Three weeks ago, Colette and I were invited to spend the weekend on Oceania's newest addition, The VISTA. Built in 2023, with a capcity of 1200 guests, she's a real beauty! From the moment you step onboard and are greeted with exceptional service, the muted colour palette will give you a sense of luxury and relaxation. The Grand Staircase, with it's floor-to-ceiling chandelier, provides a perfect spot for photo opportunities to make those at home jealous. The attention to decor detail is seen everywhere; from the delicate light fixtures in the public areas to the strategically positioned unique artwork. Cozy nooks abound throughout the ship for those who seek some privacy.
Oceania is known to have "the finest cuisine at sea" and she certainly didn't disappoint. Back are the signature restaurants; the Grand Dining Room (stunning chandeliers and white linens), Toscana (Italian), the Polo Grill (Steakhouse), Waves (Pool Deck), and the Terrace (indoor/outdoor buffet dining), but because of the additional space they've added Ember (American - think blackened crabcakes with corn salsa), Red Ginger (a contemporary take on Asian cuisine), and the Aquamar Kitchen that focuses on health and wellness. Don't miss the afternoon tea served in Horizons or the very popular Baristas, serving cappucinos, espressos and lattes, along with homemade biscotti. If you're traveling with a group, Privee provides a dining experience for 10 or more guests. There's something for everyone.
Since there are no specific dining times for the Grand Dining room, I could usually be found enjoying a leisurely pre-dinner cocktail at Martinis. The bartenders are absolute geniuses when it comes to creating unique martinis - my favourite was the Chocolate Martini (yes, dessert before dinner!). We accidentally stumbled upon Founders, another popular bar specializing in the latest trend in cocktails. I could have sat there all night watching the mixologists create drinks like The Benevolent Dictator, a combination of Pinot Noir and Whiskey, which is mixed then placed in a glass dry ice container and served to you still "smoking". Unbelievable.
We were given a Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom on Deck 9; there are 15 decks in total. Concierge Level awards you access to an exclusvie lounge on Deck 9 with 24hr tea/coffee/soft drinks, as well as a library for quiet retreats. You also receive access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace which has a hot tub, pool and various types of loungers for suntanning. I was pleasantly surprised when I walked into the cabin, having sailed on Oceania's REGATTA previously - this cabin seemed much more spacious; in particular the bathroom was twice the size with ots of counter and storage space. The closets were a good size with enough hangers provided, and lots of drawers for two people. I also noticed more outlets - plugs and USB ports. I honestly wanted to pack the Tranquility Bed and take it home as it was so comfortable, complete with crisp white linens. Some nice added touches in the room were the complimentary water cannisters for you to take with you on excursions or just a souvenir to take home. A daily bottle of fresh water is also left in your room. A beautiful cashmere shawl was also available for in cabin use for those cooler nights on the balcony. I took a tour of the other staterooms and suites and was amazed at the varying sizes. From 400sq ft to 2400sq ft, the VISTA suite, Penthouse suite, Oceania suite and Owner's Suite left nothing to be desired. Full living rooms, dining rooms, in-suite bar, HUGE bathroom with whirlpool tub and wraparound balconies, you could get very used to being spoiled.
If you want to be more active, there's the ever-popular pickleball court, ping pong, mini golf, golf putting range, shuffleboard, fitness track, croquet and bocce. On Deck 12 enjoy the pool and hot tub, with a generous amount of chaise loungers and Waves bar. Try your hand at the casino. Good luck! At night enjoy the production shows in the theatre and finish the evening in Horizons for a nightcap.
It was an amazing weekend, onboard a truly beautiful ship.
We have space blocked on the Transatlantic sailing from Miami to Rome departing March 27, 2024. Cruise from Miami to Bermuda, the Bahamas then enjoy four full days at sea to enjoy all the amenities the ship has to offer, before visiting, the Azores (Portugal), Seville (Spain), Monaco and Rome. The best of both worlds - time to enjoy the ship and visit amazing ports.
If interested in pricing details, feel free to get in touch with me. (416) 737-3538 or allanacreativetravel@gmail.com
