The launch of Oceania Allura marks a significant milestone in luxury cruising, as the newest addition to Oceania Cruises’ fleet promises an unparalleled experience on the high seas. This majestic vessel embarked on its maiden voyage from Trieste, Italy, to Athens, Greece, in July 2025, offering a blend of elegance, comfort, and world-class dining that sets a new standard for premium travel.
With a capacity to accommodate 1,200 passengers and a crew of 800, Oceania Allura is designed to deliver a seamless and indulgent journey. The ship’s expansive 246-meter length houses 11 passenger decks, each meticulously crafted to provide a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
Design and Atmosphere
Oceania Allura’s design philosophy is a departure from traditional cruise ship aesthetics, embracing a modern, understated elegance. According to Studio Dado, the design firm behind the ship’s interiors, the aim was to move away from the “stuffy” concept of luxury and towards a more refined and subtle narrative. This approach is evident in the ship’s calm color palette and contemporary features such as the dramatic curved staircase and crystal chandelier in the Atrium.
The ship’s public spaces, including the Grand Dining Room, reflect the style of a classically beautiful European restaurant, prioritizing guest experience over thematic excess. While the Founders Bar and Waves Grill have room for improvement in ambiance and layout, the overall feel of the vessel is one of considered luxury and spaciousness.
Exquisite Dining Options
Dining aboard Oceania Allura is a culinary adventure, with a variety of restaurants catering to diverse tastes. The French restaurant Jacques, a favorite among guests, offers classic dishes such as steak tartare prepared tableside. Other dining venues include Toscana for Italian cuisine, Polo Grill for steakhouse fare, and Red Ginger, which features a blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors.
For more casual dining, passengers can enjoy the Terrace Cafe, Waves Grill, and Aquamar Kitchen. The onboard bakery, Baristas, is a popular spot for coffee and freshly baked pastries, while The Creperie offers sweet and savory delights, albeit with room for improvement in freshness.
Wellness and Entertainment
Oceania Allura caters to wellness enthusiasts with its state-of-the-art gym, bustling with activity, and a variety of fitness classes such as yoga. The Aquamar Spa Terrace, exclusive to Concierge Level guests, provides a tranquil retreat with stunning views, loungers, and hot tubs.
Entertainment options are abundant, with daily activities ranging from art classes in the Artist Loft to sports and quizzes. Evening entertainment includes live music in various venues and new productions in the Allura Lounge. For those seeking quieter pursuits, the redesigned library offers a serene escape.
Service Excellence
The crew aboard Oceania Allura is consistently praised for their cheerful demeanor and attentive service. From efficient room maintenance to personalized dining experiences, the staff ensures that every passenger feels valued and pampered. A standout service is the provision of chilled towels upon returning from shore excursions, a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall guest experience.
Conclusion
Oceania Allura, while not explicitly marketed as a luxury ship, delivers an experience that rivals the finest in the industry. Its elegant design, exceptional dining, and attentive service make it a standout choice for discerning travelers. The ship’s Mediterranean Melange itinerary, visiting ports such as Ravenna, Rijeka, and Corfu, offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich history and culture.
As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Oceania Allura sets a new benchmark for what passengers can expect from a premium cruising experience. With promotional fares starting from $6,250 per person for a Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom, this journey promises to be both memorable and transformative.
“Oceania Allura may not bill itself as a luxury ship but it absolutely ticks all the boxes for me. It’s elegant, comfortable and well thought out, and the food is very good.” – Trudi Jenkins
