further than ever before, savoring the many flavors of the world and enjoying uniquely curated experiences ashore in these exotic and tropical regions.”

Highlights of Oceania’s 2025-26 Tropics and Exotics Collection:

• Asia Odysseys: The Regatta will explore Japan and Southeast Asia while the Riviera offers five additional voyages in these regions. Sirena’s lineup of 10- to 24-day sailings explores Southeast Asia and Japan with select voyages featuring India and China.
• Oceania Discoveries:  Guests aboard the Riviera will explore Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific on 14- to 22-day sailings.
• Africa Adventures: The Nautica will delve deep into Africa with a series of five voyages ranging from 11 to 30 days.
• Panama Canal and Caribbean Retreats: The Allura, launching in summer 2025, will sail across both the Eastern and Western Caribbean with a series of nine sailings, ranging from seven to 14 days.
• South America Explorations: The Marina will sail a series of six voyages ranging from 10 to 24 days exploring Patagonia, Brazil, the Amazon and beyond, before crossing to the Mediterranean in April.

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• Asia Odysseys : A series of sailings showcasing Asia’s iconic landmarks, cultural heritage, and stunning scenery. Regatta will focus on Japan and Southeast Asia, offering voyages ranging from 12 to 16 days, featuring multiple overnight stays. Riviera adds five more voyages to these regions, while Sirena presents a diverse lineup of 10- to 24-day sailings that include India and China, a 25-day Africa voyage, and two captivating South Pacific journeys.
• Oceania Discoveries : Riviera will take guests through the remote beauty of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific on 14—to 22-day sailings, culminating in an adventurous crossing of the Bering Sea to Alaska.
• Africa Adventures : Nautica will offer five voyages ranging from 11 to 30 days that focus on the continent’s cultural and natural wonders.
• Panama Canal & Caribbean Retreats : Insignia will navigate the clear Caribbean waters and the iconic Panama Canal, with Tampa as a new embarkation and debarkation port. Allura, the latest addition to the fleet launching in summer 2025, will offer nine sailings across the Eastern and Western Caribbean, ranging from seven to 14 days.
• Vista’s First Around the World Journey : In a first for Oceania Cruises, Vista is set to become the ultimate home at sea during an epic 2026 voyage that circumnavigates the globe. This grand sojourn will span nearly six weeks in South America, immersing guests in the continent’s diverse wonders. The journey continues across Australia, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia, culminating in a month-long exploration of Europe’s historic and cultural treasures.
• Unique and New Overnight Stays : The collection now features over 90 voyages with overnight stays, providing guests with ample time to delve into each destination’s local culture and experiences. Enjoy extended visits to the diverse ports of Panama, Bali, Indonesia, and Australia. Additionally, Oceania Cruises introduces new overnight stays in captivating locations such as Willemstad, Curacao; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Port Louis, Mauritius, offering fresh perspectives and deeper connections to these exotic locales.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Announces Historic Fleet Expansion

Oceania Cruises announces Giada De Laurentiis as Brand and Culinary Ambassador

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24 Fascinating Facts About The World's Most Luxury Cruises

Posted: March 11, 2024 | Last updated: March 11, 2024

Sumptuous escapes at sea

Some Oceania Cruises suites have walk-in closets and grand pianos

No expense has been spared when it comes to suite decor on luxury ships. For ultimate opulence, opt for the Owner’s suites which you’ll find on Oceania Cruises ' ships. These cover 1,991 square feet, have two walk-in closets and entrance foyers with a grand piano and a mahogany bar. A 15-day Svalbard & Arctic Passage cruise with accommodation in the Grand Owner’s suite costs from $23,044 per person.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer had a big design budget

We’re increasingly seeing bigger budgets for ships’ decor. Huge amounts of cash are being splashed on sprucing up interiors, and one example of this decadence is Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' Seven Seas Explorer, which has 473 Swedish-designed chandeliers, 45,876 square feet of marble, Versace-designed dinnerware, crystal glasses from Eastern Europe and a $12 million art collection which includes several Picassos.

Orient Express is set to launch a seriously luxurious ship

After launching the world’s most luxurious train 140 years ago, Orient Express will launch an opulent ship to match. Orient Express Silenseas, which will take to the waves in 2026, will have 54 suites (including a 15,231-square-foot Presidential Suite), two swimming pools, two restaurants and a speakeasy bar. Oh, and a recording studio. Prices are to be confirmed (but will inevitably be eye-watering).

Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend offers themed suites

Sail on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend and you can book a suite inspired by exotic destinations and hotels. We recommend the suite inspired by the Sea Island resort in Georgia. Expect ocean-inspired colourways and plenty of sea-glass green. A Treasures of the Greek Isles cruise with Windstar starts from $3,745 per person.

There are butlers onboard with a Silversea cruise

Book a sailing with  Silversea  and you’re guaranteed your own butler. They'll be on hand to help with everything from the unpacking of luggage to the opening of the Champagne bottles. They’re not just any butlers, either – they’ve undertaken a 108-point training programme created for the cruise line by the London-based School for Butlers. An 11-day Mediterranean Cruise in 2024 costs from $8,092 per person.

You can go beneath the ocean's surface with Scenic Cruises

An abundance of onboard kit means that luxury ships don’t just help passengers get to the world’s most remote places – they help them get below the waves and into the skies too. Take Scenic Cruises – their Scenic Eclipse ship recently became the first vessel to offer both helicopter flights and submarine dives in the Canadian Arctic. An Antarctica in Depth cruise costs from $16,310 per person.

Seven Seas Grandeur has in-suite spas

Love a session in the spa but value your personal space? Book Regent Seven Seas Cruises ’ Regent Suite, which you’ll find on Seven Seas Grandeur, due to launch in November 2023. Highlights include the two enormous bedrooms and the whirlpool bath on the balcony, although the pièce de resistance is the suite’s very own spa retreat.

You can sleep under the stars with the SeaDream Yacht Club

Set sail on one of SeaDream Yacht Club ’s yacht-style vessels and you’ll be able to spend a night under the stars. At night, staff transform the upper deck’s huge Balinese day beds by adding luxurious bed linens and fluffy pillows, allowing you to drift off to the sound of the ocean. Expect to pay around $3,700 for a seven-day cruise.

SeaDream Yacht Club has one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios at sea

Some cruise lines offer boats on boats

Zodiacs – small, fast boats carried on ships – make it easy to explore different landscapes, whether it’s the frozen tundra or the Galapagos’ wildlife-dotted islands. Special mentions go to Quark , which uses environmentally friendly four-stroke engine zodiacs; Silversea , famous for its expert-led zodiac excursions, and AE Expeditions – the line’s new expedition ship Sylvia Earle has 15 zodiacs. A seven-day Spitsbergen sailing with Quark costs from $5,547.

Aurora Expeditions and AE Expeditions ships have science laboratories onboard

If peering at distant shorelines through binoculars doesn’t cut it, sign up for a sailing with Aurora Expeditions or AE Expeditions . AE Expeditions ships have tech-filled laboratories and lecture theaters, making it easy to gain new perspectives on the destinations in question. Guests can contribute to a wide range of research projects, including ones relating to micro-plastics and sea life. A 15-day Svalbard In Depth sailing starts from $12,137 per person.

You can have your very own Dom Perignon Experience on Oceania Cruises’ Vista ship

Is spaciousness a priority? Consider Oceania Cruises . Their newest ship Vista (which set sail in May 2023) is tipped as having the largest entry-level staterooms at sea (280 square feet, if you were wondering). We’re equally excited about the Dom Perignon Experience – during this six-course extravaganza you’ll sip Dom Perignon Champagnes chosen to suit the various dishes. A 10-day Bangkok to Singapore cruise starts from $5,335 per person.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Flora has a stargazing platform

Celebrity Cruises ’ Celebrity Flora, which has space for just 100 passengers and is based permanently in the Galapagos Islands, is a pint-sized ship that can effortlessly access the areas other vessels can’t reach. But our favorite feature is the stargazing platform. Head here for stargazing sessions led by the ship’s onboard astronomer. You’ll pay from $7,796 for a Galapagos Inner Loop sailing on Celebrity Flora.

The naming ceremonies are often spectacular

Simply swinging a bottle against the side of a ship is so passé. In January 2023 Viking christened new luxury ship Viking Neptune. The ship’s godmother Nicole Stott (a retired NASA astronaut) used a traditional Viking broad ax to cut the rope, which sent a bottle of fizz smashing into the ship. A 13-day Mediterranean Odyssey cruise with Viking costs $5,911.

Your Abercrombie & Kent guide might be a famous explorer

Abercrombie & Kent Luxury Expedition Cruises – previously known as Crystal Cruises – are famous for their onboard experts. The cruise line’s expedition leaders include explorer James McClintock, recipient of the Antarctica Service Medal, and former Royal Marine Commando Russ Manning, who served as base commander in the South Orkneys and earned the Polar Medal. A 14-night Arctic Cruise Adventure with Abercrombie & Kent costs from $17,922.

You no longer have to wear a ball gown to dinner

You can ride on a magic carpet with Celebrity Cruises

Okay, not the type ridden by Aladdin. We’re talking about Celebrity Cruises’ Magic Carpet – a cantilevered platform which appears to float in thin air, and which glides up and down the side of Celebrity Edge, one of the cruise line’s most luxurious ships. Depending on what level it stops at, the Magic Carpet can become a restaurant, bar or nightclub, although the one constant is breathtaking views.

There are luxury ships you can live on

Dread disembarkation day? Why not simply stay onboard? No, we’re not suggesting claiming squatters’ rights at the end of your cruise, but splashing out on a cabin on  The World , described by its owners as a luxury private residence at sea. There are 165 residences available for purchase and the ship sails around the planet – in 2023 it will visit South Asia, the Middle East, the Iberian Peninsula, Greenland, South America and Antarctica. Some residents live on the ship full-time, while others visit throughout the year, and residences start at around $1.2m.

Luxury cruise lines can be fully all-inclusive too

You can feast on cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chefs

You can learn firsthand about the Polar regions

Luxury cruise lines are going all out to provide fascinating insights into the explorers who first mapped these regions. In 2024, Scenic will launch several East Antarctic cruises focusing on the routes taken by explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. If you sail through the Arctic on Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot (the world’s only luxury ice breaker), a team of 23 polar experts will help you gain a whole new perspective on these remote regions.

There’s designer decor on Oceania Cruises’ Vista ship

SeaDream Yacht Club offer a ‘Champagne & Caviar Splash’

You need to book well in advance

If you’re planning on a bucket list-worthy sailing on one of the more luxurious ships, you’ll need to bag your spot early on. Take  Azamara’s World Voyage , a 155-night, 37-country sailing which takes place in 2024 and is currently sold out (there’s a waiting list of passengers hoping for cancellations). Luckily, spots on the 2025 World Voyage are still available – if you’ve got a minimum of $42,622 to spare.

The world's most beautiful ports visited by cruise ships

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Oceania cruises announces new 2025-2026 tropics and exotics collection.

Explore new horizons and set sail beyond the ordinary on more than 130 immersive itineraries spanning Africa , Asia , Australia , the Caribbean , South America and the South Pacific

MIAMI , April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Oceania Cruises , the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has revealed its 2025-2026 Tropics and Exotics Collection, which is available for preview online at OceaniaCruises.com and opens for sale on April 17, 2024 .

The new collection includes a total of 135 captivating itineraries, visiting five continents on voyages ranging from seven to 180 days, including Vista's debut Around The World Voyage. Spanning 329 ports, the new itineraries offer a unique opportunity for curious guests to delve deeper into some of the most enticing and exotic corners of the globe.

"Our new Tropics and Exotics Collection is one of our most exciting yet, featuring a heady mix of iconic cities, remote islands and hidden gems to discover for the very first time," commented Frank A Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "With various voyages allowing guests to explore a region for weeks or months at a time, and several new overnight port stays, the collection offers a wealth of opportunities for our guests to explore further than ever before, savoring the many flavors of the world and enjoying uniquely curated experiences ashore in these exotic and tropical regions."

More than 90 sailings feature overnight stays allowing guests the chance to immerse themselves in ports of call as diverse as Panama City , Bali and Melbourne , plus new overnight destinations including Willemstad, Curacao ; San Juan, Puerto Rico and Port Louis, Mauritius .

Travelers seeking to explore more of the world will revel in the selection of 40 Grand Voyages that afford opportunities for epic journeys across distinct regions and multiple continents. These Grand Voyages explore the wonders of Asia , the stunning topography of the Oceania region, vibrant African cities, tropical Caribbean island retreats and South America's dramatic terrain, all whilst enjoying the home-away-from-home luxury aboard Oceania Cruises' elegant small ships.

Visitors wanting to focus on a specific region of the world have a myriad of carefully curated voyages to choose from, including immersive itineraries discovering the South American continent's dramatic landscapes and diverse heritage, an array of exotic visits to Japan and Southeast Asia , and adventures through Australia and New Zealand .

2025-26 Tropics and Exotics Collection Highlights

Asia Odysseys | Experience Asia's unique icons, cultural traditions and incredible landscapes with a wider array of sailings in the region than ever before. Regatta focuses on Japan and Southeast Asia , many with multiple overnight stays and ranging from 12 to 16 days, while Riviera offers five additional voyages in these regions. Sirena 's exotic lineup of 10- to 24-day sailings explores the diverse locales of Southeast Asia and Japan with select voyages featuring India and China , plus an exciting 25-day Africa voyage opening the season, and two enchanting South Pacific sailings closing the season.

Oceania Discoveries | The spectacular topography, remote islands and isolated beauty of Australia , New Zealand and the South Pacific come to life with Riviera 's range of 14- to 22-day sailings in the Oceania region. The finale is an adventurous Bering Sea crossing to Alaska .

Africa Adventures | Nautica focuses on Africa's amazing wonders, offering opportunities to experience the continent's unmistakable unity of culture and nature with a series of five voyages ranging from 11 to 30 days.

Panama Canal & Caribbean Retreats | Experience the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, island culture and iconic Panama Canal aboard Insignia, with Tampa as a new convenient embarkation and debarkation port. Allura, the line's newest ship – launching in summer 2025 – offers even more opportunities to experience island bliss as she spends a sun-drenched season in the balmy Caribbean across both the Eastern and Western regions with a series of nine sailings, ranging from seven to 14 days.

South America Explorations | Take in the continent's dramatic landscapes, diverse heritage and natural beauty with a series of six sailings aboard Marina – ranging from 10 to 24 days –exploring Patagonia, the best of Brazil , the Amazon and beyond, before crossing to the Mediterranean in April.

Vista 's First Around the World Journey | Experience an Oceania Cruises first as Vista becomes the ultimate home at sea for an epic 2026 sojourn that explores South America for nearly six weeks before discovering jewels across Australia , the South Pacific and Southeast Asia , continuing onwards to spend a memorable month in Europe .

Unique and new overnight stays | With more than 90 voyages featuring overnight stays, enjoy more opportunities for unique destination experiences and more immersion in ports as diverse as those found in Panama , Bali, Indonesia and Australia as well as new overnight port stays for Oceania Cruises such as Willemstad, Curacao ; San Juan, Puerto Rico and Port Louis, Mauritius .

For additional information on Oceania Cruises' small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line's eight small, luxurious ships carry a maximum of 1,250 guests and feature The Finest Cuisine at Sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences are available aboard the designer-inspired, small ships, which call on more than 600 marquee and boutique ports in more than 100 countries on seven continents, on voyages that range from seven to more than 200 days. Oceania Cruises is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH). To learn more, visit  www.nclhltd.com .

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Oceania Cruises offers free pre-cruise hotel stay for 2024/2025 itineraries

Oceania Cruises will offer guests a free pre-cruise hotel stay on a range of sailings throughout late 2024 and 2025, allowing travellers the convenience of arriving a day before their cruise embarkation.

This offer is available on 33 destination-immersive sailings exploring locations such as Brazil, the Canary Islands, Japan, Singapore, Bali, and New Zealand on itineraries ranging from 11-day explorations to an expansive voyage of 35 days.

During the free pre-cruise hotel stay, travellers can explore the port destination they are at, such as meandering through the Ginza District of Tokyo, admiring the views of Table Mountain in Cape Town, enjoying a stroll through Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, passing the time in Cape Town on Boulders Beach in South Africa, experiencing the beaches and lush countryside of Bali, or immersing themselves in the colourful, sun-soaked culture in Rio de Janeiro, before boarding the ship for their cruise voyage.

The offer is available for reservations made between now and May 31, 2024.

For more information, visit Oceania Cruises .

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2025-2026 Tropics & Exotics Collection Highlights April 11, 2024 by Oceania Cruises

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Top 10 Cruises: 2023 Europe & North America Collection

As my team and I navigate Marina along the beautiful western coast of France and to the south along Portugal, I am happy to share a special dispatch with all of you on our exciting new 2023 Europe & North America Collection. This new collection release is particularly meaningful for us this year as a team since we are back at sea and doing what we really love – exploring the world with all of you. These voyages represent the best of what’s yet to come.

It is a pleasure and, I will confess, also a bit of a challenge to share with you highlights from our 2023 Europe & North America Collection . A pleasure because there is nothing that I love more than navigating our ships on these unique itineraries we have become known for, and a challenge because there are really so many memorable voyages to choose from in this collection of 179 voyages across our seven luxurious ships.

Port Collector’s Itineraries: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations & More Overnights Now those of you that know me may think that I’m partial to my native country of Italy and my longtime home country of Norway. And maybe I am? Jokes aside, I have selected some voyages that I feel really illustrate the unique regions Oceania Cruises sails to and the kind of destination-intensive itineraries you can expect in this collection. And let me tell you this: After years of being an Oceania Cruises Captain and many more years in the cruise industry, these are what we call true port collector’s itineraries – we call on rare and off-the-beaten-path destinations you just will not see on usual cruise itineraries.

We do not just spend the summer cruising to the typical marquee Mediterranean ports, we visit ports of call throughout the season that are not accessible to larger ships and are more boutique-style – Capri, Amalfi and Syracuse in Italy; Propriano and Port-Vendres in France; Igoumenitsa, Chania and Kavala in Greece and so many others. Likewise, we have Marina and Riviera exploring Northern Europa for the entire summer, so we visit the favorite Baltic destinations of course, but we also devote more time to more deeply exploring the British Isles, sailing farther to Iceland, Greenland and the far north of Norway, along with calling on all of these remote islands in between – thinking of the Orkney Islands, the Faroe Islands and the Shetland Islands. Our Alaska cruises and itineraries in Canada and New England go beyond the expected ports too and also combine regions for attractive longer getaways.

What’s more is that there are a total of 190 overnights in the collection and this kind of extra time in a destination really gives you a chance to experience more of the local rhythms in a place, more time to find special moments and memories in these destinations.

Without further ado, here’s a look at some of my favorite itineraries, my top 10 cruises, in the 2023 Europe & North America Collection .

Picturesque Mediterranean | April 14, 2023 Riviera : Venice to Barcelona, 10 Day s This is bound to be one of the most popular itineraries for our guests and our staff and crew. It offers a great combination of beautiful landscapes, historical sites and excellent food – hint, look at that trio of Italian ports. Rome, Taormina in Sicily and then the Amalfi Coast, which is such a gift…what more can I say? If you have never been there, make 2023 the year you experience our beautiful Amalfi. Kotor is always unforgettable, a stunning walled medieval town – and you’ll sail on the only fjord existing in southern Europa!

Turkish & Hellenic Gems | May 4, 2023 Marina : Athens to Istanbul, 7 Days This is a voyage overflowing with history and several classic Turkish Riviera ports that are gorgeous but still not as many travelers know about them as, for example, the more popular French Riviera ports. This is actually very nice for us when we visit. These are cities that still have areas of tranquility – la serenità, as we say in Italy – during the height of summer. Sailing into Istanbul is an incredible sight to behold and even better, we spend an overnight here. We also visit Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and a must-visit, in my opinion.

Scandinavia & Baltic Allure | June 2, 2023 Marina : Amsterdam to Copenhagen, 12 Days I love this itinerary because it is a perfect example of the beauty and the wealth of culture that the great Baltic capitals are known for, with some interesting contrasts, too, in cities like Oslo, Aarhus and Berlin. And during our overnight in St. Petersburg, you get the special opportunity to experience the White Nights festivities…a really special time of year with cultural events, concerts and performances. June is the perfect time to visit these ports – great seas, bellissima scenery and fascinating history.

British Isles Discoveries | June 11, 2023 Riviera : London to Belfast, 18 Days We take you all around the picturesque British Isles on this voyage, with 16 ports in 18 days – incredible. There’s an intriguing balance of marquee ports like Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin with more hidden ports like Killybegs in Ireland and Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, which offer some very nice surprises. As I always say, wander off the prescribed path sometimes and you will be very glad you did.

Vikings, Fjords & Legends | July 1, 2023 Marina : Oslo to London, 10 Days Here we find ourselves on the return routes of the Vikings – there is so much history and beauty in this region. I always tell my two sons that sailing into the Norwegian Fjords feels like we’re bringing the ship up in the mountains, a really fantastic landscape. Trondheim is one of the most picture-perfect Norwegian cities and the fjord is very easy to access from the city. Then from our new port of Nordfjordeid, you have the famous Geirangerfjord, which needs no introduction. And after your excursions in fjord country, of course you must unwind with a cold Ringnes beer or a bit of aquavit for the daring. As we say in Norway, “Skål!”

Greenland & Nordic Gems | July 21, 2023 Riviera : Reykjavik to Oslo, 15 Days This is a cruise where nature plays the game and the itinerary takes on a life of its own just with the scenery alone. You get to experience the rapid change of weather as we cruise from the geysers and hot springs of Iceland to the beauty of the unspoiled glaciers of Greenland, touch on ancient archipelagoes in the North Sea and North Atlantic and ending in the beautiful Oslo. A true masterpiece.

Alaska & California Treasures | September 7, 2023 Regatta : Vancouver to Los Angeles, 20 Days Top Alaska ports, Hubbard Glacier, the Inside Passage, Astoria and an overnight in San Francisco come together in a great adventure with a lot of variety. The Inside Passage is one of my favorite parts of the world to return to, we can’t forget Victoria and the glaciers are treasures indeed.

Legendary European Adventure | September 26, 2023 Riviera : Amsterdam to Venice, 34 Days This encompasses so many of the top iconic and incredible places you can visit along the North European Atlantic and northern Mediterranean coasts – an overnight in Bordeaux and Venice, plus Bilbao, Lisbon, Seville, Barcelona, Provence, my dear Portofino, Florence, Dubrovnik and more. This will be 34 days of full adventure, for sure. Fantastic scenery, delicious food and wine, and amazing history…in a word, bravo!

Holy Land & Aegean Majesty | October 6, 2023 Nautica : Jerusalem to Rome, 11 Days Ah, now this is a true historical itinerary at 360 degrees…filled with standout classics like Rhodes, Ephesus, Athens and Santorini. You have the opening act of an overnight in Jerusalem – always an experience one does not forget – and the crossroads of Sicily and dining fit for kings in Naples as the closing. Magnifico!

Canada & New England Charms | October 19 & October 30, 2023 Insignia : Boston to Montreal, 11 Days The beauty of the fall foliage is incomparable. This itinerary is filled with romance and great cuisine with calls on French Canadian ports, places like Bar Harbor and maybe a bit of a surprise, Prince Edward Island. The temperatures may get a little chilly, but for me, this adds even more charm and amore to the region. It really is one of the best times to visit Quebec City and these parts of Atlantic Canada and New England.

You can explore the full 2023 Europe & North America Collection here. I would love to hear what your favorite itineraries are – share your comments on Facebook . Ciao!

About Captain Luca Manzi Captain Luca Manzi was born in Chiavari, ten miles east of Portofino. Fascinated by a life at sea, he graduated from the Marine Academy in 1987 as well as the Navy Academy after serving in the Italian Navy as Lieutenant. Two years later, Captain Manzi decided to leave the Navy for the Merchant Marine. After six years aboard cargo ships, he joined the cruise ship industry in 1996. When Oceania Cruises appeared on the horizon, Captain Manzi was delighted by the innovation the company represented and joined the Oceania Cruises family. In his spare time, Captain Manzi loves to spend time with his wife and two sons, enjoys long drives on his motorbike as well as swimming and snorkeling.

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