Oceania Allura Review July 2025

Last week, I was invited aboard Oceania Allura for a special shakedown voyage. It was a chance to experience the ship before she officially welcomes guests. As the newest addition to Oceania Cruises’ fleet, expectations were quite high. From the moment I stepped aboard, I sensed this wasn’t just another new ship – it was something special.

First Impressions

From the moment I walked up the gangway and entered Allura’s main atrium, I noticed the freshness. The subtle scent of a brand-new ship lingered in the air, while soft lounge music created a soothing backdrop.

As I looked around, I was immediately impressed by Allura’s design. The interiors felt light and elegant, dressed in rich textiles, gleaming marble and a neutral palette that struck a perfect balance between modern and timeless. At no point did the space feel overstated or flashy. Instead, it offered comfort, warmth and a quiet sense of luxury.

Just as striking as the design was the welcome from the crew. Their pride in the ship was clear, and their warm, relaxed approach set the tone for the voyage ahead.

Musicians at the Atrium of Oceania Allura

Accommodation: Concierge Level Comfort

For this sailing, I stayed in a Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom (A1 category), and it genuinely felt like a boutique-style retreat. It reminded me of something you might discover on the French Riviera. At just under 300 square feet, the room offered ample space to lounge, unpack and truly settle in.

The separate seating area made evenings feel effortless, while the private balcony quickly became my morning sanctuary. It was perfect for sipping coffee and watching the sea glide by.

The bathroom stood out too, with marble finishes and a spacious walk-in rainforest shower that gave off a spa-like vibe. As for the bed, Oceania’s signature Tranquillity Bed absolutely lived up to its name. With its soft linens and ideal firmness, I enjoyed some of the best sleep I’ve ever had at sea.

Being a Concierge guest came with thoughtful extras, including a chilled bottle of Prosecco on arrival, complimentary laundry, access to a private Concierge Lounge, priority dining reservations and a few luxurious touches such as a branded tote and buttery-soft cashmere lap blankets.

A1 Concierge Level Veranda Stateroom

Dining on Allura

Dining on board Allura was, without doubt, one of the standout aspects of the cruise. Every meal was delicious, well-thought-out, and beautifully presented. Whether formal or casual, breakfast or dinner, it was clear that cuisine remains at the heart of the Oceania experience.

The Grand Dining Room offered a classic, elegant atmosphere. One evening, I started with escargot, followed by a velvety pumpkin soup, grilled chicken with mashed potatoes, and a traditional summer pudding for dessert. Another night, a vibrant aubergine starter and perfectly cooked steak with crispy chips were finished with a beautifully balanced crème brûlée cake, delicious!

The Terrace Café quickly became my go-to. Dining outdoors on the shaded patio, with views over the water, made even the simplest breakfast feel like a treat. Most mornings, I started with a freshly made plate of eggs, bacon and all the usual favourites. At lunchtime, comforting dishes like roast turkey, sausage and seasonal vegetables gave a homely feel to the meals.

Polo Grill, the ship’s signature steakhouse, delivered that classic clubby feel, deep wood tones, white tablecloths, and a warm, intimate atmosphere. My mushroom soup and lamb ribs were hearty and full of flavour, perfect for a slower-paced evening meal.

Aquamar Kitchen offered a lighter, wellness-focused alternative. I ordered a grilled chicken burger that felt indulgent without being heavy, the kind of satisfying yet balanced meal that leaves you feeling good.

Waves Grill, by the pool, had a relaxed beachy energy. It was hard to resist the crispy fried chicken wings (I nearly went back for seconds), and the pizza, fresh from the wood-fired oven, was the ultimate casual poolside lunch.

Open Spaces and Relaxed Exploration

One of the first things I noticed about Allura was just how spacious she felt. With only 600 guests on board for this sailing, around half of her full capacity, the atmosphere was wonderfully uncrowded.

The Martinis Bar was stylish and sophisticated, ideal for a pre-dinner cocktail or a quiet nightcap. The library was a peaceful haven,  plush seating, soft lighting and shelves of books for those lazy sea days.

The Aquamar Spa Terrace became a favourite. Overlooking the sea, this open-air deck was designed for calm. With whirlpools, plunge pools, and luxurious sun loungers, it felt like a secret sanctuary, serene and beautifully designed.

For those keen to stay active, Allura offers an excellent gym, a jogging track, paddle tennis, shuffleboard and even a golf putting green. Whether you’re all about wellness or simply enjoy a gentle stroll in the sea air, there’s something here for every pace.

Enrichment and Evening Entertainment

Though I didn’t catch a full evening show, the entertainment programme looked promising. The line-up included string quartets, pianists, solo vocalists and guest headliners.

There was also an enriching lecture programme, with talks covering destination insights, culture and wellness. The Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center hosted a series of seminars, adding an intellectual and holistic layer to the experience.

Personalised Service That Stands Out

Service on Allura felt both polished and genuinely warm. Crew members quickly remembered my name, and it was a lovely surprise to be greeted as “Mr Paul” more than once. Such a small detail that made a big impression.

There were a few teething issues on the final day, particularly at the bar where service was a little inconsistent, but nothing that detracted from the overall experience. These are the sorts of things you’d expect on a shakedown sailing, and the crew were clearly doing their best to fine-tune every detail.

One small note for British travellers, the staterooms don’t include tea or coffee-making facilities, which may come as a surprise to some.

Crew on Oceania Allura

A Ship for Those Who Love Quiet Luxury

What really defined the Allura experience was its atmosphere. She’s an easy ship to settle into, elegant but never formal, polished but not pretentious.

Since this was a shakedown sailing, most guests on board were from the travel industry, so the passenger mix wasn’t typical. However, from what I know about Oceania Cruises and Allura’s design, I’m confident the ship will attract a diverse range of guests. Couples, solo travellers, and even multi-generational families will all feel right at home.

The atmosphere on board feels perfectly suited to people who enjoy doing things at their own pace. There is no pressure to dress formally or follow a set routine. It is all about comfort, personal choice and a more relaxed kind of luxury, something Oceania delivers beautifully.

Top Deck/Pool Area

Final Thoughts: Would I Sail Again?

Disembarkation was efficient, though there was a slight hiccup with my transfer confirmations. That said, the reception team handled it smoothly and professionally, ensuring everything was taken care of until the end.

Would I sail aboard Oceania Allura again? Without question. She’s a beautifully built ship with a calm elegance, exceptional food, and a crew who genuinely care. Whether you’re a returning Oceania guest or discovering the brand for the first time, Allura is a ship that delivers something memorable, a refined-yet-relaxed luxury experience that feels easy to love.

Oceania Allura docked

If you would like to learn more about Oceania Cruises or discuss a future voyage, please email me or call 0800 008 6677.

All photos taken by Sarah Lucy Brown – Instagram