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Oceania Cruises

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Cruising with Oceania

Oceania Cruises' seven ships – Marina , Riviera , Regatta , Nautica , Insignia , Sirena and the brand new Vista (which debuted in May 2023) – stand apart from other midsize cruise ships thanks to their low 1-to-2 crew-to-passenger ratios, gourmet cuisines and comprehensive itineraries. An eighth ship, the Allura, will debut in 2025. Oceania sails around the world, with 2024 trips spanning Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, South America, Antarctica and the South Pacific, among other regions. Oceania's shore experiences are just as varied as its sailings: passengers can sign up for activities ranging from swimming in the Dead Sea to snorkeling with sharks and stingrays in French Polynesia to wildlife spotting in the Arctic Circle. Should you wish to extend your time on shore, you can sign up for a pre-or post-cruise land tour with Oceania, which includes most lodging, dining and transportation costs.

On board, you'll find plenty of ways to fill your time at sea. In addition to wine and martini tastings and educational presentations, a library with more than 2,000 books is available to all passengers. Cooking demonstrations and art classes take place aboard larger ships like Marina and Riviera, which can carry up to 1,250 guests. During your voyage – which, for 2024 cruises, can last anywhere from seven to 196 days – you can also take advantage of the casino and the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. And if you're a foodie, be sure to sample the offerings available across the fleet's numerous open-seating dining venues – including the Grand Dining Room, which serves a gourmet global menu that changes daily. If sailing on the new Vista, two new options have been added – specialty restaurant Ember for classic American fare with an elegant twist and Aquamar Kitchen emphasizing dishes with an eye on wellness cuisine without sacrificing taste.

Pros & Cons

Ships make voyages to off-the-beaten-path destinations

Wide selection of both regular and specialty dining venues

Can earn benefits, such as shipboard credits, through the Oceania Club loyalty program

Not all onboard services are included in the cruise fare

No programming, facilities or supervision for children

Fewer daily activities than larger luxury ships from other lines

• Expert Rating » 4.1
• Traveler Rating » 4.2
• Health Rating » 4.8

Oceania Cruises has been ranked based on an expert evaluation of the line's level of luxury, as well as an assessment of user reviews and health ratings.

• # 4 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines
• # 4 in Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean
• # 7 in Best Cruise Lines for Couples

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Oceania Cruises Ships

Before You Book

• Note: To see Oceania's updated deposit, cancellation and rebooking policies visit its website .
• The price of your cruise includes lodging, meals at specialty dining venues, soft drinks, bottled water and most onboard entertainment, including internet access.
• Shore excursions, baggage handling, alcoholic beverages, travel insurance, gratuities, spa services and other onboard services (such as laundry and medical services) are not covered in the cost of your cruise. However, the new “simply MORE” program includes roundtrip airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, and Champagne, wine and beer at lunch and dinner.
• Those who require medical care during their voyage or have an existing medical condition must notify Oceania in writing at the time of booking to ensure the cruise line can accommodate their needs.
• A 20% deposit per person is required for those booking Owner's, Vista or Oceania Suite category rooms, and a $500 deposit per person is required for all other cabin categories. (Deposits for Grand Voyages are $1,500 per person.) Full payment is due 150 days prior to departure on all cruises unless otherwise noted.
• Cruise cancellation fees depend on how far in advance the cruise is canceled and whether you purchase the cruise line's Travel Protection Program. For more information regarding cancellation and refund policies, consult Oceania's  website .
• Infants must be at least 12 months old to sail with Oceania.

Before You Board

• You must acquire all necessary travel documents (such as any applicable visas) for your selected itinerary. This includes a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after the cruise ends, as well as any essential inoculation records. You may be denied boarding if you do not possess the necessary documentation. 
• Depending on your itinerary, you may need to get vaccinated before setting sail. Prior to departure, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , which features a list of routine and additional vaccines you may need for certain international destinations. 
• You must be on board the ship at least two hours prior to departure. Priority boarding is available for guests staying in Concierge (or higher) cabin categories.
• Suitcases exceeding 70 pounds are prohibited.
• The number of specialty dining reservations you can make depends on your ship, stateroom selection and trip duration. 
• Shore excursions can be booked up to 365 days prior to embarkation.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Oceania Cruises is a high-end cruise line with a reputation for excellent dining and the ability to visit a wider variety of ports because its ships aren’t as large as the typical cruise liner.

Oceania Cruises, part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, launched in 2002. It focuses on travelers who want more privacy and personalized service when they sail. Oceania sits between its two sibling lines — the higher-end Regent Seven Seas and family-friendly Norwegian — when it comes to ship size and prices.

Here’s what you need to know about Oceania.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises sails to all seven continents and visits more than 600 ports in more than 100 countries. The line recently introduced a new base fare, which includes round-trip airfare and Wi-Fi.

Cabin types: The cruise line offers cabins at various prices, ranging from inside staterooms to oceanview rooms with furnished balconies. Suites are also available in a variety of sizes. Oceania ships have a concierge level, which gives passengers access to a private lounge and concierge assistance.

Main U.S. routes: Oceania covers the globe. Those who want to depart from the U.S. will find itineraries for Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Mexico and New England, among others.  

Loyalty program: Oceania Club awards credits based on the length of the trip. The more credits you earn, the higher the elite status you’ll achieve. Benefits include perks like onboard credit, discounts on spa treatments and complimentary wine and prepaid gratuities. 

Oceania Cruises destinations

Oceania Cruises ships' smaller size gives them access to ports that larger ships can’t visit. The line also offers world cruises that circumnavigate the globe in 180 days, as well as a range of longer, regionally focused sailings.

Antarctica.

Canada and New England.

Middle East.

New Zealand.

South Pacific and Tahiti.

Panama Canal.

South America.

Depending on how long you want to sail and where you’re going, you can find itineraries as short as seven days and longs as a whopping 200 days.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of cruises

Oceania cruise prices

Oceania sailings range in price depending on such factors as cabin type, ship, destination and length of trip. Keep in mind that Oceania is an upscale brand that prides itself on gourmet cuisine and onboard service — and its rates tend to reflect that.

For those looking for a weeklong cruise in the Caribbean, a trip departing from Miami and stopping in Mexico, Belize and Honduras starts at $1,399 per person. If you’re interested in Europe, a 10-day trip from Rome to Barcelona starts at $2,470 per person. Both rates are based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom.

Those who want to make like Magellan can book the 180-day around-the-world cruise starting at $48,499. A shorter, but still luxurious, 72-day itinerary in Asia starts at $19,599. Suites will increase the cost of the cruise but add more space for you to relax in your cabin.

The cruise line has announced a new base fare package called “simply MORE,” which comes with a host of inclusions. These include round-trip flights, airport transfers, shore excursions and a beverage package for all guests in the cabin.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

What is the best Oceania ship?

Oceania has eight ships in a range of sizes; the smallest accommodates just under 700 passengers, while the largest can hold up to 1,250. The cruise line has a low staff-to-passenger ratio, between 1.5 and 1.7 staff per passenger, which allows for more personalized service. Many of its ships have capacity for 684 passengers, which means they can feel less crowded than larger ships.

The best Oceania cruise ship is its newest one — Vista. Every room has a veranda, plus space for storage, rain showers in the bathrooms and upscale furnishings.

What is the newest Oceania ship?

The newest Oceania ships are the Vista, which set sail in 2023, and the Allura, which is scheduled to sail in 2025. Both of these are on the larger end of its fleet, with a capacity for 1,210 passengers.

They’re also part of a new class of Allura ships, which feature more onboard amenities and features compared with the other six ships in the fleet. Some examples of this on the Vista include four new dining venues, concierge-level staterooms for solo travelers and larger standard staterooms with over 290 square feet of space.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

What’s included on Oceania cruises?

Accommodations in the category you select.

All meals and snacks at buffet restaurants, dining rooms and specialty restaurants. 

Water, juice, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas.

Champagne, wine and beer during lunch and dinner.

Wi-Fi access for two devices.

Fitness center with guided classes.

Shows and entertainment.

Pool access.

Onboard activities.

Round-trip airfare and airport transfers.

Shore excursions.

In-port shuttles.

Cooking school sessions with chef instruction.

Government fees and port taxes.

The mostly all-inclusive nature of Oceania sailings makes the pricing and experience simpler, since you won't need to pull out your credit card for every soda or latte. That said, there are still some things you’ll need to pay extra for, such as spa services, gratuities and certain beverage packages.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Oceania Cruises loyalty program: Oceania Club

Oceania Club members earn credits on each cruise they take, with more points awarded for longer cruises. For example, a cruise that lasts up to 24 days earns one credit, cruises for 25-34 days receive two credits, and trips longer than 158 days get 15 credits.

Earning status can take a while unless your first cruise is lengthy. If you’re looking for elite status on a cruise line, Oceania isn't especially rewarding for people who cruise occasionally.

Oceania Club elite status tiers

The Oceania Club loyalty program has seven levels:

President’s Circle. 

With your first cruise, you automatically become a Blue member after signing up. The more nights you spend on Oceania ships, the higher your status tier and benefits. Here’s how to reach each tier along with some of the best benefits at each level.

To earn: Accrue at least five credits.

Best benefits: $100 shipboard credit, members-only offers and discount on Wi-Fi packages.

To earn: Accrue at least 10 credits.

Best benefits: $250 shipboard credit, complimentary prepaid gratuities and VIP shore excursion check-in.

To earn: Accrue at least 15 credits.

Best benefits: $400 shipboard credit, $300 spa treatment credit and two custom air fee waivers (worth $398).

To earn: Accrue at least 20 credits.

Best benefits: $500 shipboard credit, a free cruise, priority terminal check-in and an invitation to dine with the ship's officers.

To earn: Accrue at least 40 credits.

Best benefits: $750 shipboard credit, $400 spa treatment credit and complimentary wine tasting.

President’s Circle

To earn: Accrue at least 60 credits.

Best benefits: $1,000 shipboard credit, complimentary prestige beverage package and free laundry service.

How to earn Oceania Club credits

Travelers earn credits based on the length of a sailing. Even a three-week cruise earns just one credit, which means it can take some time to reach the first elite tier — Bronze, which requires five credits. Even though they’re part of the same holding company, you won’t earn Oceania credits when sailing with Norwegian or Regent Seven Seas.

How to redeem points

There are no points to redeem with Oceania Club. The primary purpose of the program is earning credits to reach different elite status tiers. At each level, there are various benefits you receive when on a cruise.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

What is Oceania Cruises known for?

Oceania is best for travelers who want to go beyond the most commonly visited ports and foodies who prioritize onboard dining. Its smaller ships usually make for a more customized and personal experience. While Oceania has launched a new Allura Class of ships that nearly doubles its average passenger count, the staff-to-passenger ratio is still excellent.

Yes. There’s no need to worry about paying an additional fee to stay connected aboard an Oceania cruise ship, as it’s included in the cruise fare. Each cabin receives two free Wi-Fi logins.

Yes, for the most part. Oceania sailings include accommodations, shore excursions, port shuttles, activities, food and most beverages, specialty dining and entertainment. Not included in the fare are some beverage packages, gratuities, spa treatments, laundry and specialty excursions.

The recently-introduced new base fare, “simply MORE,” also includes round-trip flights, airport transfers and a beverage package for all guests in the cabin.

House Select (included for all passengers)

Premium wine, champagne and beer with lunch and dinner. Specialty coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices.

Prestige Select ($30 per guest, per day)

All House Select drinks.

Unlimited premium wine, champagne, beer and spirits anywhere and whenever you like.

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Among major cruise lines, Oceania Cruises is particularly known for its diverse array of itineraries.

Despite operating just seven ships, the upscale brand offers voyages in every corner of the world, from North America and Europe to Africa, Asia and Australia. Its vessels visit more than 450 different ports.

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Oceania has a particularly large footprint when it comes to Europe itineraries, with five or six of its seven ships spending at least parts of their spring, summer and fall in Europe in a typical year.

Oceania also typically deploys at least one of its vessels to Alaska in the summer.

In the winter, Oceania moves at least two of its vessels to the Caribbean (sometimes more) while basing one ship in Asia and one ship in South America. Yet another vessel will be sent on an around-the-world voyage during winter.

The line typically also offers one or two sailings each year out of Cape Town.

Among the line's voyages, there's everything from seven-night cruises in the Caribbean to 200-day globe-circling voyages. The company generally doesn't do very short sailings of just three or four nights, unlike mass-market lines.

Overwhelmed with the choices? Here are our picks for the five best Oceania cruise destinations.

Northern Europe

Some of Oceania's most interesting itineraries are around the United Kingdom, Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea.

Each year from April through as late as October, the line sends at least two ships to the region (sometimes more) and offers itineraries ranging from just nine nights to a whopping 51 nights.

The voyages will take you to such Northern European countries as Germany, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland, all in a single 10-night vacation. Or you could spend 10 nights visiting multiple ports in Norway, Sweden and Denmark.

Other voyages focus on Scotland and England.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking the right cruise line for you

Note that Oceania voyages in the Baltic traditionally have included a multinight stay in St. Petersburg, Russia, considered the highlight of any Baltic cruise. But in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Oceania pulled all St. Petersburg stops indefinitely. Whether St. Petersburg will return as a call on Baltic sailings in coming years will depend on whether there is a resolution to the conflict.

In the meantime, Oceania has cut back on Baltic sailings and changed up its port list for the Baltic sailings it has kept.

In Northern Europe, Oceania ships mostly sail out of Southampton, England; Amsterdam; Hamburg, Germany; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Copenhagen; and Oslo.

The Mediterranean

Many of Oceania's most popular itineraries are in the Mediterranean, where it sometimes deploys as many as five ships during parts of the summer.

The Mediterranean trips typically range from about 10 nights to as many as 22 nights, though there occasionally are Mediterranean voyages as short as seven nights. They include voyages focused specifically on the Western Mediterranean or Eastern Mediterranean and some that include stops across both areas.

Typical of the latter is the line's 12-day "Mediterranean Splendors" routing, a one-way trip between Istanbul and Lisbon, Portugal, that brings stops in Turkey, Greece, Malta, Spain and Portugal.

More focused Mediterranean itineraries include the line's nine-day "Cultural Crossroads" voyages between Athens, Greece, and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), which mostly concentrate on stops along the west coast of Turkey and the west coast of Italy.

In the Mediterranean, the line's main hubs are Barcelona; Monaco; Valletta, Malta; Civitavecchia and Venice, Italy; Piraeus (the port for Athens), Greece; and Istanbul.

Related: The best Mediterranean cruise for every type of traveler

Oceania typically sends one of its seven ships to Asia every winter for Asia-focused sailings out of such cities as Bangkok, Singapore and Tokyo.

The line also typically sends a second ship on an around-the-world cruise that includes multiple segments in Asia, resulting in two of the line's ships sailing in Asia during the winter.

The vessels typically offer a relatively wide mix of itineraries, never staying in the same part of Asia for too many voyages in a row.

Asia itineraries that Oceania offers include 10-night voyages between Bangkok and Singapore with stops at Ko Samui, Thailand; Sihanoukville, Cambodia; and Nha Trang, Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City.

Related: The best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

The line also typically offers several 10-night "Japanese Immersion" sailings each winter out of Yokohama, Japan (the port for Tokyo), with stops at Nagoya, Kobe (for Kyoto), Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Kochi and Shimizu in Japan, as well as Busan, South Korea.

Longer Asia itineraries include 18-night "Spiritual Shrines" sailings from Bangkok to Tokyo that include calls in Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan and Japan.

Oceania isn't a huge player in Caribbean cruises, unlike its sister company Norwegian Cruise Line . But it typically sends two vessels to Miami every winter to operate warm weather-focused getaways to well-known Caribbean ports. It also offers some Caribbean sailings from other regional ports, including Panama City, Panama.

Typically, Oceania's Caribbean sailings are either 10 or 12 nights, with a typical 10-night voyage featuring stops in St. Kitts, St. Vincent, Dominica, St. Barts, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

A few shorter, seven-night Caribbean itineraries are also available, with routings generally focusing on the Western Caribbean and bringing stops in Mexico, Belize and Honduras.

Among the line's most far-flung Caribbean itineraries for the coming year is a 12-night voyage out of Miami that brings visits to the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, Dominica, Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia and Antigua.

South America

Oceania typically bases just one ship in South America each year and only for about five months in the winter. However, it also often has a second ship visiting the region briefly as part of an around-the-world cruise.

As a result, the line typically offers around a dozen South America cruise departures in any given year out of such cities as Rio de Janeiro; Santiago, Chile; Buenos Aires; Lima, Peru; and Miami.

Many of Oceania's South America sailings are lengthy, with some extending for as many as 24 to 30 nights.

Among these longer sailings are 24-night trips between Lima and Buenos Aires that include a visit to Antarctica, as well as stops in Chile (including in the Chilean fjords), Argentina and Uruguay.

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Oceania Cruises' 180-Day Cruise Will Visit 34 Countries in 2024

Oceania's world cruise will stop in almost 100 destinations in 180 days.

After record demand for its 2023 world cruise, Oceania Cruises has unveiled the itinerary for its epic global voyage for 2024. The cruise line's 180-day journey around the world will set sail on January 14, 2024, and visit more than 96 destinations in 34 different countries.

"Incredibly, last year our 2023 world cruise sold out in just one day, so for 2024 we are providing guests more extended voyage options to deeply and meaningfully rediscover the world," Howard Sherman, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure.

Oceania's "Around the World in 180 Days" cruise will depart from Los Angeles and cross more than three oceans and 15 seas as it makes its way around the globe to New York. The journey, on the Oceania Insignia, stops at more than 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites with 24 overnight stays.

Passengers will journey across the Pacific, through French Polynesia and Australia before continuing onto destinations like Japan and Vietnam's Ha Long Bay. The voyage continues along the shores of India and the Arabian Peninsula before sailing across Europe and completing its route across the Atlantic in New York.

The 2024 "Around the World" journey starts at $48,499 per person and includes roundtrip first-class airfare and amenities like prepaid gratuities, laundry, and luggage delivery. During your days at sea, you can keep yourself busy with spa appointments, art workshops, the casino, cabaret, and four open-seating restaurants — not to mention the daily afternoon tea service accompanied by a four-string quartet. There is also a fitness center and sports deck, and of course, a saltwater pool with two hot tubs.

But if half a year at sea seems a bit too long, Oceania has also created four new Grand Voyages , varying in length from 72 to 82 days. "While a globe-circling journey is the pinnacle of life-changing travel experiences, we have specially curated a set of Grand Voyages for seasoned and time-rich travelers to navigate storied seas, straits, and oceans that boldly connect diverse and exotic corners of the globe," Sherman said.

The four journeys include routes from Los Angeles to Sydney, Abu Dhabi to Tokyo, Mumbai to Tokyo, and Papeete to Cape Town. The voyages start at $15,199 per person and prices vary, depending on the destination.

If you need a little more time to decide, Oceania Cruises has also released the itinerary for their 2025 Around-the-World Cruise which will flip the script and travel east to west from New York, passing through Latin America, Southern Africa, India, Asia, and Australia before finishing in San Diego.

Cailey Rizzo is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure, currently based in Brooklyn. You can find her on Twitter, Instagram , or at caileyrizzo.com .

Related Articles

Oceania beverage packages and drinks options (updated 2024)

Share this story

There are four Oceania beverage packages, including drinks by the glass packages and bottles of wine beverage packages.

In this article

• About the Oceania beverage packages and drinks options
• House Select package – US$39.95 per person per day
• Prestige Select package – US$69.95 per person per day
• House Select Upgrade – US$30 per person per day
• Wine By The Bottle package – from US$332.50
• Wine With Lunch – US$7.50 per glass + gratuity
• Happy hours

This guide to the Oceania beverage packages explains the various drinks options on board. Indeed, there are different Oceania drinks packages available so it is important to know what’s included when choosing the package that is right for you. In addition, there is also the option of paying per beverage.

The Oceania drinks packages can be good value, especially when you consider alcoholic beverages may not always be included in the price of your Oceania Cruises fare. There are four Oceania beverage packages:

• House Select package.
• Prestige Select package.
• House Select Upgrade.
• Wine By The Bottle package.

The House Select and Prestige Select packages offer drinks by the glass, while the other lets you choose from a selection of bottled wine.

In addition, there is also a daily Wine With Lunch promotion as well as two happy hours.

House Select package – US$39.95 per person per day

The House Select beverage package is the least expensive. It offers champagne, wine and beer by-the-glass, but only during lunch and dinner at dining venues (including in-room dining).

The price of the House Select package includes gratuities.

It is important to note that only your drinks are covered by this drinks package. In other words, you can’t order drinks for a friend using this package.

Prestige Select package – US$69.95 per person per day

The Prestige Select package is the premium Oceania drinks package. With it you can order whatever you like, including top-shelf spirits, cocktails, champagne, wine and beer. You can order these by-the-glass from any bar, restaurant or with in-room dining during bar operating hours.

The Prestige Select Oceania beverage package has recently increased in price by US$10 per person per day, but nonetheless it still represents good value for money. The package also includes gratuities.

It is important to note that only your drinks are covered by this drinks package.

House Select Upgrade – US$30 per person per day

If you have pre-purchased the House Select beverage package, or it is part of a cruise fare promotion like Simply More , you may upgrade to the Prestige Select package for an additional US$30 per person per day.

Wine By The Bottle package – from US$332.50

Oceania also have a wine by the bottle beverage package. A range of whites, reds, rosés and late-harvest wines are available.

At the time of writing almost all of these wines were new-world varieties. It’s worth noting that the champagne is a Brut Nicolasfeuillatte Rosé – a very nice drop.

All bottles are priced at US$47.50 each. The price includes gratuities. This drinks package must include at least seven bottles . It’s worth remembering that once ordered, you cannot add extra bottles to the package.

The bottles are not refundable, however you can take home any bottles that you do not drink on board.

Wine With Lunch – US$7.50 per glass + gratuity

Each day Oceania Cruises have a special Wine With Lunch promotion. This includes one white wine and one red wine offered at a reduced price. The daily Currents newsletter will advertise details of each wine.

The Wine With Lunch promotion is available in the Grand Dining Room, the Terrace Cafe and Waves Grill.

In addition to the Oceania beverage packages, there are two happy hours each day:

• 5:00pm – 6:00pm in Horizons and Martinis
• 10:30pm – 11:30pm in Horizons

During these Happy Hours guests can purchase two of the same drink for the price of one. However, the offer only applies to the standard Bar List. It excludes the Martini’s menu, as well as single malt scotches, OXs, the cocktail of the day and the wine of the day.

Visit the Oceania Cruises website to learn more.

About the Author: Jason Kerr

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115 comments.

How does one find out what specific wines are included in the wine by the bottle package? How does a person who chooses that package access the bottles? Are they available only at one specific place and during specific hours? Can a husband and wife both access the same package?

Dear Richard

Thank you for your inquiry.

The wines offered in the Oceania Wine By The Bottle Package change seasonally. By way of example, here is a list of the wines offered on board Oceania Regatta in March this year. All bottles are priced at USD47.50 and seven bottles are requiered for the package.

You access any of the bottles you have selected by simply alerting the sommelier in any of the restaurants.

The Oceania Wine By The Bottle Package can be consumed by a husdand and wife together. i.e. you do not need to purchase a separate wine package for each.

I hope this helps.

Jason Kerr Managing Editor

Hi, if you have the house package can you upgrade to premium

Hi Karen Thanks for your question. It’s a good one. I’ve spoken to the good people at Oceania Cruises and you can upgrade prior to your sailing if you purchased in advance. You may also upgrade on embarkation day.

If you wish to upgrade some days into the cruise you may do so. You will be charged for the Prestige Select package as per the number of days remaining.

Hope this helps

I had the same questions. What happens if you don’t have all seven bottles? Can you take them home?

The good people at Oceania Cruises tell us that you can indeed take home any bottles you don’t consume on board.

They do not have any detailed information about the beverage packages online, even if you have made a paid reservation. I found out more here than on their website – hoping its all true onboard.

I’m glad you found our information so useful. We pride ourselves on the accuracy of our stories. Indeed, the details here have been comfirmed with Oceania Cruises.

Jason Kerr Managing editor

The House Select Package.

It is unclear as to whether this package is only when one is at table enjoying lunch or dinner, or whether it includes pre dinner drinks. A number of our group have endeavoured to interpret the wording without success Please could you clarify?

Kind Regards, John. John.

Dear John The House Select Package includes unlimited champagne, wine and beer with your lunch and dinner meals. If you were to have a pre-dinner drink at the table it would be included. However, it is our understanding that it does not include drinks consumed in a bar outside the restaurant. Kid regards Jason Kerr Managing Editor

Can you have the wine in your cabin?

Hi Reginald

If you have the Prestige Package you can order drinks in your stateroom or suite through room service. If you have a Wine By The Bottle Package you can also consume these bottles in your room.

In addition: with prestige, you can order wine by the glass in your room. If, however, you call roomservice to bring, let’s say, a second or third round, they’re fast learning: the next day they’ll bring a bottle

Are non alcoholic drinks tea and coffees included in the cruise price with oceana?

Thank you for your question. Yes, non alcoholic drinks, tea and coffees are all included in the cruise fare on Oceania.

If you go off the radar, bring your own wine, and pay the corkage fee, can you drink it anywhere on the ship? If I pay the corkage fee in the dining room, can I take my bottle to the lounge?

Thank you for your question. It is my understanding that you can indeed take your bottle to the lounge after paying the corkage. Hope that helps.

The joy of a cruise to my elderly mother is be able to have a glass of champagne when ever she wants. That’s all she will drink. Is that feasible and if so how?

Dear Caroline

I would suggest your mother simply order champagne by-the-glass. Alternatively, she could purchase a drinks package but that may be a more expensive option. I hope this helps.

My wife would not make use of the prestige package so can I buy just one package or do you have to buy for everyone in the suite

Dear Konietzko

Thanks for your question. Yes, all adults in the same stateroom must purchase the Prestige Package.

Happy New Year Jason Kerr Managing editor

Trying to work out whether to upgrade to the premium package. Please can you give some idea as to the price of a G&T and a Margarita?

Thank you for your question. When I last sailed with Oceania Cruises in August 2019 the price of a Margarita was US$11.00. From memory a G&T was about the same. Indeed, most basic cocktails like Mai Tai, Aperol Spritz, Long Island Ice Tea, Tequila Sunrise and Manhattan range from US$11.00 to US$11.25. Hope this helps with your decision.

Hi, Does the house package include a drink in the bar before dinner?

Thanks for your question. The fine print says House Select beverages may only be conusmed in the dining venues.

Can you take a drink purchased in bar or restaurant back to your state room / suite?

Yes, you can take drinks back to your stateroom.

Regards Jason Kerr Managing Editor

Leaving on Cruise Feb 1 – the packages are not worth the money for me. do you know prices for beer per the bottle and wine by the glass ?? this is the route we will be taking for our drinks. By chance any picture of the drink menu?

In August 2019 the price of a Corona or Heiniken beer was US$7.50. A Budweiser costs US$6.50. Oceania have a selection of American, Australian, Argentinean and European wines. These range in price from US$10 to US$11.50 per glass.

Cocktails start from US$10.00

I understand that you can bring wine on board Do you know what the corkage fee is

Thank you for your question. If you consume the wine in your stateroom there is no corkage fee. However, if you drink it in a public area or dining venue the corkage fee is typically US$25.

Hi is bottled water included in the house beverage package? And is sparkling water included?

Thanks for your question. Oceania Cruises include both still and sparkling water in your cruise fare, as well as coffee and tea. There is no extra charge for any of these beverages regardless of whether or not you have a drinks package.

If we purchase the Prestige Select package, how are we identified as having the package? Do we wear wrist bands? Give our suite number each time?

Many thanks!

Thank you for your question – it’s a good one. There are no wrist bands, rather you are issued with a new room key card which indicates your beverage package. You give this to the server each time you order a drink.

Regards Jason Kerr Managing editor

Fabulous! Many thanks, Jason!

Oceania now allows each cabin to bring six bottles of wine on the ship when they board. But it is unclear whether one can also bring wine onboard when coming back from a port. Do you know whether this is possible? (By the way, this page is really informative and helpful — thanks)

** UPDATED 27 Feb 2020

Thank you for your question.

According to the onboard literature, guests can bring 6 bottles of wine per stateroom on board during the voyage, for consumption in your stateroom or suite. A corkage fee will apply.

Kind regards Jason Kerr Managing editor

Can I use the onboard spend allowance to upgrade between drinks packages?

Thanks for the question. According to Oceania Cruises you can now utilize shipboard credit prior to departure to purchase shore excursions, land tours, onboard beverage packages, culinary classes and dining experiences. I recommend consulting your travel advisor or Oceania Cruises for more information.

We are cruising in September 2020 with Oceania and have the basic drinks package with lunch and dinner included. We would like to upgrade to the premium package. Can you tell me how much this would be and can we buy before the cruise or once we are on board.

Thanks for your question. Yes, you can generally upgrade your beverage package. The House Select package costs US$39.95 per person per day, while the Prestige Select package is US$59.95 per person per day. I would recommend consulting your travel advisor or Oceania Cruises to find out the exact upgrade price.

do both adults in the cabin have to purchase the drink package? I might be interested in the House Select, but my cruising partner does not drink beer or wine, and doesn’t drink enough alcohol to really justify the Prestige Select package.

Thanks for asking your question. Yes, both guests in the same stateroom must purchase the beverage package. So it might be more cost effective to simply purchase your drinks by the glass.

We are cruising this summer, and are trying to figure out if the wines included in the Prestige package are worth the extra cost over the House package. I can’t find a list anywhere that shows the different wine offerings for the two packages – is this published anywhere? We generally drink California and Oregon U.S. wines and French Champagnes, ranging from $80 – $120 per bottle, but are open to trying new things.

Thanks for your question. The wines included in the House Select are generally the same as those offered in the Prestige package. The main difference is that the House Select package only lets you order at lunch and dinner, whereas the Prestige package lets you order at any time during bar hours. The wines on offer change semi-regularly depending on reprovisioning.

Also, the Prestige package offers premium spirits and cocktails (like those served from the Martini list in Martinis Bar).

Hi Jason, As I understand, the House Select Package is only for the dining experience. When on vacation we generally have hors d’oeuvres in one place and dinner in another place.Is it possible to have drinks and hors d’oeuvres in one restaurant and have dinner in another restaurant aboard ship?

That’s an interesting question. My understanding is that, yes, you could have drinks and hors d’oeuvres in one restaurant and dinner in another. Bare in mind that some dining venues do require reservations.

We are choosing a cruise that offers a beverage package as one of the O-life choices, the other choices are $1000 shipboard credit or 10 free excursions. If we choose the beverage package does that cover both my husband and myself for unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner or only one person?

Thank you for your inquiry. Generally speaking, if you book an Oceania cruise with O-life Choices the amenities are per stateroom. In other words, a beverage package amenity would cover all guests in that stateroom. However, I would advise you to confirm this with your travel advisor.

Jason I am planning a Oceania cruise and was reading the new 2020 beverage information. However I am perplexed. On Feb 6 you stated a guest can bring 6 bottles of wine on board for room consumption but there IS a corkage fee.

Then on 2/13 you stated if you consume wine you brought on board in your room there is no corkage fee.

Please clarify

Regards Barbara

Thanks for your comment. Indeed, what is and isn’t included in cruise line beverage packages can be tricky to ascertain and is changeable. That said Oceania presently allow you consume bottles wine in your stateroom without a corkage fee, but if you take the bottle to a public area or dining venue a corkage fee of US$25 applies.

Hi Jason. I will be traveling with 3 ladies on an Oceania cruise next September (hopefully). We are all Martini drinkers and love Martinis Bar. What is the current price for a premium vodka Martini there now? Thank you Kate.

Thank you for your question. Very exciting to have a cruise booked!

The price of vodka martinis in the Marinis Bar on Oceania Cruises is as follows:

– Ketel One US$11.50 – Smirnoff US$11.50 – Van Gough US$11.50 – Absolut US$11.50 – Stolichnaya US$11.50 – Tito’s (gluten free) US$12.00 – Belvedere US$12.50 – Grey Goose US$12.50 – Beluga US$13.00

I hope this helps your planning.

Hi Jason. I have been reading the question and answers, and your information is more detailed than the Oceania web site! Great job. We are planning a Tokyo cruise and my question is: Can two people in the same cabin order different drink packages? Meaning, my wife (who doesn’t drink that much) would be interested in the House Select package, but I would be interested Prestige Select package. Is this allowed? Thank you, JD

Thank you for your question and your kind words. I’ve had to do some digging to find an authorititive answer. It’s good news! Both guests are not required to have the same beverage package. One guests may choose the House Select package, while the other can have the Prestige Select package. The important point is that both guests must have at least one beverage package each.

Hi Sorry if you have covered this already. Are you allowed to take spirits on board for consumption in your cabin. We will have a standard drinks package as part of our package but it does seem very restricting i e drinks only in the dining areas with meals. Many thanks.

Thank you for your question. According to the onboard literature, guests can bring 6 bottles of wine per stateroom on board during the voyage for consumption in the stateroom or suite. A corkage fee will apply if you consume the wine in one of the dining venues or bar areas. However, Oceania Cruises reserves the right to prohibit and retain other alcoholic beverages bought ashore for consumption on board the vessel.

I hope this answers your question.

Can you tell me if the premium Oceania drinks package includes all mixed drinks (ie Wallbangers) and liquers?

Information is scarce …

Thank you for your question. The Prestige Select package covers mixed spirit drinks, so that should include a typical Harvey Wallbanger.

Hope this helps.

How large is ‘a glass of wine’ bought at the bar or at dinner?

The wines on Oceania are generally poured at the table, rather than being measured (i.e. you simply order a glass of wine, instead of small or large).

Adding to your answer about a bottle of spirits in the room: One can order from the Bon Voyage list for a bottle (or more) of spirits for the room. Last voyage I found a bottle of Balvenie 15 yr old single malt priced well below the market price at home. Googling Oceania Bon Voyage gifts and scrolling to the section From The Bar will get you the list, send it to your stateroom and enjoy. Cheers.

Booking for the Riviera much later, but wondering. Is the fridge in the suites large enough for a bottle or two, like the Viking ships. Thanks Peter from Canada

Thanks for your question. The fridge is a typical ‘bar fridge’ size. In my experience there was enough space for at least one bottle of bubbles.

I’m sure you will enjoy Riviera, especially the great onbaord dining scene.

I just read through all the comments and thank you for all this great information, very helpful!

If we buy the Prestige package and order drinks through room service for the room, is there a room service fee that would not be included?

When I last sailed with Oceania (just before the pandemic) I was not charged a service fee for ordering in-room beverages on the Prestige Select package.

I hope this helps

Thank you, thankyou, this info is horribly hard to find.

Wow….we have 35 cruises but this is our first on Oceania….you have provided an absolutely wonderful service with your direct and specific comments….MANY thanks.

Are cappuccinos and lattes extra on Oceania cruise ship. The web site says all cruises include complimentary select wines and spirits, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages throughout the ship.

Thank you for your question. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the price of your Oceania Cruises fare, however teas and coffee are. That includes cafe latte as well as cappuccino.

Cruising on Riviera in December. I know about the option of buying 7 bottles of wine. But is it possible to buy a bottle of wine at dinner (instead of buying by the glass) and how much would be a bottle of European red wine?

Is espresso free or I have to purchase a house select drink package? On 18 day cruise only 6 bottles allowed per stateroom? No coverage fee if we drink in our room?

Dear Yelena

Thanks for your question. Yes, espresso coffee is free without purchase of a drinks package.

Hope this helps and enjoy your cruise.

Regards Jason Managing editor

Hi, Can l buy a bottle of wine during my trip and drink it in my room?

Thanks for your question. Yes, when I last sailed with Oceania, guests were permitted to bring a bottle on board to consume in their room.

Can you tell me if we purchase the House package and want to upgrade to premium is it cheaper or any different to do so before we leave or on the boat

Thanks for your question. It is one that a lot of people are curious about. However, there is no cost difference – unless Oceania have an occasional O-Life special offer.

Cruising on Riviera in May. I know about the option of buying 7 bottles of wine. But is it possible to buy a bottle of wine at dinner (instead of buying by the glass) and how much would be a bottle of red wine? If we didn’t finish it at that meal, can we save it to enjoy in our stateroom or with a future meal? The price per bottle of wine is around US$47.00, is that correct? Thanks! lots of great info here that I didn’t find in other sites.

Thank you for your question. Yes, you can buy a bottle of wine at dinner. Bottles of wine are typically priced from USD50 and up. Indeed, the menu in the Grand Dining Room often includes a recommended red and white wine bottle. You could also choose from the wine list.

Also, Oceania sometimes have Bin End Wines on sale with up to 30% discount on selected bottles.

You should be able to enjoy your bottle in the room if you don’t finish it at dinner. However, you might have to ask the waiter to have it sent to the room rather than taking it yourself. Health and safety regualtions can preclude passengers carrying bottles of wine through common areas.

Regards Jaosn Kerr Managing Editor

My Wife and I are sailing on May 14 on Marina from Trieste. I would like to pre-order a bottle of Hendricks Gin for our stateroom paid out of our allowance. can this be done on line.

Thanks for your question. My understanding is that you will need to speak with Oceania Cruises in your region for that. I don’t believe it can be done online.

Please could you advise the approx cost of a spiit with mixer or a beer just tring to way up if need drinks package

Thanks for your question. Here are the prices for a selection of Oceania beverages: – Corona Beer, $7.50 – Becks Beer, $7.25 – Budweiser, $6.50 – Long Island Ice Tea, $11.25 – Margarita, $11.00 – Champagne cocktail, $10.75

Thank you Jason dollar not good to pund at the moment & some days you dont want much to drink, I believe there maybe a coupe of happy hours and you can take 3 bottles of wine onbaord and no corkage if drink in cabin is this correcr?

Thank you Lisa

If you consume the wine in your stateroom there is no corkage fee. However, if you drink it in a public area or dining venue there will be a corkage fee of about US$25.

Do you know the reason that bottles in the wine package must be selected in advance? I would think you buy a 7 bottle package, see what you will order for dinner, and select a bottle from the list that would pair with the food.

Very good comprehensive information. Thank you!

If you choose the 7 bottle offering, I kept my list with me. Then after ordering dinner I asked for the bottle of wine to suit my dinner selection. The way O works is that if you open a bottle you have the choice of taking it with you (via delivery to cabin) or letting O store it by cabin number. So next time you want that wine ANYWHERE on the ship you simply ask for that bottle. if you didn’t finish it you can request it. BUT it takes maybe 10-15 minutes to fetch it. I opened carry-on wines in my cabin often, then took a large glass (which I stopped by a bar to ask for a nice wine glass) to the dining room as if I had bought it in one of the bars. It was NO problem. The maitre d’ even carried it to the table for me:)

Is cognac (not brandy) included in the Prestige select package? And what about Irish Coffee? Regards, Aage

Thank you for your question. When I last sale on Oceania Cruises (July 2022) VSOP cognac was included in the Prestige package. Also, Irish coffee should also be included as it is simply coffee with a spirit.

Yes, on my most recent sailing (July 2022), VSOP Cognac was available on the Prestige Select package.

Can ship board credits be used to purchase a Bon Voyage gift

I’d recommend you contact your local Oceania Cruises office for clarificatin on that.

Transatlantic on Riviera in 2023 stopping at Great stirrup Cay. Can I use my Premium drinks package whilst on the Cay?

The beverage package typically only covers drinks on board the vessel.

If my wife and I purchase the basic drinks package each, and have a meal served in our cabin or suite, does the package include drinks ordered with the meal?

Thank you for your Question. Yes, the House Select package includes drinks at lunch or dinner, available at any dining venue or through roon service during restaurant operating hours.

Kind regards Jason Kerr Managing Editor

Greetings, sailing on the Mariner in an Oceania suite with the premium beverage package. If we decide to order a full bottle of wine with dinner, do we get a discount, Also is there somewhere we can review the offerings for the six bottles that come with our suite? Thanks

Thank you for your question. If you have either the House Select or Prestige Select beverage package you get a 15% saving on bottles from the Wine List, as well as a 20% saving on the La Reserve wine pairing dinner. The bottles that come with your suite will usually vary depending on where and when you sail.

Hi Jason. Can you buy a drink package when you embark on Oceania or do you have to purchase online before?

Jan You can pre purchase the beverage packages If you take the Beverage package as part of the O life perk then NO

The discount on La Reserve is only if you PURCHASE the Prestige package not if you upgrade for the House select from O life perk

Dear Jason, very good information on this website ! How can I get the comprehensive list of all available wines to choose for the 7 wines package When ordering the Prestige Package, which wines are included to choose from ? Thank you (Vista June 2023)

Can you buy a bbottle of Vodka in port and carry it onboard for the Cabin?

Restrictions on bringing alcohol on board are most often in force at embarkation. Typically you may bring alcohol on board if purchased in a port-of-call. In my expereince Oceania have not asked any questions when I’ve returned from shore with a bottle of local spirits.

I don’t drink alcohol so my question is about the free soft drinks on board please. (1) Do they serve Coke on board; and (2) If yes, does it come in cans/bottles or it is only served out of a machine?

Many thanks. This is a great website.

Is there a corkage fee on the house wine package?

In my experience corkage is only charged on wine you might bring on board yourself.

With the prestige drinks package are all beers by the glass can you order a bottle/ can of beer

Oceania is currently transitioning from O-life to the Simply more pricing structure. Simply more includes the House Select package in its fare. Does this mean you can still upgrade to the Prestige Select package for just $30 per person per day? Do you pay the upgrade charge at booking or must you do so after boarding?

Yes, you are correct about the new Simply More offering. I am currently sailing on Riviera and can confirm that the House Select Upgrade is charged at USD30 per person per day to your shipboard account. You can upgrade to this from the House Select Package included in the Simple More cruise fare. You may do this in advance through your travel advisor or once on board.

If, after paying $25 corkage fee, we don’t finish the whole wine bottle during dinner, can we bring the same partially full bottle for the next meal and don’t incur another “corkage” fee? When we travelled on Viking ,they would store partially full bottle for us in the special room after labeling it and giving us a special receipt to be used at the next meal.

Crikey I may be late to ask now. Ive read a few times about the packages ect and im looking forward so booking. There’s 1 question about the alcohol select.. ‘During open hours’ May seems strange to some but im an insomniac and can sometimes sleep through a day (awful, I know). Im willing to pay for the drinks package but any idea what times the bars are open and closed? I think id just pay anyway but are they closed through the night? Isnt there food or buffet in the night? Maybe im more suitable to a previous more 24/7 cruise line. (Many thanks).

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• Oceania Cruises

Oceania Shore Excursion Pricing: Are You Kidding Me!

By G&G , December 17, 2015 in Oceania Cruises

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I am currently cruising on another wonderful Oceania ship, the Riviera, 10 day Western Caribbean. We are Day 6 of our great adventure.

I decided to book two shore excursions while on board. a Beach Snorkel in Costa Maya for $104 and a snorkel in Belize for $149. In both places were other cruise ships.

The Costa Maya tour required a 45-50 minute drive one way to the beach to snorkel. The day before arriving the beach location was changed to only a 15 minute drive one way. The overall time of the tour did not change but the price was not reduced for less driving distance. I decided to cancel. When I went ashore I could have taken a taxi roundtrip to the revised beach location for $8 ! The exact same tour on a Carnival ship was $49.99.

The snorkel tour in Belize I also canceled was $149; on another cruise line was $104 !

And now I jusr saw a Mini Speed Boat Snorkel & Beach Adventure Tour in Cozumel priced at $209 on Oceania was $95.99 on Carnival; exact same tour accept Carnival's tour was 30 minutes longer.

Are you kidding Me !

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I do not think it was ever a secret that the tours on Oceania are way over priced. I saw the same things when we took the Maya Mystery Trip. In fact most of the Oceania regulars say never take the ship tours.

Flatbush Flyer

Unless the particular O cruise has "O Life" which includes excursions (number depends on cruise length -e.g., 10 day gets 4) as well as internet and gratuities. All summer season 2016 O cruises include O Life at no additional cost if cruise is booked by 12/31/15.

Discussed before; there are some reasons (not as many people on an Oceania ship to get bulk pricing, few people actually take excursions which makes it worse, some Oceania tours put fewer people on a bus, etc) but the reasons don't change the fact that Oceania charges more. We just finished an NCL cruise; the excursions were about 40% cheaper overall.

Private excursions are often the way to go, although in some areas the private excursions are the same as the ship excursions, often at the same price. Also, the private excursions involve smaller groups, usually 6 - 12 and sometimes to 20, and there are not enough guides to take everyone who wants to go. For that reason, even though we have signed up for 32 private excursions on the world cruise, we also have 34 ship excursions booked. The 25% "Your World" discount after a minimum number (changes with each cruise) makes it easier to take -- it's like a "buy one, get one at half price" sale.

I don't recommend the Unlimited Passport deal; the price rarely works out well. I did use Unlimited Passport on one cruise when they had a 2 for 1 deal -- the passport was 50% off. I;ve never seen that deal again (it was on the 10th anniversary cruise in Alaska in 2013).

I have not yet sailed on a cruise with O Life and haven't paid any attention to the details.

If you have sailed on O before why is this a surprise to you ???

Noxequifans

No .... O isn't kidding. Hondorner gave a few reasons for the prices of O excursions. I also look at the whole O experience to make a judgement on pricing. For example, there is no charge to dine in the specialty restaurants.

Also O offered excursions are easy to book and cancel. O does monitor the quality of the excursions and seeks feedback on them.

The good thing about excursions is that you have a choice ..... book with O, seek private ones, or navigate oneself on shore.

It's great to have that choice. And the smartest choice is to avoid them completely.

Ditto - avoid O's ship tours. The insane pricing aside, jamming 30 people on a bus with a so-called "guide" (often high school grads with limited English skills, to reciting boring details about hectacres planted with soy with no commentary on religious, political cultural or social events taking place - even the guides sound bored of their mind)...not my cup of tea.

Plus, with private tours you have great flexibility to readjust on the fly if something special appears that day. You avoid the mandatory junk "souvenier" shop stop (read: t shirts). You engage with a local who loves their city/country and has interesting stories to share and you enjoy a personal connection, seeing the sites through his/her eyes, for the day.

Its painful waiting for 28 people to climb on and off the bus. Forget the ship tours and find someone locally who can provide a fun, fulfilling day.

Not sure that's always the smartest choice. In Mombasa not too long ago, an Oceania tour was 6 hours late because the transportation was bogged down by weather. The ship waited for them. If they were on a private excursion on the same route, they'd have been stuck and had to find their own way to the next port.

For that reason, we have canceled our private tour to the same area and substituted a ship tour. There are other areas, in the po ports which we will visit, that are not recommended for DIY or private tours for various reasons. Many times a ship excursion, at any price, is a better option than staying aboard the ship and missing that port. We're only going to travel around the world once; we would rather pay more than miss anything.

We prefer to book private tours and drivers so that we are not traveling in a group and have the flexibility a private tour provides.

We heard lots of complaints about the O excursions on our Med cruise. We booked private in every port and enjoyed every single one.

I agree, Don. I also think Wristband was a bit excessive in comments. I'm not a defender of ship's tours -- we also prefer smaller tours. But the level of guides we've encountered on ship's tours has usually been much higher than Wristband described. Sure, we've had an occasional lemon -- but the same has been true of a few private tours as well.

In fact, the worse experience we had with a guide who didn't speak much English was with a last minute replacement on a private tour to Rabat. When Libya was deleted from our itinerary (this was back in Nov '05) our day in Casablanca was changed which meant that the originally scheduled guide was not available so he sent a friend. In the end, when the new guide discovered I could act as translator, he just spoke to me in French and I translated for our group. We were lucky I could do so!

Maybe Wristband has just had worse luck than we have on tours. I won't say that Oceania is justified in its pricing (Don's comments are pertinent here, of course) or that its ship's tours are the greatest thing since sliced bread. But we've usually been pretty lucky with them.

I was on an Oceania excursion recently with passengers and Land Discoveries staff from Azamara.

Tha Azamara passengers paid $40 less.

Funny enough Mura, the last Oceania tour we took was to...Rabat! It was not worthwhile for the reasons noted in my earlier post, especially with our guide who had great difficulty communicating simple thoughts to those on the bus.

As in, "say, what's the big demonstration about?" Our bus was stopped on the street due to the throngs protesting something. He wouldn't answer, sat stone faced. "Say, what is important about this site we are visiting?" Answer: "Its a medina, you go shop, come back one hour." Seriously? No commentary about the history or cultural importance, so we wander aimlessly in a labrynith?

We took the O tour to save time and effort to get to Rabat. Much rather have had a private guide pick us up in the port and go to Fez or Rabat. We last visited Rabat ten years ago on Regent - which at the time offered "free" tours as O now does. You get what you pay for.

Last summer we tried to book a HOHO bus in Slovenia with O but it was sold out. I then found

a private one online at half the price. After exchanging my e-voucher at a kiosk shipside, I was led to a bus - with an O sign in the windshield! O shared the same tour but doubled the price for passengers booking through them!

ronrick1943

It's always better to do and plan it yourself..

The answer of how to organize your shore excursions depends largely on where you are cruising. For example, Tahiti and the South Pacific have little infrastructure and tour operators. Consequently on many of the small, remote islands the ship, thru the tour godfather on the island, has lined up most if not all tour operators. In this case using private operators or doing a diy is not a viable option.

Conversely in Europe and St. Petersburg private tour operators are an excellent choice- it just takes time researching current and prior roll calls, trip advisor and other internet sites to get educated and book.

As always, it you are not a researcher or comfortable with Diy, then by all means use O, but recognize there is a cost for feeling comfortable.

My husband and I are new to cruising and we have found several friends, whose advice we respect, have suggested private tours. How do you arrange the private tours in advance...through Trip Advisor? If so, in what way? Would appreciate suggestions on this.

research the ports

On CC there are forums PORTS OF CALL many people will give names of good tour guides in those ports

Trip advisor is another option

Go to the ROLL CALL for you sailing you may find some people have already organized private tours & willing to share (if you want to join )

Do your research then you will know if you can DIY or find a guide or use the ship's tours

Lyn's suggestions are right on.

What I do first is research the ports. I look for guides on my own, and Trip Advisor is a good source for getting reports from former users.

Go to the roll call and see who is interested in sharing.

I've done about half joining someone else's group and about half setting them up on my own.

You just have to get started. Even if you don't want to start out by organizing a tour yourself, by doing the research you can have an idea about which tour someone else is setting up would be good. And you should feel free about asking questions of the person who is setting up a tour.

Obviously, we don't really know until we've used a guide but I've been lucky. I haven't had any disasters even if one or two weren't quite what we'd have liked.

Yes, it's almost always better, but it's not always possible...and in some cases, not advisable. The trick is to recognize the difference and make the best of what's available.

A good example is the upcoming world cruise. Some of us have been booked for nearly 2-1/2 years. Many of us had private excursions arranged last year, and after the cancellation, maintain contact with these guides. In many cases, they were the only -- or at least the best -- private guides available. Almost every one of these excursions was limited to 6 to 12 people.

Fast forward to this year as folks booked segments on the voyage -- and searched and begged for private excursions. They were pretty much gone, some folks located others, but no one was able to find a private excursion in every port, even those of us who started 2-1/2 years ago.

Insisting that private excursions are always the answer raises false hope.

SeagoingMom

My experience on four different cruise lines has been that basically, the cost of excursions pretty much corresponds to the cost of the cruise , or at least the "image" of the cruise line . Isn't this what is going on here, too?

I would imagine the cruise lines assume that if the clientele choose a more expensive cruise, they are willing to pay for (and perhaps even expect) more expensive excursions.

My experience on four different cruise lines has been that basically, the cost of excursions pretty much corresponds to the cost of the cruise , or at least the "image" of the cruise line . Isn't this what is going on here, too?   I would imagine the cruise lines assume that if the clientele choose a more expensive cruise, they are willing to pay for (and perhaps even expect) more expensive excursions.

There is something to what you are saying, but it is also true that until very recently, Oceania (and latterly, Regent) have been lone wolves with ships that rarely called at a given port more than five or six times in a Season (Miami does not count, as they don't offer Shore trips there!).

With so few calls per year AND the far smaller passenger capacities of their ships, Oceania was being squeezed to pay top dollar in order to engage the Guides who couldn't, or worse wouldn't, take the steady job with the big boys.

In other words, Tour Guides have always been far more likely to give the Carnival Corporation, which, we mustn't forget, now includes HAL, Princess, Cunard, Costa, and Carnival, a reduced price (volume discount?) for bringing 15000 people to a Caribbean Island each and every week, than they ever would to an intermittent visitor.

I have been hoping that the Norwegian connection will improve Oceania's pull with the Guides as it already has with the Entertainment!, but outside of the Americas and Europe, Norwegian doesn't seem to have any existing infrastructure at all.

ChatKat in Ca.

On our last Oceania cruise, we did our own, and we also booked via Shore Trips. Almost every excursion was by the same operator as Oceania was using. One, Oceania charged about $150pp. We paid $49. Markup unreasonable. Two years ago all we did were private tours. 6-8 in a private van at less than 60-80 pp for all day excursions. All were beyond fantastic

There is something to what you are saying, but it is also true that until very recently, Oceania (and latterly, Regent) have been lone wolves with ships that rarely called at a given port more than five or six times in a Season (Miami does not count, as they don't offer Shore trips there!).   With so few calls per year AND the far smaller passenger capacities of their ships, Oceania was being squeezed to pay top dollar in order to engage the Guides who couldn't, or worse wouldn't, take the steady job with the big boys.   In other words, Tour Guides have always been far more likely to give the Carnival Corporation, which, we mustn't forget, now includes HAL, Princess, Cunard, Costa, and Carnival, a reduced price (volume discount?) for bringing 15000 people to a Caribbean Island each and every week, than they ever would to an intermittent visitor.   I have been hoping that the Norwegian connection will improve Oceania's pull with the Guides as it already has with the Entertainment!, but outside of the Americas and Europe, Norwegian doesn't seem to have any existing infrastructure at all.

This is the reason I have seen for this question for years. It could be true however I find it strange that if this is the case why can a private person find a private tour for 1/3 to 1/2 the price?

I agree with the rationale. However, we cruised Azamara and the excursions were much cheaper then Oceania and they have only the two R ships. Azamara may leverage their connection with Celebrity to lower costs but shouldn't O leverage theirs with NCL to lower the costs?

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Carnival is known for ultra-cheap cruises. I sailed on its new ship — and I'm not sure that's completely true.

• Carnival Cruise Line is well known for its  relatively affordable fares .
• But my recent Carnival Firenze cruise was filled with enticing pay-to-play amenities.
• Even the complimentary venues had up-charged options, making it easy for travelers to blow past their budget.

If you aren't careful, your Carnival cruise could quickly become as expensive as an Oceania one.

Peruse any of the "US' most budget-friendly cruise lines" lists, and you're sure to find Carnival somewhere near the top. In 2024, its most affordable itinerary is $164 per person for a four-night sailing from Miami — more than $20 cheaper than Royal Caribbean and Norwegian's least expensive ones.

That's about $40 a day for food, accommodations, onboard entertainment, and the ability to see several destinations in one vacation.

Sounds like a steal, right?

Well, not quite.

You'll be met with a flurry of tempting up-charged amenities the moment you board Carnival's ships . So, if you're prone to giving into these little luxuries, you can kiss your budget goodbye.

I went on my first Carnival cruise in mid-May: a four-night sailing from Long Beach, California, on Carnival Firenze.

I paid $735 for a solo interior cabin, including optional gratuities.

If that sounds relatively expensive, you'd be right. Carnival Firenze is the company's latest vessel, and newer cruise ships generally command a pricing premium.

It's also worth noting that I had booked it less than 10 days before embarkation. Oops.

I thought I knew what to expect when it came to the cruise industry's 'pay-to-play' game.

Mass-market cruise lines have been increasingly slapping fees on on-board amenities and activities. I knew excesses like alcohol, WiFi, and specialty dining would cost extra, as is typical across the industry.

The only one I fell for was WiFi, of which the premium package cost me $85 for all four nights. I was there for work, after all.

Cocktails were generally about $13, while beers and seltzers were about $9 each. Specialty restaurants like teppanyaki and Italian cost about $40 per person, while the steakhouse was $49.

None of these were surprising. Even premium cruise lines charge extra for higher-end restaurants and beverages.

But on Carnival, it felt like almost everything beyond the bare minimum carried an additional fee.

Even complimentary dining venues dangled tempting dollar sign-afflicted dishes — including the buffet, where guests had to pay for chicken wings.

Want an empanada? The Empanadas and Pie kiosk sold them for $1.50 apiece.

Craving a lobster roll? The dinnertime Seafood Shack booth (which otherwise has free breakfast and lunch options) sells one for $18.

Looking for some pizza? You could grab a free pepperoni slice at the pizza stand — or pay $6 for the fancier Korean barbecue steak pie.

That darn dollar sign symbol tormented me morning to night, on and off the ship.

I had been craving a juice for breakfast. Too bad it was $5 (in the complimentary main dining room, no less).

I would've loved some popcorn during the evening movie showings. A bag costs $4.

During our second stop in Ensenada, Mexico, I briefly considered taking the shuttle from the port to downtown. However, that would've been another $4.

But the most egregious 'incident' came during afternoon tea.

The daily schedule denoted pay-to-play events with a small dollar sign symbol. "Tea Time" didn't have one, so off I scurried, excited for some free mid-afternoon caffeine and sweet treats.

You can probably guess where this story is headed.

After I took my seat, a waitperson arrived at my table with an organized box of tea bags, giving me just enough time to review my options before announcing they were $1.50 each. On principle, I declined.

A few minutes later, he returned to my table to let me know that he did, in fact, have some free options stashed behind the up-charged bags. They were the same as those available in the buffet: Lipton and Bigelow's green tea.

During breakfast, one of the servers joked that my croissant and Lipton tea would cost $20 each.

I knew he was kidding, but for a split second, I was worried he wasn't. At that point, I expected almost everything I wanted to come with a price tag.

Carnival, I get it. Get that bag, sis!

But not being immediately upfront about the $1.50 tea bag and otherwise free options felt unecessarily deceitful.

In the company's defense, not everything had a price tag. Fun activities like the mini-golf course, waterslides, and fear-of-height-inducing ropes course were complimentary and great for forgetting how annoyed I was about "tea gate."

Carnival is just following the industry trend.

There's a reason onboard spending has skyrocketed over the last year. Mass-market cruise lines have been increasingly adopting a model reminiscent of budget airlines: offer a low base fare and present a slew of irresistible amenities at an additional price.

Competitors like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean are repeat offenders, too.

On Norwegian Prima , mini-golf costs $10 per person, while the VR arcade sets guests back $29 for one hour.

On Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas , mini-golf is free! But walk slow if you decide to spend money on the ship's part-agility, part-ziplining course. It costs $49 to participate — and could be completed in a minute or so.

So yes, going on an ultra-cheap Carnival cruise is possible if you’re like me, stubbornly unwilling to spend extra.

But if you're a pushover who easily gives into temptation, be sure to develop a backbone before you cruise with Carnival .

If you don't, mai tais and movie popcorn costs could add up quicker than expected.

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