Tackling Stereotypes About Luxury Cruising

Oceania Cruises is taking a fresh approach to luxury, attempting to break away from stereotypes while given its target customer base more freedom to make their own choices.

In many minds, both B2C and B2B, luxury means all-suite, all-inclusive while luxury hotels are not all-suite and all-inclusive, says Riet Goetschalckx , Sales Director for EMEA for Oceania Cruises. Its a perception unique to the cruise industry.

With its mid-sized ships that can access smaller ports, a high staff-to-passenger ratio and a focus on cuisines, Oceania is targeting a market that wants a relaxed sense of luxury, without being told how to cruise. We want to position ourselves as the entry level into luxury, she says.

The cruise line has rolled out Starlink WiFi fleetwide , and offers a range of restaurants and onboard activities, all included in the package. Alcoholic beverage and shore excursions remain optional and are not included. Goetschalckx says this provides guests with peace of mind, as they know their budget but at the same time they dont have to follow a set programme. They dont have to take an excursion every day. Maybe they want to stroll around Portofino, shop and drink a glass of wine its their choice.

As previously reported by Travel News , longer cruises continue to grow in popularity, along with a big focus on destination discovery. Our itineraries are planned to have a port every day because our clients want to experience, discover and learn, she adds.