Ask me why ‘I love Oceania Cruises’ and why ‘I rate them so highly’ – I will give you five reasons:
- Award-winning global itineraries
- The ‘Best Cuisine at Sea’
- Exceptionally staff
- Luxurious Staterooms and Suites
- Smaller ships allows access to smaller ports
However, there are many more reasons to cruise with Oceania Cruises. From the minute you step onboard what is best described as a – ‘Boutique Hotel at Sea’ – you realise that you are somewhere special. This award-winning cruise company seems to focus on its core values so well. They do not just make a statement; their entire operation delivers a truly awesome product and service.
Delivering the finest culinary experience at sea, authentic destination experiences, and a warm and luxurious ambiance onboard every voyage, Oceania Cruises delivers a well-rounded and exceptional cruise experience. The smaller Oceania ships offer an intimate setting where you are treated as a guest and the service and product matches the expectations. On-board the ship dress is elegant casual, there is no need for suits, ties, or evening dresses.
One thing all these Oceania ships have in common is they exude warmth and character in a setting that is more akin to a luxury country club setting. The continuous success of this cruise brand is undoubtably the consistency of the high standards that they deliver on every ship and every cruise.
About Oceania Cruises
The Oceania fleet currently offers the choice of six ships. The R Class ships – Insignia, Nautica, Regatta and Sirena – carry 684 passengers who are looked after by 400 staff. The two larger O Class ships in the fleet, Marina and Riviera, carry 800 crew who look after a maximum of 1,250 passengers. In the future, Oceania Cruises will be adding two new Allura-Class ships to their fleet, expected to be sailing in 2022 and 2025.
Come and join us onboard Oceania’s Riviera and see why you should be considering an Oceania Cruise for your next luxury cruise holiday.
Riviera Cruise Ship
The Riviera was built in 2012 and underwent a full refurbishment in 2019. She is an awesome ship and here are some of the stats:
- Length: 785 foot (239 metres)
- Beam: 106 foot (32 metres)
- Guest Decks: 11
- Total Decks: 16
- Guest Capacity: 1,250 (Double Occupancy)
- Staff Compliment: 800
- Guest to staff ratio: 1.57
Life Onboard Riviera
Expect luxury and you will not be disappointed. The Riviera Cruise Ship offers what the larger, common cruise ships cannot, intimacy and a more personal cruise experience, enhanced by a fine selection of restaurants and bars and excellent facilities to enjoy while at sea. Sailing with Oceania means elegance without pretence nor the need for tuxedos and evening gowns.
But the joy of sailing on Riviera is that you able to dock in smaller ports where the larger ships simply get cannot berth and this allows Oceania to create a selection of fantastic award-winning itineraries, showcasing over 450 destinations. There are no long queues to board or get ashore, life on Riviera is relaxed and comfortable just as a cruise holiday should be.
The ambiance on-board Riviera is very cozy and personal, complimented by the professional staff service and exceptional standards. There is no need to rush, you are free to do as much or as little as you like. Relax on a comfortable chaise by the pool or indulge the spa services which are readily available in the relaxing Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center.
The ‘Finest Cuisine at Sea’
Oceania Cruises are renowned for offering the ‘Finest Cuisine at Sea’. With six stunning restaurants to choose from, I have no doubt you will be blown away by the choice and quality of the cuisine, its sublime. What’s more, you can dine when, where and with whom you wish. So, lets tuck in and see what’s on offer.
The Grand Dining Room – Continental Cuisine
The stately Grand Dining Room plays tribute to the spirit of Europe’s marquee 5-star hotel restaurants, dignified with a pleasant ambiance. Attractively decorated in rich woods, designer fabrics and oversized armchairs, the expansive dining area exudes classic splendour.
This is a truly memorable dining experience brought to life by the professional waiting staff and the delightful cuisine that is expertly created by the kitchen brigade. The tables are beautifully decorated, you can expect bone china, sparkling Riedel crystal, gleaming silver, and fine cotton linens. The professional waiting staff are formally attired and classically trained ensuring your dining experience is an event and not just a meal.
The menus change daily and comprise of a variety of European-inspired cuisine with a selection of light and healthy Aquamar Vitality Cuisine and plant-based options for those watching their calorie intake or with dietary requirements.
Polo Grill – Steak House
Meat lovers will feel the love at the Polo Grill. This classic steakhouse offers a selection of tender and flavoursome 28 day, dry-aged USDA Prime beef as well as a selection of delicious seafood such as Grilled Swordfish and Whole Maine Lobster Gratinée.
The Bistro – French for the Afternoon
The Bistro is a French affair inspired by the family favourite recipes of the Executive Culinary Director, Jacques Pépin. Tuck into classical French dishes during lunchtime in The Grand Dining Room as well by ordering your favourites and regional specialties from The Grand Dining Room. Apart from the quintessentially French classics the menus and daily specials offer a variety of dishes from all over the world, ensuring there is a tasty dish for everyone to enjoy.
Toscana – Gourmet Italian
If you love Italian food, Toscana – meaning Tuscan – is a real treat. Showcasing some of Italy’s finest dishes, Toscana offers an awesome evening dining with a varied selection of family favourites including classical Italian dishes such as the Minestrone alla Genovese, Lasagne al Forno alla Bolognese and succulent Osso Buco alla Milanese. The waiting staff and ambiance ensures that your dining experience is as memorable as it will be rewarding, a real treat awaits you at Toscana.
Jacques – Country French Cuisine
Jacques is a special treat and one of those restaurants that will remain in my mind as a truly magical experience. Traditional French cooking in a restaurant which appears to have been uprooted from a Parisian street and placed on-board Riviera. The décor is outrageously pleasing, the ambiance is wonderful, and the waiting staff bring the evening alive, making this such a memorable dining experience and that is before you have tucked into the outrageously delicious fine French cuisine.
Delicious, mouth-watering and it is difficult to choose which dish to order. The Baked Onion Soup with Gruyere Cheese Crust is sublime and for mains tuck into the deliciously slowed cooked rotisserie, with a choice of succulent chicken, pork, veal or beef prime rib, simply sensational. Perhaps try the Bouillabaisse, that is incredible, so tasty.
This is one of those restaurants that you know you will always remember, fabulous choices and you will be back, simply superb and testament to the great Master Chef Pépin.
Red Ginger – Asian Cuisine
Choosing my favourite restaurant on-board Riviera is not a simple task. The Red Ginger Restaurant is excellent. The décor and ambiance fabulous, highlighted by the big bold artworks and the soothing sound of the waterfall, makes this contemporary restaurant so inviting, almost magical.
But the food is the real champion, where does one start. The Spring Rolls, Crispy Ginger Calamari and Chicken Satay were our favourite starters, ooh, and the Miso Soup. For mains we fell in love with Beef Teriyaki and the Malaysian Beef Penang. The Lobster Pad Thai is scrumptious, and the Red Curry Chicken is delish. Try the Red Ginger Stir-Fried Rice it is fantastic, what a lovely taste.
Its truly very difficult to choose my favourite restaurant on this Oceania Cruise Ship, they are truly all divine. If pushed, I would be tossing a coin between Jacques and Red Ginger, but I my advice is, try them all, they are all wonderful. But there are more tastes to explore.
Terrace Café – ‘A Casual Affiar’
The Terrace Café is the place to head if you want a relaxed breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy a selection of dishes inside the Café or dine alfresco and enjoy the views out to sea while sipping a delicious Pina Colada or a Strawberry Daiquiri. The menu provides a wide selection of internationally inspired dishes which include delicious pizza’s and delicious rotisserie meats. Try the freshly made sushi and sashimi, its delicious.
Waves Grill
When at the pool, you do not have to stroll too far for lunch or an early dinner. The Waves Grill offers a selection of Panini’s, Sandwiches, Burgers and Hot Dogs, with a variety of fillings and side dishes. The Texan Burgers are superb, and the Alaskan Salmon Burger is delightful. Try the Tropical temptation Smoothie they are so refreshing. Lots of tempting comfort food here along with some healthier choices.
Afternoon Tea
We love the luxury of enjoying a traditional Afternoon Tea and onboard Riviera this is yet another area where they excel. The daily celebration of British tradition is rejoiced in grand style while a classical string quartet plays softly in the background. The well-rehearsed waiter staff deliver a beautiful array of freshly made finger sandwiches, multi-coloured petits fours, scrumptious scones with clotted cream, and delicious desserts. It is divine, moreish, and irresistible, in our defence its our last nibble before dinner.
Baristas
If you love coffee, Baristas is a delightful coffee bar offering a selection of your favourite brews including illy® espressos, cappuccinos and lattes.
Riviera’s Special Dining Experiences
Privée
If you are with a group of friends or family celebrating a special occasion, Privée is the ideal venue to book for an exclusive private dinner party at sea. This exquisite venue accommodates up to ten guests, with an option to order from either the Toscana or Polo Grill menus.
The American furniture designer, Dakota Jackson, designed the custom-built dining table, perfectly matched together with the plush chairs and elegant golden Venini chandelier. The panoramic windows provide the perfect setting for any special occasion. A surcharge applies and reservations are required.
La Reserve by Wine Spectator
La Reserve has been created by Oceania Cruises in partnership with some of the world’s most iconic brands to offer a very special onboard dining and wining experience at sea. Bringing the renowned Wine Spectator and the premier Champagne house, Moët & Chandon together in a partnership with Oceania Cruises has created the following awesome dining and wining experiences at sea.
The Dom Pérignon Experience
This dinner was created and developed with Moët & Chandon’s Executive Chef Marco Fadiga. Featuring an extraordinary six-course pairing dinner with exceptional Dom Pérignon vintages. Reservations are required and a surcharge applies.
The La Cuisine Bourgeoise wine pairing dinner
The seven-course La Cuisine Bourgeoise wine pairing dinner celebrates the acclaimed recipes from Oceania Cruises’ Master Chef and Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin with a selection of fine wines to masterfully complete a wonderful evening. Reservations are required and a surcharge applies.
Room Service
There may be a time when you just want to chill in your stateroom or suite, the good news is that the complimentary room service is available 24 hours. Ideal for those times when just relaxing on your private veranda is what you feel like doing. Whether its breakfast, lunch or dinner, sit back relax and watch the ocean float past.
Riviera’s Bars & Lounges
Waves Bar
We love the Waves Bar, so chilled and well located alongside the pool, the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sunshine. Enjoy a well-crafted cocktail, a cold beer or a glass wine. Feeling peckish no need to wander far, the Waves Bar offers a selection of burgers and other comfort food to satisfy your hunger. There are healthier options and those looking to satisfy your ‘sweet tooth’, tuck into a luscious homemade gelato or delicious milkshake.
Horizons
With unparalleled views out to sea through the floor to ceiling windows, Horizons offers a relaxing venue in a ‘country club’ like casual environment. In the afternoon it is the place to be to enjoy that splendid Afternoon Tea, not to be missed, its delish, a very special occasion. In the evening Horizons transforms into a more stylish venue with lively music for those that love to dance or just sit back and enjoy the vibes.
Wine Bar at La Reserve by Wine Spectator
La Reserve by Wine Spectator is the right place to commence the evening with pre-dinner drinks. Enjoy a selection of wines from around the globe, often from the region you are sailing through, paired with delicious tapas. Its often difficult to leave the wine bar, its such fun.
Martinis
If cocktails are your thing head to Martinis. Enjoy a few cocktails and get into the swing with the live piano music.
Grand Bar
The Grand Bar is always a great place to meet up with fellow travellers and marvel at everything that makes this such a splendid venue.
Lounge
In the evenings, the Lounge turns on the acts. This is where you will find everything from live bands to magicians and hilarious comedians.
Casino Bar
Fancy your luck in the casino? The casino offers slot machines, blackjack, poker and roulette and there is an opportunity to enjoy a delightful cocktail from the Casino Bar.
Other Activities & Events
La Reserve by Wine Spectator
La Reserve by Wine Spectator offers enlightening seminars, tastings, and gourmet food pairings.
Artist Loft
In the Artist Loft, talented artists-in-residence offer step-by-step instruction in everything from photography to painting to printmaking. What better way than to learn from the best. The courses change continually, and with the masters’ guidance your talents will quickly blossom.
The Culinary Centre
Learn by experience on board Riviera with the first ‘hands-on’ cooking school at sea. Join professional chefs who will teach you how to prepare a variety of exquisite dishes at your own fully equipped workstation in a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen.
Master chefs from around the world offer guidance and inspiration to fine-tune your techniques, but each dish is prepared by you. The Culinary Discovery Tours™ take culinary exploration one step further – at select ports accompany chef instructors while shopping for fresh ingredients ashore at local markets, and experience authentic regional fare in private homes or chef- selected restaurants.
If you love creating awesome cuisine, this is the perfect setting to hone your skills while enjoying a glorious cruise holiday.
Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center
Turn your cruise experience into an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. Pamper yourself in the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Centre where relaxation and rejuvenation are the main ingredients on the list of inclusions. The renowned Aquamar Spa + Vitality Centre offers not just spa and fitness, but bespoke wellness and lifestyle enrichment. Keeping in shape and seeking a healthier lifestyle are complimented by their plant-based menus on board.
Feed you Mind, Body & Soul while you discover new paths to wellness. Travel stimulates the mind, uplifts the soul and invigorates the body. The journey is as inspiring as the destination.
Beyond the Spa, The Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center provides a wide range of programs, services and experiences designed to help you live your best life. With a holistic approach to well-being offering rejuvenating spa treatments and healing therapies as an essential part of their philosophy. Enjoy complimentary fitness classes and plant-based menus on board to excursions in worldwide destinations that reveal timeless wellness practices, Aquamar encourages a lifestyle of health and longevity.
Accommodation
This ‘Boutique Hotel at Sea’ offers a choice of 625 luxury staterooms and suites offering well-appointed and comfortable accommodation on-board Riviera. Here is a summary of the accommodation choices onboard the Riviera.
Riviera’s Staterooms
Inside Staterooms
At 174-square-foot, the fourteen Inside Staterooms offer an entry level price point which I must say, I find more than satisfactory. The rooms are well-appointed providing you with a vanity desk, breakfast table and refrigerated mini bar. The spacious marble and granite-clad bathroom comes with a shower and stocked with Bulgari amenities. The ultra-tranquillity beds are super comfortable, and I love the fact that it remains so dark, for me, that means a great night’s sleep and no need to rise early. There is a twice-daily maid service and my favourite Belgian chocolates mysteriously arrive with the nightly turndown service.
Ocean View Staterooms
If not having a window is not your thing, opt for an Ocean View Stateroom. At 242-square-foot these twenty staterooms offer stunning views through the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. Features include a generous seating area, vanity desk, breakfast table, refrigerated mini-bar and a marble and granite-clad bathroom with a bathtub/shower and separate shower.
Veranda Staterooms
The popular 244 Veranda Staterooms measure 282-square-foot and feature a comfortably furnished private veranda, they are divine. Every stateroom includes a plush seating area, refrigerated mini-bar, spacious closet and a marble and granite-clad bathroom with a bathtub/shower and separate shower. Nothing more enjoyable then relaxing on your private veranda with a glass of wine watching the sunset.
Concierge Veranda Staterooms
The premium stateroom category is reserved for the 200 Concierge Veranda Staterooms. These 282-square-foot staterooms are situated in the most desired of locations onboard Riviera offering guests an unrivalled combination of luxury, privilege, and value.
Enjoy the services of a dedicated concierge, the ultimate comfort of ordering room service from the extended Grand Dining Room menu during lunch and dinner, unlimited access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace and even free laundry service.
As guests of the Concierge Veranda Staterooms you will be able to enjoy access to the private Concierge Lounge featuring your own dedicated Concierge, magazines, daily newspapers, complimentary beverage and snacks. Other benefits include priority noon ship embarkation, a complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne. Priority online specialty restaurant reservations.
Suites onboard Riviera
The suites onboard Riviera are simply stunning. Here is a summary of the various categories.
Penthouse Suites
Stepping into one of the 124 elegant Penthouse Suites you would be excused for thinking you have entered a world-class five-star hotel. These sumptuous suites offer a combination of style, beauty and luxury at sea.
Their design maximises the spacious 420-square-feet of space, featuring a dining table, separate seating area, full-size bathtub/shower and separate shower, walk-in closet and your very own private veranda, not to mention a 24-hour Butler service.
Additional privileges include exclusive access to the private Executive Lounge and the services of a dedicated Concierge along with complimentary soft drinks, coffees and snacks throughout the day. Other benefits include priority noon ship embarkation, a complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne. Priority online specialty restaurant reservations and unlimited access to Aquamar Spa Terrace.
Oceania Suites
These Oceania Suites sell out fast for good reason, they are superb. Conceived by the famed New York designer Dakota Jackson, each of the twelve Oceania Suites sprawls over more than 1,000 square feet of luxury. These stylish suites feature a living room, dining room, fully equipped media room, large walk-in closet, king-size bed, expansive private veranda, indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas and a second bathroom for guests.
With priority boarding from 11am and priority luggage delivery you will be enjoying the comforts of your suite before lunch. Enjoy the 24-hour Butler service and exclusive access to private Executive Lounge staffed by a dedicated Concierge, stocked with complimentary soft drinks, coffees and snacks throughout the day. The complimentary in-suite bar is setup with six full-size bottles of premium spirits and wines from your suite beverage menu.
Enjoy a fresh fruit basket which is replenished daily and off course you will have priority for reservations at your favourite restaurant and unlimited access to Aquamar Spa Terrace, along with a host of other amenities.
Vista Suites
If your looking to celebrate a special occasion one of the eight Vista Suites is a non-brainer. The Vista Suites owe their lavish interior design to Dakota Jackson and coupled with their prime location overlooking the bow of the ship, these eight Vista Suites sell out quickly.
Measuring between 1,200 and 1,500-square-foot, these magnificent suites include access to the exclusive Executive Lounge as well as every imaginable amenity, such as a large walk-in closet, a second bathroom for guests, indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas and your own private fitness room.
The Vista Suite bar is setup with six full-size bottles of premium spirits and wines from your suite beverage menu. Enjoy a fresh fruit basket which is replenished daily and off course you will have priority for reservations at your favourite restaurant and unlimited access to Aquamar Spa Terrace, along with a host of other amenities. With a 24-hour Butler service included, this is the life.
Owner’s Suites
‘Pure Heaven’ probably best describes the highest suite category available. The ship offers just three suites and they truly, sensational. Designed by Dakota Jackson and decorated with rich furnishings from the Ralph Lauren Home Collection, each of the three Owner’s Suites measures more than 2,000 square feet and spans the entire beam of the ship. The Suite features a large living room, king-size bed, two walk-in closets, indoor and outdoor whirlpool spas and a dramatic entry foyer with a music room, these suites also include exclusive card-only access to the Executive Lounge featuring a private library.
The 24-hour butler service will ensure that you are not wanting for anything during your cruise. There is a fresh fruit basket replenished daily and off course you will have priority for reservations at your favourite restaurant and unlimited access to Aquamar Spa Terrace, along with a host of other amenities.
Oceania Cruise Preview
Here is a sneak preview of what you can expect onboard an Oceania Cruise Ship:
Other ships in the Oceania fleet include sister ship Marina and four smaller ships: Insignia, Nautica, Regatta, and Sirena.
Oceania sums up their promise so well:
“The promise of travel is fulfilled when the journey becomes the destination”.
Awesome Travel Experiences
We specialise in designing Awesome Cruise Experiences. Our speciality is providing a holiday which delivers a seamless and rewarding experience while encompassing your desires and aspirations. We work hard to understand your wishes, whether it is a cruise with a tour, a self-drive or a safari, either pre or post cruise. Whatever your dream, we will fulfil it.
Awesome Travel Holidays Ltd
Franchisee of Not Just Travel
E: enquiries@awesometravelholidays.com
T: +44 (0) 208 004 9400
