Oceania Cruises has long been highly regarded in the cruise sector for its destination-focused itineraries, best-in-class approach to the culinary arts and high calibre of design-led ships. Now, it’s seeking to raise the bar once again, with a fresh class of ships set to join the fleet.
Here’s everything we know so far about Oceania Sonata and what it has to offer discerning travellers.
It’s in a class of its own
And we mean that quite literally. Oceania Sonata will welcome 1,390 guests as it embarks on its maiden voyage in August 2027, becoming the first ship in the all-new Sonata Class to set sail.
In the words of Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Oceania Cruises, “We’re delighted to unveil Oceania Sonata, the start of our exciting next chapter, as we forge our fantastic future as leaders in luxury cruising.”
He continued, “Each new ship offers an opportunity to reimagine and perfect the travel experience, and as the inaugural vessel of our Sonata Class, Oceania Sonata embodies our vision for the future – one defined by a passion for exquisite cuisine, exceptional service and immersive travel experiences.”
Currently under construction by Fincantieri, the renowned Italian shipbuilder behind Oceania Marina, Oceania Riviera, Oceania Vista and Oceania Allura, the ship marks a defining moment for Oceania Cruises.
This newest addition, which takes the fleet to nine, will be the first of a quartet of sister ships. Together, they will make up the Sonata Class, ushering in a new era of evolution for the line.
The finest cuisine at sea®
Travellers with epicurean tastes will find their appetites well and truly sated aboard Oceania Sonata, which will be anchored by the cruise line’s signature commitment to gastronomy.
Those who have sailed with Oceania Cruises before will recognise many of the beloved dining venues that have become synonymous with the brand, including the elegant Grand Dining Room, as well as speciality dining venues such as Jacques, the line’s sophisticated French restaurant, pan-Asian Red Ginger, Polo Grill steakhouse and Toscana, which serves classic Italian fare.
Most exciting of all, the new ship will debut two never-before-seen-at-sea dining venues, each with a character entirely its own.
Jason Montague explains, “Oceania Sonata represented an incredible opportunity to reimagine the future of our culinary programme, while still offering the culinary concepts our guests know and love.”
Debuting La Table par Maîtres Cuisiniers de France
Born of a partnership with the prestigious association of Maîtres Cuisiniers de France (MCF) and Oceania Cruises, La Table is set to be a world-first and one of the most exclusive fine dining restaurants at sea.
The globally renowned collective of MCF, which has inducted Oceania Cruises’ executive culinary directors Chef Alexis Quaretti and Chef Eric Barale into its glittering echelons, has spent over 70 years preserving French culinary tradition and rigorous standards.
La Table will carry on this legacy with a rotation of menus by Quaretti and Barale in tandem with a selection of specially invited Master Chefs of France.
Chef Alexis Quaretti explained, “La Table has allowed us to create a dining experience that honours the heritage of French gastronomy, a cuisine that we are passionate about, and propels it forward.”
Each evening, 18 guests will be able to dine in the intimate space for a surcharge, enjoying a culinary journey with expertly paired wines. It will also host Oceania Cruises’ signature Dom Pérignon Experience, a six-course tasting menu paired with three vintage champagnes.
Announcing Nikkei Kitchen
This brand-new dining venue, which will join the ship’s other always-included speciality dining options, brings guests a dynamic blend of Peruvian flavours and Japanese culinary techniques and tastes.
It takes its inspiration from Nikkei cuisine, which traces its origins to the late 19th century, when Japanese immigrants settled in Peru and began adapting recipes that reminded them of home with the ingredients of their newfound environs.
Dishes typical of this fusion often feature fresh seafood, bright citrus, soy-based sauces and piquant peppers.
The inspired culinary concept is the result of Oceania Cruises’ executive culinary directors working closely with Chef Gustavo Sugay, who brings more than 20 years of experience in this culinary tradition.
Chef Alexis Quaretti noted, “With the addition of Nikkei Kitchen, we’re able to celebrate bold, global flavours in unexpected, fresh ways.”
It’s a design masterpiece
Beyond tantalising your taste buds, Oceania Sonata promises to be a feast for your other senses, too. It’s poised to be a vision to behold, with interiors that blend grand, light-filled spaces that inspire celebration with serene enclaves, designed for relaxation.
While in many ways it reflects the aesthetic which Oceania Cruises’ intimate ships are known for, including designer touches and resplendent decks, it has enticements all its own. Notably, it will be the line’s most spacious and amenity-rich ship to date.
That extends to the accommodation, 30 per cent of which will be suites. That includes two brand-new suite categories and spectacularly reimagined Owner’s Suites. Additionally, something guaranteed across categories is access to ever-changing seascapes, given each suite and stateroom comes complete with a spacious private veranda.
To be among the first to know more about Oceania Sonata, you can pre-register here for previews dropping on the 21st of January, 2026. From the 28th of January, you'll officially be able to book your place on board.
Here’s what else to know about Oceania Cruises before booking:
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