Oceania Sonata Cruise Ship Achieves Record Bookings Ahead of 2027 Debut
Oceania Cruises has announced that its newest vessel, the Oceania Sonata, has already secured record-breaking passenger bookings well in advance of its scheduled launch in August 2027. The luxury cruise line reported that launch-day interest for the Sonata surpassed that of its previous ship, the Allura, by an impressive 45 per cent, highlighting strong consumer demand for high-end maritime travel experiences.
Construction and Fleet Expansion
The construction of the Oceania Sonata officially commenced with a keel laying ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy. This marks the beginning of a new class of ships for the brand, with the Sonata as the flagship. Weighing 86,000 tons and designed to accommodate just 1,390 guests, the vessel emphasises an intimate and luxurious atmosphere. It will be followed by three sister ships: the Oceania Arietta in 2029, and two additional unnamed vessels in 2032 and 2035, expanding Oceania Cruises' fleet significantly over the next decade.
Maiden Voyage and Itinerary Details
The maiden voyage of the Oceania Sonata is set for 7 August 2027, departing from Rome on a two-week cruise. The itinerary includes stops in Catania, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Katakolon, Greece; Bar, Montenegro; and Zadar, Croatia. For its inaugural season, running from August 2027 to April 2028, the ship will offer 22 sailings, starting in the Mediterranean during the summer months before transitioning to the Caribbean for the winter. Prices for these voyages begin from £2,549 per person, catering to travellers seeking premium cruise options.
Luxury Accommodations and Suites
On board, passengers can expect a heightened focus on luxury accommodations. A third of the cabins will be suites, all of which include access to a dedicated butler service. Notable suite options include four Owner's Suites, each measuring 2,500 square feet, and eight Vista Suites located at the stern of the ship, ranging from 1,500 to 1,900 square feet. This design prioritises spaciousness and comfort, aligning with the brand's reputation for upscale travel.
Culinary Excellence and Dining Experiences
Oceania Cruises is renowned for its culinary offerings, and the Sonata will feature 13 dining experiences at no additional cost, including Asian and Italian restaurants, as well as afternoon tea. The ship boasts an exceptional chef-to-guest ratio of one chef for every eight passengers, with half of the crew dedicated to culinary operations. New fine-dining venues include La Table par Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, the only restaurant at sea approved by the Master Chefs of France, and Nikkei Kitchen, a fusion restaurant blending Peruvian and Japanese cuisines.
Entertainment and Social Spaces
The Oceania Sonata promises a diverse array of entertainment and social areas. A new Opus Lounge will serve as a living room by day and transform into a chic bar at night. Additional amenities include a larger Baristas café and an onboard creperie, providing guests with ample opportunities to relax and socialise. Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Oceania Cruises, emphasised that the ship's inaugural season is defined by cultural diversity and geographic variety, setting a tone for thoughtful itineraries and exceptional comfort in the evolving cruise market.
