Oceania Cruises' 1,250-guest ship, Riviera, is set to embark on her inaugural season in Australia and New Zealand from November 2025 to March 2026. This deployment will offer itineraries ranging from 14 to 35 days, featuring a blend of renowned ports such as Sydney and Auckland, as well as lesser-known destinations like Mystery Island in Vanuatu and Kangaroo Island in South Australia.
A highlight of Riviera's deployment is her emphasis on culinary exploration. The ship will provide guests with small-group shore excursions designed to immerse them in the local gastronomic scenes. These excursions include visits to local markets, rice fields, and truffle farms, showcasing regional specialties from Australia's esteemed seafood to New Zealand's renowned lamb.
Onboard, Riviera features The Culinary Center, a state-of-the-art cooking school at sea where guests can participate in hands-on cooking classes inspired by regional flavors. Notably, the "Down Under Abundance" class has been introduced to highlight the rich ingredients of Australia and New Zealand, developed in collaboration with local chefs.
The ship offers a diverse array of dining venues, each providing a unique culinary experience. These include Toscana for authentic Italian cuisine, Polo Grill for classic steakhouse fare, Jacques for French bistro dishes curated by Jacques Pépin, and Red Ginger for pan-Asian gastronomy. The Grand Dining Room presents a sophisticated menu, while Terrace Café offers open-air dining with destination-themed Chef's Market Dinners. Waves Grill provides casual, deckside diner-style meals, and Horizons serves decadent high tea with panoramic views.
Beyond her culinary offerings, Riviera provides various enrichment and recreational activities. The Artist Loft serves as a creative space for artistic expression, and guests can engage in activities ranging from mini-golf and digital classes to workouts in the state-of-the-art fitness center. For relaxation, the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center offers a comprehensive suite of spa services.
To further enhance the travel experience, Oceania Cruises offers pre- and post-cruise land programs. In Auckland, New Zealand, the Great Barrier Island Adventure includes chartered fishing trips, stargazing experiences, and a tour of Auckland's vibrant metropolis. From Sydney, Australia, the Scenic Journey to the Blue Mountains allows guests to explore breathtaking landscapes and participate in guided hikes with a National Park Ranger, who shares Dreamtime stories of the Aboriginal people.
This inaugural season underscores Oceania Cruises' commitment to delivering immersive, culinary-focused experiences in the Australia and New Zealand regions.