OCEANIA Cruises’ Riviera (pictured) is set to make her Aussie debut later this year (CW 17 Oct), offering itineraries with a gourmet foodie focus, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culinary scene.
Riviera’s debut in Australia, which will see her replace Regatta in the region, will be highlighted by an array of small-group shore excursions, including visits to local markets, rice fields, and truffle farms, with a particular focus on the destination’s seafood.
The season will run from Nov 2025 to Mar 2026, featuring a diverse selection of itineraries ranging from 14 to 35 days, with departures from multiple ports across APAC.
Voyages combine hidden gems from around the region, such as Kangaroo Island in South Australia, Mystery Island in Vanuatu, and Dunedin in New Zealand, with iconic destinations such as Sydney.
The Oceania culinary team will also introduce a new cooking class for the season, the ‘Down Under Abundance’, designed to showcase local foodie highlights.
Guests will also have the option to add a pre- or post-cruise land program, including a journey to the Blue Mountains, which will see guests join a hike with a national park ranger, who will share Dreamtime stories of the Aboriginal people
“We are incredibly excited to bring Riviera to Australia and New Zealand for the first time,” Oceania Chief Luxury Officer Jason Montague said.
“This new chapter reflects our commitment to offering exceptional, immersive experiences that celebrate the region’s diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes.
“Riviera’s voyages will offer travellers an unmatched opportunity to savour the finest local cuisine while exploring some of the world’s most iconic destinations in unparalleled comfort and style.”
The 1,250-passenger Riviera is currently based in Asia, and will also sail in Alaska this year, before heading to Australia, as Regatta embarks on her ‘Explorations by Norwegian’ charter with My Cruises (CW 14 Mar). MS