Oceania Newbie Questions

[goldmom]

Hi Everyone,

 

We are intrigued by the TA crossing on the Regatta from Miami to Barcelona in March 2006, but have some questions. We have cruised many times on a variety of ships but not as yet on Oceania.

 

It seems from reading these boards that most of Oceania's cruises are port intensive. This trip has 9 sea days in a row, so I guess my question is will there be enough activities on board to keep us busy?

 

We also enjoy going to the casinos when cruising. How large is the casino on the Regatta? DH likes cards and I like the slots.

 

Also, I read on these boards that the ships have designated smoking areas in the public areas. Does this mean that there is no smoking allowed in the cabins and/or verandahs?

 

I'd appreciate any input from you veteran Oceania cruisers. It looks like a great ship. although I guess I also have concerns about a TA on a small ship having never done a TA before.

 

Thanks Again!

[Andee]

The casino is small, but the two times we've cruised Oceania, it was never crowded, as the ship only holds 684 passengers. The last TA on the Regatta significantly fewer passengers than that were on board.

 

There is no smoking allowed in cabins or or verandas. There is one smoking area on the pool deck, and one in the Horizons lounge.

[desirod]

On any trans-Atlantic you have the risk of rough weather. People get sea sick on the Queen Mary 2. I specifically booked a midships low deck cabin in case of bad weather which we had and glad I did since it was calm and undisturbed in the Force 12 hurricane.

 

The casino was quite active on my voyage. There is plenty to do for 9 days, but this is not a megaship where what it is to do, but what to choose from.

 

Since the TA never runs full the cruise staff is open to activity suggestions if there is something you would like to do within reason.

 

Oceania is a high culture low decibel cruise format. There will be no belly flop contest, but one can enjoy a bridge tournament or an enrichment lecture of many subjects.

 

If you are a heavy smoker, find another cruise line.

 

I have a full review a few threads down.