Oceania Cruises' new luxury cruise ship sets sail
Riviera, Oceania Cruises’ sparkling new entry in the upper-premium cruise segment, set sail today on her 10-day Pearls of the Aegean maiden voyage, from Venice to Athens.
The 1,250-guest vessel, which launches just 16 months after the debut of her highly acclaimed sister ship, Marina, arrived in Venice fresh from a gala christening ceremony in Barcelona presided over by godmother Cat Cora, who is a well-known American chef, restaurateur, humanitarian, author, and co-host of the new Bravo network television show: “Around the World in 80 Plates.”
“As Riviera embarks on her maiden voyage, our guests will no doubt be warmly welcomed by her officers and crew and they are also sure to be impressed by the sophistication and style of this magnificent ship,” said Kunal S. Kamlani, president of Oceania Cruises. “Riviera is a proud addition to the award-winning Oceania Cruises’ fleet.”
Casual Elegance Meets High Style
Riviera is purposely designed for epicureans and features 10 dining venues - six of which are open-seating, gourmet restaurants - including a French bistro by Master Chef Jacques Pépin. Facilities also include a Canyon Ranch SpaClub® and 'Bon Appétit Culinary Center' and Artist Loft enrichment centre.
Building on Oceania Cruises’ reputation as destination specialists, Riviera’s guests will find ample opportunities for exploration. Oceania Cruises is introducing more than 1,000 new tours and excursion packages that allow guests to custom design their destination experience and enjoy significant savings.
Signature design features of Riviera are apparent the moment guests enter the grand lobby where they will see the Lalique Grand Staircase lit from above by the 380 crystal spheres of a custom-crafted Italian chandelier weighing 1,300 pounds. Each of Riviera’s 625 suites and staterooms – including the largest veranda staterooms at sea, measuring 282 square feet – are imbued with a warm and smart contemporary look.
Oceania Cruises partnered with preeminent American designer Dakota Jackson, who fashioned more than 40 exquisite pieces of furniture and lighting to lend the Vista and Oceania suites the feel of a chic city apartment. Three Owner’s Suites measure more than 2,000 square feet, spanning the entire beam of the ship, and feature furnishings from the acclaimed Ralph Lauren Home collection.
During her inaugural Europe season from May 16 through November 29, 2012, Riviera will offer a total of 20 voyages, calling at ports in France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Turkey as well as Israel, Croatia, Cyprus, Montenegro, Morocco and Monaco.
For more information on Oceania Cruises or to order a brochure, visit oceaniacruises.com.
