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About Oceania Cruises

The finest cuisine at sea®. curated travel experiences. small ship luxury., company profile, our commitment, sail & sustain.

Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s seven 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 aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 600 marquee and boutique ports in more than 100 countries on 7 continents on voyages that range from 7 to more than 200 days. The brand has a second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship on order for delivery in 2025. With headquarters in Miami, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a diversified cruise operator of leading global cruise brands which include Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Harry J. Sommer

President and chief executive officer, norwegian cruise line holdings ltd..

Harry Sommer is the President & Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH), which operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and brings more than 30 years of experience in the cruise industry. Harry previously served as President & CEO of NCLH's largest cruise line, Norwegian Cruise Line, where he oversaw the brand's entire operations. Under his leadership, the cruise line successfully navigated the industry's toughest period in history and successfully relaunched operations after a more than 500-day pause. Simultaneously, he led the company to introduce the first-in-class Norwegian Prima, the first of six ships in the brand's new class of ships and led the brand to record-breaking bookings in 2022. Previously, Harry served as President, International for NCLH, where he oversaw all international sales, marketing, and business development functions in markets beyond the United States and Canada.

During his decades in the industry, Harry held various executive and senior management roles in major cruise companies such as Prestige Cruise holdings, Renaissance Cruises, and Viking River Cruises. He also co-founded Luxury Cruise Center, a high-end travel agency specializing in premium and luxury cruise experiences.

Harry earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Baruch College in New York, and a Master's in Business Administration from Pace University in New York. Harry is also a Certified Public Accountant and serves on the NCLH Board of Directors.

Frank A. Del Rio

Del Rio is an industry veteran, having started his career in the cruise industry in 2003 as one of the first employees at Oceania Cruises. During his time at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and ultimately at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Del Rio rose to the rank of Senior Vice President and led all aspects of Port and Destination Services along with Onboard Revenue. After a short hiatus, Del Rio re-joined the company in early 2022 as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. Prior to his return to the company, Del Rio was involved in the private equity, finance, and tech spaces, where he was involved across a wide spectrum of products and industries, including AI, telecommunications and 5G network solutions, medical, and real estate development.

Franco Semeraro

Senior vice president of hotel operations.

Franco Semeraro is the Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations for Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Semeraro was a founding member of the Oceania Cruises team in 2003 and was directly responsible for the refit and entry into service for the line’s initial three ships. Semeraro assumed responsibility for the Regent Seven Seas Cruises brand in 2008 and since has overseen the complete transformation of both brands’ existing ships in addition to taking a leading role in the design and construction of the acclaimed newbuilds Marina, Riviera, and Vista along with a trio of Regent ships. Semeraro is responsible for all facets of the onboard guest experience which includes culinary, food & beverage, bar, housekeeping and administration. Under his purview the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands have become the industry leaders and preeminent brands in their respective categories. Semeraro resides in Miami with his wife and sons.

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Who Owns Oceania Cruise Line

Published: December 17, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Biddy Shell

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Oceania Cruise Line, where luxury and sophistication meet the open seas. For those seeking a memorable and indulgent cruising experience, Oceania is a top choice. With its elegant ships, exquisite dining options, and impeccable service, Oceania has earned a reputation as one of the premier cruise lines in the industry.

But have you ever wondered who owns Oceania Cruise Line? In this article, we will explore the ownership structure of this esteemed cruise line and delve into the key players behind its success.

Oceania Cruise Line was founded in 2002 with a vision to offer an upscale cruising experience to discerning travelers. Since its inception, the company has carved out a niche in the industry by focusing on smaller, more intimate ships that can access ports and destinations that larger ships cannot. This gives Oceania’s guests the opportunity to explore hidden gems and experience a more immersive travel experience.

With a fleet of six ships, Oceania offers itineraries that span across the globe, from the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean to the picturesque fjords of Norway. Each ship is designed with meticulous attention to detail, offering luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and unforgettable experiences.

Now, let’s delve into the ownership structure of Oceania Cruise Line and discover the key players who have contributed to its success.

History of Oceania Cruise Line

The history of Oceania Cruise Line is relatively short but filled with remarkable achievements and milestones. The cruise line was founded in 2002 by a group of industry veterans who aimed to provide a luxury cruising experience on smaller, more intimate ships.

From the very beginning, Oceania sought to combine elegance, comfort, and exceptional service with unique itineraries that encompass both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations. This approach quickly resonated with travelers seeking a more immersive and personalized cruising experience.

The inaugural ship of Oceania Cruise Line, the Regatta, set sail in 2003, followed shortly by the Insignia. These mid-sized vessels were designed to provide a sense of intimacy and accessibility, enabling guests to explore ports that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships.

Over the years, Oceania continued to expand its fleet and enhance its offerings. In 2005, the Nautica joined the lineup, followed by the Marina in 2011, the Riviera in 2012, and the Sirena in 2016. Each new ship brought with it innovative features, exquisite dining options, and luxurious amenities, further solidifying Oceania’s reputation as a top-tier cruise line.

One of the defining characteristics of Oceania Cruise Line is its commitment to culinary excellence. The cruise line partners with renowned master chef Jacques Pépin to deliver a dining experience that is unparalleled at sea. Guests can indulge in a variety of gourmet cuisine options, ranging from classic French dishes to authentic Asian specialties and everything in between.

Moreover, Oceania Cruise Line offers the Culinary Center, a state-of-the-art culinary school at sea. Here, guests can learn from world-class chefs, participate in cooking demonstrations, and even embark on culinary-focused shore excursions to further immerse themselves in the local flavors and culinary traditions of the destinations they visit.

With its dedication to luxury, attention to detail, and unique itineraries, Oceania Cruise Line has garnered numerous accolades and loyal guests over the years. The cruise line has been awarded “Best Cuisine” and “Best Shore Excursions” by various industry publications, further solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury cruise segment.

As the story of Oceania Cruise Line continues to unfold, it is certain that the cruise line will continue to redefine luxury cruising, providing discerning travelers with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking destinations.

Ownership Structure

The ownership structure of Oceania Cruise Line is a result of several changes over the years. Currently, Oceania Cruise Line is wholly owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

In 2014, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. acquired Oceania Cruises from its previous owner, Apollo Global Management. This acquisition allowed Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to expand its portfolio and strengthen its presence in the upscale cruise market.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. is a major player in the cruise industry, operating three distinct cruise brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Each brand caters to different segments of the market, offering unique experiences and itineraries.

As the parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings provides strategic direction, resources, and support to Oceania Cruise Line. This includes overseeing the operations, marketing, and financial aspects of the cruise line.

Despite being part of a larger corporation, Oceania Cruise Line maintains its own distinct identity and brand positioning within the luxury cruise market. This allows it to continue providing the exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and intimate cruising experience that it is known for.

By leveraging the resources and expertise of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Oceania Cruise Line is able to enhance its offerings, expand its fleet, and explore new destinations. This ensures that guests can continue to enjoy the impeccable service and unforgettable experiences that Oceania is renowned for.

The ownership structure of Oceania Cruise Line under the umbrella of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. has proven to be a successful formula, allowing the cruise line to thrive and remain at the forefront of the luxury cruising industry.

Oceania’s Parent Company

Oceania Cruise Line is proudly owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a global leader in the cruise industry. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings operates a portfolio of prestigious cruise brands, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Miami, Florida. With a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and innovative cruise offerings, the company has established itself as a prominent player in the industry.

Each brand under Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has its own unique positioning and target market, allowing the company to cater to a diverse range of preferences and travel desires.

Norwegian Cruise Line, the company’s flagship brand, offers contemporary cruises with a focus on freedom and flexibility. Guests can enjoy a wide range of dining options, entertainment, and onboard activities, along with an array of exciting itineraries to popular destinations around the world.

Oceania Cruises, on the other hand, is known for its intimate and luxurious cruising experience. The cruise line specializes in smaller ships that provide a more personalized and immersive travel experience. With an emphasis on culinary excellence, Oceania offers guests a diverse selection of gourmet dining options and carefully curated itineraries to unique and captivating destinations.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the epitome of ultra-luxury cruising. With all-inclusive pricing, exquisite accommodations, and unparalleled service, Regent Seven Seas Cruises caters to discerning travelers who seek the utmost in luxury and refinement.

Under the umbrella of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Oceania Cruise Line benefits from the company’s extensive resources, industry expertise, and global reach. This enables Oceania to offer an unrivaled cruising experience that is characterized by elegance, impeccable service, and attention to detail.

While each brand operates independently, they all share a commitment to delivering exceptional vacations and ensuring that guests have unforgettable experiences at sea.

By being part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Oceania Cruise Line can leverage the company’s strong relationships within the travel industry, access to state-of-the-art technology, and ongoing investments in innovation and sustainability.

With Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings as its parent company, Oceania Cruise Line continues to establish itself as a leading luxury cruise brand, offering travelers a remarkable and unforgettable journey on the high seas.

Major Shareholders

As a subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., the major shareholders of Oceania Cruise Line are primarily institutional investors and financial entities that hold shares in the parent company.

It is important to note that Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol NCLH. This means that its ownership is spread among a diverse range of shareholders, including individual investors, mutual funds, pension funds, and other institutional investors.

The exact list of major shareholders may vary over time as shares are bought and sold on the stock market. As of the time of writing, some of the top institutional shareholders of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. include The Vanguard Group, BlackRock Inc., and Fidelity Management & Research Company.

These institutional investors hold significant stakes in the parent company, and consequently, have an indirect interest in the ownership and performance of Oceania Cruise Line.

It is worth noting that the ownership structure of a publicly traded company can change over time as shares are bought and sold in the stock market. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to the latest shareholder information and company filings for the most up-to-date information.

While the major shareholders of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. indirectly influence the ownership of Oceania Cruise Line, it is important to remember that the day-to-day operations and strategic decisions of Oceania are managed by its own dedicated leadership team.

The management and board of directors of Oceania Cruise Line, under the guidance of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, are responsible for ensuring the strategic vision, operational excellence, and overall success of the cruise line.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of its major shareholders and parent company, Oceania Cruise Line can continue to deliver exceptional luxury cruises and memorable experiences, cementing its position as a leader in the industry.

Key Management Personnel

Oceania Cruise Line boasts a team of experienced and dedicated professionals who play integral roles in the company’s success. Led by a group of seasoned executives, Oceania’s key management personnel bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the luxury cruise industry.

Bob Binder serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Oceania Cruise Line. With over three decades of experience in the cruise industry, Binder has been instrumental in shaping the strategic direction and growth of the company. His leadership has been crucial in establishing Oceania as a leading luxury cruise brand.

Another key figure within Oceania’s management team is James Rodriguez, the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Rodriguez brings a deep understanding of the luxury travel market and has played a pivotal role in defining Oceania’s brand positioning and marketing strategies.

Furthermore, the culinary excellence for which Oceania is renowned is spearheaded by Jacques Pépin, the Executive Culinary Director. As a world-renowned master chef, Pépin’s expertise and passion for gastronomy have elevated Oceania’s dining experience to unparalleled levels.

Additionally, Oceania Cruise Line has a dedicated team of professionals managing various departments, including Operations, Finance, Human Resources, and Guest Services. These individuals work diligently behind the scenes to ensure the smooth operation of the cruise line and the satisfaction of its guests.

While these individuals represent some of the key management personnel within Oceania Cruise Line, it is important to recognize that there are numerous other talented and dedicated professionals who contribute to the company’s success.

The collective efforts of these individuals, under the guidance of the executive team, help to maintain and enhance Oceania’s reputation as a provider of exceptional luxury cruises.

By capitalizing on their industry knowledge and expertise, Oceania Cruise Line continues to exceed guest expectations and deliver unforgettable experiences on the high seas.

Oceania Cruise Line, with its focus on luxury, elegance, and immersive experiences, has become a beloved choice for travelers seeking a truly exceptional cruising experience. As we have explored in this article, the ownership structure of Oceania Cruise Line is shaped by its parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a major player in the cruise industry.

Under the guidance of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Oceania Cruise Line has flourished, offering intimate ships, exquisite dining options, and personalized service that have earned the loyalty of a discerning clientele.

From its founding to the present day, Oceania Cruise Line has evolved and expanded its offerings, cementing its position as a top-tier luxury cruise brand. The collaboration with renowned master chef Jacques Pépin has set new standards in onboard culinary experiences, while the exploration of unique and captivating destinations has allowed guests to create lasting memories.

The dedication, vision, and expertise of Oceania’s key management personnel, including President and CEO Bob Binder, Senior Vice President James Rodriguez, and Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin, have been instrumental in shaping the company’s success and reputation.

As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Oceania Cruise Line remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences, ensuring that each guest feels pampered and inspired throughout their voyage.

Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, Oceania Cruise Line invites you to embark on a journey of luxury, exploration, and enrichment. Discover the world’s most captivating destinations, savor gourmet cuisine, and experience impeccable service that will leave you with treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

So, why wait? Set sail with Oceania Cruise Line and indulge in a truly unforgettable cruising experience that will exceed your expectations and ignite your passion for travel.

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Nclh’s $3 Billion Acquisition: The Story Behind Oceania Cruises

I was intrigued when I heard about Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings’ (NCLH) acquisition of Prestige Cruise Holdings for just over $3 billion back in 2014.

This acquisition brought Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises under NCLH’s ownership, adding premium and ultra-luxury cruise lines to their already existing mainstream cruise line.

As someone who values freedom and flexibility, I wanted to dive deeper into the story behind NCLH’s acquisition of Oceania Cruises and understand the potential risks associated with owning NCLH stock.

In this article, I will explore the ownership and structure of NCLH, the brands and differentiation between Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the leadership and history behind the acquisition, and the fleet and expansion plans.

By analyzing these factors, I hope to provide an in-depth understanding of NCLH’s acquisition of Oceania Cruises and its potential impact on the cruise industry and stock market.

As someone who values independence and informed decision-making, I believe it’s important to understand the story behind major business deals and their potential risks and benefits.

• Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings (NCLH), which acquired Prestige Cruise Holdings, the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, in 2014 for just over $3 billion.
• NCLH is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under NCLH, and anyone can invest in the company, which has a net worth of $5.71 billion as of September 2022.
• Oceania Cruises is considered a premium luxury brand, known for its food, while Regent Seven Seas Cruises is ultra-luxury and more service-oriented. NCLH owning a mainstream, premium, and ultra-luxury cruise line serves different audiences.
• Oceania’s fleet currently consists of four R-Class ships and two O-Class ships, and the company is headquartered in Miami, Florida, with a phone number of +1 844-879-2230.

Ownership and Structure

I learned that Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings (NCLH), which acquired the parent company of Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises for just over $3 billion in 2014.

This acquisition made Oceania Cruises a part of a larger portfolio that includes a mainstream, premium, and ultra-luxury cruise line. As a result, NCLH offers investment opportunities for anyone interested in owning a piece of the company.

The Vanguard Group is one of the major players in NCLH’s ownership structure, owning over 10% of the company’s shares. NCLH’s acquisition of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises allowed the company to diversify its offerings and cater to different audiences.

Oceania Cruises is considered a premium luxury brand, while Regent Seven Seas Cruises is ultra-luxury. This acquisition also allowed shareholders to receive onboard credit on Oceania, NCL, and Regent cruises by owning NCLH stock.

With the Vanguard Group’s significant role in the company’s ownership, it shows that NCLH’s acquisition of Oceania Cruises has been a lucrative investment opportunity for many.

Brands and Differentiation

Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are sister companies owned by the same parent company, but they cater to different tastes in the luxury cruise market. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Oceania Cruises is renowned for its culinary expertise, with a focus on authentic, gourmet cuisine and a wide range of dining options.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises is known for its exceptional service, with a personal butler assigned to each suite, and all-inclusive packages that cover everything from shore excursions to premium drinks.

While Oceania Cruises targets discerning travelers who value food and culinary experiences, Regent Seven Seas Cruises targets ultra-luxury travelers who prioritize service and exclusivity. The competition in the luxury cruise market is fierce, with other premium and ultra-luxury brands like Seabourn, Silversea, and Crystal Cruises vying for the same high-end clientele.

Trends in the luxury cruise market show a growing demand for more immersive experiences, smaller ships, and sustainable tourism practices, which both Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are adapting to in their itineraries and operations.

As the luxury cruise market continues to evolve, the differentiation between Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises will continue to play a crucial role in attracting and retaining their respective target audiences.

Leadership and History

Howard Sherman serves as the President and CEO of the premium luxury cruise line, leading Oceania Cruises on a path towards continued success and growth. Under his leadership, Oceania has become known for its exceptional culinary experiences, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients and creating unique dining options for guests. Sherman has also overseen the expansion of Oceania’s fleet, with the addition of two O-Class ships, the Marina and the Riviera, which offer luxurious accommodations and amenities for guests.

Frank Del Rio’s vision for Oceania Cruises was to create a premium luxury cruise line that offered a more intimate and personalized experience for guests. This vision was realized in 2002 when Oceania Cruises was founded, and the company began with chartered ships from a company called Cruiseinvest. In 2007, Oceania was sold to Apollo Management for $850 million, which allowed for further expansion and investment in the company. Today, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings, and continues to offer guests a unique and luxurious cruising experience.

Fleet and Expansion

With plans to launch two new Allura Class ships in the near future, Oceania Cruises is set to elevate its premium luxury offerings and make a splash in the industry. These new ships will be the first new builds for Oceania in over a decade and are expected to have the same level of high-end amenities, top-notch cuisine, and personalized service that the brand is known for.

The expansion of the fleet is a testament to Oceania’s commitment to providing its guests with the best possible experience. With these new ships, the cruise line will be able to offer more itineraries and destinations, giving travelers even more options to explore the world in style.

Oceania’s future plans are exciting, and it’ll be interesting to see how the brand continues to evolve and innovate in the coming years.

What are some of the unique features and amenities offered on Oceania Cruises?

Oceania Cruises offers unique sustainable features, such as a water filtration system and eco-friendly cleaning products. The onboard entertainment experience includes live music, culinary classes, and guest lectures.

How does Oceania Cruises compare to other luxury cruise lines in terms of price and value?

When it comes to luxury cruise comparison, Oceania Cruises stands out for its exceptional food and premium experience. However, their pricing analysis shows that their fares can be higher than some of their competitors.

What measures does Oceania Cruises take to ensure the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew?

Oceania Cruises takes measures onboard to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew, including strict COVID-19 protocols, such as pre-boarding testing, enhanced cleaning and sanitization, and a medical center staffed with doctors and nurses.

What destinations does Oceania Cruises typically visit, and what types of shore excursions are available?

As a luxury cruise line, Oceania Cruises offers a variety of popular destinations worldwide, from the Mediterranean to Asia. Excursion options include cultural tours, outdoor activities, and culinary experiences, among others.

How does Oceania Cruises cater to different dietary needs and preferences, and what types of cuisine are typically served onboard?

Oceania Cruises caters to diverse dietary needs and preferences with vegetarian, gluten-free, and kosher options. Cuisine variety includes French, Italian, and Asian-inspired dishes, with renowned chefs and cooking classes onboard.

Norwegian completes acquisition of Oceania, Regent

Three of the world's top cruise brands are now on the same team.

Fast-growing Norwegian Cruise Line ( NCLH ) today completed its previously announced acquisition of privately held Prestige Cruises International, the parent company of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

The $3.025 billion deal combines one of the world's biggest mass-market lines with two leaders of the upscale side of the cruise market. While Norwegian operates 13 large vessels that carry as many as 5,000 passengers apiece, Oceania and Regent operate more intimate ships that carry just 490 to 1,250 passengers and offer a more luxurious — and pricey — experience.

"While for years we have competed successfully with our one brand in an increasingly consolidated industry, our acquisition of Prestige creates a new cruise operator with a range of complementary offerings as diversified as any in the industry," Norwegian CEO Kevin Sheehan says in a statement accompanying the announcement.

The combination further consolidates the cruise industry, which is dominated by two big companies. Industry giant Carnival Corp. controls nearly half of the world's ocean cruise business with 9 brands, including Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Cunard and Costa. Rival Royal Caribbean Cruises is the second-biggest player with six brands, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara. The two companies operate 100 and 43 ships, respectively.

Even after the acquisition, Norwegian remains a distant third in size among cruise companies with 21 ships. But the 47-year-old firm is expanding rapidly. Norwegian has four ships on order for delivery between 2015 and 2019, which will come on the heels of two new vessels unveiled in the past two years. One of the acquired lines, Regent, also has a ship on order for delivery in 2016.

Until today, Prestige was majority owned by private-equity giant Apollo Global Management, which also has a significant stake in Norwegian. Both cruise operators are based in the Miami area.

Norwegian's last two new ships, the Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway , are among the 10 largest in the world. For a deck-by-deck look at the most recent vessel, the Norwegian Getaway, click through the carousel below.

• Sunday, April 21, 2024

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Frank a. del rio named president of oceania cruises.

Oceania Cruises has announced an executive leadership transition. Frank A. Del Rio, currently Chief Sales and Marketing Officer has been named President while Howard Sherman will continue as special advisor to the company.

Oceania Cruises , the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, announced the appointment of Frank A. Del Rio , current Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, as President of Oceania Cruises effective January 1, 2023, as part of its robust succession plan. Howard Sherman, current President and CEO, will remain with the cruise line’s parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. as a special advisor, ensuring a smooth transition.

Sherman is a long-standing company and cruise industry veteran who has served as President and CEO of Oceania Cruises since January 2022. During his tenure he led the post-pandemic resumption of cruise operations for the brand as well as oversaw the preparations for the introduction of Vista , the line’s first newbuild in nearly a decade.

“It has been my privilege to lead the world’s leading culinary- and destination focused cruise line and to work alongside the incredibly talented and passionate team at Oceania Cruises,” said Howard Sherman , President and Chief Executive Officer of Oceania Cruises. “I have worked closely with Frank over the past year and I am confident he is the ideal person to lead this storied brand in this next chapter.”

“I am incredibly excited to take the helm at Oceania Cruises, which is not only a world class organization in every aspect but is even more special to me as part of the founding team twenty years ago,” said Frank A. Del Rio . “I look forward to working closely with our partners worldwide to build on our incredibly strong position as we continue to evolve and innovate to deliver a best-in-class product for our loyal guests.”   

Del Rio, son of Frank J. Del Rio President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., is an industry veteran, having started his career in the cruise industry in 2003 as one of the first employees at Oceania Cruises. In his current role as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer he leads all sales and marketing activities across the globe with teams based in the brand’s offices in Miami, Southampton, Sydney, and Sao Paulo. Del Rio rejoined the company in early 2022, marking a continuation of his 14-year tenure, which ran from 2003 through 2017. During his time at Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and ultimately at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Del Rio rose to the rank of Senior Vice President and led all aspects of Port and Destination Services along with Onboard Revenue.

Also read : First look at the better-than-new Oceania Riviera

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NCL, Oceania, RSSC parent company NCLH hints at bankruptcy

Post date: May 5 2020

Date: May 5 2020

By: Travelweek Group

MIAMI — Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, the parent company of NCL, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has updated its filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission with what amounts to a dire warning about its solvency amid the coronavirus crisis.

Amid the financial-speak typical of an SEC filing, NCLH outlines the circumstances facing the cruise company as the cruise industry looks ahead to its third month of operation suspensions.

NCLH says the temporary halt to sailings worldwide and the almost complete loss of forward bookings, as well as other financial obligations, have cast doubt on whether or not the company can continue “as a going concern”.

Summing up the situation brought on by travel restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, NCLH says in its filing that “the factors described above, in particular the suspension of cruise voyages and decline in advanced bookings, as well as debt maturities and other obligations over the next year, and the fact that management’s plan to obtain additional financing has not yet been completed, have raised substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, as the Company does not have sufficient liquidity to meet its obligations over the next twelve months, assuming no additional financing or other proactive measures.”

NCLH made the filing with the SEC today, saying it wanted to provide an update about its liquidity and management’s plans in anticipation of additional financing transactions.

“We believe the ongoing effects of COVID-19 on our operations and global bookings have had, and will continue to have, a significant impact on our financial results and liquidity, and such negative impact may continue well beyond the containment of such an outbreak,” says NCLH.

NCLH says that as of April 24, 2020, “advanced bookings for the remainder of 2020 were meaningfully lower than the prior year with pricing down mid-single digits. Booking trends indicate demand for cruise vacations in the medium and longer term with the booked position for 2021 slightly lower compared to same time last year at pricing that is down mid-single digits versus prior year.”

The company says that it expects to be required to pay cash refunds of advanced ticket sales with respect to a portion of our cancelled cruises. “All three brands [NCL, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises] have instituted programs for guests on canceled sailings as a result of the Company’s voyage suspension which include offering value-add future cruise credits typically for 125% of the cruise fare paid in lieu of providing cash refunds.”

As of March 31, 2020, “the Company had US$1.8 billion of advanced ticket sales. This includes approximately $850 million for previously announced voyage cancellations through June 30, 2020 where guests have the option of either a future cruise credit or a cash refund and approximately $350 million for voyages scheduled for the remainder of 2020.

“Depending on the length of the suspension and level of guest acceptance of future cruise credits, we may be required to provide cash refunds for a substantial portion of the balance, as guests on cancelled sailings were automatically awarded future cruise credits and have the opportunity to contact us to request a cash refund rather than future cruise credits.

“As of April 24, 2020, approximately half of the guests who have had their voyages cancelled and who have contacted us have requested cash refunds. There can be no assurance that the percentage of passengers that accept future cruise certificates over cash refunds will remain in this range as the number of cancelled voyages increases. Guests who have accepted future cruise credits may utilize those credits until December 31, 2022.

“The use of such credits may prevent us from future cash collections as staterooms booked by guests with such credits will not be available for sale, resulting in less cash collected from bookings to new guests; however, we may benefit from the onboard revenue from these guests. We continue to take future bookings for 2020, 2021 and 2022, and receive new customer deposits and final payments on these bookings which will offset a portion of the outflow from expected cash refunds.”

Tags: Lead Story, NCL, NCLH, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Cruise And Ferry

Oceania Cruises co-founder steps down from chief executive role

Bob Binder will stay with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings as a vice-chairman

Bob Binder, the co-founder of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' Oceania Cruises, has stepped down as the brand's president and chief executive after serving five years in the role.

Howard Sherman, Norwegian's executive vice-president of onboard revenue and destination services, will become Oceania's president and chief executive on 1 January.

Binder, who has also been Oceania's and Regent Seven Seas Cruises' vice-chairman since 2015, will become a Norwegian vice-chairman reporting to the parent company's president and chief executive Frank Del Rio.

Ross Henderson, Norwegian's senior vice president of onboard revenue and destination services, will take on Sherman's former role as executive vice-president on 1 January.

Norwegian acquired Prestige Cruises International — parent of Oceania and Regent Seven Seas — in 2014 for $3bn.

Before Norwegian bought Prestige, Binder had served as that company's vice-chairman since May 2011 and its president since January 2008.

"Since co-founding Oceania Cruises in 2002, it has been my extraordinary privilege to witness its evolution into the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line," Binder said.

"I look forward to continuing to champion the line’s future success as I remain with the company in my new role."

Norwegian is "extremely grateful" for Binder's leadership as Oceania chief executive and is confident that Sherman will continue to elevate the brand as it starts expanding its fleet in 2023, Del Rio said.

"Bob has played a critical role in all of Oceania Cruises' tremendous achievements over the past two decades," he said.

Sherman has been Norwegian's executive vice-president of onboard revenue and destination services since September 2016 and was executive vice-president of revenue management from February 2015 to September 2016.

Before Prestige's acquisition, Sherman held various executive roles at Prestige from 2003 to 2014.

Before joining Norwegian in 2009 as vice-president of onboard revenue, Henderson spent six years managing key onboard revenue departments and analytics for Princess Cruises.

"The promotions of Howard and Ross are a testament to our ability to leverage the considerable bench strength across our organisation," Del Rio said.

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I went on Norwegian's newest luxury and ultra-luxury ships targeting wealthy travelers — see how a $685 per night cruise compares to a $210 per night one

• Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has two high-end brands: premium Oceania and ultra-luxury Regent Seven Seas .
• Both prove NCLH can successfully target two types of wealthy travelers.
• See how Oceania and Regent Seven Seas' newest ships compare.

When you think of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, you probably think of its giant amusement park-like cruise ships with 10-story-tall slides, go-kart tracks, and many families.

Norwegian Cruise Line is its parent company's bread and butter. But what the average cruisers might not know is that NCLH also manages two premium cruise lines: upscale Oceania and ultra-luxury Regent Seven Seas.

You'll be hard-pressed to find waterslides across either of these brand's ships. You will, however, find truffle-topped dinners, peaceful pool decks, afternoon tea, and sailings that start at over $200 a night.

After spending at least one night on both operators' newest ships, it's easy to see how they differ while targeting the same demographic: wealthy travelers .

Oceania Cruises — the "aspirational wealth" brand

Think of Oceania as the bougie (but at the level of owning a rare Hermes Birkin) cousin of Norwegian. According to its parent company, Oceania is known for its food and "diverse itineraries." It recently announced a two-month cruise that would sail to less frequented ports along Africa and Asia.

While still in the premium category, in 2023, Oceania inched closer to the ultra-luxury segment with its "simply more" package. This move, akin to an all-inclusive model, means travelers now get dining, shore excursion credits, house beverages, roundtrip flights, airport transfers, and on board WiFi all in one fare.

Like all cruise lines of this caliber , Oceania's fleet of seven ships has a relatively low guest capacity, accommodating between 684 to 1,250 travelers per ship. Its newest Oceania Vista ship, which debuted in May 2023, is at the higher end of the range with a 1,200-guest capacity.

Say goodbye to repetitive Caribbean and Mexico itineraries. As a self-proclaimed "destination-focused" operator, the ship is scheduled to visit ports in countries like Greece, Italy, Spain, and Turkey throughout 2024.

Four months after the Vista's debut, the cruise line invited me to spend one night on the vessel while it was docked in New York City. At the time, my assigned veranda stateroom on the Oceania Vista was the most luxurious and spacious cabin I had ever stayed in, complete with Bulgari toiletries, marble bathroom walls, and a large balcony.

The latter isn't particularly special for the ship: Every cabin on the Vista has one.

The food better be decent for a "culinary-focused" cruise line. Fortunately, it was — and included in the fare.

For breakfast, travelers can order various avocado toasts and fresh juices.

Come nightfall, options include porcini-dusted bone-in ribeye steak at the modern American Ember, and ceviche with hummus foam at the Grand Dining Room. The latter also serves favorites from the company's executive culinary director, famed chef Jacques Pépin.

In between meals, guests can fuel up at the coffee shop. When lounging around the pool starts to feel repetitious, travelers can instead take art and cooking classes, attend guest lectures, or try their hand at pickleball.

Liquor isn't included in the fare. But for guests who can't cruise without it, the Vista has options like a martini bar, flashy bourbon and rye-centered Founders Bar, and "beverage carts" with bloody Marys and bubbles.

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But no matter where you look, it's easy to notice how modern, high-end, and clean Oceania Vista's common spaces look.

The cruise feels ship like a bid to both the wealthy and " aspirational wealth " travel categories. It's the perfect option for people interested in exploring the luxury cruise segment.

While 2024 fares are expensive — starting at $2,300 per person for an 11-day itinerary — they're not as out of reach as Regent Seven Seas' newest ship . Despite this more "affordable" fare, many features still mirror the ultra-luxury segment: inclusive dining, excursions, and flights.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises — the true ultra-luxury option

Oceania says it excels in food and destinations. Regent Seven Seas does this and more.

NCLH's ultra-luxury brand embraces its "all-inclusive" model, which includes everything Oceania has, plus: liquor, laundry services, roundtrip business class flights for intercontinental travel, a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, and unlimited excursions.

Travelers won't have to reach for their wallet once they board the ship, save for a fancier bottle of wine, non-included excursion, or spa service.

The Grandeur joined Regent's six-ship fleet in 2023. Compared to the Oceania Vista, this ultra-luxe vessel has a smaller guest capacity of 746 travelers. But like its less expensive counterpart, every cabin has a balcony.

In December 2023, the cruise line invited me to stay in the Grandeur's concierge suite during its three-night "christening voyage." Here, comforts included a thin walk-in closet and a bathroom with a bathtub. I've never had the latter in a cruise cabin before. And the living room was so large, I didn't know what to do with the extra space.

The Grandeur's dining rooms' themes are similar to the Oceania Vista's. However, while the Vista has a modern American option, the Grandeur has a French venue and a main dining room with a customizable menu.

And whereas the Vista had objectively high-end dishes, the Grandeur served up next-level luxury: Every menu included truffle, foie gras, caviar, or all three.

There's a little hint of luxury everywhere you look. The steakhouse has three original Pablo Picasso pieces, the pool deck has waitstaff dropping off drinks to sunbathers, and the coffee shop and library have daily newspapers.

The on board art collection costs $6 million, over 500 chandeliers line the ship, and almost 308,650 pounds of marble accent spaces like the cabins' bathrooms. Numbers like that make the Grandeur sound more like a five-star hotel than a cruise ship.

The ship will sail to the Caribbeans, Turkey, France, Spain, Greece, and Nicaragua in 2024.

While the Oceania Vista could appeal to the aspirational wealth category, Regent Seven Seas is exclusively for wealthy travelers: 2024 itineraries start at $4,800 per person for a seven-night cruise. That's both shorter and more than double the cost of the Vista's cheapest itinerary.

It's easy to see how NCLH has attracted wealthy travelers

At their core, luxury ships don't differ much from the average cruise. All offer food, beverages, on board amenities, and the opportunity to see several destinations in one vacation.

The difference? High-end ships like the Oceania Vista and Seven Seas Grandeur have palatial balcony-lined cabins, some level of all-inclusiveness, and common spaces with an upscale flair. And both vessels — built without loud water slides or arcades — exude a feeling of peace and quiet not often experienced throughout larger family-friendly cruise ships .

NCLH's mass-market eponymous brand still has more ships in its fleet than Regent Seven Seas and Oceania combined. But its luxury segment is growing: In the last quarter of 2023, the cruise giant had more "luxury and ultra-luxury" ships than at the same time in 2019, Mark Kempa, its CFO and executive vice president, told investors in a call in November 2023.

With this, it's no wonder NCLH's two brands have appealed to the wealthy and wealthier. Both Oceania and Regent hit all the marks of a premium cruise line.

Yes, one is more plush and expensive than the other. But no matter the brand, travelers with Norwegian's two high-end operators still get luxurious meals, a pleasant ambiance, and a stateroom with a private outdoor space.

So far, this is enough for fans of both operators to stay loyal to NCLH. In the same call, Harry Sommer, the company's president and CEO, told investors that NCLH had "not seen any change in the trajectory of bookings" for either brand despite the growing number of luxury cruise competitors like MSC Group's Explora Journeys .

Watch: The world's biggest cruise ship is meant for thrill seekers

• Main content

8 new ships coming to Norwegian Cruise Line, sister brands plus dock at Great Stirrup Cay

O RLANDO, Fla. — The parent company to Norwegian Cruise Line announced Monday a major order for eight new ships among its three brands as well as the construction of a pier to allow its cruise ships to dock instead of tender to its private Bahamas island for the first time.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings said it was planning to bring on four new ships for NCL, two new ships for upper premium brand Oceania Cruises and two ships for luxury brand Regent Seven Seas, all to be built at Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and debut during a 10-year run from 2026-2036.

The NCL ships would be the largest ever built for the line at around 200,000 gross tons and capacity of about 5,000 guests. They won’t arrive until after the final delivery of its Prima-Plus class ships expected between 2025-2028, the larger sister ships to the Norwegian Prima and Viva that debuted in the last couple of years. The four ships from the unnamed class of vessel would arrive in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036.

The new class for Oceania Cruises, which in 2023 debuted its first new ship in more than a decade — the Oceania Allura — will also be the largest ever built for the line at 86,000 gross tons and a capacity of 1,450 guests. They’re expected in 2027 and 2029.

And the Regent Seven Seas fleet’s new vessels will also be larger coming in at 77,000 gross tons with a capacity of 850 guests. They’re expected in 2026 and 2029. Regent just debuted the third of its Explorer class ships in December 2023.

“This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” said NCLH president and CEO Harry Sommer in a press release. “It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet.”

No other details about the ships were released. Financing is already in place to fund 80% of the cost for the four ships among the Oceania and Regent orders, but financing for the four NCL ships is not finalized.

The eight ships expects to add 25,000 more to the three cruise lines’ passenger capacity.

In addition, the line is set to construct a multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the popular Bahamas private destination visited by all three brands. The move follows the introduction of a dock that can support two Oasis-class vessels at neighboring Perfect Day at Coco Cay for Royal Caribbean while other private Bahamas destinations including Disney’s Castaway Cay and its new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point feature tenderless docks for easy access.

“We are likewise excited with the addition of a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay to support our increased capacity in the Caribbean and multiple ships to call on the island, enhancing our guest experience and bringing seamless and reliable access to our private island year-round,” Sommer said.

___________

©2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit at orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Travel | Regent Seven Seas Grandeur builds on luxury of…

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Subscriber only, travel | regent seven seas grandeur builds on luxury of 2 sister cruise ships.

Regent Seven Seas Grandeur is the third of three sister ships for the luxury cruise line. It debuted in late 2023 with several sailing dates in the Caribbean out of PortMiami, seen here during a cruise from Jan. 24-26, 2024. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

A Fabergé egg titled "Journey in Jewels" sits in the atrium on board Regent Seven Seas Grandeur. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

This bronze-and-glass bonsai cherry blossom tree sculpture welcomes diners into the Pacific Rim restaurant on board Regent Seven Seas Grandeur, the third of three sister ships for the luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas Cruises that debuted in late 2023. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

The Compass Rose restaurant on board Regent Seven Seas Grandeur was designed by Miami-based Studio DADO. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

Chef John Stephano leads a class in the Culinary Arts Kitchen on board Regent Seven Seas Grandeur on Jan. 25, 2024. The ship is the third of three sister ships for the luxury cruise line that debuted in late 2023. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

The luxury pedigree that Regent Seven Seas welcomed with Seven Seas Explorer in 2016 continued with sister ship Seven Seas Splendor in 2020, but the third and final sister Seven Seas Grandeur offers up the best of class.

The ship’s features include the first Fabergé egg with a permanent home at sea. The blue-pearl-and-diamond sculpture titled “Journey in Jewels” is a small but commanding centerpiece rotating within its display case in the atrium for travelers to enjoy as soon as they step on board.

The egg is revealed as seven branches break away like waves that represent the Seven Seas. The ship’s godmother is Sarah Fabergé, the great-granddaughter of Peter Carl Fabergé.

It’s part of a 1,600-piece art collection that includes classic black-and-white photos from global destinations adorning the hallways between cabins to the steakhouse’s original Picassos. Travelers could spend a good afternoon wandering hallways and public spaces, akin to visiting a museum. A new app for the line also offers a digital art tour, like a personal guide.

“With each new ship, our team works tirelessly to identify and source the most impressive array of art pieces, building a collection that would be enviable by most modern-day museums, to ensure our guests’ time onboard is as enriching and thought-provoking as their time on land,” said Regent Seven Seas Cruises President Andrea DeMarco.

All three ships in the Explorer class are about 55,500 gross tons, with Grandeur sporting a 744-guest capacity among its all-suite offerings. The line has three older ships and just had two larger vessels ordered by parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, but they are not due until 2026 and 2029.

Until then, the three sister ships continue the line’s most refined take on their global, all-inclusive itineraries, with both Splendor and Grandeur set to return to Miami for the 2024-25 winter Caribbean season.

The line has given all three Explorer-class ships a succession of superlative monikers. Seven Seas Grandeur was dubbed with “A Heritage of Perfection,” following Seven Seas Explorer’s “the most luxurious cruise ship ever” and Seven Seas Splendor’s “the ship that perfects luxury.”

With 548 crew, Grandeur boasts a 1:1.36 crew-to-passenger ratio similar to its two sisters, so needs among travelers are attended to promptly.

The ship’s interior spaces are crafted by Miami-based Studio DADO, which has put its mark on sister lines Oceania Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.

That includes new takes on main dining venue Compass Rose, which DADO founding partner Yohandel Ruiz called “a feast for the eyes.”

It’s filled with fantastical tree-like arches right out of Alice in Wonderland with a cascading waterfall sculpture. At night, thousands of individually placed crystal-faceted leaves encrusted on pillars and branches illuminate the space.

The ship has five signature restaurants on board, including steakhouse Prime 7, Italian option Sette Mari at La Veranda, French offering Chartreuse and the latest version of Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, this time bringing a delicate bronze-and-glass bonsai cherry blossom tree sculpture as the centerpiece at the entrance. It’s a welcome and fitting addition to the dragon and prayer wheel sculptures on its two sister ships.

The ship has 15 suite categories, all with their own balconies. The pinnacle of sailing options is the 4,443-square-foot Regent Suite at $11,000 a night. It features a $200,000 Hästens Vividus custom handmade mattress, an in-suite spa retreat with a personal sauna and steam room and 270-degree views from the ship’s bow from a 1,292-square-foot wraparound veranda. Those passengers get their own butler and personal car and driver in every port.

Some seven-night Miami-based sailings go for as low as $3,700 per person based on double occupancy.

For everyone on board is the spa with an infinity pool that looks out over the stern, fitness center, jogging track, casino, several lounges, card room, library and main pool. Top-deck fun includes pickleball, shuffleboard, mini golf and ping-pong.

A big draw to Regent is the mostly inclusive offerings, including free and unlimited shore excursions, round-trip flights, unlimited internet, prepaid gratuities, ground transfers and other amenities.

One of the best offerings on board, though, isn’t free. Back again is the Culinary Arts Kitchen, a staple borrowed from sister line Oceania Cruises, but a massively popular offering that lets 18 students create memorable dishes under the guidance of a chef team.

During a preview cruise for media in January out of PortMiami, the class was led by the amiable Chef John Stephano talking students through a pair of sample dishes – pasta al limone, which is lemon pasta, and French crêpes with an allspice berry ice cream, offered during what are normally two-hour-long classes twice per day on sailings.

“I promise you’re going to make delicious and delightful food,” he said but joked that “anybody that struggles with their culinary skills today, we’ll be sending you down to the galley to help us out.”

Stephano deftly demonstrates and drops bits of history and detail during the demonstration with students gathered around, who then go one of the 18 individual stations equipped with induction cooktops, stainless steel sinks and a collection of tools, tongs, pots and pans, while he and assistant chefs make the rounds to ensure everyone is figuring out the steps.

The course options vary per cruise pulling from nearly 50 curated thematic class titles such as “1493: The Foodies’ New World,” “Familia Cubana” and “Flip-Flop Floribbean.” Classes are an extra $89, which is about the only extra-cost feature on a Regent sailing. They are often themed to the location where the ships sail.

The culinary team also has a hand in creating some of the unique excursions, which then pair up with some of the classes.

Grandeur just finished out its first run about the Caribbean during mostly sold-out itineraries from PortMiami and is now amid a set of Mediterranean voyages for summer 2024. It will then make its way to New York for fall color itineraries of Canada and New England in September and October and then return to Miami to begin the winter Caribbean sailing season into 2025.

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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 .

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/oceania-cruises-announces-new-2025-2026-tropics-and-exotics-collection-302114349.html

SOURCE Oceania Cruises

Here Are all the Cruise Lines That Have Canceled Russia Sailings

Poseidon Expeditions is the latest addition, canceling seven itineraries

Astrid was the Senior Special Projects Editor at TripSavvy.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, cruise line after cruise line has altered itineraries with stops in Russian ports or canceled voyages entirely.

Poseidon Expeditions is the latest addition to this list after a March 17 statement announcing that seven polar voyages are canceled for the summer. An additional four Arctic sailings have new itineraries. "The terrible situation in Ukraine makes planned operations in Russian waters untenable, and we cannot support promoting these trips in any way for the 2022 season," said Angelica Vorea, founder and CEO of parent company Poseidon Arctic Voyages, Ltd.

Carnival Cruise Line, Windstar, and Atlas Ocean Voyages were some of the first big names to announce that they scrapped all stops in St. Petersburg. Carnival announced via Twitter they will be swapping Russia out of all current cruise itineraries in the coming week "once alternative ports can be confirmed." In the same post, the cruise line's holding company, Carnival Corporation, stood by Ukraine in light of the attacks, declaring, "We stand for peace."

Royal Caribbean Group released a statement canceling stops in St. Petersburg for summer 2022 sailings for all its brands, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silver Sea. "We have planned alternative ports and will communicate itinerary changes in the next few days to our guests and travel partners. Guests can feel comfortable knowing they are able to reschedule their cruise with our Cruise with Confidence program," the statement read.

MSC Cruises, which had four ships scheduled to call in St. Petersburg beginning this May, announced it had suspended all Russian stops and was in negotiations for possible alternative options, including Stockholm, Helsinki, and Tallinn.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings also announced that they would remove Russian and Ukrainian ports from 2022 itineraries across their brands, including Norwegian, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas.

"It's disappointing because St. Petersburg is one of the crown jewels of the Scandinavian itineraries," said Frank Del Rio, CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, during the company's earnings call last Thursday.

Regent Seven Seas had particularly significant plans for Russia this year, with several stacked itineraries, including the Solovetsky Islands, Arkhangelsk, Murmansk, St. Petersburg, and Odessa, Ukraine. Norwegian Cruise Line canceled a majority of its Baltic sailings on the Norwegian Getaway. Some cruise lines are forgoing modification and canceling their itineraries outright. The luxury river cruise line, Scenic, scrapped all of its 2022 Russia cruises. Viking River Cruises canceled all Russian river cruises and its planned Kyiv, Black Sea & Bucharest routes this year due to the events. Russian stops on Viking's ocean itineraries will be modified, and impacted guests and travel advisors will be notified.

The cancellations add to the ripple effect Russia's invasion of Ukraine has caused throughout the travel industry. Earlier in March, travel expert and television personality Rick Steves announced he would be canceling all Russian tours that his company, Rick Steves' Europe, had planned this year.

"Our mission ... is to help Americans better know and understand our neighbors through travel," Steves wrote in a blog post from late February. "But when we bring travelers to another country, we also bring their dollars—dollars that would support Putin's aggression. Therefore, as of today, we have canceled all 2022 tours that include a stop in Russia."

Cruise Industry News. " Poseidon Expeditions Cancels 2022 Russia, North Pole Programs. " March 17, 2022.

Travel Weekly. "Update: Cruise Lines Cancel Ukraine and Russia Calls." February 28, 2022.

Cruise Critic. "Cruise Lines Alter Russia Itineraries, Cancel Ports Due to Ukraine Conflict." March 15, 2022.

Reuters. "Norwegian Cruise Cancels Sailings to Russia, Ukraine Ports." February 24, 2022.

Travel Pulse. "Cruise Lines Cancel Scheduled Stops in Russia, Ukraine." February 25, 2022.

Viking River Cruises. " Updates on Current Sailings. " March 1, 2022.

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