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All of Oceania's ships feature gorgeous panoramic views.

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In Good Taste

Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or an eco-conscious traveler, Oceania Cruises offers travel opportunities to cater to every taste bud.

Article by River Oaks Lifestyle Staff

Photography by Oceania Cruises

Originally published in River Oaks Lifestyle

Cruising the open waters has always been a unique adventure, a journey that is intimate and excellent for making memories. For Oceania Cruises, luxury cruising is not merely a business; it's a heartfelt mission.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the cruise line, and it is also a year highlighted by anticipation and excitement because Oceania Cruises welcomed its seventh ship, Vista, in May. This new addition to the fleet redefines luxury cruising and is already creating a stir among cruise enthusiasts worldwide. Vista's arrival also sets the stage for her sister ship, Allura, to debut in the spring of 2025.

The combination of two vital elements, cuisine and travel, distinguishes Oceania Cruises from other cruise lines as culinary excellence is a signature characteristic of the brand. They have proudly earned the title of serving "The Finest Cuisine at Sea," and that is not just a slogan; it's the philosophy around which their entire business revolves. Food is not just an aspect of their journey; it is the foundation on which their ships are built and the destinations they explore. The O-class ships, Marina and Riviera, were created by foodies for foodies, offering the world's first-ever cooking school at sea. 

This concept has been further evolved with the introduction of Vista and Allura, promising even more inspiring culinary experiences. The R-class ships - Nautica, Sirena, Regatta, and Insignia - boast a selection of specialty restaurants and the Grand Dining Room, where guests can savor fine dining. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Oceania Cruises offers private fine dining experiences such as Privée and La Reserve, which are meticulously curated for food connoisseurs. As the only true "foodie" ships worldwide, Oceania Cruises features more galley space and fresh food storage than any other cruise line. The percentage of culinary personnel dedicated to enhancing the dining experience is unmatched. There's one chef for every ten guests, and half of the onboard crew is focused on cooking and serving delicious meals.

The attention to detail is the secret behind Oceania Cruises' culinary excellence. Every dish is prepared to order, using only the freshest ingredients. Oceania’s croissants are an example of their attention to every culinary detail. Flour custom-milled in France to exact specifications produces the finest croissants, while butter with over 80% butterfat ensures that their croissants are unrivaled, whether enjoyed on land or at sea.

Oceania Cruises also places a premium on the aesthetics and condition of their ships. The OceaniaNEXT initiative is the brand's ongoing commitment to evolve the onboard experience. From new dining experiences and reimagined menus to dramatic updates of entire ships, Oceania Cruises tries to elevate every facet of the guest experience. The goal is clear - when guests return, they should find the experience even better than before.

This cruise line offers a home-away-from-home as guests explore the diverse cultures and landscapes of the world. With more than 600 marquee and boutique ports on the itinerary, Oceania Cruises' small, luxury ships travel to destinations across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti, and the South Pacific. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an eco-conscious traveler, Oceania Cruises offers inspiring travel opportunities to cater to every taste bud.

After days of exploring and adventure, Oceania Cruises' guests can indulge in various wellness offerings onboard to relax and enhance their journey. The Aquamar Spa and Vitality Center provide a selection of wellness encounters beyond traditional spa treatments, incorporating Oceania Cruises' hallmark offerings of exquisitely crafted cuisine, curated travel experiences, and small ship luxury.

In 2024, Oceania Cruises invites travelers to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Mediterranean. Sailing from iconic cities such as Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon, Athens, and London, Oceania Cruises offers carefully curated voyages aboard its ships, including Vista. These trips promise an opportunity to delve into the rich history, ancient cultures, delectable cuisine, and time-honored traditions of the Mediterranean. With a choice of 94 itineraries and hundreds of small-group, immersive shore excursions, Oceania Cruises opens doors to savor la dolce vita. oceaniacruises.com


“Our carefully curated diverse range of shore excursions, plus the relaxing home-away-from-home ambiance on board our boutique ships, offers the perfect luxury vacation choice.” – Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises