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CLIA
ATOL

istanbul to venice | the aegean and the adriatic

27th Jul 2027 | 11 nights | Oceania Cruises | Sirena

This package can be tailored to suit you
Financially protected by ATOL
All-inclusive sailing
Gourmet dining, Wi-Fi & tips included
Mytilini, Lesbos
Kuşadası (Ephesus)
Chania (Khania), Crete
Katakolon (Olympia)
Dubrovnik
Korcula
Zadar
Ravenna
Venice
This package can be tailored to suit you
Financially protected by ATOL
All-inclusive sailing
Gourmet dining, Wi-Fi & tips included
Destination immersive itinerary

Greece and Croatia immersive cruise - Save up to £369pp

Why do we love this cruise holiday? A night in Istanbul gets this exceptional Mediterranean journey off to a memorable start, with time to experience the city before setting sail on a route that ventures well beyond the usual cruise itinerary. Mytilini on the island of Lesbos is a particularly rare call, while Korčula and Zadar offer the chance to discover less frequently visited corners of the Croatian coast. There are plenty of familiar favourites along the way too, from Kusadasi and Chania to Dubrovnik and Katakolon, but it’s the unusual combination that makes this sailing so appealing. Arriving in Ravenna before ending with an overnight stay in Venice adds another layer to a journey packed with character, variety and places that many cruise itineraries simply pass by.

What's included?

  • Return flights with a generous checked baggage allowance
  • 1-night 4* hotel stay in Istanbul
  • 10-night all-inclusive cruise
  • Financially protected by the ATOL scheme
  • Current Istanbul tourist tax is negligeable in this package

What's included with the cruise

  • A choice of wine & beer with meals, or a generous shore excursion credit
  • Gourmet speciality restaurants - The Finest Cuisine at Sea™
  • In-suite & In-Stateroom dining
  • Unlimited Wi-Fi
  • Sodas, speciality coffees & teas
  • Still & sparkling Vero water
  • Juices, smoothies & gourmet ice cream
  • Group fitness classes
  • Laundry services
  • Shipboard gratuities

Cruise Circle Collection packages adhere to our 6 point charter:

  • Up-front, honest pricing
  • No hidden fees
  • No booking fees. Ever.
  • A personal service
  • Good quality accommodation
  • No unreasonable flight times
Learn more about our charter
Day
Date
 
Arrival
Departure
 
1
27th Jul 2027 Tuesday
Flight from the UK to Istanbul, Turkey
 
 
Istanbul, Turkey
 
 
Flight from the UK to Istanbul, Turkey
Flights

And you're off.

Istanbul, Turkey
Hotel

An overnight stay is in order to avoid rushing.

2
28th Jul 2027 Wednesday
Istanbul
07:00
17:00
Istanbul
Cruise
Istanbul
A geographic and metaphoric melding of East and West, Istanbul is the world's only city covering two continents. The Bosporus runs through the centre; Europe lies to the west, Asia to the east.

For nearly 2,000 years, the ideally situated metropolis has been the keystone of some of the world's great empires, serving as the capital city for the Romans (under the name Constantinople, as noted by the informative "They Might Be Giants" tune), Byzantines and Ottomans.

Inside the sprawling city, the secular and the sacred mingle -- minarets with nightclubs and dusty prayer rugs with designer digs. The idea of Istanbul as a collision between East and West reveals itself immediately, with monumental churches cum mosques (the Hagia Sophia), Roman ruins (the Hippodrome, where horse and chariot races were held in Roman times) and unadulterated symbols of consumerism (the Grand Bazaar with its thousands of shops).

Even if these iconic attractions are what draw many of its tourists to this vast (second only in size to Shanghai) city of 17 million inhabitants, visitors, dutifully plodding through them, may easily miss what makes this city one of the world's most vibrant right now.

Increasingly prosperous, Istanbul has exciting neighbourhoods, upscale shops (not just the usual international brands like Prada but also fashion designs by Turkish clothiers) and a thriving restaurant scene that ranges from classic fare to newer, Mediterranean-infused interpretations of local standards. Its Museum of Modern Art -- handily located pierside, where ships dock -- is new and offers both rotating internationally-minded exhibitions and works from Turkish artists.

Istanbul is increasingly popular as a port of embarkation (or disembarkation) for a range of itineraries, from the Black Sea and Eastern Mediterranean Greek Isles trips to the migration, twice a year, of ships between Europe and Asia. You can find as many as six ships a day docking there. This noisy place, in which the magical call to prayer several times a day manages to overcome the sound of honking cars, is a great place to add a pre- or post-cruise stay.
3
29th Jul 2027 Thursday
Mytilini, Lesbos
09:30
19:00
Mytilini, Lesbos
Cruise
Mytilini, Lesbos

The Greek island of Lesbos/Lesvos is separated from the Turkish coast by two shallow channels. Mytilini is its principal city. Visit its neo-classical mansions, antique shops and folk art museum. Other attractions include the bazaars of Yvalik or fortress topped village of Mythemna (formerly Molyvos) with its artists colony, jumble of old houses and tiny fishing port.

4
30th Jul 2027 Friday
Kuşadası (Ephesus)
08:00
18:00
Kuşadası (Ephesus)
Cruise
Kuşadası (Ephesus)

Nearly 20 years ago when we first sailed to Kuşadası, our gulet, a traditional Turkish sailing vessel, docked in a modest marina across from a row of open-air shops. We came to explore nearby Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean's most impressive ancient sites whose ruins detail life in the once-powerful Greek and later Roman city. Upon returning to Kuşadası, our guide herded us into what he swore was "the best carpet shop in Turkey." In between sips of thick Turkish coffee, we haggled with the owner, eventually settling on a blue Hereke, which we stowed in the yacht before dining at the simple dockside eatery.

Remarkably, our rug's much the same, but everything else has changed. Now the former seaside village's population hovers around 50,000, streets bustle with tourists, rug shops bloom in high-rise buildings, and an air-conditioned shopping mall with sleek jewellery stores and European fashion boutiques anchors the modern port.

What Kuşadası lacks in charm it makes up for in locale. At Ephesus, about nine miles from town, you'll travel back thousands of years. The Terrace Houses, now open to the public, make the centuries-old city even more enthralling.

Despite Kuşadası's crowds, you can still find an outdoor cafe to sip Turkish wine, savour just-caught fish and enjoy the sea breezes.

5
31st Jul 2027 Saturday
Chania (Khania), Crete
09:00
17:00
Chania (Khania), Crete
Cruise
Chania (Khania), Crete

Also known as Soudha Bay. Land at Chania/Khania, one of the oldest towns in Crete and capital of the island. You may also visit the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos.

6
1st Aug 2027 Sunday
Katakolon (Olympia)
08:00
16:00
Katakolon (Olympia)
Cruise
Katakolon (Olympia)
The seaside Greek town of Katakolon, with a population around 600, is your typical small-town cruise port -- fishing boats bob in the harbor; cafes lace the waterfront; shops sell T-shirts, hats and jewelry; and a small beach draws swimmers and splashers. But that's not why ships make this town a destination. They arrive because Katakolon serves as the cruise gateway to Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Drive 40 minutes from Katakolon and you are transported back thousands of years. Stroll the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Olympia, and you walk in the footsteps of early Greek and Roman athletes -- wrestlers, chariot drivers, discus throwers, runners and long-jumpers -- who vied for glory and the gods' favor. Stand alongside the massive columns, and, with the tales of a good guide, you can envision the once-magnificent temples, athletes training in the palestra and runners readying on the track. Alexander the Great, Nero, Plato and Aristotle are among those who watched the games from where you stand. Tourists flock to the site and its companion museums, including the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, a treasure trove of pieced-together sculptures and statues that once adorned the ancient structures, and the Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games, where you can learn about the original competitions. If you've already visited Ancient Olympia, there are other sights in the area, including the spectacular temple of Apollo Epicurius and the medieval Chlemoutsi (Hlemoutsi) fortress -- or seek out the golden-sand beaches that ring the Gulf of Kyparissia. Note: We recommend that you use Google Maps to locate the destinations in this guide by entering the name of an attraction or business, rather than the address, which often stumps Google Maps. You should also confirm the hours, which are changeable, based on the season and day you will visit. In some cases, the fact that there's a ship in port will also affect opening times.
7
2nd Aug 2027 Monday
Dubrovnik
13:30
23:00
Dubrovnik
Cruise
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a great walking city for lovers of culture and history, with centuries-old monasteries, churches, synagogues and even one of the oldest operating pharmacies in Europe. But, if you're looking for a day of relaxation between busy tours in marquee cities, it's also a gorgeous spot to simply sit and watch the world go by amid red-roofed stone buildings and the sparkling, aqua Adriatic Sea.

The medieval-era Old Town is a walled city, and from above -- you can walk the 1.3-mile stretch some 80 feet above ground level for spectacular views -- it is reminiscent of Venice, just on a smaller scale (and with marble alleyways instead of canals). Like the Italian city, which lies just to the northwest, Old Town Dubrovnik is free of vehicular traffic and dotted with Renaissance churches and fountains, with a rich history as a trading port. In lieu of canals, you'll find narrow, cobblestone streets where pedestrians stroll from shop to shop, dine and drink at alfresco cafes and soak up the sun.

Dubrovnik is nestled in the southwestern corner of Croatia, a boomerang-shaped country directly across the Adriatic Sea from Italy's east coast, under which lies Bosnia and Herzegovina. The atmosphere is light and welcoming, due in no small part to the city's gorgeous setting on the Dalmatian Coast, which can be appreciated on one of the many boat tours offered from the Old Town harbour. Nearby beaches are also accessible; tours further inland include country bike rides and wine-tasting.

The port is a mainstay on Eastern Mediterranean cruise itineraries, sprinkled among greatest-hits stops like Athens, Venice and so many Greek Isles. Most Eastern Mediterranean cruises set sail from spring through fall, though winter cruising is gaining popularity.
8
3rd Aug 2027 Tuesday
Korcula
08:00
18:00
Korcula
Cruise
Korcula
An island near the southern tip of Croatia, the country to which it belongs, Korcula is steeped in shipbuilding and maritime history. Through the centuries, Korcula has been controlled by Greeks and Romans, and rival fleets from Venice and Genoa also fought to occupy the land before they both became part of a united Italy.
9
4th Aug 2027 Wednesday
Zadar
08:00
18:00
Zadar
Cruise
Zadar

The craggy Dalmatian Coast, across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, is a treasure trove of sea resorts and dramatic scenery where mountains meet water. Cruise ship ports offer access to beaches, parks, offshore islands, tours for soft adventure and insights into the cultures of the western Balkan Peninsula. Most travellers have heard of Croatia's famous Dalmatian port of Dubrovnik, which appears on many cruise-ship itineraries between Venice and Athens. Not nearly as many cruisers have spent a day in Zadar. Zadar is a treasure trove of ruins and old churches that sit in the middle of a pleasant, comfortable, working city. It's an easy city to explore, only a short walk from the cruise ship dock to the city centre. Streets in the Old Town are clean, and its historic sites are intriguing reminders of Zadar's tumultuous past. Yes, this city has suffered. It started when the Romans decided they wanted Zadar, which resulted in 200 years of warfare to subdue the locals, back in the 1st century B.C. The Venetians later conquered Zadar several times, but the town kept throwing them out, only to fall to the Austrians. The Italians again ruled Zadar, followed by the French and then the Nazis during World War II, which meant bombs from the West until the Germans and much of Zadar were destroyed. The city then became part of Yugoslavia until that government fell apart. The city was shelled by Serbian forces from 1991 to 1993, cutting Zadar off from help from the mainland. The city remained in precarious shape until 1995. Today, the area has an energetic atmosphere, especially thanks to the young people of the local college. For visitors, Zadar offers two special places: a sea organ that plays music from the mastery of the wind and the waves, and the outdoor Forum Bar, where you may sip, sup and 'tsup -- that's checking in with your friends by cell phone to find out what's up -- as you sit in the ruins of a real Roman Forum in the shadows of a 9th-century church.

10
5th Aug 2027 Thursday
Ravenna
10:00
20:00
Ravenna
Cruise
Ravenna

Though there's something for everyone in Ravenna -- located in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region -- it's a treasure trove for art and history lovers with its historic buildings decorated with Byzantine mosaics, museums highlighting a variety of topics and historic churches, cathedrals and basilicas. And, of course, Dante's tomb is located here and draws lots of visitors. Ravenna is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts including hikers and divers. --By Shayne Thompson, Cruise Critic contributor

11
6th Aug 2027 Friday
Venice
07:00
 
Venice
Cruise
Venice

Of all the cities in the world, only Paris comes remotely close to matching Venice in terms of sheer beauty and romance. You've seen it in photos and films, but there's no substitute for the reality -- the shimmering Grand Canal, the gondolas slipping down watery alleyways, the elegant palazzos emerging straight from the sea.

Venice once ruled the Mediterranean as a shipping power, amassing vast wealth and producing some of Europe's greatest artistic and cultural treasures. But, over the centuries, Venice has declined a bit and now has less than half the population it had at its peak. What remains of its former grandeur -- the crumbling palaces, the sumptuous art in its museums and churches, the fantastic rituals of Carnevale -- makes Venice a living tribute to the past.

Aside from a number of charming squares, such as the famous Piazza San Marco, Venice is mostly composed of a warren of narrow canals and streets spread over more than 100 islands. These tangled passageways are an attraction among themselves. There are few better cities to simply get lost in, particularly if you want to escape the tourist hordes that clog the main arteries around San Marco and the Rialto Bridge.

So once you've seen the major sights, fold up your map, and set off on foot. You'll discover pretty, residential neighborhoods with colorful flowerboxes in the windows and clean laundry billowing in the breeze. You'll discover tiny trattorias where the locals enjoy the catch of the day. And, away from the vaporetti (water taxis) and motorboat traffic on the Grand Canal, you'll discover one more pleasure of this place, aptly dubbed La Serenissima -- the unexpected quiet of a city without cars.

12
7th Aug 2027 Saturday
Venice
 
17:00
Flight from Venice, Italy to the UK
 
 
Venice
Cruise
Venice

Of all the cities in the world, only Paris comes remotely close to matching Venice in terms of sheer beauty and romance. You've seen it in photos and films, but there's no substitute for the reality -- the shimmering Grand Canal, the gondolas slipping down watery alleyways, the elegant palazzos emerging straight from the sea.

Venice once ruled the Mediterranean as a shipping power, amassing vast wealth and producing some of Europe's greatest artistic and cultural treasures. But, over the centuries, Venice has declined a bit and now has less than half the population it had at its peak. What remains of its former grandeur -- the crumbling palaces, the sumptuous art in its museums and churches, the fantastic rituals of Carnevale -- makes Venice a living tribute to the past.

Aside from a number of charming squares, such as the famous Piazza San Marco, Venice is mostly composed of a warren of narrow canals and streets spread over more than 100 islands. These tangled passageways are an attraction among themselves. There are few better cities to simply get lost in, particularly if you want to escape the tourist hordes that clog the main arteries around San Marco and the Rialto Bridge.

So once you've seen the major sights, fold up your map, and set off on foot. You'll discover pretty, residential neighborhoods with colorful flowerboxes in the windows and clean laundry billowing in the breeze. You'll discover tiny trattorias where the locals enjoy the catch of the day. And, away from the vaporetti (water taxis) and motorboat traffic on the Grand Canal, you'll discover one more pleasure of this place, aptly dubbed La Serenissima -- the unexpected quiet of a city without cars.

Flight from Venice, Italy to the UK
Flights

As your cruise draws to an end, it's time to take your flight back.

Sirena, which debuted in April 2016, is the fourth of defunct Renaissance Cruises' R-class vessels to join the Oceania Cruises fleet. (The others are Regatta, Insignia and Nautica.) In many ways, it's identical to its siblings, with key attributes being its small size and ability to offer itineraries in both marquee and out-of-the-way ports.

After acquiring the ship from Princess Cruises (where it had sailed as Ocean Princess), Oceania gave the ship a major refurbishment, and the 1990s-built vessel now feels almost brand new. Special attention was paid to revamping all cabins with new soft goods and upholstery, upgrading restaurant galleys and modernizing decor, and completely re-outfitting the beautiful teak-lined pool deck.

Sirena got some extra modifications as well. Suites were completely redecorated and in some cases, as with its top-of-the-line owners' accommodations, were reconstructed to offer an airier feel. In light of the popularity of the Red Ginger Asian-fusion restaurant on larger siblings Marina and Riviera, Sirena is the first R-class vessel to get its own dedicated version. (This was done by combining two popular eateries, the Italian Toscana and meat-lovers Polo Grill into one, now called the Tuscan Steakhouse, and adding Red Ginger in the now-vacant spot.)

In other culinary news, Sirena is the first Oceania ship to try out a new concept at lunch. Jacques Bistro, hosted in the Grand Restaurant every day but embarkation day, offers French fare via menus that rotate every 14 days.

Oceania's Sirena is a great ship if small size matters and if you want a cosy and elegant yet unpretentious home base while you spend long days exploring ports of call.

Plan for country club casual, and you'll be fine. Casual tropical wear is the norm during the days onboard. Pack pretty, flowing skirt/pants outfits for women, and jackets and maybe one tie for men for evening attire. There are no formal nights, though many passengers do dress for the welcome dinner.

Sirena Inclusions

Gratuities are not included in the cruise fare. Passengers in standard category cabins pay $16 per person, per day. Those in suites, all of which have butler service, pay $23 per person, per day.

Dining at all restaurants onboard Oceania Sirena is included in fares; there are no service fees levied. While alcohol costs extra, soft drinks, bottled water and coffee drinks are complimentary.

Oceania has evolved into a more inclusive cruise experience with its OLife Choice promotion. Passengers can choose an inclusion from a list that includes a beverage package, shipboard credit or shore excursions.

Shore Excursions

On Sirena, Oceania's shore excursion menu ranges from fairly traditional highlights tours, aimed primarily at more sedentary travellers, to more specialized experiences via its Oceania Choice series. In the latter, opportunities could include a 4 x 4 expedition trip up to Mount Etna, in Sicily, or tea with a countess in Venice. Passengers have the option to pre-book tours before leaving home, via the cruise line's website, and packages that offer savings on multiple booked excursions are available. Look for booking promotions that offer free tours in select ports.

Because Sirena lacks the Culinary Center cooking-with-chefs facility that's found on Marina and Riviera, the line's Culinary Discovery Tour program, which often concludes with an element of cooking onboard, is not offered. However, there are opportunities for food- and wine-related tastings.

Daytime and Evening Entertainment

Oceania Sirena operates port-intensive itineraries, so during the day, when ships are usually in port, ship staff offer just a handful of activities. These include scarf-tying workshops, needlepoint and coffee get-togethers and wellness seminars at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub. Passengers can also partake in entertainment team-sponsored Ping-Pong and shuffleboard competitions. In the late afternoon, timed so that passengers returning from shore excursions can participate, team trivia is always a huge hit.

Evenings are fairly laid-back and entertainment is centred on dining. Beforehand, you'll find the Sirena Show Band for dancing in Horizons, a string quartet in the upper hall and a pianist who plays in Martinis.

In the Sirena Lounge, the ship's main theatre venue, Oceania's troupe of singers and dancers perform Broadway revue-style shows some nights. On other evenings, Oceania hosts entertainers from the region in which the ship is cruising. On our cruise, one especially beautiful performance was from a Spanish flautist, and on another night there was a Latin guitarist.

Late night is pretty sleepy onboard, though Horizons does its best to lure folks for Lady Marmalade-themed dancing evenings and karaoke. (The two-for-one "late-night happy hour" promotion probably helps to bring in the crowds.)

Enrichment

There isn't a huge focus on destination enrichment onboard Oceania Sirena (unlike siblings Marina and Riviera, which have dedicated space for art workshops and culinary kitchens) since the ship has so few sea days.


Sirena Bars and Lounges

There are just a handful of lounges onboard, and most couple entertainment with cocktails.

Baristas (Deck 5): Essentially a coffee bar by day and a cocktail bar by night (though the crew is pretty flexible about serving what you want when you want it), Baristas opens early and then transitions into the Grand Bar at dinnertime and remains open throughout the evening. It sits just outside the entrance to the Grand Dining Room and is a lovely and cosy pre-dining meet-up spot.

Martinis (Deck 5): Open from 3 p.m. until late, Martinis is truly one of the most gorgeous lounges at sea with its very English country house-style salon, featuring a grand piano, sink-into armchairs and cosy loveseats. It's home to a pianist most nights, and is the sight of the ever-popular daily trivia. You can often find happy hour bargains here before and after dinner. The casino is adjacent, and orders are served to those playing table games and slots.

Waves Bar (Deck 9): This bar, right by the pool and sun deck, serves as the ship's only alfresco drinking spot. It also serves those dining at the ultra-casual Waves Grill. It opens at 10 a.m.

Horizons (Deck 10): Open from 3 p.m. to last call, Horizons, the ship's top deck observation lounge, is the perfect respite for a quiet conversation during the day and for frivolity after dinner. Small snacks and tapas are served throughout, and afternoon tea is held here. After dinner, Horizons becomes the ship's disco, with dancing and karaoke being popular activities.


Sirena Outside Recreation

The pool area on Sirena is gorgeous with new teak flooring and, in the pool itself, pretty sea-themed mosaic tiles. Flanking the pool and its pair of whirlpools are lots of sun loungers with thick, comfortable cushions clothed in a splashy blue and white striped design. The area can get busy in the late afternoon on a sunny day, after passengers return from tours, but never feels crowded.

Forward on Deck 11, there's a well-kept nine-hole putting green. To the side of it, there's a shuffleboard court.

Near the pool area on Deck 10 is a Ping-Pong table.


Sirena Services

The ship's Guest Services desk on Deck 4 is open around the clock. Beyond the stairwell is Destination Services, Sirena's shore excursion desk. Opening hours vary, depending on when the ship is in port. (See the daily Cruise Currents for exact times.)

As with Oceania's Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, its nearly identical siblings, Sirena's library is one of the most beautiful at sea. Located on Deck 10 between Tuscan Steak and Red Ginger, it's in an out-of-the-way place and is almost always serene and quiet, with comfy armchairs and loveseats, a gorgeously detailed pastoral ceiling mural and a faux fireplace. The book selection was refreshed in April 2016 when Oceania acquired and refurbished the ship.

Oceania@Sea, a dedicated computer room, is near the spa and has tabletop computers and a printer. While most passengers bring their own devices and use the ship's decent Wi-Fi, staff assistance on any kind of connectivity or computer issue is available here.

Oceania now offers a package for unlimited Wi-Fi at $27.99 per day. You can also access the internet for 99 cents per minute or take advantage of a 200-minute package for $160. Travellers booked in Concierge-level staterooms and above get complimentary Wi-Fi.

Next door, a card room with six felt-topped tables has the same clubby wood-panelled decor as the computer room, with double windows.

Two shopping boutiques face each other midship on Deck 5. They offer perfumes, bargain costume jewellery sets, fine jewellery (including a special assortment of pieces with opals), watches, sunglasses, sundries and a surprising amount of clothing -- with some creative women's outfits by designer Joseph Ribkoff. There's also a small section of Oceania-branded swag.

A self-service laundry room is located on Deck 7. It includes four washers, four dryers, two irons and ironing boards, and laundry soap. The machines use American quarters (exchange pounds or euros at the purser's desk). Laundry room hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Sirena has a medical centre onboard, staffed with a doctor and nurse.

The ship's spa on Deck 9 is compact but well-organized. Operated in partnership with Canyon Ranch SpaClub, it's got a beauty salon that offers nail treatments (such as gel and gentleman's manicures and an age-defying pedicure) and hairstyling, from cut to colour. Four treatment rooms offer numerous options for facials (vitamin-infused and sun repairing are among them). Body treatments include scrubs, wraps and massage; our Abhyanga massage, an Ayurveda (or Indian ancient healing tradition) treatment, was superb. Shiatsu, Thai Massage and reflexology are also available.

The ship's gym is well-equipped with a full range of new TechnoGym equipment. Exercise classes are offered; some are complimentary, such as "walk a mile" and Morning Stretch. Others, like yoga, incur a nominal fee.

One of the most delightful outdoor spaces on Sirena is limited to a very few passengers. Tucked away on the aft, and accessible via the spa, is a glass-enclosed sun deck. It's got a huge thalassotherapy pool, gorgeously decorated with colourful mosaic tiles, and a handful of loungers (we saw just three), plushly covered. It seemed odd that there weren't more loungers as the space was lavish. Access is available only to passengers in top suite categories.

Oceania Cruises has long been committed to providing superb cuisine at sea, from the not-so-humble burger (the Kobe beef version at Waves Grill is a standout) to miso-infused sea bass at Red Ginger, its Asian fusion restaurant. On Sirena, Oceania has modified restaurant options to include more choices (when compared to the line's other ships of the same size), adding Red Ginger (a standout on the fleet's larger Marina and Riviera), combining the Polo Grill steakhouse and Mediterranean-influenced Toscana into one restaurant called Tuscan Steakhouse, and adding the all-new lunch-only Jacques Bistro, which takes over the Grand Dining Room every day save for embarkation day.

Refreshingly, Oceania levies no service charges at any of its restaurants, though venues like Tuscan Steak and Red Ginger do require advance reservations.

The Grand Dining Room (Deck 5): The Grand, Sirena's main dining room, is one of the nicest in cruising, with comfortable seating and plenty of tables for two or more. It's surrounded on three sides by windows. The Grand is open for breakfast and dinner. (At lunch, it transitions into Jacques' Bistro.) It's an open-seating restaurant.

At breakfast, the vast menu includes everything from granola to lamb chops (and quite a bit in between, such as eggs Benedict, steamed haddock, grilled steak, omelettes and waffles). We love the "express breakfast" option aimed at those in a hurry, as well as the selection of Canyon Ranch SpaClub lighter-fare dishes; try the frittata with bell peppers. There's a smoothie and juice menu. The fact that orange juice is not freshly squeezed on a ship with such a high level of cuisine is a head-scratcher. Breakfast is served daily from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

If you can't find something that tempts on the Grand Dining Room's dinner menu, you're not looking hard enough. The menu offers terrific options. Starting off there's the Canyon Ranch "healthy living choices" menu, with options like a blue crab cocktail, yoghurt, dill and cucumber salad and herb-crusted rack of lamb with ratatouille. Calorie, fat and fibre gram statistics are provided for each dish. A dessert option is always available.

The restaurant's four-course degustation menu offers course-by-course wine pairing; the menu items are also available on the evening's regular offerings. On our cruise, one night's experience included an Emmental and leek quiche, a farro salad, coq au vin over freshly made pasta and a choux pastry with cream.

The degustation menu is offered every night in the Grand Dining Room. There is no charge for the cuisine but there is a per-glass charge for each of the paired wines.

The Grand's main menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, entrees and dessert, a nice balance between meat, seafood and vegetarian options. It changes nightly, and at least a handful of dishes will reflect the region in which Sirena is cruising. We love the incorporation of Jacques Pepin's classic dishes -- steak frites, rotisserie chicken and poached salmon -- all available every night. Also on the "always" list are steamed vegetables, baked potato, Franck's fantastic mashed potatoes (a family recipe of Oceania corporate chef Franck Garanger) and pasta.

Dinner is served nightly from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Jacques' Bistro (Deck 5): To offer another dining option on a small ship, and to work in more dishes from culinary director Jacques Pepin, Oceania got creative and introduced Jacques' Bistro on Sirena. Instead of a standalone venue, the bistro is a reconfigured lunch option in the Grand Dining Room, with menus offering casual French fare.

The comprehensive menu offers so many choices, from a simple croque monsieur (the French interpretation of a grilled ham and cheese sandwich) and the most delicious escargot to elegant fare, such as lemon sole and roast chicken with pumpkin gratin. The menu changes daily, and there are 14 iterations. A specials list every day includes a burger (one day it was a Bombay turkey burger with garlic-curry sauce), along with more traditional French fare, such as veal stew. Desserts, including decadent strawberries Romanoff (and sugar-free ice creams as well) were superb.

We loved the ambience, with French torch songs playing softly in the background, though would encourage Jacques' Bistro to create its own wine list with a better representation of French bottles.

Reservations are not necessary. Jacques' Bistro is open from noon to 1:30 p.m. daily.

Terrace Cafe (Deck 9): The Terrace Cafe, the ship's buffet venue, offers both cooked-to-order stations and already prepared fare at breakfast, lunch and dinner. It's a lovely space, wrapping around three sides of the ship's aft, and its outdoor deck has tables for dining in good weather. It's one of the nicest places onboard to sup.

At breakfast, there is an extensive selection of fruit, pastries and cereals, and egg dishes are cooked to order. French toast and pancakes, and breakfast meats and cheeses are available as well.

At lunch, there are hot and cold options, including a pasta of the day and a carvery, along with hot side dishes like mashed potatoes, vegetables and rice. Also plentiful are salads, ready-made sandwiches and desserts (the ice cream's a big hit). Don't miss the sushi bar.

For dinner, the Terrace Cafe largely mirrors the menu offered in the more formal Grand Dining Room with the caveat that the ambience is much more casual. There's a lovely cheese cart, more fresh sushi and, once again, the bountiful dessert display.

The Terrace Cafe rarely gets too crowded aside from on embarkation day, when there are fewer open venues. Operating hours are generous, 7 to 10 a.m. for breakfast, noon to 2 p.m. for lunch and 6:30 to 9 p.m. for dinner. (If you need a coffee fix between meals, head to Baristas on Deck 5.)

Waves Grill (Deck 9): Waves Grill, tucked between the Terrace Cafe and the swimming pool, is an Oceania signature. Burgers -- including beef, turkey and tuna -- along with grilled panini, Reuben sandwiches and delicious skinny fries are superbly prepared. You can find healthy options, too, like grilled chicken and mahi-mahi sandwiches and gravlax.

The small salad bar is, unfortunately, not particularly appealing. If you want some greens, we recommend requesting your grilled items to be delivered in the Terrace Cafe, which has more fresh options for salads.

Waves Grill also has a fabulous milkshake and smoothie bar, and serves up housemade ice creams.

Waves Grill is open from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuscan Steak (Deck 10): This new blend of Oceania's trademark Toscana (Mediterranean) and Polo Grill (steak) restaurants offers a balance of tried-and-true favourites from each -- along with some new twists. Fans of Oceania's Toscana might want to know that there's no olive oil bar at Tuscan Steak, but each night a different variety is featured so you can try a few.

Popular dishes include starters like pork belly, lobster bisque and Chesapeake Bay crabcake. The grilled Romanesco salad, with asparagus, is delightful, and you can never go wrong with Oceania's Classic Caesar.

For entrees, there's a meat selection that includes Kobe meatballs, osso buco and lamb chops -- all pretty predictable choices for the steakhouse aspect of Tuscan Steak. For seafood lovers, lobster fra diavolo was a huge hit on our trip, as was the more simply prepared lobster with butter and the Dover sole. Pasta gets good representation, too; you can order an appetizer or entree portion, depending on your appetite. Choose between a wonderfully simple and fresh capellini with mozzarella, hand-rolled potato gnocchi or lobster risotto.

Tuscan Steak is open from 6:30 to 9 p.m. every night. Reservations are required.

Red Ginger (Deck 10): Originally rolled out on Marina, Red Ginger was an instant hit, with its Asian-fusion cuisine and dramatic and sleek setting. Oceania's R-class ships were only able to feature a few of Red Ginger's items on the Grand's menus because the smaller ships did not have space for an additional restaurant. Sirena is the first in the class to get its own Red Ginger, and fans of the restaurant will be relieved to find that there aren't too many differences. The menus are occasionally tweaked, but classics like the miso-glazed sea bass, lobster pad Thai and the scrumptious seven spices-crusted lamb rack are all here.

One big difference is the ambience; Red Ginger's signature red and black decor is consistent, but unlike the Marina and Riviera versions, Sirena's restaurant has walls of windows along two sides for magnificent views.

Reservations are required. Red Ginger is open from 6:30 to 9 p.m. nightly.

Afternoon Tea (Deck 10): Each afternoon, tea (and delectable pastries and savoury sandwiches) is served in the Horizons lounge. Tables are dressed up with linens and a quartet plays classical music. Afternoon tea is offered from 4 to 5 p.m.

Room Service: Complimentary room service is available 24/7 to passengers in all cabin categories. At breakfast, cooked and continental options are on offer. The anytime menu is quite comprehensive, offering everything from club sandwiches to salads (Cobb or Caesar), burgers (turkey, veggie, Black Angus) and grilled chicken and steak. Dessert is also available; if you are calorie splurging we recommend the warm apple pie with toffee sauce. Course-by-course service during all restaurant opening hours is available to passengers booked in suite cabins.

On Sirena, staterooms are smaller than average, particularly in the inside, outside and veranda categories. On the plus side, Oceania has significantly invested in revamping all cabins and suites prior to Sirena's debut. All beds were replaced with Oceania's signature Ultra Tranquility Bed and crisp 1,000-count linens, and all can be converted from a queen to twins. Every cabin got new soft goods, such as draperies and carpets, and new loveseats and balcony furniture.

Sirena's cosy standard cabins (insides through balconies) are brightened up with light colours and a subtle nautical design scheme. There's a seating area with small sofa and a small end table at dining height. The vanity/desk area has drawers and closet space is plentiful.

Standard cabin bathrooms did not get much of a refresh and are adequate if uninspiring; while a circa-1990s hair dryer is mounted on the wall, you'll find a more powerful version in the closet. Bathrooms are compact and have only a shower, with a curtain instead of glass door.

Amenities available to all passengers, regardless of cabin category, include mini-bar with complimentary sodas and bottled water, 24-hour room service, robes and slippers, hair dryer and flat-screen television with access to channels that include international and U.S. news, a Jacques Pepin cooking channel and an assortment of movies and sitcoms. There's also a DVD player; discs can be borrowed without charge from customer service. A new inclusion for Oceania is that wireless internet access is included in cruise fares for all passengers in Concierge Level cabins and above; all cabins are wired.

All cabins have generous storage, and beds are high enough to stow suitcases underneath.

Inside: Identical in amenities to outside and balcony cabins, inside cabins measure 160 square feet but do not have a window.

Oceanview: Ocean-view staterooms range from 143 to 165 square feet, and have either a large picture window or a pair of portholes.

Veranda: Staterooms with private balconies are plentiful on Oceania Sirena, and measure 216 square feet, which includes the veranda. Balconies are outfitted with a pair of mesh semi-reclining chairs and a small cocktail table.

Concierge Level Veranda: Identical in size, decor and layout to veranda cabins, what sets Concierge Level cabins apart is the extra amenities and services. These include priority status for restaurant reservations embarkation and luggage delivery, as well as free garment pressing upon boarding. The biggest perk is unlimited use of the private Spa Terrace at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub.

Suite: There are three suite categories available on Oceania Sirena. All are entitled to butler service; butlers can offer course-by-course in-suite dining from any restaurant during operating hours, packing and unpacking help and delivery of evening canapes. Passengers also have access to the same perks available to those in Concierge-Level cabins.

Penthouse: Penthouses measure a spacious 322 square feet and include a living area, with sofa, along with a dining table for two and a pair of chairs. The bathroom, completely revamped in granite, features a large glass-enclosed power-shower.

Vista Suite: Located all the way forward on Sirena, the ship's four Vista suites, measuring 786 square feet, are true two-room suites, with a sprawling living room with dining table for four, a powder room and a separate bedroom with a full shower-only bathroom. Each has a flat-screen television and a state-of-the-art surround sound system. The balcony spans both living and sleeping areas, and features full sun loungers plus another dining table for four for alfresco meals. Vista suite residents receive additional perks, such as a complimentary in-suite bar setup of six bottles of wine or spirits and use of an iPad.

Owner's Suite: The six 1,000-square-foot Owner's Suites are the largest accommodations and unique on Sirena. During the ship's refurbishment in April 2016, these suites were literally taken apart and rebuilt, with walls moved to create an airier ambience. Lavish and luxuriously decorated in a sleek style, they're meant to feel like a Manhattan apartment. The two-room suites, located on the best part of the ship -- the aft -- each have a powder room, living room with flat-screen television, state-of-the-art sound system and dining table for four. The bedroom features a king-size bed, vanity with illumination and a wall of closets. The completely re-done marble bathroom has a spacious power-shower and two sinks. The teak veranda stretches across the entire suite, with doors leading from both the living room and bedroom. It's furnished with full-length lounge chairs and a dining table that seats four. All other perks available to the Vista suite category are in place for the Owner's Suite.

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Best for...

Foodies, and those who want a more a la carte upscale experience

Not the best for...

Night owls who want a variety of entertainment options

Who goes on Oceania Cruises cruise ships?

Passengers tend to be 50-plus and well travelled, hailing mostly from the U.S. and Canada; generally, the longer the cruise, the older the cruiser. The line also draws travellers from the U.K., Ireland, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. As of 2026, the cruise line is exclusively for adults. 


Do I have to dress up on a Oceania Cruises cruise?

The dress code onboard Oceania cruise ships is country club casual, intended to partner perfectly with the line's "whatever you want, whenever you want" mindset. Passengers typically do dress up, by their own choice, for occasions like a night dining in Jacques Pepin's onboard restaurant, and you won't see jeans, shorts, T-shirts or tennis shoes in the dining venues.


Is everything included on Oceania Cruises cruises?

Oceania is partially inclusive. All Oceania cruisers get a choice of wine & beer by the glass with meals, or a generous shore excursion credit, plus free and unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, speciality coffees, teas and juices, as well as free unlimited internet and at least one reservation at the speciality restaurants. (Repeaters can go again by getting placed on a waiting list.) Extra costs include shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, spa and beauty services, and shop purchases. Cruisers in higher accommodation categories may have more inclusions


What are Oceania Cruises' most popular activities?

The spotlight onboard an Oceania sailing is on the destination, and enrichment lectures are always well attended. When the ships are at sea, many passengers head for the English-style library to stake out a huge leather chair and a good book, along with a pastry and coffee. The fitness centre and spa also get a lot of use. On Marina and Riviera, the large Artist's Loft studio has creative workshops in painting and drawing, as well as hands-on cooking classes in the Culinary Centre. Cruisers also show up for martini and wine tastings, lavish afternoon teas and classical string ensembles.


Prices based on:

Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom
Deluxe Ocean View Stateroom

  • 165-square-foot
  • Prestige Tranquility Bed, an Oceania Cruises Exclusive, with 1,000-thread-count linens
  • Refrigerated mini-bar with free and unlimited soft drinks and bottled water replenished daily
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service
  • Signature Belgian chocolates with nightly turndown service
  • Plush cotton towels
  • Thick cotton robes and slippers
  • Bulgari amenities
  • Handheld hair dryer
  • Flat-screen television with live satellite news and programming
  • DVD player with extensive 24-hour room service menu
  • Wireless internet access

Cabin Grade

C1

Veranda Stateroom
Veranda Stateroom

  • 216-square-foot
  • Prestige Tranquility Bed, an Oceania Cruises Exclusive, with 1,000-thread-count linens
  • Refrigerated mini-bar with free and unlimited soft drinks and bottled water replenished daily
  • Private teak veranda
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service
  • Signature Belgian chocolates with nightly turndown service
  • Plush cotton towels
  • Thick cotton robes and slippers
  • Bulgari amenities
  • Handheld hair dryer
  • Flat-screen television with live satellite news and programming
  • DVD player with extensive 24-hour room service menu
  • Wireless internet access

Cabin Grade

B2

Penthouse Suite
Penthouse Suite

  • 322-sqaure-foot
  • Priority 11 am ship embarkation with priority luggage delivery
  • 24-hour Butler service
  • Fresh fruit basket replenished daily
  • Priority online specialty restaurant and shore excursion reservation
  • Unlimited access to Canyon Ranch SpaClub® private Spa Terrace
  • Laptop computer with wireless Internet access
  • FREE Internet Package beginning with Winter 2015-16 voyages
  • Complimentary iPad®
  • Exclusive discounts on Internet usage plans
  • Bulgari gift set and variety of amenities
  • Choice of daily printed newspaper
  • Complimentary Oceania Cruises logo tote bag and personalized stationery
  • Cashmere lap blankets, perfect for relaxing on your veranda
  • Complimentary shoe shine service
  • Complimentary pressing of garments upon embarkation+

+Certain limitations apply

Cabin Grade

PH2

Glorious Greek Islands Cruise & Stay Collection

Greek Islands Cruise Circle Collection

Crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and the glorious Mediterranean sun, view our collection of sun-drenched Greek Island cruise and stay holidays.

Picture perfect beaches and ancient ruins in the birthplace of poetry and art, that the Greek Islands for you. With 6,000 islands and islets scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which only 227 islands are inhabited, these islands are an integral part of the Greek culture and tradition. The Greek Archipelago takes up 7,500 km of the country’s total 16,000 km coastline, offering a highly diversified landscape. Sheltered bays and coves harbour stunning sandy and pebble beaches, many awarded the blue flag. Some of the oldest European civilizations developed on the Greek islands, meaning the islands have a unique archaeological and architectural heritage, with fascinating local traditions of a centuries-old and multifaceted civilization.

Discover the Cruise Circle Collection – carefully curated by our team of experts...

At Cruise Circle, we're passionate about creating the perfect cruise holiday through our exclusive ‘Cruise Circle Collection’. We specialise in personalised service, tailoring every detail to suit your preferences. Whether you're dreaming of a specific destination, customising your itinerary, or arranging flights and hotels, our expert team is here to take care of everything – even adding those extra touches like tours or show tickets. With ATOL protection, you can relax knowing your holiday is secure, and we’re always here if you need us.

Need more inspiration? Check out our Cruise Destinations page, where you'll find all the fantastic places our cruise partners can take you. Once you've found the next must-see spot on your travel list, our Cruise Experts are ready to make it happen!

If you have something else in mind, or maybe a different date for your holiday, call us to tailor-make the perfect itinerary!

All-Inclusive Cruise & Stay Collection

From £1,249pp -- All-inclusive cruise & stay holidays

Why do we love these cruise holidays? All-inclusive cruise holidays are incredibly popular because they offer unbeatable convenience and value. With drinks packages included across all holidays featured below, they take the stress out of planning and budgeting while you’re on holiday. Plus selected holidays include Wi-Fi, shore excursion credit and more. One of the best aspects of travelling is having your drinks paid for before you even set sail, meaning you don’t have to worry about unexpected costs once you're onboard. This all-inclusive approach makes it easier to relax and enjoy every moment without keeping track of individual expenses. Plus, booking these packages in advance often comes with a discount, making it even more appealing to secure everything before you depart. It’s a hassle-free way to ensure your vacation is packed with fun, great experiences, and peace of mind.

Luxury Cruise Circle Collection - Mediterranean Cruise & Stay Adventures

Luxury Cruise & Stay Mediterranean Collection

Experience the Mediterranean through an exceptional collection of cruise and stay holidays, thoughtfully designed around refined travel, effortless comfort and unforgettable discovery. Sail aboard elegant vessels where attentive service and exceptional surroundings set the tone, before extending your journey with stays in carefully selected destinations. From the timeless beauty of coastal villages and historic cities to the allure of sunlit shores and hidden gems, each itinerary reveals the many layers of the Mediterranean at an unhurried pace. Seamlessly combining luxury cruising with handpicked stays, these journeys offer a sophisticated way to explore the region, with every detail considered. Wherever your Mediterranean escape leads, we are here to create a truly memorable experience.

Discover the Cruise Circle Collection – carefully curated by our team of experts...

At Cruise Circle, we're passionate about creating the perfect cruise holiday through our exclusive ‘Cruise Circle Collection’. We specialise in personalised service, tailoring every detail to suit your preferences. Whether you're dreaming of a specific destination, customising your itinerary, or arranging flights and hotels, our expert team is here to take care of everything – even adding those extra touches like tours or show tickets. With ATOL protection, you can relax knowing your holiday is secure, and we’re always here if you need us.

If you have something else in mind, or maybe a different date for your holiday, call us to tailor-make the perfect itinerary.

Book with confidence