Unlike the Windows version, this is a Vista I can definitely get behind
Oceania Vista is a gorgeous ship with top-notch service, but that’s already expected from a luxury cruise line like Oceania Cruises. What if I told you this is the first Allura Class ship, and the first new class introduced by Oceania in over a decade? Yes, after launching Oceania Riviera in 2012, they waited more than ten years to debut Oceania Vista in 2023, bringing some smart changes that truly make this one of the best ships in the fleet. Let’s check it out.
What we like about Oceania Vista
Hey, this is the first Oceania Vista in over ten years, kickstarting a new class of vessels and a new era for one of the most beloved luxury cruise lines out there. That should be enough, right?
Well, let me tell you, this ship continues the tradition of what makes Oceania great and actually improves on it. For starters, it’s slightly bigger than the previous Oceania-class ships but carries 50 fewer guests overall. The result? You get even more space to move around, which means more peace and quiet. The layout has changed too, with a bigger and better library, plus more dining options. Overall, the ship’s design is just fantastic, and it definitely gets the official Famvia seal of approval.
The new design carries over to the staterooms as well. You won’t find the classic oceanview or inside staterooms on Oceania Vista, nope! The entry-level stateroom comes with a French balcony. That’s the type of balcony you can’t actually walk onto, but it still lets you open the doors and enjoy the fresh air and a great view. It’s a big upgrade from older ships, which still offer traditional inside cabins.
On top of that, the staterooms on Oceania Vista are larger and more thoughtfully designed compared to most other cruise ships. For example, an entry-level inside stateroom on Oceania Riviera measures 174 square feet, while the French Veranda Stateroom on Vista starts at 240 square feet. That’s a big difference.
Food is probably one of the best things about Oceania Cruises. Dining is included in your cruise fare, so you won’t pay an extra dime for specialty restaurants. Vista features fan favorites like Jacques, Red Ginger, and Toscana, along with new additions like Aquamar Kitchen and Ember. There’s also a big focus on wellness onboard, with menus at the new restaurants offering plenty of vegan and healthy options, perfect for anyone who wants to eat something other than sushi and pizza all day (not me).
What we don’t like about Oceania Vista
By now, you probably have an idea of what Oceania Vista doesn’t get quite right, and it’s something that often affects luxury cruises like this one: the entertainment just isn’t there. Onboard, you’ll find piano bars, trivia, and a swimming pool to relax by, but that’s mostly it. There are occasional lectures and small shows, but they’re not particularly exciting and definitely not as fun as the entertainment you’d find on many mainstream cruise lines. This is a ship that’s more about the destination, great food, and top-notch service than anything else. If you can find your own entertainment, you’ll be just fine.
Also worth noting: this ship doesn’t have a Kids Club or much of anything aimed at younger travelers. Most guests onboard are retirees in their 60s, so keep that in mind when planning your next cruise.
Conclusion
Oceania Vista is a fantastic ship that brings some impressive upgrades over the older Oceania-class vessels. It features beautiful staterooms, excellent dining options, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for those who crave luxury. Sure, the entertainment could be better, but it’s hard to complain when you can sit in your stateroom, staring at the ocean with a bowl of sushi in hand.
Oceania Vista FAQ
How much does a cruise on Oceania Vista cost?
Prices vary depending on the date and stateroom category, but fares typically start at around $2,600 for a 10-day European cruise.
What are the main destinations for Oceania Vista?
Oceania Vista focuses on itineraries in Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, and Oceania.
Is Oceania Vista good for children?
Not really. This ship doesn’t have a Kids Club, and there isn’t much entertainment geared toward younger travelers.
What’s new on Oceania Vista compared to the older Oceania-class ships?
Oceania Vista is larger than the previous Oceania-class ships but carries fewer passengers, giving guests more space to move around. Every stateroom features a balcony, and the ship offers more dining venues than older ships in the fleet.
