Riviera Cruise Reviews - Reviews

My husband and I took this cruise for our 25th wedding anniversary.  We love to travel and have previously rented cars or taken trains and stayed in B&B's or used AirBNB to find housing.  However, we wanted a slightly easier way to travel this time so we chose to take a cruise.  We were at the concierge level with a balcony suite.  The Riviera was a stunning ship.  It was elegant and never felt crowded.  My husband and I are very active and in our early 50's. Needless to say, we were significantly younger than the average passenger on this ship.  We are independent travelers and did not do any of Oceania's shore excursions so we cannot comment on the quality of the shore excursions except for things we heard from other people on the ship.  

The cruise started in Athens.  We opted to pay the extra $350 air deviation fee so that we could stay a few extra days and choose flights that worked best for us.  We also did the $99 upgrade to Eurotraveler Plus.  Our flights were comfortable and we had great seats.  I would definitely recommend spending a little extra for the flexibility and comfort.

Our first stop was Santorini.  Unfortunately, 4 other ships were there at the same time.  We are early risers and were some of the first people off the ship, which was a brilliant choice.  The streets of Fira were empty when we first got there.  We wandered around for a little while and enjoyed the cool temperatures and quiet.  We had read about an amazing hike from Fira to Oia and decided to do this.  It was a 5-6 mile hike over the mountains which took us about 3 hours.  It was a little challenging but the views were incredible and we got a feel for the island.  This is definitely worth doing.  Unfortunately, when we finally arrived in Oia, it was wall to wall tourists.  We had lunch and grabbed an incredibly crowded bus back to Fira.  The wait for the line for the gondola was over 1 1/2 hours so we decided to walk down the donkey trail.  Be warned that Santorini can be EXTREMELY crowded.  Try going in as early as possible to enjoy the quiet and serenity of the island. 

The next stop was Katakalo (Olympia).  Katakalo is charming and Olympia (where the olympics first started) was very interesting.  

We stopped in Corfu next.  We decided to rent a car and drive over to the other side of the island.  The island is beautiful.  Renting a car is a great way to get around UNTIL you get into Corfu Town, then it can be a little harrowing.  

Montenegro was our next stop - and one of our favorite.  We got up early and sat on our balcony as we floated through the 17 miles of beautiful mountainous scenes.  The old city of Kotor is charming.  We hiked the 1300+ steps up the mountainside to the old fortress.  Again, we were some of the first people off the ship and hiked this in the cool morning.  It is well worth doing and the views are spectacular.

I was most disappointed in Split, Croatia.  This was my own fault because I had expected the most out of this stop and should have researched it further.  The old city was charming but small.  The city of Split is crowded and the area around the old city is crazy.  There is a beautiful, large park/open space that overlooks the city and we should have gone for a hike there but we were tired and a little grumpy so we went back to the ship after wandering for a few hours in Split.  

Venice was next.  We fell in love with Venice.  We were the first people off the ship and walked into town.  We took a Vaparreto (public water transportation) up the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco.  Again, the streets were empty and we were some of the first people in the Piazza.  We tracked our steps and ended up walking over 10 miles that day - needless to say - our feet were killing us!  So we hung out in the hot tub after dinner.  It was beautiful to sit in the water, under the stars.  

The next stop was Ancona, Italy.  It rained for most of the day but we got a few hours of light rain and some sun and were able to wander around.  Unfortunately, it was Monday and everything was closed so we could only look but not enter any museums or churches.  

Our final stop was Bari, Italy.  I had the lowest expectations about this stop because I had read some negative comments but we ended up enjoying Bari immensely.  It had a wonderful walled city that people actually lived normal lives in.  Once again, we were some of the first people off the ship and as we wandered through the streets, we came upon people having breakfast in their kitchens and hanging out laundry.  It was charming and was the least touristy of the stops.

We viewed the cruise as a way to comfortably get from one place to another.  We did not really partake of any of the entertainment because we wanted to be rested and ready for the next day of touring, so I can't comment on the quality of the entertainment.  On our day at sea, we had access to a quiet deck in the Canyon Ranch Spa and spent the day there.  My husband had an excellent massage as well. 

Oceania is most known for it's food and the food was fantastic.  We loved dining al fresco and ate most of our meals on the back of the ship at the Terrace Cafe.  We discovered that they serve the same food at the Terrace Cafe that they do in the Grand Dining Room.  Although it is a buffet, it is elegant and the staff is very attentive.  We loved sitting outside and watching the sunset every night and watching the moon rise over the horizon.  We ended up canceling 2 of our 4 speciality restaurant reservations because we loved sitting out there so much.  We did eat at the Red Ginger and the Polo Grill and the food was amazing.  However, we still preferred the charm of sitting outside, on the back terrace more.  

We are not heavy drinkers so we opted to use a little of our on-board credit for alcohol.  The basic drinks were reasonable and the daily drink specials ran about $6.50 so we could have a few drinks daily and not break the bank.  The cruise line also permitted us to bring wine on board.  We bought local wine and beer at several ports.  Although Oceania has a 3 bottle limit - this was not enforced.  We did not abuse this benefit but it permitted us to try local wines and beers at our leisure.   

The staff was lovely and very attentive without being intrusive.  I would recommend the Concierge level because of the access to the Concierge Lounge, the free unlimited internet, the access to the Canyon Ranch deck amenities and the size of the room.  We chose Level 4 but were upgraded to Level 3.  We were on the 9th floor, towards the back.  This was perfect for us.  We used the laundry a few times. It is $2 for each token - you need 1 for the washer and 1 for the dryer.  

We had $1100 of on-board credit and had to find things to spend money on because we didn't end up using most of it.  My husband had a great massage.  The cruise line automatically takes out $16/day per person for tips.  We ended up purchasing some great gifts and I got an Italian purse that I would never had bought.  

The embarkation and disembarkation process were flawless.  We had no real issues or complaints about anything and thoroughly enjoyed our cruise and plan to take another Oceania cruise at some point in the future.  

Oceania is a healthy ship and it is meticulous. Their customer care and service, both before and during the cruise is unrivaled. The intensive port itinerary was exactly what we wanted. I will never forget this particular cruise. 

Our Oceania cruise was a memorable vacation. This was our first trip to Europe and what a way to start. The Riveria is a wonderful ship and is easy to navigate as it isn't a mega size ship like my wife and I have been on before. We noticed workers painting and cleaning on the outside of the ship which shows the upkeep that they do during the trip. The dining experience lived up to its billing and we very much enjoyed the 4 specialty restaurants. The entertainment at night was good but not great. We played trivia several nights and met some nice folks who joined our team. We also  enjoyed taking one of the cooking classes that was offered. The fitness facilities were excellent, but due to the good weather I made more use of the outside track. The port itinerary was very good. We went into every port and did 3 of the port excursions that were offered. The port excursions we picked were handled well. We had trouble understanding one of the guides but she tried her best with the language. Our favorite ports were Monte Carlo, Portofino, Livorno, and Rome where we stayed over afte r the cruise. We liked Cinque Terre but it was a rainy day which we were told is common in that area. We agreed that we didn't have a chance to enjoy more of the amenities and activities that were offered on the ship due to the time we spent at each port. 

Food is excellent, the specialty restaurants are first class. Nothing disappointed us except that it was too windy to get into Belize. Would definitely take another cruise with Oceania.

This was a much needed getaway for us. We were very pleased with the overall quality, service and value of sailing on the Riviera.

This was our first time on Oceania and I missed some of the aspects featured on other cruise lines; for instance, professional photographer photo-ops (not the cheesy pirate costume ones though) and dining with the same waiter each night so he can learn your personal preferences. The staff was amazing with service and friendliness and the food quality/presentation was great.

This particular route was very good and most ports had plenty to do nearby or on excursions. I typically do 50% cruise line excursion and 50% on my own. Both were successful except in St Tropez where taxis were impossible to find. I really wish there had been a sea day for rest midway through as I have a difficult time "wasting" a port day by hanging out on the ship. Most of our excursions allowed us to sleep in until 8am and meet by 9am, which was nice. There are several tender ports which are a pain as Oceania tends to prioritize disembark of their excursion guests leaving independents waiting for a tender seat (this didn't cause any major issues, just show up early). I really wish in Livorno that the port departure time was later than 8pm- Most try to do Pisa & Florence in the 12hr stop and it is a rush. I hired a taxi for the day and did the main Florence museums with plenty of time though. 

Overall, VG cruise and VG cruise line. 

This Med cruise was wonderful.  Our AA cruise specialist, Jeremy, was very attentive and guided our selections for a beautiful on board experience.  Notifications and reminders were helpful.  Embarkation went smoothly and ahead of schedule.  On board, the Oceania crew and staff were fabulous.  Rooms were clean and comfortable and we enjoyed our large balcony.  Committment to excellence was very apparent... from the housekeeping personnel, to the venue servers, to an outstanding evening in La Reserve, a seven course dinner with wine pairings... which was overseen personally by the senior executive chef... and was our favorite evening.  Gourmet food, informative cooking classes and wine tastings aboard were excellent.  The only downside were the Oceania cruise excursions.  2 of 3 were sub par due to audio issues... couldn't hear half of what was said.  The excursions we booked on our own via the Internet were 100% better in quality and price.

Very relaxing and top quality food.. speciality restaurants are the best. Dinning room and buffet hours are limited. Dinner does not start till 6:30 local time.

Previously sailed on the Oceania Regatta.  Exceptional.  That was why we booked Oceania again. Bad decision.  DO NOT BOOK ON THIS SHIP.

Be aware if you book a cabin with a balcony, you cannot separate the beds.

First day out, I was told by the assistant cruise director 'unfortunately we don't have time for the port lectures'...and that presentations were continuous on the ship's TV.  Those turned out to be very poor power point presentations that could have been read by a 9 year old. The port presentations on the Regatta were informative and there was an expert to field questions about the area, not just sell excursions. 

We had our best meals OFF the ship. Minestrone in a local pub was better than on board.

Mediocre food and slow dining room service.  Often took 20+ minutes to get waited on, and another 30 minutes before food arrive (with only 2 exceptions). This from a cruise line that touts 'the best food on the seas'.  Don't believe it. They emphasize their four specialty dining rooms included with the price of the cruise, IF you can get reservations. When I went to the desk to make a reservation, the girl hardly acknowledge me and continued  entering information from a pile of documents. Finally got booked for 9pm Tuesday in the Polo Room (all that was available). Seated on time, but it was after 10 before we saw our food.  Steak arrive charred.  At breakfast in the main dining room, same experience. Only 20-30 people present, but an hour to get eggs Benedict without any Canadian bacon and hard boiled 'poached' eggs.  At breakfast on day 4, the waiter asked 'is that on the menu'??  At one meal, it took four people to get a glass of soda.  The appetizers in the infamous 'Red Ginger' were little more than bar food, but presented in pretty paper.

Kudos do go to our room steward. He was great.  Always friendly and smiling.  Also, the main reception desk personnel were friendly and  helpful.

Then things got bad/worse when our return flights booked by Oceania were cancelled due to the Lufthansa strike.  I understand that the strike was not Oceania's making but for a supposedly first class cruise line, the were not very accommodating.  Got the call at 3am to come to reception at 8 for further information.  At 8, we [along with 40-50 others] were told any further expenses were on us: 'That's what you bought the insurance for..."  They had one person attempting to book hotels because no flights were available until the following day. While waiting our turn, they announce everyone must exit the ship and claim luggage by 9am.  Luckily we got a hotel booked by the concierge, only to arrive and find the booking was for 2016.  Two other groups arrive after us to find the same situation.  A simple, but devastating mistake when traveling with an 80 year old with limited mobility. These are but a few of things that I can thank Oceania for.

On the flip side, the weather was great in every port but one.  Beautiful locations and friendly people.  Ignore the ship and enjoy the ports and you could have a good time, but you paid way too much to get there.

Overall, an excellent cruise offering a unique itinerary exemplified by diverse cultural experience and supported by superb onboard hospitality. Do take note of the need for advance planning when coursing distant seas, as communications are limited and at times - unavailable. Therefore, it is advisable to have all visas, entry permits and personal finances in order prior to sailing.

The itinerary changed significantly, because of Covid concerns but overall we enjoyed it very much

We had a wonderful time on Oceana.  Beautiful elegant ship and the food was beyond incredible.  We loved that we were in a different port each day and we were able to see so many different places.  I believe this ship is geared towards an older crowd.  If I had to improve anything it would definitely be the entertainment.  Not much night life and the shows were below average.  

At dinner in one of the four specialty restaurants on our Oceania ship MS Riviera, the question was asked, "Why do you say Oceania is the perfect cruise line?"  I appreciated being met at the airport, driven to a hotel for an overnight, then my luggage was picked up and I was driven to the ship where boarding was spread over a period of time so that I never had to stand in a line.  Every person associated with the cruise was pleasantly helpful; the staff called me Madam and pampered me endlessly.  The cuisine was superb, the service was impeccable, and the seven dining rooms were beautiful.  Tea time with music, cocktail hour, and show-time were daily treats.  All meals, tips and beverages were included (except alcohol).  In every Port, we were tendered to shore or driven to the old-town area.  All local tours were well scheduled and final disembarkation was smoothly orderly.  Oceania's was the best organized cruise I've enjoyed.  Every detail was perfect.    

Great ports and wonderful staff aboard the Riviera made this a very fun vacation and so much to see and do. A great blend of activities and fun aboard the ship made for a great time! So great to unpack your bags and the sit back and enjoy.

The destination staff was very friendly. Answered all my questions thoroughly and was always very helpful with any thing that I might need.

Exceeded our first time cruise expectations by miles. Awesome ship, amazing crew and fantastic independent excursions.

The destinations were outstanding and we never felt rushed when visiting each port.  The food was amazing and probably the best culinary experience we have ever experienced from the quality, to the service to the menu choices.  

I truly enjoyed the Oceania Riviera.  The Oceania Suite is absolutely amazing as was the Penthouse suite, and then we had the standard balcony that was perfect for us on a more budget friendly basis (had access though to all these cabins with friends we were traveling with).  The food was the best at Sea, not only just the specialty restaurants (Red Ginger being my Fav) but also the Grand Dining room was just as good.   The staff was always available, hardly ever could sit without someone asking you if you needed anything.  Seemed to always be deck chairs available around the pool equipped with clean towels at all times.   This ship was perfect for us, not to big and not to small.  Must mention the upgraded premium economy air promotion was also an absolute plus!!

Oceania delivered one of my memorable cruise journey/experience with friendly services, quality food and well design /organized excursions. I'd already booked my next cruise with Oceania for my 2025 trip.

Though we used to be great fans, we were very disappointed in Oceania and details on this cruise. Japan is not as US friendly as most ports we have visitied and you must have your passport with you all the time. The language barrier made it difficult, and there is a LOT of walking. It does appear they have reevaluated the tours and the walk ratings have been changed since we booked them. Japan is interesting and I got some great photos. Riviera did not meet our expectations overall, and though similar ship, it does not compare to our prior experience on Marina, which we loved.