Oceania Allura: A Comprehensive Review of the New Luxury Cruise Ship
The launch of a new cruise ship always aims to create excitement, whether through innovative features, unique experiences, striking design, or an impressive art collection. Each vessel strives to distinguish itself in a competitive market. In 2025, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported 24 new ships, including the Oceania Allura, a 1,200-passenger luxury liner that debuted in Italy last summer. After a transatlantic journey, it is now based in Miami for the winter season. I had the opportunity to board for its first Caribbean itinerary, eager to assess its spacious cabins and renowned cuisine.
First Impressions and Design Elegance
Upon entering the ship via the two-story atrium, a grand central staircase curves around a sculptural chandelier, making a strong visual impact. This sets the tone for the ship's design, which emphasizes elegance over flashiness. Public areas feature a neutral palette enhanced with luxury fabrics and an extensive art collection, including abstracts and tapestries. Crystal chandeliers, mirrored elements, and metallic details in bronze and chrome add a sense of grandeur, creating a sophisticated and chic atmosphere.
Accommodations and Onboard Comforts
The Oceania Allura boasts 464 standard Veranda cabins, each measuring 27 square meters, which Oceania claims are the largest of their kind at sea. All cabins are outward-facing, with no windowless options. My cabin, decorated in ivory, greys, faux marble, and chrome, included a sitting area, balcony, and a generous bathroom with a walk-in rainfall shower. A convenient self-service laundry facility was available nearby, adding to the comfort for longer voyages.
Dining Excellence and Culinary Highlights
Oceania prides itself on offering "the finest cuisine at sea," a bold claim in an industry where quality dining is expected. The Allura features 10 dining locations, including a buffet, Grand Dining Room, and four specialty restaurants—all at no additional cost. These include Italian, French, and steakhouse options, with Red Ginger standing out for its pan-Asian dishes like lobster pad Thai and duck and watermelon salad. Alcoholic drinks are included at mealtimes, but bar drinks require a package, starting from £60 per person, for cocktails such as Founders Bar's barrel-aged negronis.
Relaxed Atmosphere and Entertainment
Unlike many cruises, Oceania avoids formal events like gala dinners, promoting a smart-casual vibe instead. This laidback approach extends to the entertainment, with the Allura Lounge hosting shows and live music, while bars offer intimate gatherings and sing-alongs. Other amenities include a small casino, a library with books and games, and activities like art workshops and tech classes in the Artists Loft and LYNC Digital Center. The Culinary Center offers hands-on cooking classes for an extra fee, though they were fully booked during my voyage.
Shore Excursions and Onboard Activities
During a stop in Nassau, Bahamas, I opted to explore independently rather than join group excursions, which included dolphin encounters that seemed inconsistent with Oceania's destination-focused ethos. The port was crowded, but I enjoyed browsing Bahamian crafts at Straw Market and swimming at a public beach. Back onboard, I visited the pool deck, sports facilities with padel tennis and mini-golf, and the Aquamar Spa, which features acupuncture, facials, massages, and an outdoor terrace with hot tubs and heated loungers. Health-conscious dining options at Aquamar Kitchen and indulgent treats at The Creperie provided balanced meals.
Top Itineraries for 2026
Oceania Allura offers several enticing sailings for 2026:
- Caribbean Dream: A 10-night round-trip from Miami departing April 4, 2026, visiting St Kitts, St Lucia, Dominica, and Puerto Rico, with sea days for relaxation. Prices start from £3,144.
- Greek Classic: A 10-night round-trip from Athens departing July 28, 2026, exploring Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete, and ancient Olympia, plus stops in Kotor and Dubrovnik. From £3,579.
- Eastern Agenda: A seven-night sailing from Istanbul to Trieste departing September 26, 2026, featuring less-trodden ports like Lesvos, Izmir, and Zadar, with one sea day. From £2,689.
- Transatlantic Treasures: A 15-night crossing from Barcelona to Miami departing November 17, 2026, with 10 sea days and minimal port stops for ultimate relaxation. From £3,519.
- Festive Fancy: A seven-night Miami round-trip departing December 21, 2026, with stops in Mexico, Belize, and Honduras for a unique Christmas holiday. From £2,309.
In summary, the Oceania Allura delivers on its promise of luxury, with spacious accommodations, exceptional dining, and a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a standout choice for discerning travelers.
