In a triumphant expansion that underscores the rising prominence of culinary exploration at sea, Oceania Cruises has announced the long-anticipated Australasian debut of its revered 1,250-guest ship, Riviera. From November 2025 through March 2026, Riviera will traverse the majestic coastlines of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, offering an exquisite blend of immersive experiences and gastronomic excellence aboard one of the world’s most refined cruise vessels.
With a proud reputation as the world’s leading destination- and cuisine-focused cruise line, Oceania Cruises now sets a new benchmark for regional travel. Riviera will not only be the fleet’s sole vessel in Australasia for the season—it will also deliver a sea-bound celebration of local culture, cuisine, and the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the southern hemisphere.
“Bringing Riviera to Australia and New Zealand marks an exciting new chapter for Oceania Cruises,” declared Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. “This region, with its vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes, deserves a vessel as sophisticated and immersive as Riviera. Guests can expect voyages that celebrate the soul of each destination while enjoying the most luxurious comforts at sea.”
A Voyage of Gastronomic Discovery
An unrivalled culinary ethos lies at the heart of Riviera’s 2026 Australasia deployment. Guests will be treated to exclusive foodie-led shore excursions, weaving through local farmers’ markets, truffle farms, fishing communities, and even rice paddies—experiences that bring them face-to-face with the land, sea, and people behind the ingredients.
One signature feature is Oceania’s renowned Culinary Discovery Tours™, helmed by expert chefs and local artisans. These tours offer an unparalleled glimpse into authentic regional cuisine. Guests might find themselves cooking with truffle oil in Tasmania, sampling lamb in New Zealand’s wine country, or savoring fresh seafood by the sun-kissed shores of Vanuatu.
Back onboard, Riviera becomes an epicurean sanctuary with The Culinary Center, a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen at sea. Its newest class, “Down Under Abundance,” pays homage to the region’s rich harvests and native flavors. Designed in collaboration with Oceania’s top Australian and Kiwi chefs, the course dives into the gastronomic treasures of land and sea—from Marlborough mussels and Margaret River cheeses to Tasmanian salmon and tropical island fruits.
Dining Elevated: Riviera’s Gourmet Collection
Dining aboard Riviera is nothing short of theatrical, with each restaurant serving as a stage for culinary artistry:
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Toscana – A traditional Italian experience focused on seasonal authenticity
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Polo Grill – A refined American steakhouse with timeless charm
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Jacques – French perfection, curated by legendary Chef Jacques Pépin
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Red Ginger – Pan-Asian flair meets modern sophistication
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The Grand Dining Room – Continental classics in an opulent setting
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Terrace Café – Open-air dining with global variety and themed chef’s dinners
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Waves Grill – Poolside relaxation meets gourmet burgers and seafood
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Horizons – Elegant high tea service framed by panoramic views
Whether indulging in afternoon scones or seared wagyu, each meal aboard Riviera becomes a voyage.
More Than a Cruise: Enrichment & Exploration
While food is a pillar of the Riviera experience, enrichment and wellness play key roles in the journey. The ship’s Artist Loft fosters creativity through painting and design workshops, while the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center offers comprehensive wellness treatments and fitness classes for mind, body, and soul.
Travelers can deepen their voyage further with pre- and post-cruise land tours, including curated adventures such as:
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The Great Barrier Island Adventure (Auckland): Includes stargazing, chartered fishing expeditions, and guided city tours
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Scenic Blue Mountains Journey (Sydney): Features Dreamtime storytelling with Aboriginal guides and immersive bushwalking in World Heritage landscapes
These curated land extensions offer a contemplative way to connect more deeply with each destination before or after your voyage.
Unforgettable Voyages: Riviera’s 2025–2026 Season Highlights
Komodos & Kangaroos
22 days | Singapore to Sydney | Departs 18 November 2025
Ports: Surabaya, Bali, Komodo, Perth, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Melbourne
South Pacific Archipelagos
19 days | Sydney to Papeete | Departs 10 December 2025
Ports: Mystery Island, Suva, Bora Bora, Rarotonga, Moorea
Azure Atolls to Auckland
18 days | Papeete to Auckland | Departs 6 January 2026
Ports: Moorea, Huahine, Alofi, Apia, Bay of Islands
Maori Heritage Route
14 days | Auckland to Sydney | Departs 25 January 2026
Ports: Rotorua, Dunedin, Hobart, Melbourne
Outback to Verdant Bali
14 days | Sydney to Bali | Departs 8 February 2026
Ports: Whitsundays, Cairns, Komodo
Melanesian Marvels
21 days | Bali to Sydney | Departs 22 February 2026
Ports: Kupang, Port Moresby, Luganville, Lautoka
Kiwi & Coral Seascapes
21 days | Auckland to Singapore | Departs 30 March 2026
Ports: Bay of Islands, Townsville, Darwin, Bali
Tradition Meets Luxury in Every Port
For decades, discerning travelers have sought voyages that offer both luxury and meaning—experiences that elevate the senses and stir the soul. Oceania Cruises’ bold foray into the Australasian and South Pacific theatre with Riviera is a testament to this timeless demand.
With a deep respect for regional culture and a dedication to the craft of cuisine, Riviera’s new season represents the very best of tradition and innovation. Riviera isn’t just offering a cruise; it’s delivering a celebration of the human experience anchored in heritage, flavor, and discovery.
For more information or to reserve your journey aboard Riviera, visit OceaniaCruises.com or consult a trusted travel advisor.
