Oceania Cruises Introduces Their New Luxury Ship 'Marina'

Oceania Cruises bought their existing ships, the 684-guest Regatta, Insignia and Nautica from the now defunct Renaissance line in 2003 and since then have established a reputation for fine cuisine, elegant accommodations and personalized service. Today with itineraries visiting more than 300 ports in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the Americas, Oceania Cruises prepares to add its first custom-built ship to its fleet. Presently under construction in Genoa, Italy, the Marina will accommodate twice the number of passengers, but Oceania promises to deliver the same level of service.

"Taste" is the word (with all its connotations) Oceania would like the public to associate with its cruises. Founder Frank Del Rio and President Bob Binder are both passionate about fine cuisine and their goal is to provide an outstanding culinary experience on all their vessels. The Nautica won a perfect 100 points for dining from Conde Nast Traveler, a testament to their success to date. The Marina, however, gives them a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity and vision. The ship will boast an array of stylish bars, lounges and 10 dining venues -- six of which are open-seating gourmet restaurants -- including Jacques, the first restaurant at sea for renowned master Chef Jacques Pépin.

Other innovative offerings include a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub and fitness center (with the option to order Canyon Ranch cuisine in the Grand Dining Room) and a Bon Appetit Culinary Center, which features 24 workstations for hands-on learning from master chefs. Guests will be able to sign up for beginner to advanced cooking classes and even learn to shop in local farmers’ markets for ingredients. Private diners and tastings are yet another way that Oceania intends to keep it return passenger rating at the top of the industry.

The Marina's accommodations are also designed to impress. Three owners suites with 2,000+ sq. ft. of space and furnished exclusively in Ralph Lauren Home are located aft, stretching the full width of the ship. Each includes a private fitness room and an entry foyer with a baby grand player piano. Eight Vista Suites and 12 Oceania Suites are between 1,200-1,500sq ft and 1,000 respectively and bring huge balconies and commanding views. Guests can also opt for one of 124 Penthouse Suites or Concierge Level Veranda Suites with spacious bathrooms, residential furnishing and premiere service. The plan is for more suites, more balconies, more space and of course, more luxury.

It is exciting to see growth in the travel industry. There are always risks to expansion but Oceania has experienced management at the helm and they remain committed to the innovations that have brought the company success. When the Marina begins her inaugural voyages in January 2011 (reservations currently open) it will be a destination-intensive itinerary with port visits scheduled nearly every day. On board guests will enjoy a Country Club casual atmosphere (men will wear jacket but not ties) and seating in the main dining room will be open. As to the initial response of industry insiders and long-time cruisers alike...let the party begin!

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