Oceania - My cruise line of the week
I have not been fortunate enough to cruise with this beautiful little cruise line, but I have been lucky enough to visit the Oceania Marina on a travel agents ship tour…and she was stunning.
Oceania have 6 boutique style ships on the oceans, with 4 ships carrying just 684 guests, and 2 ships carrying just 1250 guests.
Oceania are very popular because 1) their itineraries are unique and they dock in ports the larger ships cannot, and 2) They have amazing offers throughout the year, like this current one:
FREE Airfare with Airport Transfers
FREE Shore Excursions Credit - $800 per stateroom
FREE Champagne, Wine & More
FREE Speciality Dining
FREE Wifi
FREE shuttle service from ship to many city centres
FREE room service 24 hours a day
FREE fitness classes at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center
I found the staterooms on the Marina to be very spacious, more so than a lot of cruise ships I have been on, and also beautifully appointed. There are a few inside, the ever popular verandas, Concierge level, and suites of various sizes - Penthouse, Oceania, Vista and Owners. Every stateroom has a bathtub and separate shower, plus from the Oceania suite and above, you can enjoy your own hot tub on a large veranda. The Vista suite even had its own little private fitness centre - I’m not sure why?
There are several restaurants; from the ever-popular buffet and main dining room, to steakhouse, Italian, French, Asian, Tuscan, and American. Plus there is the waves Grill for al-fresco dining, Aquamarine kitchen for wellness-inspired foods, Horizons for afternoon tea, and cafes for all those coffee cravings. You can also book your own dining room; Prive, which can host up to 10 guests for your own private party. All restaurants are open dining, which is great if you would like a table for two, or a table for your newly made friends.
The ever-popular buffet
Of course, you will find a stunning theatre hosting world-class shows, Monte-Carlo style casino, boutiques, guest lecturers, art & cooking classes, a gym & wellness centre, and so much more…
In the wellness centre
Up on deck you will find a beautiful pool area with comfortable deck chairs, hot tubs and a sports area. I love the pool design as there is a shallow section surround where you are able to cool off your feet without jumping in. Concierge class and above can enjoy unlimited access to a private spa terrace with extra comfortable lounge chairs and hot tubs.
Oceania Marina pool area
I am so excited about their new ship; Oceania Allura, because she offers even more amazing experiences, including: A Crêperie serving fresh crepes in the morning and decadent gelatos during the afternoon, Five specialty dining venues, including new signature restaurants Ember and Aquamar Kitchen, at no extra cost, Two master chefs of France, Onboard enrichment including art classes at Oceania Cruises’ much-loved Artist Loft, numerous guest speakers and sommelier demonstrations during exclusive Sommelier’s Choice and Cellar Master’s Wine Pairing Luncheons, And an expansive Culinary Center, and an accompanying Chef’s Studio, where epicurean secrets will be shared by the talented onboard Chef Instructors.
The brand new Oceania Allura
Do you play Bridge?
Are you in a Bridge Club?
Oceania can accommodate you, while sailing in luxury on the high seas. You can play friendly with your fellow passengers, or they even offer unique itineraries throughout the year, which feature an American Contract Bridge League-Accredited Master Instructor that will offer insights and tips during classes for a range of levels as well as host duplicate play.
Oceania highlights:
Six mid-size boutique ships
Large public areas, bars & lounges
Amazing service
Gorgeous suites & staterooms
Water, teas/coffees, fruit juices
Great entertainment
Onboard spa, health & fitness, and nutrition classes
Cruise Europe, Asia, Africa & middle east, Americas & Caribbean, Australia & New Zealand, Canada, Panama canal, World voyages
If you're looking for a cruise as a couple, or in a group of adults, I can highly recommend Oceania