Early November 2025 found us on the 3-night Inaugural of the Oceania Allura. Her sister Vista is stunning, Allura is as well.
Food and Wine has a new partnership with Oceania Cruises thus Allura’s godparents are Food and Wine Best New Chefs Alumni.
We had the pleasure of experiencing Oceania’s Brunch in the main dining room. Generally reserved for only long cruises once during the sailing. The closest thing to a midnight buffet from decades ago but lavish, lobster, crab legs, shrimp and variety of cheeses in the dozens, breads, desserts, pastries, breakfast stations + lunch options all beautifully presented. Simply amazing.
We found the Terrace cafe disappointing, however, Waves adjacent was delightful with daily specials of the day. Absolutely do not miss the Creperie adjacent to Baristas. The salted Carmel Italian ice cream is amazing
We did not reserve any shore excursions but friends who did were disappointed. They were rounded up with guests from the huge ships in port and received a subpar experience at a premium price. Small group excursions from a trusted supplier or private arrangements should be considered.
Starlink WiFi worked perfectly.
The production show was truly unique. Great athletic performers, costumes and energy was over the top. Interesting content. Surprising intelligent live and recorded music expertly combined.
Deck 14 forward is full of delights designed to capture the attention of Oceania’s target demographics: affluent, food and wine enthusiasts, Cultured Explorer, 55+ couples, lifelong learners. Deck 14 clusters the culinary center, art offering experiences & classes +Lynk, very popular with clients who wish to hone their digital skills.
Many of the crew we chatted with were working on Allura after multiple contracts. They seemed genuinely happy to be working on Oceania. Always pleasant, helpful and attentive. Home for the crew is worldwide; Oceania is known for hiring luxury resort staff.
I sail many different cruise lines but always look forward to any opportunity to sail with Oceania, refined, relaxing and passengers who are similar to my tastes.
Tips and Tidbits
- Best Value Guarantee, Oceania will now match new promos up to sailing. Upgrades OBC, FCC if already in final. Subject to terms and conditions.
- Quiet season in Europe is scheduled for winter 2027 & 2028 on Allura.
- Although a sister to Vista, The Allura does not have category S, solo balcony cabins. That is also the case for Sonata who enters service in August 2027. 30% of new Sonata will be suites PH or higher including the new category, Horizon Suite. Sonata will have much more public space and 2 new restaurants
- Do be on the lookout for Oceania’s first “Residential Ship” when the Nautica undergoes a major transformation and emerges as Aurelia in late 2027. Nautica’s passenger count will go from 670 to Aurelia’s 476 but the crew will remain at 400. Aurelia will sail world cruises as well as Grand Voyages. Many cabins will be combined to make suites with living areas, walk in closets and larger bathrooms.
