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A Brand-new Ship Just Launched in Southern Europe With Some of the Best Dining at Sea
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, July 30th 2025 at 10:26 GMT by Travel + Leisure🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Oceania Allura is the second vessel in Oceania's Allura ship class, which notably offers more space, more amenities, and a leveled-up pool-and-sports complex in contrast to the line's older ships.
Sailing in Style: A Deep Dive into Oceania Cruises' Allura Ship
In the ever-evolving world of luxury cruising, Oceania Cruises has once again raised the bar with the launch of its newest vessel, the Allura. As the second ship in the Allura class, following its sister ship Vista, Allura promises an intimate, upscale experience that blends gourmet dining, sophisticated design, and enriching itineraries. Having set sail on its inaugural voyage in July 2024 from Trieste, Italy, this 1,200-passenger ship is designed for discerning travelers who seek a refined escape without the overwhelming scale of mega-ships. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore what makes Allura a standout in the premium cruise market, from its elegant accommodations and culinary offerings to its onboard activities and overall ambiance.
At first glance, Allura's exterior exudes modern elegance with its sleek lines and gleaming white hull. Built by Fincantieri in Italy, the ship measures 791 feet in length and boasts a gross tonnage of 67,000, allowing for a spacious feel despite its relatively modest size compared to behemoths from lines like Royal Caribbean or Carnival. The Allura class is tailored for a more boutique experience, with a passenger-to-crew ratio of about 1.5:1, ensuring personalized service that feels attentive rather than intrusive. Upon boarding, guests are greeted by a grand atrium featuring a stunning crystal chandelier and polished marble floors, setting a tone of understated luxury that permeates the entire vessel.
Accommodations on Allura are a highlight, offering a range of options from cozy inside staterooms to opulent suites. The entry-level veranda staterooms, starting at around 291 square feet, come equipped with private balconies, king-sized Tranquility Beds, and bathrooms featuring oversized rain showers and Bvlgari toiletries. For those seeking more indulgence, the Concierge Level verandas add perks like priority embarkation, complimentary laundry, and access to a dedicated lounge. At the pinnacle are the Owner's Suites, sprawling over 2,400 square feet with wraparound balconies, separate living and dining areas, and even a baby grand piano. These top-tier suites are furnished with custom Ralph Lauren Home decor, evoking the feel of a high-end Manhattan penthouse. What sets Allura's rooms apart is the attention to detail—think USB ports at every bedside, ample storage, and smart lighting systems that enhance the sense of comfort and convenience.
Dining is where Oceania truly shines, and Allura upholds the line's reputation as a foodie's paradise. With no main dining room in the traditional sense, the ship emphasizes specialty restaurants included in the fare, eliminating the need for extra charges. The Grand Dining Room serves as the elegant hub for continental cuisine, offering dishes like escargot and lobster thermidor prepared with flair. For a taste of Italy, Toscana delights with handmade pastas and olive oil tastings, while Polo Grill channels a classic steakhouse vibe with prime cuts and seafood. Asian fusion enthusiasts will love Red Ginger, where highlights include miso-glazed sea bass and Thai beef salad. New to Allura is Ember, an American-inspired venue dishing out comfort foods with a gourmet twist, such as lobster mac and cheese or slow-braised short ribs. Vegetarian and plant-based options are plentiful across all venues, reflecting Oceania's commitment to inclusive dining. The ship's culinary team sources ingredients fresh from ports, and cooking classes at the onboard Culinary Center allow guests to hone their skills under expert guidance. Don't miss the afternoon tea service in Horizons lounge, complete with finger sandwiches and scones, or the casual Waves Grill for poolside burgers and salads.
Beyond eating, Allura offers a wealth of activities to keep passengers engaged. The Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center is a serene oasis, featuring a thalassotherapy pool, steam rooms, and treatments ranging from hot stone massages to acupuncture. Fitness enthusiasts can join yoga classes on the sports deck or work out in the state-of-the-art gym with ocean views. For intellectual stimulation, the Artist Loft provides hands-on art classes, while the library stocks thousands of books and cozy reading nooks. Evenings come alive with entertainment in the Allura Lounge, where Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy acts entertain without the over-the-top productions of larger ships. A casino offers slots and table games for those feeling lucky, and the Martini Bar serves up creative cocktails in a sophisticated setting.
One of Allura's strengths is its focus on destination immersion. Itineraries span the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and transatlantic crossings, with longer port stays that allow for deeper exploration. For instance, a typical Mediterranean voyage might include overnight calls in cities like Barcelona or Istanbul, giving guests time to wander beyond the tourist hotspots. Enrichment lectures by guest speakers cover topics like history, culture, and cuisine, tying into the ports of call. Shore excursions are curated for small groups, ranging from wine tastings in Tuscany to historical tours in Athens, with options for active adventures like hiking or biking.
Sustainability is woven into Allura's operations, aligning with modern travelers' values. The ship uses advanced wastewater treatment systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, and shore power capabilities to reduce emissions when docked. Oceania's "Go Green" program encourages guests to participate in eco-friendly practices, such as reusable water bottles and digital menus to minimize paper waste.
Of course, no ship is perfect. Some guests might find the lack of family-oriented amenities—like water slides or kids' clubs—limiting, as Allura caters primarily to adults and couples. Wi-Fi, while complimentary, can be spotty in remote areas, and the ship's size means it may not dock at smaller ports, requiring tender boats. Pricing starts at around $400 per person per night for shorter sailings, positioning it in the premium luxury segment, which could be a barrier for budget-conscious travelers.
Overall, Allura embodies Oceania's philosophy of "The Finest Cuisine at Sea" combined with elegant simplicity. It's ideal for those who prioritize quality over quantity, seeking a cruise that feels like a floating boutique hotel. Whether lounging by the infinity pool with a cocktail in hand or savoring a multi-course meal under the stars, Allura delivers an experience that's both relaxing and enriching. As the cruise industry rebounds, ships like Allura remind us that luxury cruising can be intimate, thoughtful, and utterly delightful. If you're planning your next voyage, Allura deserves a spot on your shortlist—it's not just a ship; it's a journey worth savoring.
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