European Cruises

Whether you are exploring the Western Mediterranean, the Greek Islands, the Baltic, the Norwegian fjords or the Black Sea one of your main considerations is going to be which cruise line you should book with to get the most out of your European cruise vacation. If you enjoy luxury and splendor that doesn’t cross the line into stuffy formality then Oceania cruise line should be an option for you to consider.

Oceania is a relatively new company compared to some well known lines like Holland America, NCL and Princess, but they have quickly established themselves due to the quality of their service, and their world class dining. They pride themselves on offering incredible value for their passengers, and the ambiance onboard is more akin to an exclusive country club than the busy hotel atmosphere that defines most cruise ships.

Oceania has three ships in their fleet, the Insignia, Regatta and Nautica, and all three are a nice mid-range size, offering berths for 684 passengers. As mentioned above the food onboard an Oceania ship is amazing, and their incredible 5 star menu is designed and overseen by none other than renowned chef Jacques Pepin. Pepin has been featured on numerous food related TV programs and at one point served as the personal chef to Charles de Gaulle. Though Pepin naturally cannot personally be in attendance for every voyage, once per year he can be found aboard for a voyage. Passengers will marvel as Pepin entertains them with amazing displays of his culinary skill, and his presence meshes perfectly with an itinerary that includes stops at some of Europe’s greatest culinary ports of call including Paris, Bruges and Bordeaux.

The cabins on Oceania ships are well appointed and comfortable, if somewhat smaller than those found on luxury cruise lines like Crystal or Regent. However, the price is lower as well, so if you are a budget-minded traveler then this trade-off may be well worthwhile.

Overall, a cruise with Oceania is an overwhelmingly enjoyable experience, and they have carved themselves a nice little niche as a mid-size luxury line at the lower end of the price scale. No, they do not offer all-inclusive European cruises, but the drinks and little extras are reasonably priced, so you don’t feel like you are being nickel and dimed to death. In these difficult economic conditions finding value for your money is paramount, and Oceania delivers nicely on that score.

Related posts:

1. Luxury European Cruise Lines
2. European Cruise Line Review - Princess
3. Seabourn Cruise Lines - Luxury Cruising At Its Finest
4. European Cruise Line Reviews - Silversea
5. European Cruise Lines Review - Regent Seven Seas (Radisson)

Filed under: Cruise Reviews, European Cruise Lines, European Cruises, Luxury Cruises