Elevate Your Cruise Game

When it comes to cruising, the word “luxury” might bring to mind plush accommodations and exotic locales, but few do it quite like Oceania Cruises, partnered seamlessly with the travel-savvy wizards at YOU Travel & Cruises. This duo is rewriting the rules on high-seas travel, delivering an experience that meets and exceeds every expectation.

Forget everything you think you know about cruising because Oceania Cruises redefines the concept with its fleet of intimate and luxurious ships, like the sleek Marina or the stunning new Vista. These vessels are more akin to floating boutique hotels.

Oceania Cruises then takes this context and elevates it even more with the kind of onboard dining that would challenge any land-based restaurant with menus crafted by world-renowned chefs. And if you enjoy a bit of interactive fun with their gourmet fare, The Culinary Centre offers hands-on cooking classes under the guidance of expert chefs.

But what makes a journey truly unique isn’t just the ship or the food—it’s the destinations and how you experience them. Oceania Cruises excels here too, with itineraries designed for maximum immersion. Extended stays in port mean you can explore deeper, from morning through to the nightlife, really getting a feel for the places you visit, more than just a quick stopover.

Enter YOU Travel’s Cruise Masters, the seasoned pros who don’t just book your travel, they craft it. Becoming a Cruise Master at YOU Travel & Cruise is like earning a PhD in cruises. They’ve got the scoop on all the details including the best cabins, the tastiest dining options, and the can’t-miss shore excursions.

And what really sets YOU Travel & Cruise apart is in their name really and their meticulous attention to YOUR travel preferences. They take the time to know what “floats your boat,” crafting journeys that are personalised and thoughtful. Plus, booking through YOU Travel & Cruise opens doors to exclusive perks and bespoke advice that make all the difference. They’re the inside gurus who hook you up with the best the cruise world has to offer, from little-known gems to seasoned favorites.

We have asked the YOU Travel & Cruise experts for some intel on Oceania Cruises to help you master your next voyage.

What does it take to become a Cruise Master Consultant?

“Education and training, fantastic customer service and passion for cruising and of course first-hand experience, along with networking and building relationships within the travel industry. Once these have all been attributed, you become certified as a CLIA Cruise Master.” Says Patrick Bonar – Travel Advisor & Cruise Master – YOU Travel Orewa.

What type of people go on cruises?

“Couples, solo travellers, families, groups of friends – there is something for everyone! From those who like to have it all included to those who are completely independent. Extroverts as well as introverts. Anyone can enjoy a cruise but it’s absolutely crucial that they are put on the right cruise to suit them (this is where the Cruise Master’s knowledge comes in).” Says Lydia Haydon – Travel Advisor & Cruise Master –YOU Travel Bethlehem.

What was your highlight on your Oceania Cruises voyage?

“I loved the variety of restaurants and the quality of the meals, the free shore excursions and just the general feeling onboard the ship. The crew were amazing, and we felt so at home and like we were part of the family. We also liked the longer time in port they offer.” Says Trish Ryder – Director –YOU Travel Manly.

Any advice for cruise newbies?

Lydia Haydon suggests finding yourself a good local YOU Travel & Cruise Advisor “We are no different to having a hairdresser or lawyer who you return to time and time again as you build a relationship you can trust. Either ask your friends/family for a referral or make an appointment with your local YOU Travel & Cruise Advisor as online can be overwhelming with all the options. Plus there is no difference cost-wise if you book with a YOU Travel & Cruise Advisor, but you are supporting a local business & you gain a whole lot more in value/advice.” Patrick Bonar suggests booking early, packing wisely, trying everything and expecting the unexpected as itineraries can change depending on weather and ocean conditions.

What’s the most common question you get from clients looking to book a cruise?

“What’s the best cruise line?” To which my answer is: There is no such thing. What is best for someone could be undesirable for someone else. This is why you would be silly not to use a CLIA-certified YOU Travel & Cruise Advisor. I like to call myself a Cruise Matchmaker and I will always offer unbiased advice as my primary responsibility is to my clients and ensuring I get the right cruise to suit their needs.” Says Lydia Haydon.

What do you do in between excursions?

Jeryl Bromley suggests that sea days are a great way to fully experience all that a cruise ship offers. “On a recent cruise in Europe (on Oceania Cruises) I did three culinary classes and came home so inspired to work in my kitchen. There were also guest lectures and one of the lecturers gave some excellent insight on the Palestine-Israel conflict along with other super-interesting lectures on the history of the formation of countries that exist today in Europe. There is also the spa – massages etc and enjoying a long lunch in one of the specialty restaurants. The shops on the ship usually offer specials on sea days so you can go and check these out – often there are some great bargains to be had.”

What’s been your most exciting Oceania Cruises voyage?

“I would have to say to-date the Christening Voyage Cruise of Oceania Vista, from Rome return. The chance to relax in the new resort style pool deck and experiencing the new Aquamar Kitchen’s delicious breakfast were highlights. The Christening ceremony in the harbour of Valletta, Malta is an everlasting memory. An iconic ceremonial Champagne Bottle-breaking, followed by a 60-minute performance by award-winning musician Harry Connick Jr and a spectacular firework display over Valletta’s historic harbour. Truly magic” Says Kylie Crouch – Marketing Manager – YOU Travel & Cruise.

What’s been your best culinary experience on Oceania Cruises?

“I loved the culinary classes onboard Oceania Cruises, definitely a highlight and will bring out the budding chef in any foodie! For something particularly amazing you cannot go past the Chef’s Table, where outstanding courses are paired with delicious wines.” Says Kylie Crouch. For Trish Ryder it was the State of the art kitchens and great tutors from the Culinary Center. “I loved how the dishes they taught were relevant to the area that we cruised in and we learnt a lot about the local cuisine and food cultures. Plus, it was lots of fun like being on the MasterChef show.” Jeryl Bromley, of YOU Travel Waiheke also rates The Culinary Centre “from practical everyday tips through to specific cooking skills on the class being taught. I highly recommend doing at least one class on a cruise. Has definitely revolutionised the way I cook since I came home.”

What’s on your Oceania Cruises bucket list?

“There are so many but I think any itineraries that take in the Northern Fjords – discovering the Viking lands. Any of the amazing itineraries in the Mediterranean plus the Spice Route – Singapore to the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal!” Says Kylie Crouch.

Quick tips to Cruise like a Cruise Master

• Download the Cruise line’s App before you go
• Research your cruise ports in advance
• Pick a cabin which works for your needs
• If drinks are not included you need to consider if pre-purchasing a drinks package is worthwhile
• If flying to meet your cruise, make sure to allow for travel delays!
• Enlist the expertise of a Cruise Master as they will find the best option for you
• Talk to other experienced cruisers on board
• Check out the daily schedule
• The cheapest cruise is not necessarily the best, look for value and inclusions as you pay for what you get!