There’s something quietly magical about waking up, opening your veranda door, and realizing you’re somewhere new—again. Fresh sea air, a different coastline every morning, and nowhere you actually have to be.
This might be a slightly late post, but honestly, our time on the Oceania Marina has been living rent-free in my head. It was one of those trips that felt balanced in the best way—culture during the day, incredible food at night, and just enough luxury to feel special without feeling stiff.
If you’ve been eyeing a relaxed Mediterranean cruise that leans more toward amazing food and calm elegance than big shows and crowds, this one deserves your attention.
The Itinerary: One Beautiful Port After Another
Our sailing was called “Mediterranean Portrait,” and that name fits perfectly. Each stop felt like a different brushstroke—different pace, different flavor, different mood.
The itinerary included:
• Valletta, Malta
• Cruising the Mediterranean Sea
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Split, Croatia
• Bari, Italy
• Corfu, Greece
• Katakolon, Greece
• Catania, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Between ports, we had lovely stretches cruising the Mediterranean Sea—those slow sea days where time softens a bit. And no matter how full the day was ashore, coming back to the Marina in the evening always felt grounding. Calm. Familiar. Like coming home… but floating.
The Ship: Quiet Luxury Done Right
Refurbished in 2024, the Oceania Marina feels more like a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship. With just around 1,250 guests, it never felt crowded or chaotic.
There’s an easy elegance everywhere—from the light-filled atrium to the lounges where people actually sit and talk (or read… or nap). No blaring announcements. No frantic schedules. Just a gentle invitation to slow down.
You can join an art class, practice your putting, or do absolutely nothing on a sea day and feel zero guilt about it. Honestly? That might be the Marina’s biggest luxury.
Our Home at Sea
We stayed in a Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom (Category A2), and it was such a good fit for this kind of cruise.
The veranda became our favorite spot—early mornings with the sea stretching endlessly ahead, quiet moments before dinner, and those little pauses that make travel feel meaningful.
Inside, the room felt spacious and thoughtfully laid out. Plush seating, a stocked mini-bar, and a beautiful marble-and-granite bathroom that felt more hotel than ship.
Concierge perks added that extra layer of ease:
- Priority embarkation
- Access to the Concierge Lounge
- Complimentary laundry
- Welcome Champagne
- Unlimited access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace
- Small details—like the cashmere lap blankets and having a dedicated concierge—made everything feel seamless and gently indulgent.
Let’s Talk About the Food (Because… Wow)
If you’re reading this Oceania Marina review for one reason, it’s probably the food. And yes—it really is that good.
Oceania calls itself the cruise line for food lovers, and that’s not just marketing.
One standout moment came on Day 2 while sailing toward Dubrovnik. Instead of a typical sea-day buffet, lunch was served in The Grand Dining Room, complete with fresh Mediterranean flavors and a string quartet quietly playing in the background. It felt special without trying too hard.
Our favorite specialty restaurants?
Jacques – cozy French bistro vibes and comforting, beautifully done classics
Red Ginger – bold Asian flavors and flawless presentation (that miso-glazed sea bass… unforgettable)
Polo Grill – perfectly cooked steaks, classic sides, and timeless elegance
For breakfast, we alternated between the Grand Dining Room and the Aquamar Kitchen.
The Grand Dining Room offered a serene, elegant start to the day with fresh fruit, flaky pastries, and made-to-order omelets, while the Terrace Café provided a more relaxed atmosphere with sweeping sea views and a wide array of fresh, high-quality and nourishing flavors.
Even as non-drinkers and non-coffee people, we never felt left out. The focus here is quality—ingredients, service, consistency—and that made every meal feel intentional.
Days at Sea & Evenings Onboard
Sea days were wonderfully unstructured. A bit of mini golf, a little ping-pong, casual chats with other guests. Nothing forced.
One afternoon, I treated myself to a back and neck massage by the pool—and wow. Exactly what my body needed after days of walking historic streets.
Evenings were relaxed and social. Trivia nights became a favorite (surprisingly competitive, in the best way), and the smaller-scale entertainment felt personal and heartfelt.
The Farewell Show, especially, stuck with me. It wasn’t flashy—it was warm. The kind of ending that makes you feel grateful and oddly emotional as you realize the journey is almost over.
Fellow Passengers and The Vibe
The crowd onboard skewed mature—mostly guests in their 50s to 70s—but incredibly friendly and well-traveled. Conversations flowed easily about food, ports, and favorite places.
It never felt stuffy. Just refined, calm, and welcoming.
If you value space, quiet moments, and thoughtful service over nonstop entertainment, you’ll feel very comfortable here.
What to Wear (No Stress Required)
Daytime was classic resort casual—sundresses, shorts, linen shirts.
Evenings were elegant casual, which means nice slacks, dresses, or polished tops. No tuxedos. No ball gowns. And unless you’re on a cruise longer than 16 days, no formal nights at all.
It felt easy and relaxed, which matched the vibe perfectly.
What’s Included (And What’s Not)
Oceania is refreshingly transparent.
What’s Included:
All specialty dining (no extra charge)
Unlimited WiFi
Non-alcoholic drinks, specialty teas, and juices
Beer and wine during lunch and dinner (if you choose that option)
Gratuities
Group fitness classes
Free laundry service (with extra perks for Concierge-level guests)
What’s Not Included:
Premium alcoholic beverages and cocktails
Spa and salon treatments
Shore excursions (unless part of your “Your World Included” package)
Premium internet upgrades
Tip: If you’re more into exploring ports than sipping wine, the shore excursion credit is a great option.
Would We Sail on Oceania Marina Again?
Without hesitation—yes.
The Oceania Marina is perfect for travelers who care about food, service, and a calm, refined atmosphere. It’s not for party seekers or thrill rides—and that’s exactly why we loved it.
My Rating
With world-class cuisine, a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, and destinations that inspire, Oceania Marina offers a voyage that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Travels by Cheryl Anne 