Oceania Cruises, a leading name in luxury cruise travel, is set to make waves in Alaska in 2025 with its 1,250-guest ship, Riviera. Known for its dedication to culinary excellence and destination immersion, Oceania Cruises is offering travellers a fresh perspective on Alaska’s pristine wilderness and cultural heritage. For the first time, the Riviera, designed specifically for food enthusiasts, will bring an elevated cruise experience to the region, blending Alaska’s raw beauty with Oceania’s refined, small-ship ambiance.
A Culinary Voyage Like No Other
The introduction of Oceania Cruises’ Riviera to Alaska is not just about scenic landscapes, but also about showcasing the best of Alaskan cuisine. The ship, famous for its seven gourmet dining venues and culinary expertise, will be the first vessel of its kind to offer a truly food-focused journey through the rugged beauty of Alaska.
“We're thrilled to bring our 1,250-guest Riviera to Alaska for the very first time,” says Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “Our elegant, ultra-premium small-ship experience offers the perfect juxtaposition to Alaska's outdoor adventures.” He also highlighted that the Riviera’s smaller size allows for access to lesser-known ports, providing guests with more immersive and intimate experiences. With its world-class culinary offerings, including the Polo Grill Steakhouse, Asian-fusion Red Ginger, and the French-inspired Jacques, the ship redefines what it means to cruise in Alaska.
Unique Itineraries and Ports of Call
Oceania Cruises is offering an impressive selection of itineraries, ranging from seven to 12 days, departing from key cities like Seattle, Vancouver, and Whittier. These sailings allow guests to explore both the iconic and hidden gems of Alaska. Ports such as Homer, Sitka, and Juneau are on the list, with each destination offering rich cultural experiences and opportunities to connect with nature.
Oceania Cruises is also setting itself apart by including onboard naturalists who will guide travellers through the incredible biodiversity of Alaska. From whales and bears to seals and bald eagles, the wildlife encounters on these journeys are sure to be unforgettable. This fusion of expert-led wilderness exploration and luxurious culinary experiences makes the Riviera an enticing option for discerning travellers.
Engaging for All Ages: The Alaska Explorer Youth Program
Understanding that Alaska is a prime destination for multi-generational travel, Oceania Cruises has designed an Alaska Explorer Youth Program for children aged 5 to 12. This family-friendly program will feature engaging activities such as Alaska-inspired games and educational events, all under the guidance of trained youth counsellors. This ensures that not only adults but also children and teens can fully immerse themselves in Alaska's wonders.
Whether it's wildlife spotting or attending cultural events at Native tribe sites, the program ensures that young adventurers will have just as much to explore and enjoy as their parents and grandparents. This makes Riviera a perfect option for families seeking a bonding experience in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring locations.
Immersive Shore Excursions for Food Enthusiasts
Given Oceania Cruises’ emphasis on food, it’s no surprise that the 2025 Alaska itineraries feature culinary shore excursions. From hands-on cooking classes to chef-curated dinners using fresh local ingredients, guests can expect a journey that tantalises the senses.
One of the highlights includes the Alaskan Coastal Brunch Escape & Cruise in Juneau, where travellers will cruise to a remote island for a classic Alaskan-style brunch at Orca Point Lodge, featuring locally sourced ingredients and serene wilderness views. Meanwhile, in Ketchikan, guests can enjoy an Exclusive Crabbing Experience, reeling in Dungeness crabs and partaking in a campfire feast with a bouillabaisse made from the fresh catch.
For a more adventurous experience, guests can take part in the Exclusive Flightseeing & Taste of Alaska tour, soaring over the Tongass National Forest before landing at Salmon Falls Resort for a feast of iconic Alaskan seafood, including soy-glazed salmon and baked halibut.
Pre- and Post-Cruise Adventures
To make the most of the Alaska experience, Oceania Cruises offers pre- and post-cruise land programs, such as the Discover Denali tour. This adventure takes guests deep into Denali National Park, where they will have the chance to see the breathtaking Mount Denali, North America’s highest peak, and explore the park’s six million acres of wilderness. Over the course of two full days, travellers will experience guided tours through glacial rivers, rugged landscapes, and wildlife-rich areas, all while staying in luxurious accommodations.
The Denali program also includes unique experiences like riding a domed railcar through scenic byways and attending an Alaskan Native presentation to learn about the area’s cultural history. These land excursions add another layer of depth to the Alaska journey, offering travellers a chance to see more of the Last Frontier beyond the coastal towns.
The Ultimate in Culinary Travel: Riviera’s Shipboard Experience
The Riviera offers a travel experience that is as much about the onboard dining as it is about the stunning Alaskan scenery. With one chef for every 10 guests and seven open-seating gourmet restaurants, the ship is designed to offer the highest standards of culinary excellence. The Culinary Center onboard will offer hands-on cooking classes using locally sourced ingredients, allowing guests to learn the secrets behind iconic Alaskan dishes.
Additionally, Oceania Cruises is introducing Chef’s Market Dinners in the Terrace Café, where guests can enjoy regionally inspired dishes using ingredients from the destinations visited during the cruise. These culinary experiences ensure that food enthusiasts will be fully immersed in the flavours of Alaska throughout their journey.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure in Alaska with S.W. Black Travel
At S.W. Black Travel, we understand that travel is about creating unforgettable memories. Oceania Cruises' 2025 Alaska season aboard the Riviera promises a luxury adventure filled with culinary delights, cultural immersions, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or family traveller, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on these unique Alaskan voyages.
For more information on Oceania Cruises’ Alaska itineraries, pre- and post-cruise land programs, and culinary excursions, contact us today. Let our expert travel consultants help you craft the perfect Alaskan journey, complete with luxurious accommodations and unparalleled dining experiences.
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