Oceania Cruises Expands With OceaniaNext Program and New Ships

The redesign of Oceania Cruises’ Insignia marks the first of the upscale line’s planned Regatta-class transformation. The $100 million OceaniaNext endeavor started with the 684-passenger Insignia and will continue with Sirena this May; Regatta in September; and Nautica in June 2020. This marks a renaissance for the brand, which includes the recent announcement of two new ships on order for 2022 and 2025.

One of the objectives of OceaniaNext is to ensure a greater aesthetic consistency across the fleet. Insignia’s improvements include decor similar to that onboard Oceania-class ships Marina and Riviera. The Regatta-class ships, which originally sailed for Renaissance Cruises, feature darker interiors and exteriors.

The Regatta-class ships will still maintain their distinct character while sporting an abundance of brighter fixtures and furnishings throughout. The guest-favorite library, for instance, will remain, but other private accommodations and public venues will be modernized with contemporary touches, from the sparkling Owner’s Suites to the signature Upper Hall atrium.

As a result, cabins will appear more open and spacious, and they will also be equipped with USB charging ports. Entry-level staterooms will still feature smaller-than-average showers, but fresh glass enclosures will eliminate former inward-blowing curtains.

Elsewhere, new light fixtures — especially the stunning crystal chandelier crowning the Grand Dining Room  — will breathe new life into the vessels. In fact, 8,000 light fixtures will be updated across the four ships. It’s just one example of Miami-based Studio DADO’s attention to exquisite detail, all accented by luxurious cream and walnut tones.

Although Insignia has been refreshed, the ship retains its perfect balance of rich appointments and a casual atmosphere, as well as fantastic cuisine. I recently visited the ship while it was docked in San Pedro, Calif., and had a delicious lunch onboard, which demonstrated to me that Oceania is still the leader in fine dining at sea — and has no intention of resting on its laurels. Further emphasizing its position, the line has unveiled an exclusive Dom Perignon six-course pairing dinner at La Reserve onboard Riviera and Marina. The experience serves the likes of wagyu beef with Dom Perignon Rose 2004.

This is just the beginning, however, as the line’s six ships will soon be joined by two more. The new Allura-class vessels will be slightly larger than the Oceania class but carry fewer guests —around 1,200 each. Beyond that, the line has not unveiled much. According to Bob Binder, president and CEO of Oceania, the new ships will have “the most spacious standard staterooms  afloat” as well as signal an evolution for the brand. 

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