Oceania Cruises' first Allura Class...

Following a christening featuring a performance by Harry Connick Jr, the new vessel is sailing the Med

Oceania Cruises has christened its newest ship Vista at a glittering ceremony in Valletta, Malta, featuring an exclusive performance from Grammy and Emmy award-winning musician Harry Connick Jr.

The first of the line’s Allura Class vessels, the 1,200-guest, all-veranda-cabin ship made her debut with a star-studded celebration headlined by her godmother, celebrated Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur and Emmy award-winning food personality Giada De Laurentiis.

Speaking at the event, De Laurentiis said: "I'm so honored to have been chosen as godmother of this incredible new ship and be a part of this glorious night in Malta. From amazing culinary experiences to thoughtful details at every turn, Vista is truly a dream ship. Cheers to this inaugural season and to everyone who sails aboard her.”

As godmother, De Laurentiis will create two signature dishes to be served in Toscana, Oceania Cruises' authentic Italian specialty restaurant evolved from rich family traditions, as well as The Grand Dining Room, the luxurious grand dame of the line's culinary venues.

Vista features 11 onboard culinary outlets, including three that are exclusive to to the vessel: Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes, The Bakery at Baristas, serving tempting freshly baked pastries, and new signature restaurant, Ember.

The ship is staffed with a ratio of two crew members to every three guests. In addition, it boasts one of the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, which measure more than 290 square feet.

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Oceania Cruises president Frank A Del Rio said: “We've been eagerly awaiting this historic day as we christen our first new ship in more than 10 years and pave the way for an exciting future. The world-class experience of this beautiful ceremony perfectly aligns with Vista’s impeccable onboard experience, which features a stunning design, exceptional entertainment, top-notch service and innovative culinary delights.”

Following the seven-night roundtrip VIP christening cruise, Vista set sail on her maiden voyage on 13 May from Rome to Venice and is now embarking on a summer itinerary in the Mediterranean.

Vista’s 2024 summer season will feature grand voyages in the eastern Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas, visiting Italy, Turkey and Greece.

For more information, visit www.oceaniacruises.com