Riviera to Mediterranean

Rivera is the second of two almost identical new builds for Oceania cruises, along with near twin sister, Marina. Twice as large as the original trio of vessels that the line operates, they are specifically designed to incorporate more, larger cabins, and an expanded range of speciality restaurants,

Riviera offers up superlative cuisine at no extra fee across all venues on board, and deft, very personalised service from a highly trained and attentive crew. While the more chic, exclusive venues such as Asian-themed Red Ginger and the sumptuous Polo Grill must be booked in advance (and make sure you try them) the hugely under rated Terrace Grill at the stern offers up cooked to order surf and turf each night. Waves Grill offers burgers prepared from Kobe beef, and the window walled Grand Restaurant has a mouth watering daily menu, including at least three offerings from the menu of the hugely acclaimed Jacques.

Riviera also offers stellar accommodation, from decent sized inside and sea view rooms to truly elegant concierge balcony cabins. These come with privileged access to the Canyon Ranch spa area and the forward facing hydrotherapy pool, right at the topmost apex of the ship.

Beyond the concierge cabins is a range of opulent suites and mini suites on the upper deck. From bow to stern, Riviera is a beautiful, lavishly appointed ship, with much use of marble flooring and avant garde, beautifully executed works of art. The Grand Staircase in the embarkation lobby is like something from a thirties Hollywood movie set, and forms a striking focal point for the ship.

However, entertainment is not the line's strong point. What there is-singers and dancers, a resident band and a piano player- is very accomplished, but other, beautiful venues such as the Martini Bar suffer from a lack of live, late night jazz. As a result, the central area of the ship is largely empty by midnight. Only the upper deck Horizons Lounge really goes on after midnight. There is a small, elegant casino.

Riviera is spacious, opulent and stylish at every turn, but she is not an all inclusive product.