The OceaniaNEXT program is investing $100 million to improve the design and amenities of the six ships in a fleet that has become a favorite among many cruise passengers thanks to its small- to medium-sized ships, contemporary luxury, affordable prices, and, above all, its award-winning cuisine.
Article from the magazine CruisesNews No. 50 – September 2019
The cruise line aims to become even better as it awaits the delivery of two new 67,000-metric-ton ships scheduled for 2022 and 2025. For now, it has given the Riviera’s finest suites a Ralph Lauren makeover and has renovated the Insignia and Sirena, with the Regatta also nearly ready.
It seems like only yesterday that Oceania Cruises—the venture launched by Frank del Rio, Bob Binder, and Joe Watters—made its debut in the 21st century with the goal of proving that not everything had already been invented in the luxury cruise sector. They offered a new style that embraced the “luxury” label but did not adhere to all the established rules of that market segment up to that point. Straddling the line between elitism and the upper premium segment, Oceania was defined by intimate, top-notch service; cuisine that surpassed that of the vast majority of its competitors; ships that were purchased and refurbished (with all the emotional resonance of the famous R1 and R2, later joined by two more sister ships) for just 684 passengers, and a new design style that was more contemporary than that of other elite cruise lines. It was a mix that worked, continued to improve, and is now reaching a new milestone with the NEXT renewal program, announced a year ago and already bearing fruit—splendidly—across half of its fleet.
This season, Spanish cruise passengers are discovering the improvements brought about by the $100 million renovation plan, which provides 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 makeover and returned to the seas with new and welcome features—is cruising extensively throughout the Mediterranean this summer and fall, alongside the Riviera, which also boasts new features.
On the Riviera—and very soon on the Marina—in addition to upgrading cabins and renovating the finest suites, the popular Baristas, a favorite among coffee lovers, has been given a more prominent role.
The first ship in the Regatta class (30,277 metric tons and 342 staterooms) to undergo more than just a “facelift” was the Insignia, which was renovated in late 2018. Then, in June, the Sirena reappeared, taking the improvements made to its sister ship even further. The company’s president and CEO, Bob Binder, has already explained that the “re-inspiration” their ships are undergoing is based on constant changes aimed at improving the guest experience. Perhaps the updates—which will be unveiled this fall on the Regatta and in June 2020 on the Nautica—will include a few more surprises.
Customized Upgrades
These four ships, which have been in service longer and were built in the late 1990s, are undergoing a complete renovation, both in their common areas and in the staterooms. In contrast, on the crown jewels—the Marina and the Riviera (1,250 passengers and 66,000 metric tons, built in 2011 and 2012)—the renovations are less extensive but still quite striking, as they add a touch of glamour to these two charismatic cruise ships, which were already among the most beautiful sailing the oceans.
The Riviera showcased its enhanced style during a recent stopover in Barcelona, while its sister ship is set to be ready in May 2020. Perhaps the most striking aspect of the inaugural launch is the upgrades made to its 200-square-meter Owner’s Super Suites. To the comfort and elegance that define them, a top-notch interior design by Ralph Lauren has now been added—a design that the Marina will also feature starting in May of next year. Designed for cruising, the new suites not only showcase exclusive textures and fabrics but also the harmony one expects from Oceania, where luxury is never ostentatious but always balanced, and the color palette harmonizes with the sea.
To begin with, you enter through a new lobby with a limestone floor, wood paneling, and a mahogany and quartzite bar. From that point on, fabrics from the Ralph Lauren Home Collection fill the space in shades of navy blue, white, and cream, while the windows—framed in what’s known as Grimaldi weave—frame the views, and an automatic piano provides the soundtrack to the moment.
Nothing is out of place in this suite’s design, featuring a Mayfair dining table and chandelier, upholstered chairs, nickel accents, and terraces adorned with pieces from the brand’s collection. Not to mention its king-size Cote d’Azure bed. At Oceania, designer Trevor R. Howells has crafted the new design, which has garnered an overwhelming response from loyal customers: reservations and anticipation have been equally high. High-end travelers typically snap up these rooms as soon as they become available.
The Sirena is cruising the Mediterranean this season, vividly demonstrating how the legendary Renaissance ships have been transformed into luxurious, modern cruise ships.
But these aren’t the only improvements made to the Riviera—one of the favorite ships among seasoned cruise travelers—after it underwent dry-docking in Marseille. In the 200 Concierge staterooms, 244 Veranda staterooms, and 124 Penthouses, fabrics and carpets have been updated in shades of caramel, espresso, and ivory, while retaining their upholstered headboards and walnut and wenge paneling. And this fresh look has also extended to some key areas in the public spaces. Who has traveled with the cruise line and not enjoyed an excellent coffee in its Baristas Lounge? Well, now this privileged corner shines in silver-gray and navy blue, with touches of gold and white marble—plus the cherry on top for true coffee lovers at the back: a Victoria Arduio espresso machine, which they claim is the Rolls-Royce of coffee machines. From its prime location on Deck 14, with a cozy lounge overlooking the pool and the horizon, it offers new reasons to indulge in the ritual of a good Italian coffee. Watching the barista—if you’ll pardon the pun—in action is a little show in itself that’s well worth seeing.
Overall, the improvements to the Riviera will keep it in top form in this competitive segment. It is a well-maintained ship that, even after eight years of service, has lost none of its appeal in its common areas—from the elegant central staircase to its diverse dining options. Its restaurants continue to be highly praised by guests, from the sophisticated pairings at La Reserve to the innovative Asian fusion introduced at Red Ginger, the steakhouse Polo Grill, The Bistro, the Italian flair of La Toscana, the highly distinctive Jacques (the prodigal son of its consulting chef Jacques Pepin), the Terrace Café, and the Waves Grill for al fresco dining… not to mention the Grand Dining Room—the main restaurant—which captures the ambiance of classic ocean liners while serving top-notch cuisine. All of these venues undergo a thorough maintenance program, a fact greatly appreciated by even the most loyal guests.
The improvements made to the fleet go beyond aesthetics and functionality; its award-winning cuisine has also been enhanced with new menus.
This culinary variety is what most distinguishes these older siblings from the four ships in the Regatta series. However, the cruise line has put even more effort into renovating these ships, as they have a longer history and many fans who prefer their smaller size. The renovations here have been comprehensive; it’s fair to say that the Sirena features new staterooms and transformed common areas. Starting with its grand staircase—featuring gleaming glass railings and a large chandelier—and continuing through the main dining room, which is now brighter and features modern touches such as leather and bronze chairs. The firm behind the renovation, Miami-based Studio DADO, specializes in high-end residential interior design, where no detail is overlooked—as is now evident in their design for the high seas.
Between the Sky and the Sea
As for the cabins, in addition to the new custom-made furniture and a color palette ranging from sky tones to sea tones—featuring grays, sapphire, and very warm silver-green hues—along with design elements and natural wood, the bathrooms are particularly noteworthy. The remodeled ships feature glass-enclosed showers and more sophisticated vanities. In the suites and Vista Class, Carrara marble and polished granite stand out, as do upgraded bathrobes and amenities.
Passengers looking to enjoy their stateroom will finally find the style of the legendary R Class (formerly Renaissance), with the cutting-edge technological features expected today. For example, USB ports, a TV with movies (for a fee), and more interactive information about their trip and everything the cruise has to offer. In this case, moreover, the renovation has been more comprehensive than that of its predecessor, featuring new doors, large mirrors, and extra outlets in all cabins, as well as new lighting in common areas.
Overall, the transformation that Oceania Cruises is undergoing for the Regatta family translates into impressive figures for a luxury cruise line: a total of 1,368 new suites and staterooms, 1,400 new marble bathrooms, 8,000 new lighting fixtures, 12,000 new sofas and chairs, and more than 1,000 handcrafted pieces.
Beyond the obvious changes, the brand is emphasizing some of its hallmarks with new elements. For example, it is further enhancing its culinary offerings with new menus and enriching the artistic experience that sets it apart. Binder assures us that art will play an even greater role on these ships, starting with works by Pepin himself (who, in addition to being a chef, is also a painter) and continuing with renowned artists whose paintings and sculptures will lend character to the ships.
The shipping company, which has invested 100 million euros in upgrading its entire fleet, will add two new 67,000-metric-ton ships by 2025.
Roberto Cabello, director of business development for Spain, Africa, and the Middle East, notes that Spanish customers are quickly drawn to this company’s offerings—which still have a long way to go in our country—and which include more than 450 destinations. Among the company’s unique features that set it apart from other luxury operators are more competitive prices, since alcoholic beverages and excursions are not included by default—though Oceania later runs promotional offers that include various packages. Another draw is its routes, which are neither routine nor repetitive but can be combined to create dream itineraries, with quite a few starting or ending at Spanish ports.
Oceania Cruises Fleet
– Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Sirena, Marina, and Riviera
– Founded in 2002
– More than 450 ports of call
– Ships accommodating between 684 and 1,250 passengers
– New ships in 2022 and 2025
– Part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings group
