During his stopover in Le Havre on August 31, Airlines and Destinations boarded the Vista, the latest addition to the Oceania fleet. Discovery of this luxurious cruise ship, which will sail on 4 continents during its inaugural season.
Seventh ship in the Oceania Cruises fleet under the Norwegian group, the Vista flies the American flag
Leaving the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa, Italy, it was christened in Malta on May 8, 2023. With a capacity of 1,200 passengers and 800 crew members, this 67,000 ton and 241 meter boat exudes refinement . Certainly the climb of stairs with its beveled glasses can surprise the European eye. But overall, this liner stands out for the sobriety of its decoration on each deck level. Soft colors, thick carpets, a specific atmosphere for each type of living room. In short, a refined style that is not necessarily found on American ships.
Cabins and suites from 27 to 230 m²
This elegant decor emphasizes wood, soft-toned upholstery and comfortable armchairs. All cabins are equipped inside with a queen size bed, a large bathroom and a more or less generous veranda to enjoy the sea spray. Standards start at 27 m2. And the Vista innovates with a new category of cabins dedicated to solos: a sleeping area, a large storage space and a lounge. Measuring 40 m2, the Penthouse suites have a dressing room and an oversized bathroom.
Located at the top of the ship to offer unparalleled views, Oceania Suites measure between 90 and 110 m2. And in the hyper luxury category, the few Vista (135 to 170 m2) and Owner (230 m2) suites are equipped with a dining room and a bar. Businessmen who continue to work on board appreciate these spacious spaces.
Wide choice of restaurants, no extra charge
With eleven restaurants on board the Vista, passengers have a wide choice of restaurants: gourmet, grill, Asian, French, Italian… There is something for everyone, with dishes prepared to order. Some restaurants, open only in the evening, even have a dining room that can be privatized by reservation, for around ten guests. “As gastronomy on board is a must, we make it a point of honor to provide our passengers with unique experiences” comments Alessandra Cabella, senior business development manager for the European market.
Without drawing up a Prévert-style inventory, a few names to make you dream:
The Grand Dining Room, Belle Epoque style and worthy of a 5* hotel open for the three meals of the day. The menus are imagined by Jacques Pepin, French chef who trained at Plaza Athénée and Fouquet’s, Eric Barale and Alexis Quartetti, members of the association of Master Chefs of France. At any time, the Terrace Café offers its buffet. Whether you are a gourmet or a flexitarian, the innovative “well-being” positioning of the Aquamar Kitchen seduces with bold and tasty vegetarian dishes. Another possibility: lunch on the shaded terrace of the Waves Grill, located a few steps from the swimming pool…
Other tables are only open for dinner: the Italian Toscana with its dishes by Versace, the Polo Grill to enjoy in the American-style “steakhouse” tradition, notably cuts of USDA Prime certified Black Angus beef, the Ember to savor the most emblematic US dishes washed down with Napa Valley wines, the Red Ginger to enjoy in a zen atmosphere, the great classics of revisited contemporary Asian cuisine. Good news: dinners in these restaurants, upon reservation, are included in the price of the cruise. “It’s the best cuisine at sea” say travel agents specializing in cruises.
American atmosphere
The range of activities on board is particularly extensive: swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, golf putting, padel tennis, pickleball, croquet, casino… Not forgetting spa treatments, cooking or drawing classes. Leisure activities aimed at young seniors. Children are not allowed on board. Far from French-speaking cruising, the experience is American aboard the Vista as on the company’s other boats. It’s not a handicap. Except perhaps if comedians from Uncle Sam’s country host evenings. On the contrary, boarding the Vista is a good way to get to know cruise passengers from across the Atlantic.
Next summer, the Vista will sail off the Adriatic Sea and the Mediterranean
In the meantime, its home port is Miami with itineraries lasting between 7 and 35 days. On March 27, 2024, it will leave Miami to dock 16 days later in Civitavecchio (Rome). This cruise includes 8 days at sea. Even if the excursions are revealed once passengers have made an option, Ocenia has just created its new simply MORE package composed of two packs: one for the excursions, worth up to up to $1,600 per cabin, the other for a selection of alcoholic beverages, usable at both lunch and dinner. Good marketing.
Martine Denoune
Photo credits: Martine Denoune and Oceania
