Born out of the ashes of Renaissance Cruises, a youngish line that folded in 2001, Oceania entered the cruise business with some of the same players and one, then two and now three of the former 680-passenger Renaissance ships built between 1988 and 1990. Almost from the start, the Regatta, the first ship, garnered favorable passenger reports, and Oceania did not make the mistake of excluding travel agents the way Renaissance had. The line’s pricing is often different from the pack, sometimes offering two for one rates and free air, but overall, the cruises are very fairly priced for what passengers receive.
Fleet
The three mid-size 30,277-ton sisterships – Insignia,Nautica and Regatta - carry 680 passengers. With the private equity firm ofApollo Management now investing in the company, Oceania has ordered a pair of65,000-ton ships for delivery in 2010 and 2011. They will carry 1,260passengers, have standard cabins that average 50 per cent larger, most beingoutsideswith private balconies, and six restaurants.
Itineraries
Itineraries are now virtually worldwide and many cruises areport intensive rather than having multiple days at sea. Positioning voyagesdiffer in this respect.
Dining and Decor
The four restaurants – main dining room, Italian, steakhouseand buffet/theme evenings – operate with open sittings and no extra charge. Theonboard décor is Old World Edwardian and the dress code country club casualwith nary a formal night.
Programs
The line has an enrichment program and there are nofacilities for children.
Onboard Experience
Thus far, most passengers are older North Americans becauseof the style and length of the cruises, but Europeans and others are beginningto hear about Oceania. Oceania continues to be having a long and highlysuccessful honeymoon. It’s a country club atmosphere amidst Edwardiansurroundings.
Competitors
Now with a three-ship fleet, and wanting more of this sameseries, the line has positioned itself as above premium, therefore above Holland America and Celebrity and possibly alongside Crystal in terms of food and servicebut not cabin accommodations.
