Oceania Cruises has officially welcomed its
newest ship, Sirena, to the fleet with a christening ceremony at the Port of
Barcelona. The ship’s godmother, Claudine Pépin, delivered the traditional
blessing to celebrate the ship's inaugural voyage.
Joining
Pépin for the bottle-breaking moment were Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings CEO
Frank Del Rio; President and COO for Oceania Cruises Jason Montague; and
Claudine’s father, Jacques Pépin. The Pépin family and Oceania Cruises have
enjoyed a long relationship, with Jacques Pépin serving as the line’s executive
culinary director since its inception.
The 684-passenger Sirena follows the design blueprint of its sister ships
Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, with amenities such as four restaurants, six
lounges and bars, the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, and 342 suites and luxurious
staterooms. Before entering service, the ship underwent a 35-day, nearly $50
million refurbishment that renovated all public spaces and accommodations to
Oceania Cruises’ brand standards, and added several new amenities for guests to
enjoy.
The ship debuts with two new specialty restaurants. Tuscan Steak, a completely
new restaurant concept, is inspired by both Oceania Cruises’ traditional steak
house, Polo Grill, and the line’s Italian restaurant, Toscana. Red Ginger, the
contemporary Asian-inspired restaurant currently available on Marina and
Riviera, will offer dishes such as Miso Glazed Sea Bass and Lobster Pad Thai.
Another new dining option awaits Sirena guests at the Grand Dining Room. During
lunch the restaurant will transform into Jacques Bistro, offering an exclusive
menu featuring some of Jacques Pépin’s signature dishes.
In addition to the new dining options, Sirena’s top-tier accommodations -- the
Owner’s and Vista Suites -- will debut with a new design in a crisp and modern
motif. Sirena is also the first ship in the Oceania Cruises’ fleet to showcase
the enhanced entertainment offerings being developed for the line. Guests will
have the chance to enjoy new musical, theatrical and comedic productions in the
Sirena Lounge. |