A Tully Review: Oceania Sirena

Sirena specifications:

- Year Built: 1999
- Year Refurbished: 2016
- Gross Tonnage: 30,277
- Length: 593.7 feet
- Beam: 83.5 feet
- Maximum Draught: 19.5 feet
- Stabilizers: Yes
- Cruising Speed: 18 knots
- Guest Decks: 9
- Total Decks: 11
- Electric Power or Voltage: 110, 220 AC
- Guest Capacity: 684 (Double Occupancy)
- Staff Size: 400
- Guest to Staff Ratio: 1.71 to 1
- Nationality of Officers: European
- Nationality of Staff: International
- Country of Registry: Marshall Islands

It was a wonderful opportunity to attend the inaugural ceremony for the Oceania Sirena in Barcelona and to enjoy 4 nights at sea visiting the ports of Marseille, Monte Carlo, St. Tropez, and Portoferraio. This opportunity gave us a chance to rub elbows with Jason Montague, President of  Oceania Cruises, and other executives and travel agents in the industry.

As you all know the Sirena is a sister ship to Regatta, Insignia and Nautica  and was purchased from Princess Cruises a month prior to her inaugural cruise on April 27, 2016.  Oceania Cruises within this small window of opportunity converted the ship’s staterooms, main lounges, lobby, and restaurants to their iconic colours and interior designs know throughout the Oceania fleet.

Culinary Experiences:

Sirena has introduced two fresh culinary experiences:

1. Tuscan Steak, a brand new specialty restaurant, serves Italian favorites, succulent steaks and fresh seafood inspired by the fleets original Toscana and Polo Grill specialty restaurants, 2. Red Ginger, which  offers  passengers a wonderful Asian cuisine.

2. The Grand Dining Room transforms into Jacques Bistro during lunch, offering a classic French menu, and for breakfast and dinner this venue offers a casual but elegant service with an extensive menu for both these sittings.

Cabin Categories:

Sirena’s Owner’s and Vista Suites underwent a major re-design, and offer a crisp and modern elegance which features custom-made furnishings, lustrous fabrics, stone and rich walnut accents. Penthouse Suites and all staterooms are appointed with modern furnishings and calm neutral colors. Plus, all suites and staterooms feature the all-new custom-designed Ultra Tranquility Bed.

Julie and I were in a Category B2 – cabin 6016 – 216 sq. ft. including the balcony.  Although small the stateroom was well appointed with ample closet space and drawers for two passengers. Can’t imagine a third passengers in this stateroom. Cabin is designated as a triple with a pull out sofa.  Our bathroom was very small and had a shower curtain (yikes!) and an old hairdryer.  Seems that a few features still need to be upgraded here.  We requested a vanity mirror and a new hairdryer and received these items quickly from our cabin steward.

Service on board was at its best.  The menu in Red Ginger was as good as ever and the sea-bass was outstanding!  Other dining venues were very good but with no ‘wow’ factor!

It was mentioned by the Oceania’s executives that on board entertainment was now up a few notches due to the corporate relationship with NCL, however still not close to the calibre of entertainment offered by Crystal Cruises.

Pre-Night Stay:

Stayed at The Arts Hotel by Ritz Carlton in Barcelona for one night prior to the cruise.  What an amazing hotel with a fabulous view of the marina and Mediterranean Sea from our room on the 22nd floor.  The Club lounge on the 33rd floor was beautifully appointed with stylish modern furnishings and the same wonderful view.  Ample snacks and beverages were available throughout the day and evening. The sea front promenade was a short walk from the hotel and the “hop on/ hop off” bus stop was just outside the front entrance for those wishing to venture out on their own.

Looking to learn more about the Sirena or another Oceania Cruise ship or voyage? Contact your Cruise Professional today!

– The Tully Team