50 DAYS AT SEA FOR 50 YEARS OF MARRIAGE

A few days ago I received an email from Peter and Pauline Pretty, loyal Oceania Cruises guests from Oakville, Ontario, sharing several photos from their 50-day Grand Voyage to celebrate 50 years of marriage. You may remember the Prettys from a previous blog post I wrote on their South Pacific cruise or from the article in the January 2013 Your World Your Way brochure. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to share their wonderful photos as well as congratulate them on this amazing milestone.

The Prettys feel at home on the ships of Oceania Cruises, one of the many reasons they return year after year, and celebrating such an important anniversary did not go unnoticed on this momentous sailing. Nautica General Manager Jason Gelineau arranged a special celebration at the Polo Grill, Pauline’s favorite restaurant, and the social director, Emmanuelle, serenaded the couple.

Of course, the best part of the Grand Voyage for these adventurers was the nearly two months spent exploring Africa and Asia onboard Nautica. As Nautica prepares to sail for Europe for the summer, the Prettys’ stories provide a lovely recap of some of the highlights of a wonderful winter season.

The Prettys got a feel for the history and culture of Mozambique during a tour of its capital on the Discover Maputo shore excursion. Stops included the Central Train Station designed by Gustav Eiffel, famous for conceiving the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and also the Museum of Natural History, Independence Square and City Hall. Highlights for the Prettys were the opportunity to observe semi-wild lemurs and a visit to a local market where they shared a moment with these adorable kids.

In Colombo, Sri Lanka, the Prettys took the Ingiriya Tea Plantation shore excursion, where they got an insider’s look at how Sri Lanka’s most important cash crop is cultivated. They watched harvesters pick the fresh tea leaves – 65 to 75 pounds a day are collected – and saw how the leaves are processed. Afterward they enjoyed a freshly brewed cup of tea and were able to purchase some to bring home.

The Prettys frequently enjoyed tea onboard the ship as well because afternoon tea is one of Pauline’s favorite activities. Longer voyages provide the chefs the time to really flex their creative muscles and create an extraordinary event even more splendid than the traditional teatime – the Grand Gala Tea Party. The pastries and cakes were not only beautiful to look at but scrumptious too. Jason and Emmanuelle were among the crew members who were in attendance to celebrate the special occasion.

Back ashore on the Scenic Phuket & Elephant Camp excursion, the Prettys had the chance to ride an elephant after enjoying an impressive show put on by the elephants and their handlers. In this photo the elephant is hoping that the Prettys will tip with bananas.

As a contrast to their adventures in the countryside, the Prettys also visited some of Asia’s grandest cities. Known as the “Garden City,” Kuala Lumpur is a modern urban environment with an abundance of greenery and beautifully landscaped parks. The Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world, are an indelible feature of the city’s skyline.

The Prettys also enjoyed a day exploring Singapore and the truly unique modern landscape.

 

We’re so pleased the Prettys shared their photos and these wonderful highlights of Nautica’s season in Africa and Asia. If their adventures have inspired you, now is the perfect time to reserve a voyage for next season. Nautica will be back in Africa starting in December with Lands of Grandeur, and then in Asia starting in February with Pagodas & Palaces.

A special thanks to Peter and Pauline for sharing this special occasion with us, and congratulations on 50 years of marriage!

 

LOCAL CHEFS TEACH THE SECRETS OF THAI CUISINE

Anyone who has ever sailed with Oceania Cruises knows that cuisine is a very important part of the experience. From its very beginnings 10 years ago with the appointment of Master Chef Jacques Pépin as Executive Culinary Director, to the exceptional onboard specialty restaurants at no additional charge, to the Bon Appétit Culinary Center offering hands-on cooking classes, Oceania Cruises is unrivaled in its dedication to the culinary arts.

Of course, considering the fascinating worldwide destinations that Oceania Cruises visits, the opportunities for culinary enrichment are as abundant ashore as they are onboard. Numerous shore excursions are available that allow foodies to learn about diverse world cuisines. These excursions were especially appealing to guest lecturer Don Campbell, who recently shared his expertise with guests onboard Nautica.

After a 24-year career with the US Coast Guard, Don traveled the world as a program manager in the aerospace and defense industries. His extensive travels fueled a lifelong passion for discovering world cultures, and he especially enjoys interacting with local people and learning about their art and cuisine. During his voyage onboard Nautica, Don had the chance to not only share his valuable insights with guests but also extend his own knowledge even further on the Thai Cooking Class shore excursion offered in Ko Samui. Don took some great photos during the class and was kind enough to share them with us.

For Thai food lovers, this excursion was an excellent opportunity to learn some of the secrets to preparing this delicious cuisine. The day began with a trip to a Thai market to pick out the fresh ingredients that would be used in the class. Walking through the lively market, guests got a feel for life on the island of Ko Samui as the locals shopped for their own daily staples.

Having purchased the ingredients for the class, the group drove to the Nora Beach Resort & Spa, where the cooking class was taught. After being welcomed with a traditional Thai beverage, guests rolled up their sleeves and got to it. Guests had individual cooking stations and, using the ingredients purchased at the market, prepared a delicious Thai meal.

After a satisfying Thai feast, guests enjoyed some time to relax and explore the lovely resort.

If your mouth is watering after all this discussion of Thai food, you’ll be happy to know that Nautica will be back in Ko Samui on the Pagodas & Palaces sailing on February 6, 2014. You, too, could learn to prepare authentic Thai cuisine on a wonderful voyage with Oceania Cruises!

THOROUGHLY MODERN SHANGHAI

Guests on the Pearls of the Far East voyage onboard Nautica had the opportunity to experience one of the most modern forms of transportation during an overnight stay in Shanghai. The Maglev Train & Pudong shore excursion includes a thrilling ride on the Maglev Train and visits the spectacular skyscrapers of the Lujiazui area in the new Pudong District.

Using groundbreaking German technology, the Maglev Train, short for Magnetic Levitation Train, is Shanghai’s newest, state-of-the-art high-speed train and what many believe to be the 21st century’s revolutionary mode of transportation. With no wheels, the train floats on an electromagnetic cushion and is propelled along a guide way using electromagnetic fields.

The Maglev runs 20.5 miles from Long Yang Lu Station to the Pudong International Airport and can reach speeds of up to 310 miles per hour. It regularly travels 268 miles per hour during daily service, making it one of the fastest commercial train services in the world. On an eight-minute ride to the Pudong Airport, passengers experienced the sensation of flying as the train instantly accelerated to maximum speed.

At Pudong, guests disembarked for a fascinating tour of China’s financial center, which was developed from farmland only in the last two decades. Built in 1999 and towering over 1,300 feet above Shanghai, the Jin Mao building is the seventh tallest building in the world. From the 88th floor, guests had the opportunity to see the city from one of its highest vantage points, observing the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and many others. 

 

After enjoying breathtaking views of this thoroughly modern city, there was time to do more sightseeing in the area.

If you haven’t had the chance to explore some of Asia’s most exciting ports, including Shanghai, there are several opportunities to do so on Oceania Cruises sailings, including Pearls of the Orient on February 22, 2014, and Ode to the Emperors on March 10, 2014. We’ll look forward to seeing you on the high seas or perhaps high above Shanghai!

YOUR WORLD ON SALE

The worldwide celebration of our 10th Anniversary continues! Today, we announced that we have earmarked 10 sailings across four continents with special savings as part of our 10th Anniversary Your World on Sale promotion. The new promotion includes a $500 shipboard credit, free pre-paid gratuities, a free unlimited Internet Package, 50 percent off deposits and Business Class air upgrades from $799 per person, one-way, on select sailings.  

As always, guests will receive two-for-one cruise fares and free airfare, delivering additional value. The new Your World on Sale promotion is available for new cruise reservations booked now through May 31, 2013.

The Your World on Sale promotion is applicable on the following 2013 sailings:

Riviera

August 16: Treasures & Monuments | Istanbul to Rome | 12 days

September 29: Romance & Rivieras | Lisbon to Monte Carlo | 12 days

October 25: Paths of the Byzantines | Venice to Istanbul | 12 days

November 6: Continental Quest | Istanbul to Barcelona | 12 days

Regatta

August 22: Ultimate Panama Canal | San Francisco to New York | 21 days

Marina

October 29: Glorious Shores | Venice to Barcelona | 12 days

November 10: Treasures of the Ancients | Roundtrip Barcelona | 10 days

December 8: South American Holiday | Rio de Janeiro to Valparaiso | 20 days

December 28: Pacific Paradise | Valparaiso to Papeete | 18 days

Nautica

November 4: Classic Mediterranean | Roundtrip Barcelona | 10 days

We hope you will be able to join us on one of these fantastic voyages. To make reservations or for more information, visit www.OceaniaCruises.com, call Oceania Cruises at 800-531-5658 or contact your travel agent. Please refer to promotion code YW02013.

 

OCEANIA CRUISES LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER TV ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN

Today Oceania Cruises reaches another milestone in the company’s history. We are launching our first ever television advertising campaign. Airing on national networks in cities on the East and West coasts, the new 30-second spot begins running today and showcases the brand’s pillars of destinations, cuisine, onboard experience and value. 

The first scene opens on an Oceania Cruises ship at sea and highlights the experiences guests can “wake up” to every day, like visiting the Taj Mahal in India or the Meteora monasteries in Greece, whale watching in Alaska or a gondola ride in Venice. The ad transitions to the onboard experience and Oceania Cruises’ extraordinary cuisine, focusing on the freedom guests have to decide when, where and with whom they will dine.

 

The ad campaign is timed to coincide with the launch the 2014 Summer Collection, the largest offering in Oceania Cruises’ history. Unveiled on February 13th, the collection encompasses 90 voyages, an almost entirely new line-up of European itineraries and the highly anticipated return of Insignia. The five ships in the fleet – Marina, Riviera, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica – will sail to more than 330 destinations throughout the world.

The Oceania Cruises family is always growing, and with this television campaign, we hope more people than ever will hear about the fascinating destinations, luxurious ships, exquisite cuisine and extraordinary value of the Oceania Cruises experience.

WENDY PERRIN AND TOM DEFRANK ARE FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS ON TWO EXTRAORDINARY VOYAGES

Two of Oceania Cruises’ upcoming spring sailings will feature special guests who will share fascinating insights and stories to make your cruise even more enjoyable. There is still time to reserve a suite or stateroom onboard one of these voyages, but availability is limited, so if you’d like to explore the world with the benefit of some of the most trusted experts in their fields, be sure to reserve your cruise soon!

Tom DeFrank

Guests onboard Nautica’s April 29, 2013, Temples and the Holy Land sailing will be joined by very special guest Tom DeFrank. A veteran reporter who has been part of the White House press corps during the administrations of eight presidents, DeFrank will weave his stories, both published and unpublished, into a compelling, entertaining presentation that will be as captivating as the ports featured on this once-in-a-lifetime voyage.

Newsweek’s White House correspondent for more than 25 years and current Washington bureau chief for New York Daily News, DeFrank has been described by ABC news as “impeccably sourced,” “well-connected” and “legendary,” and the American Journalism Review named him “one of the unsung heroes of Washington journalism.”

With a front row seat for every major political event of the last 40 years, DeFrank reported on the resignation of one president and the impeachment of another, was a witness to two assassination attempts against a third and co-authored Secretary of State James Baker’s memoirs.

DeFrank developed an extraordinary relationship with former President Gerald Ford through a series of interviews spanning from 1991 to shortly before Ford’s death in 2006, in which Ford talked openly in a way few presidents ever have. In these conversations, DeFrank got an intimate look at Ford’s insightful perspective on many of the most important events of our time.

A regular on international trips, DeFrank has been to every port on this sailing and will have fascinating stories about his encounters with presidents, heads of state and dignitaries specific to this region. 

Wendy Perrin

If you have been reading The Perrin Report, Wendy Perrin’s practical advice column in Condé Nast Traveler, you know that flying on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday means lower fares and less crowded cabins and that midday Tuesday is the time to find the best sales on airfares. For 16 years, Perrin has been offering advice to travelers and is considered an authority on consumer travel issues.

Oceania Cruises guests onboard Marina’s May 6, 2013, Grand Panama Canal voyage will visit some of the most beautiful places on earth while learning fascinating travel tips from this internationally acclaimed travel expert and author.

Perrin is the author of the critically acclaimed Wendy Perrin’s Secrets Every Smart Traveler Should Know, and her newsletter, The Perrin Postcard, is emailed to 200,000 subscribers monthly. Her feature “The Fabulous 50,” in which she enjoys an insider’s look at some of the rarest sights on earth, was a 2006 finalist for a National Magazine Award, the magazine industry’s most prestigious editorial award.

Honored with the 2005 Travel Journalist of the Year award by the American Society of Travel Agents, Perrin frequently gives lectures and moderates panels at conferences and Condé Nast Traveler events. She has also appeared on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “The Today Show,” “Good Morning America” and several CNN programs.

Drawing from her vast knowledge of how best to travel as well as her experience traversing the globe, Perrin will regale guests with practical knowledge and lively stories about places that every travel lover should visit.

THE SECRETS BEHIND THE FINEST CUISINE AT SEA

For the past eight months, Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger and the rest of the Oceania Cruises culinary team have been designing and testing new menus for the fleet’s flagship restaurant, the Grand Dining Room. The menus in the Grand Dining Room change daily, and in total, Garanger has created 85 new recipes for 14 different menus.

One of Garanger’s latest creations: Zucchini-Wrapped Jumbo Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese and Angel Hair Pasta al Limone

“If you just copied other recipes or used a cookbook, you could do this rollout in two months,” Garanger says. “But we try to be unique in every single recipe we create, and that is a lengthy process requiring the dedicated efforts of the entire team.”

So what is Garanger’s creative process for conceiving all of these unique recipes? “I start to think about the recipe and then I start to make notes. Then I prepare it once. If I’m lucky, I only have to prepare the dish three or four times before it’s finalized. But often I have to try it eight or ten times before it’s perfect. And sometimes I give up!” Garanger chuckles. “Sometimes I say, okay, this one is never going to work – and then maybe it works a few years later. It happens sometimes.”

Garanger’s conception of the recipes is only the first step in a launch of this scale. Once the recipes are designed, a great deal of product research must be done to secure all of the new ingredients. This is one of the challenges facing restaurants operating onboard a ship versus restaurants ashore.

“Fresh products are purchased in every port, and the availability changes depending on whether you’re in South America or Europe or Asia, so the executive chefs have to plan ahead and make adjustments,” Garanger explains. “Meanwhile, dry goods and frozen items are delivered via shipping containers, which can take a long time to reach the ship. If a container is traveling from Miami to Europe, it may take three weeks. To ensure we have all the necessary ingredients for these new recipes, we had to begin scheduling these shipments months in advance.”

Onboard restaurants are open seven days a week, 365 days a year, another aspect of shipboard operations requiring ingenuity in management. Galleys operate around the clock, and shifts must be staffed accordingly. Training and oversight must be constant and diligent.

As an example of the team’s commitment to the ingredients, design and process of recipes from start to finish, consider the dinner baguette in the Grand Dining Room. Only the finest (and most expensive) French flour is used – Viron flour harvested in the Beauce region – because it has a lower gluten content and thus more flavor. The flour is shipped direct from France, and each batch of dough goes through a two-stage proofing process to release the full aromas of the flour. The dough is refrigerated to proof overnight and then worked, formed into baguettes and proofed again before baking. And this is just to create the dinner baguette, one of thousands of items prepared onboard each day.

Here Garanger and Senior Executive Chef Alexis Quaretti discuss the finer points of the baguette wafer that will accompany the new Grand Dining Room dish: Cauliflower Panna Cotta with Artichoke Salpicon, Tomato Coulis and Poblano Chili Aioli.

Considering the complex methods required to make an exceptional baguette, you can imagine how involved the process is when launching entirely new menus for the Grand Dining Room. The rollout will take nearly four months to complete across the entire fleet, with each ship requiring a full cruise for initial implementation and another full cruise for follow-up training.

The new dishes are a feast for the senses. The flavor profiles are rich and diverse, and the presentation is spectacular.

Beef Carpaccio with Fried Shallots, Parmesan and Lemon Vinaigrette

 

Baby Shrimp and Avocado Cocktail with Marie-Louise Sauce

Warm Duck Pâté in Puff Pastry with Port Wine Sauce

 

The new menus also include an assortment of Canyon Ranch^® Healthy Living Choices that meet the Canyon Ranch standards for balanced nutrition from a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains and lean proteins. The calories, fat grams and fiber grams for each Canyon Ranch selection are included on the menu. If healthy living means eating dishes like this, then I’m becoming a health nut!

Canyon Ranch Vegetable Caponata on Roasted Red Pepper Dressing with Crispy Sardinian Bread

Canyon Ranch Wild Salmon Tartare with Sushi Rice and Avocado

 

Having created so many exquisite dishes, does Garanger have a personal favorite?

“My signature dish is my mashed potatoes,” Garanger says. With the new rollout, Franck’s Mashed Potatoes will always be available as a side in the Grand Dining Room, and you really must try them. Absolute heaven!

“The pâté en croute on the new menu is also very close to my heart,” Garanger continues. “This is a recipe from my childhood for the classic dish that the French enjoy around the family table.” Here Franck prepares his Childhood Paté en Croute: French Family-Style Encrusted Paté with Smoked Ham and Pheasant.

Until you’ve visited the Grand Dining Room, you can only imagine the amazing selection of delectable new dishes to be tasted. And the Grand Dining Room is only one of four gourmet restaurants on Regatta and Nautica and six restaurants on Marina and Riviera! When you reserve your next voyage with Oceania Cruises, I suggest you make it a lengthy one, so you have plenty of time to sample all of the spectacular cuisine!

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH OCEANIA CRUISES’ FLEET CORPORATE CHEF FRANCK GARANGER

Any fan of Oceania Cruises knows that esteemed master chef Jacques Pépin is our executive culinary director and the inspiration behind our extraordinary cuisine. But even Chef Pépin knows that it takes more than one person to create a culinary program for a cruise line that can successfully rival the cuisine of even the best restaurants ashore. As Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I recently had the privilege of interviewing one of the other culinary team members responsible for creating the finest cuisine at sea.

Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger might modestly resist the label of “creative genius.” But after tasting the exquisite dishes he has conceived for Oceania Cruises’ ships, I can’t think of a more appropriate moniker.

While many cruise lines employ a single corporate chef, Oceania Cruises has an entire team of culinary directors and executive chefs committed to realizing its culinary vision. Thus Garanger is free to focus his creative genius – there, I said it – on designing recipes that uphold Oceania Cruises’ reputation for the finest cuisine at sea. 

An example of the finest cuisine at sea: Tamarind-Braised Black Cod with Sweet Ginger Sauce and Vegetable Ragout

While Garanger was born in the Normandy region of France, his family moved to Angers in the Loire Valley when he was two years old. His father owned a bakery, and after being exposed to the culinary world at a very young age, Garanger began working with his father and learning the pastry trade at age 16. One year later he began studies in hospitality and hotel management. French universities are very specialized, and the training involved one week of classes alternating with two weeks of hands-on restaurant experience, at which time Garanger worked with a French master chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Angers.

Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger

After passing his first exams, Garanger worked at one of the world’s most famous hotels, the Hotel de Paris in Monaco, followed by the equally renowned Hotel de Cap Eden Roc, a palace on the French Riviera in Antibes. He then returned to school for two years to complete his degrees and after exams, at the age of 24, began officially working as a chef.

His first position on a cruise ship was with Silversea Cruises in 1995. When he was asked to join Oceania Cruises in 2003, he did not hesitate to accept. “I liked the vision they had for the line,” Garanger says. “And I really liked the passion of all the people involved. They were so into food that, in everything we were creating, they were not only behind me but also tasting the food with me. When you have the CEO and the president coming onboard just to taste the food to see if we can put it on the menu, it applies a little pressure, but it is also very rewarding because you can really see how important the food is to the company.”

Much like the passionate commitment of the executives, many aspects of Garanger’s tenure with Oceania Cruises have been both challenging and rewarding. “Regatta was a challenge because we had to start from scratch, and we were working with a ship we didn't build, so we had to make adjustments. We built Marina ourselves, but it was also challenging because we opened eight different restaurants – each a completely different concept – and had 160 cooks onboard to manage. In both cases, there were very high expectations, and we had to deliver in a short period of time. Both debuts were a huge success, and so of course, we’re very happy.”

So what is the secret to continuing to deliver the finest cuisine at sea? For one thing, most members of the culinary team, such as Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations Franco Semeraro, Culinary Director Eric Barale and Assistant Culinary Director Pascal Lesueur, have been with Oceania Cruises since its very beginnings. And the line’s commitment to cuisine has ensured that the team is provided every tool they need to succeed.

“I’ve always been asked what I needed, and whatever I asked for, I got,” Garanger says. “Of course, then you have to make sure you deliver, and so far, I’ve succeeded. That’s why I’m still here!”

Each restaurant onboard provides its own unique challenges. Jacques is perhaps the most challenging because of the technical precision required to execute true, authentic French recipes using traditional, time-honored methods on a daily basis. Toscana is also technically challenging because of the à la minute preparation of all the fresh pasta and risotto.

Red Ginger is one of Garanger’s favorite concepts because it is truly “his baby.” Garanger traveled in Asia for two years and then spent time in both London and San Francisco researching ideas before developing the restaurant concept and recipes.

One of Red Ginger’s signature dishes: Miso-Glazed Sea Bass in Hoba Leaf

While Jacques and Red Ginger are featured on Oceania Cruises’ newest ships, Marina and Riviera, guests will be excited to know that they can soon get a taste of these restaurants onboard Regatta and Nautica as well. These ships will soon feature an entrée from both Jacques and Red Ginger each night in the Grand Dining Room. The new features are just one small part of Garanger’s latest large scale project, the rollout of new menus for the Grand Dining Rooms on the entire fleet.

In my next blog post, I’ll share Garanger’s insights into the creative process, training and implementation involved in this extensive menu rollout. Check the blog again soon for more behind-the-scenes stories.

MEET THE TEAM BEHIND THE FINEST CUISINE AT SEA

Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin

While most cruise lines employ a single corporate chef that oversees the creation, organization and implementation of menus, Oceania Cruises has an entire team at the helm of its culinary program. Of course, renowned master chef Jacques Pépin has been the inspiration for the program since he became executive culinary director when the line was founded 10 years ago. But consistently delivering the finest cuisine at sea requires a large group of dedicated chefs committed to this vision.

“No one person can be in charge of all the food and beverage for a cruise line and do it well,” says Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations Franco Semeraro. “It’s  creativity, it’s administration, it’s logistics and human resources; it’s sourcing and tracking and training and quality control. And then there’s bread and pastry. From a culinary point of view, that’s like another planet! How could one person do all that?”

As Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I’ve enjoyed the privilege of meeting several members of the culinary team, including Semeraro, who led the team in one of its most ambitious projects to date: the launch of entirely new menus for the Grand Dining Room. Semeraro has been a key player in the creation of Oceania Cruises’ renowned cuisine since the line’s founding in 2003. In fact, most of the culinary team has been onboard since the company began with a handful of employees a decade ago, which accounts for the family atmosphere amongst the entire team and translates to a warm camaraderie amidst the crew and guests onboard the ships. It truly is a family affair, as several of the original recipes served in the Italian restaurants have come from Semeraro and his wife, Packy, and their mothers.

Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger has certainly found his niche within the team. His sole responsibility is creating innovative new menus that keep Oceania Cruises at the forefront of culinary excellence. Meanwhile, Culinary Director Eric Barale handles the logistics of implementing Garanger’s creations, from purchasing fresh ingredients and acquiring new equipment to assembling the necessary staff and designing menus. Interestingly, Barale used to be Garanger’s teacher at culinary school, and when Garanger was invited to come onboard with Oceania Cruises when the line was founded in 2003, Barale was the first person he called to join him.

“Eric does all the work I don’t like to do,” Garanger says, chuckling. “I am the right brain and he is the left, so it makes a great partnership. When you don’t have to take care of all the logistics and you’re free to just create the recipes, it’s fantastic. It allows me to keep a clear head and to simply create. Otherwise, there wouldn’t be enough hours in the day.”

Of course, the right brain and left brain wouldn’t function without a lot of neurons flashing in synchronicity. Several other team members help execute this culinary vision, not to mention the hundreds of chefs and sous chefs working onboard the ships. Assistant Culinary Director Pascal Lesueur and Senior Executive Chef Alexis Quaretti were both heavily involved in the new menu rollout in the Grand Dining Room. Senior Executive Chef Christophe Belin oversaw implementation on Riviera, while Senior Executive Chef Laurent Trias will oversee Marina, and Executive Chef Renald Macouin will oversee Regatta and Nautica. 

Senior Executive Chef Christophe Belin, Blogger-at-Large Lisa Pancake Fossland and Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger

Senior Executive Chef Alexis Quaretti

 

If you saw yesterday’s blog, your mouth is probably still watering over the photos I shared that revealed the fruits of the team’s labors. There are so many delicious dishes on the new Grand Dining Room menus that I wanted to share a few more with you today. 

Grilled Vegetable Terrine with Creamy Pesto and Crispy Focaccia Bread

Prosciutto-Wrapped Monkfish Fillet with Saffron Mussel Sauce

 

Herb-Crusted Cornish Hen alla Diavolo with Bacon and Shoestring Potatoes

Dorado and Tuna Ceviche with Cilantro and Heirloom Tomatoes

In my next blog post, read my behind-the-scenes interview with Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger and learn where he gets his inspiration to create the finest cuisine at sea.

‘TIS THE SEASON TO EXPLORE THE MALDIVES

As winter sets in, Oceania Cruises ships are making their way to warmer climates, and Riviera isn’t the only ship visiting breathtaking beaches. Today Nautica is in Malé, Maldives, en route to Cape Town on one of the more diverse itineraries offered, Lands of Grandeur. The voyage takes a full month to explore from Dubai to Cape Town and everywhere in between.

The first and most obvious thing to mention about the Maldives is the beaches. A renowned vacation paradise, the Maldives is a chain of coral islands located on top of a vast mountain range in the Indian Ocean. The weather is almost always perfect, the water is as pristine as any in the world and the beaches are stunning. There are a couple of “beach escape” shore excursions that will take you to nearby island paradises. These are perfect for anyone interested in snorkeling and swimming in perfectly crystal clear blue waters or lounging in a beach chair amidst the beautiful scenery.

The Maldives is mostly underwater so if you want to get a good look at the spectacular atolls, you’ll want to spend some time under the surface. You can do so without even getting wet if you explore in the comfort of the state-of-the-art submarine offered on the shore excursion Explore the Underwater World of the Maldives. You will descend 120 feet below sea level where you will enjoy thrilling, panoramic, up-close views of the colorful coral and exotic marine life.

If you are interested in a deeper look at the culture and the history of this island chain, there is a City of Malé Walking Tour that explores the capital and some of its cultural and historic landmarks, including the Grand Friday Mosque built by the Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656.

Whatever your yen, there are plenty of options at this fabulous port. 

OCEANIA CRUISES WINS CRUISE CRITIC AWARDS FOR BEST CUISINE AND BEST SUITES

The 2012 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks were recently announced, and if you’ve ever been onboard an Oceania Cruises ship, you won’t be surprised to learn that Oceania Cruises was chosen for Best Cuisine and Best Suites.

Upon hearing this exciting news, I took a moment to go through the many photos I have taken over the years as Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises and select a few of my favorites of the beautiful suites and incredible meals I’ve enjoyed during my adventures onboard the ships. If you’re wondering what inspired the Cruise Critic editors to select Oceania Cruises, here are just a few of the reasons why these awards are so richly deserved.

BEST CUISINE 

The men behind the menus: Senior Executive Chef Christophe Belin and Fleet Corporate Chef Franck Garanger (pictured with Pancake, Blogger-at-Large)

GRAND DINING ROOM

One of the sure signs that Oceania Cruises is perfect for foodies is that the Grand Dining Room is just as wonderful as the specialty restaurants. In fact, I’ve spoken with several guests who say it’s their favorite restaurant onboard. The menus change daily, but you will always find European-inspired continental cuisine as well as delicious Canyon Ranch SpaClub® dishes. Here are some photos of a few of my favorite dishes.

Grilled Turbot with Zucchini and Tomato

Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto

 

Lobster Thermidor 

TOSCANA

As exquisite as The Grand Dining Room is, I highly recommend pulling yourself away for a taste of Tuscan-inspired Italian cuisine at the wonderful Toscana. The simple but elegant ambiance elicits the romance of the Italian countryside, and quite a few of the recipes are inspired by mothers and grandmothers of Oceania Cruises culinary staff. Also, many of the sommeliers are from long lines of wine-producing families, further enhancing the Italian experience.

Italian food is comfort food for me, and Toscana is definitely one of my favorite restaurants – onboard or ashore. I’ve had the privilege of celebrating two birthdays in Toscana, and if I had my choice, I’d celebrate all of them here! Just look at some of the incredible dishes I have enjoyed at Toscana.

 

Carpaccio di Polpo con Patate al Vapore e Vinaigrette allo Champagne (Octopus Carpaccio with Champagne Vinaigrette and Warm Potato Salad)

Involtini di Melanzane alla Ghiotta (Sliced Eggplant rolled and sautéed with Roasted Minced Veal Stuffing and Basil, baked in Fresh Tomato Sauce)

Sformatino di Carciofi in Salsa Tartufata e Olio Aromatizzato all’Arugula (Artichoke and Parmesan Cheese Timbale with Black Truffle Sauce and Arugula Infused Oil)

Linguine Cioppino (Linguini Pasta with Little Neck Clams, Black Mussels, Calamari, Shrimp, and Monk Fish sautéed in a Light Pinot Grigio and Cherry Tomato Sauce)

POLO GRILL

I admit, when writing about my dining experiences, it is almost impossible not to claim that each restaurant is my favorite. If you have dined with Oceania Cruises, I think you know what I mean, and you’ll understand when I say Polo Grill is another one of my favorites. Polo Grill offers the classic steak house experience with time-honored favorites done the way only Oceania Cruises can, perfectly. The steaks are USDA Prime and dry-aged for at least 28 days.

On a recent cruise, we had reservations at Polo Grill for the last night of the voyage, and my friend spent the entire trip in anticipation of devouring the signature 32-ounce prime rib. Some people claim that a steak this size couldn’t possibly be eaten in one sitting, but I have found the person for whom this cut of beef was designed. He savored every bite, and he was the first one to finish his entrée!

For those of us with daintier appetites, there are plenty of options as well. I find the 7-ounce filet mignon is more my size. And if you prefer seafood, Polo Grill has plenty of excellent options. How does Maine lobster with drawn butter, grilled mahi mahi or jumbo shrimp cocktail sound?

Colossal Chilled Shrimp Trio with Spicy Cocktail Sauce

King’s Cut 32 oz Prime Rib – Bone-in, Seasoned to Perfection, Slow Roasted and Served Medium Rare

TERRACE CAFÉ

If you’re looking for something slightly more casual, or if you just can’t decide what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, Terrace Café offers a whole array of international selections in a buffet-style setting. The food is just as spectacular, and you can try a little bit of everything! You will find things like Marinated Fennel Salad, Cold Poached Salmon with Herbed Mayonnaise, Breaded Pork Parmigiana and Creamy Carrot and Pumpkin Soup. Onboard Marina and Riviera, there is even a sushi bar, which I try to visit daily. And good luck trying to decide on just one dessert! Whether you choose to dine indoors or alfresco on deck, the views are stunning in every direction.

Dessert Selection

Outside Seating

JACQUES

If you haven’t had a chance to take a voyage onboard Marina or Riviera, I highly recommend you do so. In addition to all of the amazing offerings onboard Regatta and Nautica, you will find two new restaurants, including Master Chef Jacques Pépin’s namesake restaurant. I recently had the pleasure of dining here and can’t say enough about the whole experience. Everything was just perfect, from the classic French cuisine to the charming French bistro ambiance.

Here are some photos of the amazing dishes my husband and I enjoyed on a recent trip:

Moules Marinières (Fresh Mussels with Shallots, White Wine and Parsley)

Gratiné à l’Oignon (Baked Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese Crust)

Poulet Fermier Rôti aux Herbes (Herb-crusted Black Foot Free Range Chicken au Jus with Gratin Dauphinois and Haricots Verts)

RED GINGER

The other new restaurant onboard Marina and Riviera is the Asian-inspired Red Ginger. The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated, the centerpiece being three gorgeous busts of Buddha, each carved from a single piece of glass and lit from within.

Complimenting the stunning décor is an equally creative menu with contemporary interpretations of Asian classics. Rich, bold flavors are perfectly balanced with delicate subtleties. This is one of the most distinctive and delicious restaurants I have ever experienced, and the moment I finish a meal here I am already hoping for the opportunity to return as soon as possible.

Tuna Tataki (Seared Tuna Filet, Shiso Sesame Crust, Wasabi Cream)

Lobster Pad Thai (Rice Noodles, Bean Sprouts, Lime, Tamarind, Peanuts)

Seafood Stir-fried (Scallops, Squid, Tiger Prawns, Mussels, Spring Onions, Ginger)

LA RESERVE

One of my favorite indulgences is dining at La Reserve by Wine Spectator. The restaurant seats only 24 and has an elite spot high atop deck 12. Each course is meticulously created, often before your very eyes, and great care has gone into pairing each dish with the perfect premium wine.

Dining at La Reserve is much more than a meal; it is a special event. When you finish an evening here, you feel like one of the most important and well cared for people on the planet.

72-Hour Slow Braised Short Rib with Gnocchi au Jus

Paired with Gordon Brothers Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Washington, USA

Chef making the Raspberry Caramelized Mille Feuille with Madagascan Vanilla Cream

Paired with Château la Varière, Les Melleresses Bonnezeaux, Loire Valley, France 

BEST SUITES

After a fabulous dinner onboard – and maybe a little dancing at Horizons lounge – there is nothing more perfect than retiring to what Cruise Critic editors called “the most sumptuous suites at sea.”

OWNER’S SUITE

The Owners’ Suites were designed by Susan Bednar Long of New York-based, award-winning Tocar Interior Design and are completely furnished with Ralph Lauren Home Collection. Feeling almost as big as my house, the closets are one of my favorite parts!

VISTA SUITES

When Marina first debuted, I had the great privilege of spending time in the suites with a few honored guests, including Dakota Jackson, the renowned American designer who created the Vista Suites.

Dakota Jackson pictured with Pancake, Blogger-at-Large

If you like to know where the ship is heading, you may prefer the view from these suites, which overlook the bow of the ship.

OCEANIA SUITES

Oceania Suites, also designed by Dakota Jackson, are so large you can comfortably host a cocktail party – and they even have the bar for it! Or, if you prefer, make it a quiet night and relax in the whirlpool tub on the veranda.

PENTHOUSE SUITES

Penthouse Suites are the smallest of the suites, but small is a relative term! Walk-in closets, marble and granite bathrooms, spacious and comfortable living quarters – one guest told me these suites were her favorite place onboard Marina.

One of the things I enjoy most onboard Oceania Cruises ships is lounging in the beautiful bathtubs. This is just one of many amenities that distinguishes Oceania Cruises suites, and on Marina and Riviera, bathtubs are also featured in most staterooms. There is a shower wand in the bath tub as well as a completely separate rainfall shower.

With the perfect accommodations and the ultimate cuisine, Oceania Cruises offers an unrivaled cruising experience at an extraordinary value. Some may say that I’m biased, but the editors at Cruise Critic have confirmed what I’ve known for some time: Oceania Cruises truly stands head and shoulders above the rest!

HAVING IT ALL ON THE ISLAND OF RHODES

As Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I often encounter some particularly pleasant “dilemmas” when traveling at sea. A perfect example is when I recently awakened to find myself at the island of Rhodes on a beautiful warm sunny day. My dilemma was this: should I spend my day on the gorgeous beach frolicking in the indescribably blue waters of the Mediterranean, or should I explore the beautifully preserved ancient city of Rhodes, once home to Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

I know this is quite an enviable challenge to face. Rest assured that I found a solution – I did both!

Walking distance from the pier where the ship docks, I found Elli Beach, a welcoming beach with everything a traveler would need to enjoy an afternoon in the sun and the warm Mediterranean waters. There are hundreds of colorful umbrellas for the fair skinned or sun shy, rented sun decks, beachfront taverns and plenty of delightful little restaurants.

If you haven’t fallen blissfully asleep in the warm sun or aren’t hypnotized by the gorgeous blue waters lapping gently at the shore, you can entertain yourself with the many other more adventurous activities like water sports, diving or beach volley ball.

If you never make it off the beach, I seriously doubt you will live with any regret. That being said, I did not regret exploring the Grand Masters Palace in the old town of Rhodes.

But first, let me address the Colossus of Rhodes, because if you are anything like me, you may be wondering, if it is so colossal, where is it?! A towering monument to the Golden Age of this island, the colossus was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only one of these wonders, the Great Pyramid of Giza, remains relatively intact today. It took 12 years to build the Colossus of Rhodes, which is thought to have been completed somewhere around 290 BC. In 226 BC the statue crumbled in an earthquake, and for centuries pieces of the statue laid in the harbor. In the 7th century, Arabs captured the island and took all of the pieces of the colossus to Syria and sold it as scrap metal.

As the colossus now exists only in legend, I took a peaceful walk through the beautiful gardens just outside the Grand Masters Palace and enjoyed some lovely views of this historic site that still stands today.

The Knights of Rhodes built the Grand Masters Palace in the 14the century. Heavily fortifying the city, the Knights were able to successfully fight off invaders for over two centuries until the Ottoman Empire captured Rhodes in 1522. Under the Ottomans the palace was used as a fortress.

In 1856 the castle was destroyed by an enormous ammunition explosion and laid in ruins until the Italian Occupation of Rhodes in 1912. Rebuilt in a medieval style, the palace became a holiday residence for King Victor Emmanuel III and later for Benito Mussolini.

In 1948, after World War II, Rhodes was transferred to the Kingdom of Greece, and the Greeks converted the palace to a museum. It is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Medieval City of Rhodes.

What a lovely place for Nautica to visit on her final European port of call before sailing for Asia and Africa for the winter season. I can promise Nautica guests had no shortage of fascinating historic sites to explore and pleasant activities to enjoy during their stay. If the approach of winter has you eagerly planning a vacation for the summer of 2013, you should certainly consider an Oceania Cruises voyage that includes this lovely Greek island on the itinerary.

A DAY IN SEVILLE: THE AMAZING ALCÁZAR AND THE PATRON SAINT OF SAILORS

Nautica guests called on the beautiful city of Seville last week. As Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I wanted to share some experiences from my recent shore excursion, Heritage of Seville.  

We docked in Cádiz on a bright, sunny morning, and the trip through the scenic Spanish countryside to Seville was a treat on its own. We drove through vineyards, olive and orange groves and farms where Spain’s bulls and horses are bred.

As we arrived in the city, we were greeted by altogether different but equally impressive scenery. Lavish mansions, ornate churches and elaborate government buildings lined the streets. Lush green palms and flowering bushes seemed to sprout from the sidewalks. I was instantly charmed.

Our first stop was the stunning Palace of San Telmo, currently the seat of the presidency of the Andalusian Autonomous Government. Constructed in 1682 as a school for orphaned children of sailors, it is a gorgeous example of Sevillian Baroque architecture.

One of the more captivating aspects of the building is the Churrigueresque entrance, which was completed in 1754. This Spanish Baroque architectural style features extremely elaborate sculptural ornamentation. The 12 sculptures on each side of the balcony represent the nautical arts and sciences, and the figure at the top is Saint Telmo, patron saint of sailors – an appropriate saint to pay homage to while on a cruise!

As we continued through the city, we had the chance to see the lovely Hotel Alfonso XIII. It was completed in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, a world’s fair held in Seville.

Finally we reached the destination I had been most eagerly anticipating: the Alcázar. The oldest royal palace still in use in Europe, the Alcázar of Seville is an ornate Moorish citadel that has been the residence of Spanish royalty since the Middle Ages. The outer walls and portions of the interior are part of the original Moorish fortress.

 

The stunning Hall of the Ambassadors, one of the main rooms used for public events and affairs of state, is one of the areas remaining from the original palace, so the walls date from the 11th century. This is the room where Ferdinand and Isabella welcomed Columbus upon his return from his first voyage to the New World.

I was mesmerized by the intricately detailed mosaics and the interesting mix of Moorish and European styles throughout the palace.

The Courtyard of the Dolls is the focal point of the private section of the palace, and the patio leads to bedrooms and private halls. The hall is surrounded by a gallery with marble columns and Arab-influenced lobed arches.

The gardens surrounding the Alcázar are just as enthralling as the palace buildings. Our guide clearly recognized that this was the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful day, and she gave us some free time to stroll through the gardens at our leisure.

From the Courtyard of Flags at the Alcázar, there is a perfect view of the Giralda, a minaret that was converted into a bell tower for Seville Cathedral, the next stop on our itinerary. Completed in 1198, the tower is over 300 feet high and was one of the most important symbols of the medieval city.

 

The largest Gothic cathedral and third largest church in the world, Seville Cathedral was completed in the early 16th century. Along with the Alcázar, the cathedral is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is the burial site of Christopher Columbus. The astonishingly large building was constructed on the former site of a grand mosque, parts of which were preserved, including the Giralda and the Moorish entrance. Both the size and the stonework are truly breathtaking.

At the end of the excursion, we were given time to explore on our own, and after all the walking around, I was ready for some jamón Ibérico! I found a delightful little café and enjoyed the afternoon sun and a taste of Spain. As I sat completely sated after an incredible day of sightseeing and a delicious meal, I couldn’t help but think that Seville is my newest favorite place in the world.

A VISIT TO MYSTICAL MONT SAINT-MICHEL

According to legend, Archangel Michael appeared to St. Aubert in 708 A.D. and asked him to build a monastery atop the rocky islet of what is now called Mont Saint-Michel. When Aubert repeatedly ignored his instructions, a frustrated Michael finally burned a hole in Aubert’s skull with his finger. And thus the phrase, “You don’t have to ask me twice,” was born.

As Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I took a fantastic shore excursion, Mystical Mont Saint-Michel, to this beautiful monastery built in the 8th century on an island just off the shore of France. Many guests onboard Marina enjoyed this excursion last week, and many more onboard Nautica will have the opportunity when she calls on Saint-Malo next week.

Saint-Malo is a lovely walled town with a fascinating history. I hope to be able to return and spend more time in Saint-Malo itself, especially because I heard rumors of restaurants famous for fresh seafood, crepes and other French specialties!

But as a first time visitor to this area, I knew I would be making the short trip to Mont Saint-Michel, “a sublime thing, a marvelous pyramid,” as it was aptly described by Victor Hugo. I had dreamed of visiting this mystical place since I first learned of it in French class in high school. Like so many others, I was moved by the spectacular silhouette of this monastery perched in solitude on a rocky mount.

Because the entire area is surrounded by vast, low-lying marshland, the iconic view of Mont Saint-Michel rising dramatically from the mist is visible from miles away. My first glimpse of the monastery was as impressive as I had imagined it would be. As we approached, the haze enveloping the abbey lifted, and the edifice grew even more imposing and inspiring as it sparkled in the bright summer sun. 

Mont Saint-Michel is almost as famous for its tides as its monastery. The tides here are the highest in Europe. They vary greatly – roughly 46 feet between high and low tide – and can change very quickly. 

As this has always been an important pilgrimage site, a causeway was built to allow pilgrims easier access to the island. This dramatically altered the flow of water in the area and led to the silting of the bay. As a result, Mont Saint-Michel is no longer surrounded by water.

A dam project, scheduled to be completed in 2015, will clear out the accumulated silt and allow tidal waters to once again flow freely around this tiny island. Visitors will no longer park at the foot of the island, so the hoards of cars and buses will not sully the view of the revered mount. Instead a separate parking lot will be built, and visitors will be shuttled to the island over a bridge.

The salt meadows surrounding the area create the ideal environment for grazing sheep – 30,000 to be exact! Salt meadow lamb is a prized delicacy served in the local restaurants, as the lambs’ high salt intake creates an especially tender and flavorful meat. 

After navigating the sheep, we arrived at the base of Mont Saint-Michel, following in the footsteps of the millions that have flocked to this place of pilgrimage over the centuries. The site is so revered that many of the faithful settled at the foot of the mountain. Half-timbered houses were constructed, and eventually a village grew up below the abbey. Today the village is home to adorable little cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops. 

A narrow cobblestone street winds through the village and up the incline to the abbey. Our guide for the day was Gil, an expert host with an encyclopedic knowledge of the region, and as we climbed, he did a wonderful job of bringing the abbey to life with stories of its fascinating history.

Its location along the English Channel meant that Mont Saint-Michel held not only religious significance but also strategic significance to the various powers that ruled the region over the centuries. After the Norman conquest in the 11th century, the larger Romanesque church of the abbey was constructed. Following a devastating fire in the 13th century, the abbey underwent repairs, and a Gothic-style refectory and cloisters were added.

The diverse architectural styles along with the natural rock are what make the abbey so extraordinary, both visually and historically. Here Gil points out one of the original walls of the monastery.

During the French Revolution, monasticism was abolished. The abbey was closed and converted into a prison to hold clerical opponents and other high-profile political prisoners. At this time a giant wheel was constructed, and prisoners were forced to turn the wheel to operate an enormous pulley that lifted loads of stone and supplies up the mountain.

Gargoyles adorn most of the walls and were added to divert water from the building, which seems like a far more visually interesting solution than the current gutters that frame the eaves of my house.

Even with the throngs of tourists that visit Mont Saint-Michel each day, the abbey inspires a sense of peace. Every aspect of the architecture – the vaults, the arches, the famous spire – was deliberately designed to turn your gaze upward toward the heavens. And when you reach the abbey’s highest point and direct your gaze downward to the sprawling countryside below, the views are equally breathtaking.

After visiting this remarkable place, I found myself incredibly grateful that St. Aubert finally got the hint! As reluctant as I was to leave, the tide was coming in, as if to say that my home on the sea was beckoning. I returned to the ship with memories of Mont Saint-Michel that I will cherish forever.

 

THE MAGNIFICENT TEMPLES OF ANGKOR WAT

As destination specialists, Oceania Cruises knows how important it is to design our itineraries so that guests have plenty of time to fully experience each port of call. Moreover, we offer our guests the chance to explore even beyond the port and venture inland for a more in-depth look at the lands we visit.

As Nautica sails the enchanting coasts of Southeast Asia, a number of our adventurous guests took exploring up a notch on an overland excursion. Guests disembarked in Ho Chi Minh City and traveled to the interior of the Indochinese Peninsula to spend two days exploring Siem Reap, Cambodia, before reboarding Nautica in Bangkok.

Siem Reap has rapidly become Cambodia's fastest growing city due to the tourism trade. As the French began efforts to restore the nearby ancient city of Angkor over the past century, the village of Siem Reap developed into a bustling gateway to the historic site, and European influences blended with the local Khmer and Hindu culture.

 
The first tourists began to arrive over a hundred years ago, and a steady stream of Europeans followed after Henri Mahout shared stories of his expedition to the "Lost City of Angkor” in the late 19th century. Located just outside Siem Reap, the ancient temples of Angkor were never actually “lost,” but Mahout’s journals popularized the site with explorers from the West.  

Over a thousand temples can be found in the region, the most famous of which is the monumental Angkor Wat. Once the seat of the Khmer Empire, the area has a rich and colorful history, including a prolonged conflict between the Khmer and Siamese peoples that culminated in the 16th century. The Khmer victory led to the name Siem Reap, roughly translating to the "Flat Defeat of Siam,” the country known today as Thailand.

It has been suggested recently that Angkor was the first major urban center prior to industrialization, and some archaeologists argue the entire area of the city encompassed between 400 and 700 square miles. The region had been abandoned with the fall of the Khmer empire and overtaken by jungle vegetation, but an extensive restoration process was undertaken in the 20th century.   

Nautica guests explored the remains of the ancient city and the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat at length, also mingling with locals who wore traditional costumes to further illustrate the history and culture of the region.

Amazing details were chiseled into the towering walls of stone throughout the temple complex.

 

 

The vast expanse of the ancient city took Nautica guests over rugged terrain and remnants of the invading forests to discover one treasure after another.

The intricate carvings and exquisite architecture that have been preserved and restored are absolutely astounding. It is no wonder that more than one day was required to take in the majesty of Angkor. 

 

 

The amazing images captured by Nautica's guests speak for themselves.

Whether by foot, animal or vehicle, millions of people visit Siem Reap and the historic city of Angkor every year. 

 

After enjoying several days exploring the magnificent site, Nautica’s guests certainly understood why so many travelers are drawn to Angkor Wat. They would not soon forget this overland excursion with Oceania Cruises.

CHEF KELLY ANNOUNCES NEW CULINARY DISCOVERY TOURS

I am so thrilled to announce that with the launch of Riviera this May, we will be expanding the enrichment programs of the Bon Appétit Culinary Center and introducing Culinary Discovery Tours in more than 25 ports worldwide. 

As you may have surmised from all of my market visits over the past several months, we have been developing this program for some time. I have been so excited about all of our new plans for Riviera, as well as the other ships in the fleet, and it has been nearly impossible to hold my tongue until the official announcement was made to the press. But our secret is finally out, and I’m now free to share with you all of the new Bon Appétit Culinary Center experiences that you can enjoy in 2012.

Our Culinary Discovery Tours have been uniquely designed for each port, so that guests can now join me in exploring all of these fabulous local food markets I’ve been visiting over the past year. Chef Franck Garanger and I have recruited master chefs from all over the world to join the culinary center team on Riviera and Marina in 2012, and many of these chefs will lead market tours as well.

 

In Athens, you can visit the Agora meat and fish market and then have lunch in the Plaka. When in Barcelona, we’ll enjoy a Spanish olive oil tasting, shop at Santa Caterina Market — one of my favorites — and then finish the day with lunch at a tapas restaurant. And best of all, after many of the tours, we’ll haul all of our goodies back to the Bon Appétit Culinary Center for a cooking class inspired by our local market visit. I have so enjoyed sharing all of my market trips with you here on the blog, and it’s going to be even more fun now that guests will be able to join me. 

We’ve also been feverishly working on some new curriculum for the culinary center, including classes such as Oceania Highlights, which features favorite recipes from Jacques, Red Ginger, Polo Grill and Toscana. Our guests have been clamoring to learn the secrets of these onboard restaurants forever! We’re also going to offer some shorter classes on “hot topics” in the culinary world like innovative cheeses and pairing food with cocktails. Of course, Jacques Pépin continues to be a great source of inspiration for us all, and we’re very excited to teach some of the techniques from his newest book, Essential Pépin. 

For those of you sailing on Regatta and Nautica in 2012, you’ll be thrilled to learn that you can participate in Culinary Discovery Tours as well. We’ll be combining our excursions to local markets with classes at shoreside cooking schools and hands-on experiences in local restaurant kitchens. It all promises to be great fun and a wonderful learning experience. Stay tuned for more information on when these tours will be available on Regatta and Nautica 

Oceania Cruises really is a cruise line for foodies, and we’ve always known that meant we had to do more than serve fantastic cuisine. We had to connect the onboard culinary experience to all the fabulous ports of call, so guests not only learn from chefs during classes and demonstrations, but also understand and appreciate the unique food and wine perspectives of the places we’re visiting. Our new Culinary Discovery Tours ensure that we will continue to achieve that goal, offering both the finest cuisine and the most extensive culinary enrichment programs to be found at sea.

Can you tell I am excited about this new program? I hope all of you have the chance to experience one of our new Culinary Discovery Tours very soon!

Chef Kelly

Executive Chef, Bon Appétit Culinary Center

Culinary Enrichment Director, Oceania Cruises

 

TEMPLES AND TRIBUTARIES IN VIETNAM

A voyage through Southeast Asia with Oceania Cruises offers many opportunities to experience the colorful splendor of magnificent landscapes. Guests onboard Nautica recently explored the rich, conflicted history, diverse cultures and stunning scenery of Vietnam. While the port city of Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a major draw to travelers, many guests chose to venture beyond Saigon to the grandeur of the Vietnamese countryside. One shore excursion took Nautica guests to the gateway of the Mekong Delta, the harbor town of My Tho. Just on the outskirts of this town stands the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a major center of Buddhist worship.

Known as the "Happy Buddha," or "Laughing Buddha," this enormous statue towers over the temple grounds.  

In contrast, a smaller interior shrine is embellished with amazingly intricate details. 

After experiencing the marvels of the Vinh Trang Pagoda, Oceania Cruises guests explored a portion of the Mekong Delta. This region is an extensive network of rivers and waterways, a result of various headwaters throughout Southeast Asia that ultimately reach the South China Sea. Fishing is a major industry for the region as is rice production. The Mekong Delta is responsible for three different rice harvests in a calendar year and accounts for nearly half of all rice produced in Vietnam. In fact, the delta produces more rice than Japan and Korea combined.

Roads in this region are few and far between, so various watercraft are used to navigate the tributaries. Oceania Cruises guests were able to team up with some locals to explore the delta at length. Scientists here are continually discovering new species in the dense tropical setting.

 

 Soon it was time to return to Nautica and navigate the more expansive waterways of the South China Sea. But Nautica will call on Saigon again in the very near future, so guests can enjoy further adventures amidst the exotic grandeur of Vietnam. 

AN EXCURSION WITH THE ELEPHANTS IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka recently welcomed Nautica guests to its wonderful world of elephants. The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage has been serving displaced elephants for over 30 years, providing a sanctuary while trying to maintain a strong semblance of their jungle habitat.

Twice a day the elephants are led to the Maha Oya River for bathing and frolicking.

While this program began with orphaned elephants, the caretakers began a breeding program, and a number of elephants have now been born at Pinnawela. 

Although tourism is the top revenue generator for the reserve, many of us were surprised to learn that the sale of elephant dung also provides income. The dung is blended with recycled post consumer paper to create an exceptionally eco-friendly paper product that is used worldwide.

Whether taking a ride on an elephant or simply posing to capture a photo of an unforgettable moment, everyone took full advantage of the opportunity to interact with these gentle giants. 

Sri Lanka offered Nautica's guests an up close and personal experience with one of nature's most majestic beasts. 

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTH AFRICA

During Nautica's recent visit to Cape Town, Oceania Cruises guests enjoyed a shore excursion that explored the majestic beauty of the Cape Peninsula. These gorgeous pictures feature Fish Hoek Beach situated on False Bay, where guests soaked in the sun while watching the local people, and their dogs, roam along the beautiful shoreline.

As the excursion continued, Nautica's guests visited Table Mountain National Park and climbed to the top of Cape Point. 

Their reward was the magnificent view from this long-retired lighthouse. Built in 1860, the lighthouse was often obscured by sea mist and now serves as a monitoring point for the numerous lighthouses situated on South Africa's coastline. History tells many tales of hardship for sailing vessels traveling around the Cape of Good Hope, and these lighthouses continue to serve a most useful purpose.

The large rocks on the beach led guests to one of the most anticipated highlights of the excursion — the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. As the African penguins are in the midst of nesting season, Nautica guests were able to witness some of the new arrivals. This sanctuary is home to thousands of these endangered penguins in addition to a variety of birds and other animals that enjoy this protected space. The bay itself offered visitors the opportunity to see whales, sharks and dolphins.

Nautica has now crossed the Indian Ocean to resume her journeys throughout the Asian continent. But the images of the Cape Peninsula leave little doubt that Cape Town is a must-see port of call for an upcoming Oceania Cruises vacation.

MADAGASCAR: A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

As we ring in the New Year, it seems only natural to reflect on some of our favorite memories from 2011. As Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I enjoyed the privilege of visiting many fascinating ports of call onboard Marina and collecting numerous photos from those traveling on the other ships as well. Most of my travels were in Europe, exploring grand cities, historic churches and monumental architecture. Perhaps that is why I so enjoyed these photos of Madagascar, which were shared with me by the Destination Services team onboard Nautica. A vivid contrast to the bustling cities of Europe, Madagascar is a haven for exotic wildlife and exquisite flora.

The island of Nosy Be lies just off the coast of the largest island of Madagascar. Created by an ancient volcano, Nosy Be is a land of beautiful beaches, such as Andilana Beach pictured above, as well as forested mountains and deep crater lakes. The lush environment breeds a variety of unique and colorful wildlife, which made for an amazing and adventurous excursion ashore for Nautica guests. Madagascar is best known for its rare and endangered lemurs. Destination Services team members Sonja Altmann and Filippo Camerlengo were able to get up close and personal with a few of the famous primates.

 
Celebrity status aside, the lemur shares the Lokobe Nature Reserve on Nosy Be with many other indigenous animal, reptile, plant and tree species, all equally fascinating. 

The island is renowned for not only its vibrant hues, but also for the pleasant aromas that complement the vivid colors. Nosy Be is known as the "scented" or "perfumed" island due largely to the aromatic ylang-ylang trees spread across the landscape. The excursion continued with a tour of a distillery where the yellow flowers are steam-processed to extract the oil for perfume production as well as natural health products. Considering the wealth of fragrances that envelop the island, including not only ylang-ylang but also cocoa, vanilla, coffee, coconut, and cinnamon, you can see why Nosy Be is a living potpourri of nature's most pleasing scents.

 Hell-Ville was the final stop on this excursion through Nosy Be. Contrary to its name, Hell-Ville is a charming colonial town featuring a large, open-air marketplace where one can find local produce, trinkets, and smiles that make the visit quite memorable.

As you might imagine, Nosy Be also offers great snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving and other water sports. But the guests on this shore excursion were very pleased to have had the opportunity to experience Nosy Be's exotic wildlife, learn about its diverse flora, and even mingle with a few of the locals. 

While a bit reluctant to board the tender and leave this island paradise, guests know that more amazing destinations await them as Nautica sails into 2012 and explores the wonders of Asia.

NAUTICA VISITS MANGALORE

Nautica recently called on the port city of Mangalore, India, renowned as the junction of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers, which ultimately lead to the Arabian Sea. As a result, Mangalore is the staging point for major Western Indian exports such as cashews and coffee as well as various petroleum products.

Several important historical sites and spiritual centers can be found in and around Mangalore, and many Nautica guests explored the area during an excursion with Oceania Cruises. Their adventure began north of Mangalore in the holy town of Karkala, a center of pilgrimage for followers of Jainism that is nestled amidst a striking landscape dominated by black granite. 

The 42-foot-tall monolithic statue of Bahubali is a prominent landmark just beyond the town center. Bahubali is believed to embody the ideal of a man who conquers selfishness, jealousy, pride, and anger. His virtue was a result of 12 years of meditation following a major conflict with his brother Bharata. Karkala has numerous places of worship devoted to a wide variety of faiths and welcomes thousands of visitors each year seeking spiritual guidance as well as a closer look at the magnificent detail of the sculptures and temples.

Just as sculptors created beautiful works out of stone in Karkala, the agriculturists at nearby Soans Farm created equal beauty from the earth. First established prior to World War II, the farm began to flourish after the war and Indian independence. Soans Farm was conceived as a coconut plantation, but because the area has shallow soil and minimal irrigation, Alfred Soans had to seek alternatives to achieve success. Pineapple was introduced along with other crop diversification. Farm machinery was employed, and irrigation improvements were made. These innovations led to year-round usage of the land, sustainable farming methods, and further agricultural developments that attracted researchers from around the world to study and observe the ground-breaking successes.

Nautica guests seeking reflection and inspiration found it at the Thousand Pillars Temple in the town of Moodabidri. The temple literally has 1,000 sculpted stone pillars, and it is believed that none are identical. The temple is also home to the oldest Jain manuscripts charting the religion's beliefs, history and culture. Inside the temple, more ornate carvings adorn the granite pillars, and various panels decorate the interior.

Returning to Mangalore, Nautica guests visited the St. Aloysius College Chapel. The church was constructed in the early 20th century and was inspired by the Sistine Chapel in Rome. The church and school are dedicated to Aloysius Gonzaga, a saint who renounced his wealth and power to adopt an ascetic lifestyle and serve others. 

The paintings in the center of the ceiling depict the life's work of St. Aloysius and his commitment to those in need. St. Aloysius’ life ended when he contracted the plague while tending to those stricken with the disease. His legacy lives on as thousands of children continue to study at the school each year.

With the holiday season in full swing, those considering New Year’s resolutions may well have found inspiration in the spiritual precepts of the religious centers of Mangalore, Karkala and Moodabidri.

 

 

THE DESERT OASIS OF FUJAIRAH

The Arabian Desert offers magnificent vistas of a vast expanse of endless sands. But despite the scenic landscapes, most visitors are always pleased to discover an oasis amidst this dry wilderness. The city of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates is one such oasis. The port is nestled at the base of the Hajar mountain range on the Gulf of Oman. Fujairah receives more rainfall than most of the region as a result of the mountains and the easterly winds bringing warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean. This climate helps create the numerous valleys in Fujairah, known as wadis, which function as dry riverbeds that fill with water during the rains. The climate also impacts the coastline extending north, which features some of the best beaches in the area.

Guests onboard Nautica were able to choose from an array of excursions offered by Oceania Cruises during their recent call at Fujairah. A visit to the refurbished Fort Fujairah and Fujairah Museum highlighted the region's history and culture. These photographs illustrate both the barren feel of the desert and the lush vegetation that can suddenly thrive here. In fact, the fort is surrounded by date gardens. 

The museum features various artifacts from recent history as well as archaeological finds dating back thousands of years.

To the north of Fujairah is Al Badiyah Mosque, believed to be the oldest mosque in the UAE. It was constructed of mud and stone without the benefit of any wood for support; thus archaeologists are unable to determine its age for certain. A watchtower stands on the hill above the mosque with panoramic views of the wide stretches of surrounding desert. 

The local souks, or markets, offer another interesting area to explore. Fujairah's climate creates farming opportunities, and one can find an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables at the souks, in addition to souvenir trinkets, Persian rugs and clay pots. Some souks are seasonal or weekly, and some have swelled to permanent shopping centers that may even feature amusement parks.

Another option for Nautica guests was a photo safari through the Hajar Mountains. Vehicles wound their way through the various scenic passes and even ventured off road, where guests had the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife. 

  

  

As with many ports in this region, Fujairah has historically stood at the crossroads of several major trade routes. And even though it is still a very busy commercial port for oil and cargo containers, Fujairah is quickly gaining a reputation as a relaxed oasis away from the hustle and bustle of other ports in the area. Fujairah offers not only the natural and historical sights described here, but also sunny beaches, bountiful fishing and various water sports. This destination was a delightful stop for Nautica's guests before continuing en route to the wonders of India.

THE WONDERS OF PETRA

As Nautica recently departed the Mediterranean and sailed for Asia, the ship transited the Suez Canal and paid a visit to Aqaba, Jordan's only seaport. This region north of the Red Sea boasts a rich history and several archaeological digs, as Aqaba's location made it a major junction for historic trade routes between Africa, Asia and Europe.

Oceania Cruises guests enjoyed an excursion from Aqaba to the hidden city of Petra. This trip illuminated Jordan's ancient past as well as some stories from more recent history. The motorcoach route traced the path of the World War I adventures of T.E. Lawrence, a British Army officer instrumental in the Arab revolt against the Ottoman Empire. An archaeological researcher prior to the outbreak of war, Lawrence was side-by-side with Arab rebels and helped lead the attack on Aqaba. With the seaport secure, Lawrence and the Arabs conducted various exercises throughout the region that would eventually lead them to Damascus. Lawrence later wrote about the exploits, and his tales ultimately inspired the movie Lawrence of Arabia.

Photographs of Petra might indeed remind you of a movie set, as you may have seen it in films before. Even though Lawrence of Arabia was not ultimately filmed in Jordan, various movies have used the region as their backdrop. The structure carved into the vibrant red cliff below is known as Al Khazneh, or "The Treasury." Various legends indicate it was a repository for either pirates' loot or the bounty of Egyptian Pharaohs. You might recognize it as the temple featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Ad-Deir is known as "The Monastery" and can be seen in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Regardless of whether they've been featured in film, all the sights of Petra are astounding and worthy of a visit if you have the opportunity. The entrance to the Great Temple dates back over 2,000 years and features both Roman and Byzantine enhancements.



Archaeological projects have unearthed a Byzantine church with a number of fascinating mosaics.

Natural rock formations provided the infrastructure for aqueducts and cisterns that enabled Petra to not only survive, but even prosper through drought. The Nabataean people established Petra as their capital around the sixth century BC, and their control of the water supply here led them to thrive in this desert oasis. 

Petra's vast stone cliffs not only served as the raw material for the rock-cut architecture, they also provided a means of creating permanent records.

The final stop on Oceania Cruises' excursion was the magnificent amphitheater carved into the hillside.  

The journey to Petra was certainly a memorable one, and it is easy to understand why many travelers have rated Petra amongst the world's must-see destinations.

An Excursion to Ancient Caunos from the Turkish Port of Marmaris

Guests onboard Nautica recently enjoyed a visit to the Turkish port of Marmaris. Once a small fishing village, Marmaris has developed into a bustling resort town that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Its picturesque natural harbor nestled amongst forested hills is a haven for yachters from around the world.

Several guests enjoyed an excursion to the ancient city of Caunos. The excursion began with a riverboat journey along the scenic Dalyan River.

Along the way, guests captured photos of the famous Lycian rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs overlooking the river. Dating back to 400 B.C., these tombs were designed to resemble the entrances of Hellenistic temples. The tombs were most likely reserved for the dignitaries and the wealthy elite of this ancient civilization.

The excursion continued to the ruins of Caunos. Like the ancient city of Ephesus, Caunos was also once a port, but access to the sea vanished over the years due to the silting of the former bay. However, Caunos' ultimate demise was due to a widespread malaria epidemic and the conquering of the region by Turkish tribes. Archaeologists have unearthed many areas of the city over the years with the amphitheatre taking center stage.

A new friend was one of the stars of the show.

After a day of exploring so many fascinating sites, guests relaxed by the river and enjoyed a taste of the local cuisine. The rock-cut tombs provided a scenic backdrop.

Should your travels with Oceania Cruises take you to the port of Marmaris, consider spending the day exploring the historic sites of Caunos and the Dalyan River.

A Journey through Provence - Romance and Beauty Abound

As Nautica and Insignia continue to cruise the Mediterranean Sea, both Oceania Cruises ships will be visiting the port of Marseille and the neighboring areas of Provence this fall. The skyline of Marseille is dominated by the landmark basilica, Notre Dame de la Garde, which overlooks the Old Port.

A mere 12 miles to the east of Marseille is Cassis, a delightful fishing village that unites the sea with the French countryside. A journey through the lovely landscapes of Provence brings you to this vision enhanced by the scent of fresh herbs wafting through the air.

Exploring the quaint village of Cassis, one finds an array of boutique shops featuring the modern fashions of the French Riviera, while additional stores focus on the regional and cultural charms of Provence.   

 
   Some of the most tempting "local charms" are the delicious pastries that beckon you from the windows of the many pâtisseries lining the streets. 

Considering the delectable treats, fabulous shopping opportunities and beautiful scenery to be found in Provence, it comes as no surprise that this region has become a favorite destination of Oceania Cruises ships.

Nautica Sails to Charming Mykonos

If you have yet to visit the world-famous island of Mykonos, you might consider a voyage with Oceania Cruises through the Greek Islands. A favorite playground of the international jet-set, Mykonos will serve as host to Nautica once again next week (for a return engagement) and to Marina and Insignia this fall. Last week Nautica played peekaboo with our photographer as the ship's guests were able to explore this 33-square-mile island on a gorgeous, sunny day.

Mere moments from the ship, sunseekers chose to enjoy one of the white sandy beaches of Mykonos as Nautica watched from the dock near Mykonos Town, also known as Chora in Greek.

The design of a water source in town is as enchanting as the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea, and the island's architecture boldly stands out against the vivid blue of the soaring skies.

 

Add some color to the whitewashed architecture equation, and Mykonos delivers memorable postcard-perfect pictures.

The town's pathways twist about and create a pleasurable maze for any explorer seeking Mykonos' charm. The island is an Oceania Cruises favorite with its historic windmills, affection for its pelican friends, and club atmosphere that draws thousands who want to dance the day and night away. If your ship has a late departure, be sure to watch the sunset from a local pub...it's magical.

Nautica's travels inspire memories of Sorrento

While I am Blogger-at-Large for Oceania Cruises, I do not have the privilege of traveling onboard year-round. As the calendar has turned to August and summer enters the home stretch, I find myself at home in the States, where an exceptionally warm summer season has forced me indoors and revealed a guilty pleasure of mine. When I need to "get away," I pull up Facebook and search my newsfeed for the Oceania Cruises headline, Where in the world are our ships today?, which is my personal favorite.  I have found this simple therapy lets me escape for a moment to milder climates with memories of my previous journeys with Oceania Cruises and daydreams about my adventures still to come.

Today has been no different as the newsfeed revealed that Regatta is cruising the Hubbard Glacier in Alaska; Insignia is in London preparing to explore Scandinavia; Marina is visiting Santander, Spain; and Nautica is anchored along the Amalfi Coast. Each destination is wonderful, but Amalfi in particular calls up an Oceania Cruises memory of mine and whisks my mind away to the Mediterranean. 

It was November 2008, and Amalfi was on our itinerary, but a storm would not allow us to anchor there. We stopped at Sorrento instead, an equally charming port that Nautica also visited just yesterday on her current itinerary. Sorrento overlooks the Gulf of Naples, just around the corner from Amalfi. The day was overcast for our trip in 2008, which may not seem ideal, but it turned out to be the perfect day for exploring this quaint little town with its famous cliff-top hotels.

The cliffs rising out of the sea offer extraordinary views during a pleasant climb from the tender's dock to the historic, central portion of the community along Via San Cesareo. Walking through the narrow streets revealed tall buildings with craft shops on the lowest level and various townspeople's homes on the floors above. The sights and smells were intoxicating. There were a number of woodworkers and ceramic artisans crafting their wares in their studios, shopkeepers replenishing their displays in their storefronts, and the warm buzz of all the town's visitors investigating the local treasures.

It is here I found a new appreciation for Limoncello. Each shop and restaurant proudly boasts the origins of Limoncello and is all too eager to serve you a sample of the world's finest. The walls of the shops are adorned with paintings and photos of the lemon groves of the region that produce this tasty aperitif and digestif. Of course, you are invited to taste and purchase as much as you like to fully stock your home once your travels have come to an end.

This hot summer day of August will soon turn into a hot summer night. I believe I'll enjoy a lovely Limoncello after dinner and forget about the heat wave, as my mind will have me walking the streets of Sorrento. And thank you, Nautica, for making all of this possible.

The next time you are on Facebook and see where the ships are located, hit the like button if you have been to one of the ports and post a comment about your experience. It will help get all of us through these dog days of summer and inspire us to look forward to our next voyage with Oceania Cruises.

 

 

Of Alaska and Alanya

       

There's nothing better than receiving emails from the ships on a Monday, especially ones containing stunning photos. The intrepid explorers onboard Regatta and Nautica did a wonderful job of showcasing exactly how diverse the destinations we sail to are. Nautica sojourned in Alanya, Turkey.

The fortifications surrounding Alanya are astounding and date back to the Middle Ages.  If you are not familiar with this spectacular city, it is on the "Turkish Riviera," about 50 miles east of Antalya. Beautiful beches rim the gulf, and it's where ancient history meets today's "jet set."

A wonderful juxtaposition to the hot and sunny clime of Alanya, these photos come to us fresh from Regatta in Alaska. Everyone knows that one of the highlights of this great land is the wildlife, but we can't forget the memorable experiences our domesticated friends can provide!

 

 

 

 

These snapshots are from a recent Glacier and Dog-Sledding excursion. I'm not sure who has more fun, the guests or the dogs!

News from Nautica: JEWELS OF THE AEGEAN

    

Tomorrow Nautica concludes her adventures exploring the Jewels of the Aegean. This popular itinerary took Nautica to several of the charming Greek islands that grace the Aegean Sea. On the island of Chios, several guests joined an excursion to explore the medieval town of Pyrgi, where the streets are so narrow and the houses so tightly packed that the village resembles a fortress. Indeed, many of the villages in southern Chios were settled during the time of Genoese occupation and were built to withstand pirate invasions.

Today the economies of these villages are built around the indigenous mastic trees, which produce a valuable resin used in liquor, chewing gum, ice cream, pastries, cosmetics and other products. 

One of the most unusual characteristics of the town is the geometric graffiti adorning many of the buildings, including the main church. The designs, called xysta, are typically black and white, often complemented by splashes of brilliant red from strings of tomatoes drying in the sun.

On this journey Nautica also visited the lovely Greek island of Zakynthos. 

While tourism is a major industry here, there are many beautiful unspoiled areas on this island due to the protections afforded its famous loggerhead turtles. These endangered turtles hatch on the local beaches and then make their way out to sea where, if they survive, they may reside for twenty-five years or longer before the females will return to the place where they hatched in order to lay their own eggs.

As Blogger-at-Large, I was privileged to visit Zakynthos myself on a recent cruise. I joined one of Oceania Cruises' excursions in which we took a boat ride around the bay in hopes of catching a glimpse of one the enormous loggerhead turtles. Unfortunately it was a bit early in the season, and we did not have a sighting, but we did learn many interesting facts from our guide. For instance, bars and nightclubs are prohibited on parts of the island, as are nighttime flights, because the hatchling turtles generally make their way out to sea at night, guided by the light of the moon. Artificial light can cause the turtles to navigate inland and be exposed to threats such as dehydration and predators. 

While we were unable to spot a turtle, we did see many beautiful views of Zakynthos and the small islands that surround the main island. Hidden caves and white pebble beaches are tucked away in tiny coves amidst brilliant turquoise waters. On hot summer days guests onboard these boating excursions would relish the opportunity to go for a swim, but it was barely over 70 degrees Fahrenheit the day we were there, and our guide told us the water would be exceptionally cold.

Little did I know, the adventurous among us were not going to let a little chill keep them from the opportunity to swim in the crystal blue Zakynthos waters. 

Mr. Robert Cordo leapt into the chilly waters without even hesitating, and I have to say as Blogger-at-Large, I took that as a challenge. I could not sit by and miss this chance to share a wonderful experience with the readers of the Oceania Cruises blog.


I summoned my courage and dove right in. I confess it was a bit of a shock at first!

The water was certainly brisk, but once I had joined my fellow swimmers, it was quite invigorating. And the view was astounding!

It was at this point that I spotted the tiny white sand beach at the foot of the majestic rocks rising from this little island. Since I'd already done the hard part of diving into frigid sea water, and I didn't know when, if ever, I would have the privilege of returning to Zakynthos, I decided I should swim to this beach and wriggle my toes in the sand.

Almost there...

Mission accomplished!

I stood there a few moments taking it all in (and catching my breath after the rigorous swim). It's not every day that one gets to have an experience like this. The seascapes were awe-inspiring, the swim was rejuvenating, and my memories of this charming Greek island will last a lifetime.

I found myself unable to stop laughing during the swim back to the boat. This led to a few mouthfuls of salty seawater being swallowed, but that did not dampen the joy of the day. Thank you to Mr. Cordo for inspiring me to dive right in!


Should you have the chance to sail to any of the lovely Greek islands onboard an Oceania Cruise, I highly recommend taking advantage of the opportunity. Perhaps you too will find yourself inspired to dive into the coastal waters and explore a hidden cove. Or you may simply choose to relax on the beach and savor the views, or to meander the cobbled streets and enjoy the charming architecture. Whatever your inclinations, exploring the Greek islands with Oceania Cruises is an experience not to be missed.

NAUTICA'S ADVENTURES IN ASIA

 

Nautica has spent these first months of 2011 exploring the colorful coasts of Asia. From China to Vietnam to Thailand to Myanmar, guests onboard Nautica have experienced diverse cultures, vibrant metropolises, fascinating histories, and magnificent religious shrines.

 

A guest onboard was kind enough to share photos of some recent excursions taken during travels with Nautica. Above you see a shot of the lovely landscape of Vietnam, and here are also some interesting and beautiful portraits of local Vietnamese people.

 

 

 

 

 

In nearby Cambodia, Oceania Cruises offered an excursion in which guests could see an Apsara Dance, a Khmer Classical Dance that forms an integral part of the culture of Cambodia. The apsara, a woodland spirit, is played by a woman, whose graceful, sinuous gestures are codified to narrate classical myths or religious stories. This tradition of dance has been honed for over a millennium and is depicted in works of art throughout Cambodian temples such as Angkor Wat.

Nautica then sailed on to vibrant Myanmar, where the ship lingered for two overnight stays in Yangon so that guests could delve deep into this fascinating culture. 

As the majority of Myanmar's people are Buddhist, the Novitiation Ceremony, or Shinbyu, is one of the most important events in the life of a Burmese boy. Parents deem it their duty to send forth their sons to embrace the legacy of the Buddha, enter the order of monks, and become immersed in Buddha’s teachings. This rite of passage, however long or short it may be, is of utmost spiritual importance and is expected to have a profound and lasting effect on the boy’s life.

The ceremony begins with a grand procession in which the young boys are dressed as princes in glittering robes, makeup, and ornate headpieces. They are accompanied by an orchestra and dancers in a gala affair. 

Later they will have their heads shaven and don the robes of a novice, a symbol of how Buddha’s son swore off the luxuries of princely life for the life of an ascetic.

In Yangon, the procession of the novices visits the Schwedagon Pagoda to pay homage to the Buddha and do meritorious deeds. This glorious shrine is covered in gold leaf, adorned with over 5,000 diamonds and 2,000 rubies, and topped with a 76-carat diamond at its crown. Dominating the Yangon skyline, the Schwedagon Pagoda is the most sacred shrine of the Burmese, housing innumerable relics including hairs of Gautama Buddha.

Nautica will soon bid Asia adieu to sail for European shores where she will spend her summer. But Nautica's adventures in Asia will not soon be forgotten by any guests fortunate enough to have traveled on these remarkable journeys. 

 

REGATTA AND NAUTICA SEND POSTCARDS FROM EXOTIC LANDS

 

While Insignia just crossed the Atlantic to begin her summer sojourn along European shores, Regatta and Nautica are exploring opposite sides of the globe. Regatta spent the first of April in Parintins, Brazil, and guests were treated to a taste of Amazonian folklore and festivities during an exclusive excursion to a Boi-Bumba celebration. 

The people of Parintins, known for their exuberance and rich cultural traditions, put on a mesmerizing display of revelry with colorful costumes and the sounds of samba. The performance told the captivating story of two families involved in a historic dispute, which was resolved not by combat, but by song and dance.

Meanwhile, Nautica was exploring the vibrant metropolis of Saigon. Guests were able to experience all the charms of the city via pedi-cab.

Known as the "Pearl of the Orient," Saigon is an eclectic mix of old and new, with steel and glass skyscrapers towering over French colonial villas, and imposing Soviet-style facades standing beside ancient pagodas. Guests touring the city got a feel for the hectic pace of people's daily lives.

And other's lives were not so hectic.

No matter what corner of this amazingly diverse planet appeals to you most, with Oceania Cruises you can certainly experience Your World, Your Way.^®

FEBRUARY ADVENTURES ONBOARD REGATTA, INSIGNIA & NAUTICA

      

The inaugural season of our new ship Marina has been such an exciting time for our Oceania Cruises family. So exciting, in fact, that Marina has been monopolizing the spotlight as of late, and with good reason. However, we must not forget the three equally stunning, elegant ships that are responsible for making Oceania Cruises the success it is today. Regatta, Insignia, and Nautica have

also been sailing azure seas this February, and guests onboard are likewise enjoying the fine cuisine, impeccable service, and fascinating destinations that are the hallmarks of Oceania Cruises.

Nautica has been exploring the exotic coasts of Asia, from Hong Kong to Saigon to Bangkok. In Bangkok guests enjoyed an excursion to the renowned Prasart Museum, which houses one of the most spectacular private art collections in Asia. The vast array includes art from prehistoric times to the late 19th century and features Buddha images, exquisite porcelain and pottery, traditional Thai paintings, and impressive Chinese furnishings.

Also located on the grounds is the magnificent Garden of Serenity, a horticultural treasure that contains an exceptional variety of rare and unusual trees and shrubs, many of which were selected for their association with Thai literature. The garden is intertwined with meandering pathways, tranquil pools and priceless stone statues.

 

While Nautica has been experiencing the history and beauty of Thailand, China and other fascinating nations of the East, Regatta has been exploring the Western Hemisphere. On the other side of the world, Regatta sails the vivid blue seas of the Caribbean and visits its many lovely islands, from Virgin Gorda to Antigua to the Bahamas. 

 

Guests onboard Regatta faced some big challenges this month, having to decide whether to view the vibrant colors of diverse marine life on a snorkeling venture, sail impossibly blue waters under the power of a gentle wind, or simply lie on beautiful beaches and watch the waves roll into the shore. You can tell from the photo of Nassau above and St. Barts below, guests could rest assured that any decision they made was the right one. Many guests played it safe and chose "all of the above."

Insignia took a southerly route this February, sailing from Chile through the magnificent Chilean fjords, around the southern tip of South America, stopping in to the Falkland Islands and continuing up the Eastern seaboard to Brazil. Natural wonders abound in this beautiful continent, and guests onboard Insignia explored them at length.  

One of the most spectacular regions in the world and certainly one of South America's major attractions is Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. The park was granted the status of Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1978. Guests on the Oceania Cruises excursion, Scenic Torres del Paine, experienced the landscape by plane, boat and motorcoach, finding each stunning vista more magnificent than the last.  

To the left is Salto Grande Waterfall. The volume of water and its tremendous power is astounding. 

Below is another breathtaking view captured by a guest. The peaks, horizons, and the still blue waters of the immense interconnected lakes are awe inspiring. The granite spires of many of the mountaintops have a unique shape sculpted by glacial erosion. The park is a feast of natural phenomena — glaciers, rivers, lakes, forests and abundant wildlife. 

Historical, cultural or natural, the astonishing beauty of the destinations on Oceania Cruises' itineraries never fails to impress. Whether you sail on Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, or Marina, you are certain to have the experience of a lifetime both onboard and ashore. Thank you so much to our wonderful guests who shared with us these photos of their amazing experiences.

NAUTICA'S AFRICAN ADVENTURES CONTINUED IN MADAGASCAR

    

Nautica has now crossed the Indian Ocean en route to explore the wonders of Asia, but her adventures in Africa will not soon be forgotten. One of the most colorful and vibrant places visited was the island of Madagascar. As Nautica bids Africa farewell, enjoy the photos below of encounters with local people, local culture, and local wildlife.

We hope you've enjoyed the photos of Nautica's African adventures, and we thank Susie Heller and Tom Stauffer for sharing them!

NAUTICA GUESTS EXPERIENCE TRUE LOCAL COLOR IN MOZAMBIQUE

    

One of the greatest pleasures of an Oceania Cruise can be the opportunity to meet local people and experience local culture in exotic ports the world over. Nautica guest and frequent lecturer, Susie Heller, shared her photos of a recent visit to the home and gallery of local Maputo artist, Malangatana Ngwenya. The artist's son, pictured below, was actually their tour guide.  What an amazing and personal experience!

This glimpse into the life and work of an African artist was an unforgettable experience!

MORE AFRICAN ADVENTURES ONBOARD NAUTICA

    

Guests onboard Nautica recently explored the many wonders of the KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa. Above is a stunning photo of Howick Falls. Pictured below are sculptors creating the famous Ardmore ceramics. Begun by Fee Halsted on a farm in KwaZulu-Natal, the studio now employees about 80 freelance artists who create original and uniquely South African ceramics shown in galleries worldwide.

Guests also explored the Hluhluwe Game Reserve and met members of a Zulu tribe for an opportunity to learn more about Zulu culture.

The adventures continue in the next port, Maputo!

NAUTICA SENDS GREETINGS FROM AFRICA

    

Nautica spent the last few weeks exploring the eastern coast of Africa. Two of our frequent guest lecturers, Tom Stauffer and Susie Heller, have been onboard and were kind enough to share some fantastic photos of their journey.  These photos were taken while on safari on Shamwari Private Game Reserve. This beautiful reserve can be explored on one of Oceania Cruises' land tours, which allow guests to delve deeper into the experience of a particular culture.

Tom observes a wild boar grazing on the reserve.

A closer look.

And now they venture farther out into the bushland of the Eastern Cape.

A lovely couple.

Another attractive pair.

The elephants aren't shy.

But they are thirsty!

 Going for a dip.

King of the jungle.

Lying in wait.

Potential prey.

The rhinoceros explores.

It was a wonderful adventure in the African bushland.  Check the blog again soon for more beautiful photos of the animals, people, and culture of Africa.

 

 

DECK THE DECKS! Nautica is ready for the holidays!

There is nothing like celebrating the holidays onboard an Oceania Cruises' ship. The Grand Staircase is draped with garlands, the decks are adorned with wreaths, and the tree is trimmed with glittering lights. It is a festive and joyous time onboard, when all are inspired with the holiday spirit. Enjoy these photos of Nautica's bedecked decks!  

 

The pastry chefs celebrate by creating those special holiday treats that are a true sign of the season.

 

Happy Holidays to you and yours from all of us here at Oceania Cruises!

 

Meet Lisa Pancake Fossland, Oceania Cruises’ Blogger-at-Large

Meet Lisa Pancake Fossland, Oceania Cruises’ Blogger-at-Large

I should probably begin by addressing the question foremost on everyone’s mind. Yes, “Pancake” is my real name. It’s my maiden name, which I kept as my middle name when I married. Hyphenating might have worked if I had married Kevin Bacon, but unfortunately he was taken. If it makes it easier, feel free to think of me as simply “Pancake.”

So who is this woman blathering on about nomenclature, and what does she have to do with Oceania Cruises? The answer is that I am Oceania Cruises’ Blogger-at-Large. I love everything about Oceania Cruises, and I also happen to be a writer, so the powers that be thought I would be a great contributor to the blog. After all, no one ever accused a blogger of being unbiased.

I’ve cruised on all three of Oceania Cruises’ ships — Insignia, Regatta, and Nautica — and I can’t wait to get onboard Marina and Riviera. I’ve explored the Mediterranean, the Aegean, and the Baltic seas. I’ve visited Athens and Istanbul and St. Petersburg. I will continue exploring the world with Oceania Cruises, and I’ll share every escapade with anyone who wishes to follow along. I hope you’ll enjoy my stories of life onboard the ships and explorations ashore. If you’re a fan of fine cuisine, exotic destinations, and relaxing days at sea…well really, who isn’t a fan? Feel free to share your own experiences with us here as well. We’d love to hear from all the fans of Oceania Cruises.

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