The OceaniaNEXT program is injecting $100 million to improve the design and performance of the six ships in a fleet that has become a favorite among many cruisers for its small or medium size, contemporary luxury, affordable prices, and, above all, award-winning cuisine.
Article from CruisesNews magazine no. 50 – September 2019
The shipping company wants to be even better, while awaiting the delivery of two new 67,000-ton vessels scheduled for 2022 and 2025. So far, it has furnished the Riviera's best suites with Ralph Lauren designs and renovated the Insignia and Sirena, with the Regatta also nearly ready.
It seems like only yesterday that Oceania Cruises, the venture of Frank del Rio, Bob Binder, and Joe Watters, was forging its path in the 21st century with the aim of proving that not everything had been invented in the high-end cruise sector. They offered a new style, one that embraced the luxury label but didn't adhere to all the established rules of that segment. Straddling the line between elitism and upper premium, Oceania was defined by its intimate and exceptional service, cuisine that surpassed most of the competition, ships purchased and renovated (carrying all the emotional weight of the celebrated R1 and R2, later joined by two more sister ships) for a mere 684 passengers, and a new, more contemporary design style than other elite cruise lines. This mix worked, was continually improved, and has now reached a new milestone with the NEXT refurbishment program, announced a year ago and already bearing fruit—splendidly—across half of its fleet.
Spanish cruise passengers are discovering this season the improvements brought about by the $100 million renovation plan, which represents a new boost for this cruise line, founded in 2002 and part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings group since 2014. The Sirena, which along with the Insignia has already undergone a complete refurbishment and returned to the seas with new and improved features, is thoroughly exploring the Mediterranean this summer and autumn, along with the Riviera, which also boasts new upgrades.
At the Riviera, and very soon at the Marina, in addition to improving cabins and transforming the best suites, more prominence has been given to its popular Baristas, for coffee lovers.
The first of the Regatta class (30,277 tons and 342 cabins) to undergo more than just a facelift was the Insignia, refurbished in late 2018. Then, in June, the Sirena reappeared, taking the improvements made on its sister ship even further. The company's president and CEO, Bob Binder, explained that the "re-inspiration" their ships are experiencing is based on constant changes to enhance the guest experience. Perhaps the updates to be seen this fall on the Regatta, and in June 2020 on the Nautica, will add a few more surprises.
Tailor-made upgrades:
These four older ships, built in the late 1990s, are undergoing a complete refurbishment, both in their common areas and cabins. In contrast, the renovations on the crown jewels, Marina and Riviera (1,250 passengers and 66,000 tons, from 2011 and 2012), are less extensive, though undeniably impressive, adding a touch of sophistication to these two charismatic cruise ships, already among the most beautiful sailing the oceans.
The Riviera showcased its enhanced style during a recent stop in Barcelona, while its sister ship will be ready in May 2020. Perhaps the most striking feature of the first launch is the addition of its 200-square-meter Owner's Super Suites. In addition to the comfort and class that already characterize them, they now boast a stunning interior design by Ralph Lauren, which will also be featured on the Marina in May of next year. Dressed for sailing, the new suites not only display exclusive textures and fabrics, but also the harmony one expects in Oceania, where luxury is never ostentatious but balanced, and the color palette harmonizes with the sea.
To begin with, you enter through a new lobby with limestone flooring, wood paneling and a mahogany and quartzite bar. From that moment on, Ralph Lauren Home Collection fabrics flood everything in shades of navy, white and cream, while the windows frame the views dressed in the so-called Grimaldi-weave, while an (automatic) piano provides the soundtrack to the moment.
Nothing is superfluous in this suite's setting, complete with a Mayfair dining table and chandelier, upholstered chairs, nickel accents, and terraces furnished with pieces from the brand's collection. Not to mention its Cote d'Azure king-size bed. In Oceania, designer Trevor R. Howells has created the new style, which has been met with a resounding response from his loyal clientele: bookings and anticipation have been equally high. Top travelers typically snap up these rooms as soon as they become available.
The Sirena sails the Mediterranean this season, showcasing with flair how the legendary Renaissance ships are transformed into luxurious and modern cruise ships.
But these aren't the only improvements to the Riviera, one of the favorite ships of seasoned cruisers, after its dry dock in Marseille. In the 200 Concierge cabins, the 244 Veranda cabins, and the 124 Penthouses, fabrics and carpets have been updated in caramel, espresso, and ivory tones, while retaining their upholstered headboards and walnut and wenge paneling. And the reinvention has also reached some key areas of the public spaces. Who has traveled with this cruise line and hasn't enjoyed an excellent coffee in its Barista Lounge? Well, now this prime spot boasts silver-gray and sea-green, with touches of gold and white marble, plus the perfect finishing touch for serious coffee lovers: a Victoria Arduio espresso machine, which they say is like the Rolls Royce of coffee. From its prime location on deck 14, with a small lounge overlooking the pool and the horizon, it offers new reasons to indulge in the ritual of a good Italian coffee. Watching the barista in action is a small spectacle that's also well worth experiencing.
Overall, the improvements to the Riviera will keep it in top form in this competitive segment. It's a well-maintained ship that, despite its eight years of service, hasn't lost its appeal in its public spaces, from the elegant central staircase to its diverse culinary offerings. Its restaurants continue to be highly praised by guests, from the sophisticated wine pairings at La Reserve to the innovative Asian fusion at Red Ginger, the steakhouse at Polo Grill, The Bistro, the Italian connection from La Toscana, the highly personal Jacques (the brainchild of consulting chef Jacques Pepin), the Terrace Café, or the Waves Grill for al fresco dining… not forgetting the Grand Dining Room, the main restaurant, with the ambiance of classic grand cruise ships but exceptional cuisine. All of these establishments undergo a thorough maintenance program that is much appreciated by loyal passengers.
The improvements implemented in the fleet not only cover aesthetics and functionality, but also its award-winning cuisine, with new menus.
This culinary range is what truly distinguishes these larger ships from the four in the Regatta series. However, the cruise line has invested even more effort in the refurbishment of these vessels, given their more established history and the large number of fans who appreciate their smaller size. The renovations here have been comprehensive; the Sirena boasts brand-new cabins and transformed public spaces. This includes its grand staircase, with its dazzling crystal railings and a magnificent chandelier, and the main dining room, now brighter and featuring modern touches such as its leather and bronze chairs. The Miami-based Studio DADO, responsible for the renovation, specializes in interior design for high-end residences, where no detail is overlooked, as is evident in their latest project for the high seas.
Between Sky and Sea:
In the case of the cabins, in addition to the new custom-made furniture and a color palette that ranges from sky to sea tones, with warm grays, sapphires, and silvery greens, along with designer elements and natural wood, the bathrooms deserve special mention. The refurbished ships feature glass-enclosed cabins and more sophisticated vanities. In the suites and Vista class, Carrara marble and polished granite stand out, as well as upgraded bathrobes and amenities.
Travelers seeking to enjoy their cabin will finally find the style of the legendary R-class (formerly Renaissance) with the cutting-edge technology expected today. For example, USB ports, televisions with movies (for a fee), and more interactive information about their trip and everything their cruise has to offer. Furthermore, the refurbishment has been more comprehensive than for its predecessor, with new doors, large mirrors, and extra power outlets in all cabins, as well as new lighting in public areas.
Overall, the revolution that Oceania Cruises is experiencing for the Regatta family can be translated into impressive figures for a high-end cruise line: a total of 1,368 new suites and cabins, 1,400 new marble bathrooms, 8,000 new lighting elements, 12,000 new sofas and chairs, and more than 1,000 handcrafted pieces.
Beyond the obvious changes, the brand is emphasizing some of its defining characteristics with new elements. For example, by further enhancing its culinary offerings with new menus and enriching the artistic experience that defines it. Binder assures that art will be even more prominent on these ships, starting with works by Pepin himself (who combines his vocation as a chef with that of a painter) and continuing with renowned artists whose canvases and sculptures will lend character to the vessels.
The shipping company, which has invested 100 million euros in updating its entire fleet, will incorporate two new 67,000-ton ships before 2025.
Roberto Cabello, the business development director for Spain, Africa, and the Middle East, points out that Spanish customers are quickly drawn to this company's offerings. Oceania, which still has significant growth potential in Spain, offers more than 450 destinations. Among the company's distinguishing features compared to other luxury tour operators are its more competitive prices, as alcoholic beverages and excursions are not included by default. However, Oceania later runs promotional offers that include these packages. Another attraction is its itineraries, which are neither regular nor repetitive, but can be combined to create dreamlike journeys, with many starting or ending in Spanish ports.
Oceania Cruises Fleet
– Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Sirena, Marina, and Riviera
– Founded in 2002
– Over 450 ports of call
– Ships for between 684 and 1,250 passengers
– New ships coming in 2022 and 2025
– Part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings group
