Oceania Cruises has inaugurated its newest ship, Vista, in Valletta, Malta. Vista represents the first vessel of the Allura Class series for the cruise line. The christening ceremony was attended by 1,200 guests and featured renowned Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur, and Emmy award-winning food personality Giada De Laurentiis as Vista’s godmother. The event also included a special performance by the legendary Grammy and Emmy award-winning Harry Connick, Jr., who described the occasion as “extra special”.
During the christening ceremony, guests were treated to the debut of “Into the Night,” a dance-oriented theatrical show led by renowned “Dancing with the Stars” professional dancer and choreographer Britt Stewart. Following the performance, De Laurentiis took the stage to officially name and christen Vista, breaking a ceremonial Champagne bottle across the ship’s hull. VIP attendees were then treated to a concert by the headliner and acclaimed live performer Connick, who delivered an uninterrupted 60-minute entertainment experience. The spectacular evening concluded with celebratory fireworks over Valletta’s historic harbour.
In her role as godmother, De Laurentiis will create two signature dishes to be served at Toscana, Oceania Cruises’ authentic Italian specialty restaurant rooted in cherished family traditions, as well as The Grand Dining Room, the cruise line’s luxurious and esteemed culinary venue. Vista features 11 onboard culinary venues including three new ones – Aquamar Kitchen, The Bakery at Baristas and Ember. Vista is also introducing The Casino Mixology Bar, a new concept for the line, focused entirely on the art of the cocktail.
After completing a seven-night VIP christening cruise, Vista will embark on her maiden voyage from Rome to Venice on May 13th. She will spend the summer cruising around the Mediterranean, with all sailings already sold out. In September, she will journey to Canada and New England before heading south to explore Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean during the winter season from her homeport of Miami.
For Vista’s 2024 summer season, she will sail a series of Grand Voyages in the eastern Mediterranean, Aegean, and Adriatic Seas. The itinerary will feature a diverse range of iconic cities and smaller boutique ports across Italy, Turkey, Greece, and the Holy Lands.
The 241 m long Vista is over 67,000 tons with a capacity for 1,200 guests at double occupancy and a staffing ratio of two crew members for every three guests. Vista also offers the largest standard staterooms at sea, providing over 290 square feet of space. In addition, new Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms are designed specifically for solo travellers. With a focus on comfort and residential-style luxury, the ship provides all-veranda accommodations. Enhancing the onboard experience, Vista presents a wide range of activities, including eight bars, lounges, and entertainment venues. Guests can also enjoy the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Centre and relax at the Aquamar Spa Terrace.
