Aboard Oceania Cruises' Riviera, Casual Elegance Meets Style and Sophistication

Two of its most noteworthy design features are visible from the moment guests embark in the ship's reception area: a specially commissioned two-story Lalique Grand Staircase and a custom-crafted Italian chandelier accented by 380 crystal spheres.

Together they form a dramatic design statement that underscores Oceania Cruises' commitment to creating experiences that will “inspire and engage our guests,” said Kunal S. Kamlani, Oceania Cruises' president.

The ship's magnificent Grand Staircase is a striking focal point. Designed by Lalique, the fabled French glassware firm, it features double-curved staircases and a balcony with balustrades of crystal medallions and scrolled iron. Six crystal pillars rising from the landing enhance the two-story, glass elevator surround. An Italian-made, 1,300-pound chandelier measuring 78 inches tall by 80 inches in diameter adds a dramatic focal point. Its decorative spheres cast a radiant glow that reflects off the staircase and illuminates the reception area.

Each of Riviera's 625 suites and staterooms are imbued with a warm and smart contemporary look. Veranda and Concierge staterooms – at 282 square feet among the most spacious at sea – feature a defined sitting area and balcony furnished with a chaise lounge, armchair and table. The 124 Penthouse suites measure an industry-leading 420 square feet. The layout includes a living/dining room separate from the sleeping area, walk-in closet and bathrooms with a double vanity.

Oceania Cruises partnered with preeminent American designer Dakota Jackson, who fashioned more than 40 exquisite pieces of furniture and lighting to lend the Vista and Oceania suites the feel of a chic city apartment. Exuding style and innovation, they feature surfaces combining glass, stone, wood and metals together with rich, weighty fabrics such as mohair and silk chenille. Three Owner's Suites measure more than 2,000 square feet, spanning the beam of the ship, and feature furnishings from the acclaimed Ralph Lauren Home collection.

Though Riviera mirrors her sister ship, Marina, in many ways, she has several distinctive design details that set her apart, including:

• The spa deck at the Canyon Ranch Spa Club now features a new thalassotherapy pool as well as expanded changing areas
• On Deck 14, ceilings in the Polo Grill and Toscana restaurants have been raised to add to each restaurant's spacious ambience
• In the staterooms, designers added a glass partition to the tub and a hand-held showerhead that can function as second shower

The ship is also a showcase for more than 100 works by some of Latin America's most accomplished and admired contemporary artists, a collection personally curated by Frank Del Rio, the line's founder and chairman and CEO of parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings. Original and highly expressive works by renowned artists from Cuba's Vanguard Movement, from 1927 to 1950, among many other notable works, are integrated through-out the public areas of Riviera and positioned to provide surprising and delightful touches throughout the ship.

Following a gala christening ceremony and event in Barcelona, the ship's inaugural schedule begins with a 10-day Maiden Voyage May 16 from Venice to Athens. From May 16 through November 29, 2012, Riviera will offer 12 distinctive itineraries on a total of 20 voyages, calling on ports in France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Turkey as well as Israel, Croatia, Cyprus, Montenegro, Morocco and Monaco, with maiden calls in Cephalonia (Argostoli), Motril (Granada) and La Palma in the Canary Islands. Many of the itineraries feature overnight calls, affording an in-depth, enriching destination experience and allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the cuisine, culture and history of that port. Following the Mediterranean sailings, in November Riviera will cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean where she will operate a series of winter cruises.

To learn more about Riviera, contact a travel professional, visit OceaniaCruises.com or call toll-free at 800-531-5658.