Sherman's Travel

All systems appear to be a go for the soon-to-debut Oceania Marina. In fact, Captain Dimitrios Flokos said that “Marina exceeded all expectations,” adding that “shipyard representatives commented this was the most successful sea trial in recent history for technical performance.” This over-achieving vessel will be the fourth addition to the Oceania fleet – and a much needed one at that. The luxury cruise line consistently sails with a “full boat” in part due to outstanding early-booking sales that offer dramatic discounts, free airfare and more, but also because of its superior service and overall value.

Oceania is already known for its culinary prowess, and Marina will add some garnish to that title by joining forces with Bon Appeitit magazine to create hands-on food seminars in the interactive Culinary Center. Marina packs ports of calls into each itinerary, and will deliver balconies in 95 percent of staterooms. The ship will set her course for Miami on a 13-day maiden voyage from Barcelona on January 22. After her U.S. debut, she will journey through the Panama Canal to San Francisco. Her maiden voyage is priced from $2,199 per person. Additional inaugural season cruises are currently on sale at 2-for-1 rates, plus free airfare from select cities.

You can follow the progress of Marina at the Oceania cruise blog.