Oceania Allura

Allura’s main pool has a gradual stairway entry instead of a ladder, daybeds and loungers in sun and shade, and two hot tubs. The pool bar in the corner runs drink service around the deck, and in the evening a big screen and a live band turn it into an entertainment zone. Next door, Waves Grill serves upgraded poolside fare like a surf-and-turf Wagyu burger, a Reuben and paninis, with a smoothie and milkshake bar just behind it.

Baristas is Oceania’s coffee shop, with complimentary espresso drinks and seating that looks out over the pool deck. Its bakery makes croissants and pastries right on site, so the space smells wonderful all day. A few steps away, Aquamar Kitchen serves spa-focused cuisine from morning until early afternoon: smoothies and juices, build-your-own poke bowls, sandwiches, wraps and avocado toast. Danny calls it the best casual dining experience in the industry.

The Terrace Café is far more than a buffet. Chef-created menus change through the day, with made-to-order eggs at breakfast, a grill for steaks, chicken and even lobster, a salad bar, pizzas, and desserts with ice creams and sorbets. A pasta station makes handmade pasta to order every day. Floor-to-ceiling windows line the sides, and the aft terrace has shade, heaters and booth seating with views straight out over the wake.

On Oceania, every specialty restaurant is included in your fare; your suite or stateroom category sets how many reservations you get. Polo Grill is the classic steakhouse, with starters like foie gras, pork belly and shrimp cocktail. Toscana serves handmade pastas, risotto and filet, with seating that wraps around the aft. Between them sits Privée, an intimate room for multi-course wine and Champagne pairing dinners by La Reserve, which carry an extra charge.

The Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center offers massages, wraps and facials, a full salon and a men’s barber shop. The steam room and sauna in the locker rooms are complimentary for all guests. Just forward is the Aquamar Spa Terrace, with a thalassotherapy pool, two hot tubs, daybeds and heated stone loungers. Access is included for Concierge Level and suite guests; everyone else can ask at the spa about a pass.

Horizons is the classic observation lounge all the way forward, with floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping views, the place to be when the ship cruises through scenic waters. Afternoon tea is served here every day, elegantly done. Later in the evening it becomes the dance club, with a bar, dance floor and live band. Nearby are the cigar lounge, the Executive Lounge for suite guests, and the library in its new spot on Deck 14 forward.

Oceania’s focus on lifelong learning shows all over Allura. The Artist Loft, unique to Oceania, has an onboard artist who helps guests create their own work. The Culinary Center offers hands-on cooking classes, and some pair a class with a market visit ashore alongside the chef; afterward you can dine on what you made. Guest chefs vary by sailing. The Lync Digital Center teaches photography, editing and other tech skills.

Red Ginger serves Pan-Asian cuisine in a striking dining room, with an expanded menu that adds Nikkei touches, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, alongside favorite curry dishes. Danny calls it his favorite restaurant on any cruise ship. Like every specialty restaurant on Oceania, it’s included in your fare. Just outside, the boutiques carry new and pre-owned luxury bags, jewelry and watches at duty-free prices, plus logo wear curated for Allura.