Oceania offers a sneak peek at its next two ships

[mercedes]

The word from Oceania Cruises this week is that its next two ships will be awash in rich woods, Italian marble, granite and other ritzy materials.

The upscale line says it will spare no expense in the construction of its new Oceania Class vessels, which are scheduled to debut in 2010 and 2011. The arrival of the 66,000-ton ships -- more than twice as large as its three existing ships -- will mark the beginning of a new era for the line.

Trickling out the first details of what the previously announced new builds will be like, Oceania says the vessels will have all the signature elements that Oceania fans have come to cherish on the line's current Regatta Class ships, including a grand staircase that sweeps up both side of the lobby and cozy public spaces such as Martinis and Horizons.

The line promises a warm, welcoming atmosphere that recalls the ambiance of a fine home or manor. The color palette will feature a mixture of dulcet tones accented and offset by earthen and jewel tones, and the line says it plans an eclectic assemblage of furnishings.

“One of the hallmarks of the Oceania Cruises experience is the refined yet relaxed atmosphere onboard and that is something that will continue with our new ships,” says Oceania president Bob Binder.

The new ships will hold 1,252 passengers, nearly twice as many as its current ships, which hold 684 passengers at double occupancy. The line says all but a handful of cabins will boast teak verandas. Passengers will have a choice of six restaurants each night, with open seating as is the custom at the line.

[Joanandjoe]

It sounds great to me. Now if we can only find an itinerary that fits our vacation time frame, which so far we've been unable to do with Oceania.

[JoeyandDavid]

interesting ... thanks for the post Carmen