Today, I was hosted by Oceania Cruises on their beautiful ship Marina whilst it was docked in Dover. The ship launched in 2011 and has the capacity for 1,250 passengers at double occupancy.
Marina effortlessly blends sophistication with a contemporary flair to create a casually elegant ambiance. I was really wowed by the beautiful staircase on Deck 5, this area is bright and spacious. I often find reception areas on ships to be dark, cramped and busy. Whilst the ship is luxurious, its also incredibly intimate and has a distinctive warmth and charm to it. The ship has a country club casual ambiance and the staff all exude warmth and friendliness.
We had a guided tour of the ship and our first stop was the stunning Canyon Ranch Spa, the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate! Oceania really promote the wellness experience onboard, all Concierge Level and Suite guests enjoy free unlimited access to the Spa Terrace which boasts beautiful sun loungers and two very enticing open-air whirlpools. Next, we toured the beautifully designed Pool & Sports Deck which is home to a large heated pool, three whirlpools and many comfortable loungers.
After our time on deck, we went inside and toured the speciality dining restaurants. It’s worth noting that these are all included in your cruise fare!
The Polo Grill really embodies all the elements of a classic steakhouse – white linen tablecloths, dark wood furnishings and high-back burgundy leather chairs. If you prefer fish, they have amazing seafood dishes including Grilled Swordfish and Whole Maine Lobster Gratinee – how is that for choice?!
I was also suitably impressed by Red Ginger – contemporary interpretations of classic Asian dishes and Jacques which is modeled after a Parisian bistro with comfortable and eclectic furniture and a mouth-watering menu of French classics!
The restaurant I was most impressed by was the Terrace Cafe, especially how beautifully decorated it is. It has to be one of the most sophisticated buffet restaurants I have ever seen on a ship
We were also lucky enough to see one of the Veranda Staterooms on Deck 11 which is 282 sq ft with a separate bath and shower (no shower curtains here!). Oceania Cruises are renowned for their Ultra Tranquility Beds which feature in all of the staterooms and suites on their ships, after walking around I just wanted to have a little nap in the bed! We also toured some of the beautiful bars and stopped by the well-stocked library and casino. Before we knew it, it was time for our four course lunch in the Grand Dining Room. Without a doubt, the most opulent yet understated and comfortable dining room I have ever been lucky to eat in!
Nice, right? Below is the menu.. can you guess what I had for the Main course?
Whenever I go on a cruise and see Beef on the menu, I have to have it!
And it tasted as good as it looked!
So, why cruise with Oceania Cruises?
- Average Ship Size of up to 1,250 guests
- Average Stateroom size is 249 sq ft
- Open Seating Dining
- Free Soft Drinks, Bottled Water, Specialty Coffees & Teas
- Free Internet
- Staff to Guest Ratio off 1 to 1.63
- Canyon Ranch Spa
- Roundtrip Airfare Included
- In-Port Shuttle Service Included
- Varied and interesting world-wide destinations
- Port intensive itineraries
- Fabulous wellness programme
- Extensive shore excursion opportunities
- Stylish, contemporary & intimate mid-sized ships with plenty of spaces, amenities & facilities
- World class dining including free Specialty dining and many options for Vegan & Vegetarian guests
- 2 Allura Class ships coming in 2022 & 2025 and $150 million spent on refurbishing existing fleet
At first glance, Oceania Cruises may seem a little pricey but once you break it down and consider everything that is included, you’ll see that its excellent value for money. I cannot recommend Oceania enough, I have added them to my ever-growing must cruise with list!
If you are considering a cruise with Oceania or any other cruise line, please do not hesitate to contact me directly on 0330 041 7419 or at danielh@cruise.co.uk
Until next time!
Daniel x