Oriana is an expression of P&O Cruises long cruising history. Refined and elegant, her broad teak decks, tiered stern and traditional artworks capture the romance of cruise travel. Designed for speed, this elegant superliner can take you to many ports in one holiday. Perfect for world voyages, for long and leisurely cruises to the Mediterranean or for exploring the historic sights, natural splendour and rugged coastline of the United States and Canada.

Sales Consultant, Lauren, has cruised before on P&O Cruises' Oceana, but last month saw her and her partner Kevin experience Oriana for the first time. They decided to spend Christmas abroad last year and opted for Oriana's 'Canaries Taster' cruise having been enticed by the regular flow of rave reviews from our Cruise Club members.

Departing on 18 December 2006 from a chilly Southampton terminal, they were greeted with warm smiles from the waiting staff as they embarked Oriana. They began to thaw as they sipped the champagne handed to them on arrival.

'The ship looked bigger than I imagined as we walked along side her,' says Lauren. 'Her exterior was gleaming white, and we didn't have to wait long to step aboard. We were pleasantly surprised at her sophisticated new décor, as Oriana has recently been improved. The cabins have been refurbished with a stylish feel similar to that of a boutique hotel, with authentic shades of navy and gold, and new duvets and bed runners.'

The 'Canaries Taster' itinerary sailed to the warmer shores of Madeira and the Canary Islands, which was another factor Lauren considered when booking this cruise.
'This year we fancied doing something a little different for the festive holidays, so we did our Christmas shopping the month before we travelled to avoid the rush of shoppers, meaning we could spend more time relaxing in the sunshine on holiday. We packed our summer clothes and set sail from Southampton, leaving behind the grey days at home.' Lauren says.

'There were plenty of festive parties on the ship over Christmas, which were a great excuse to get out our best evening wear. We even got to see Santa Claus coming down the funnel and hand out presents to us all! It was a great way to spend Christmas and our fellow passengers were all in the festive spirit too. There seemed to be a real sense of camaraderie on board.'

Lauren and Kevin also tried out celebrity chef, Gary Rhodes' new venture, Oriana Rhodes. Gary has been creating signature dishes specifically for Oriana Rhodes, whilst the atmosphere and core menu mirrors the quality of the highly successful Arcadian Rhodes on board P&O Cruises' Arcadia.

'The food was fantastic in the main Peninsular restaurant on board, but we decided to try out Gary Rhodes' restaurant and see if it lived up to our expectations. Well, it certainly did that. The meal was outstanding. We received complimentary hors d'oeuvres and very attentive service. We can highly recommend it and feel it was well worth paying the small premium,' Says Lauren. 'But I would definitely advise people to pre-book their table as soon as they're on board, as it is very popular.'

Below we have highlighted Oriana's unique style of cruising that has proven her very popular with scores of guests, both old and new.

About Oriana

Oriana entered service in April 1995 as the first cruise liner custom-built for the British cruise market. She is specifically designed and equipped to operate world voyages. And embodies the classic lines, comfort and ambience of traditional ocean liners. She was the fastest cruise ship built for 25 years, with an operating speed of 24 knots. Her high speed and technically advanced hull enable Oriana to operate the best and most far-reaching itineraries worldwide.

Like her predecessor, Oriana celebrates in her name the two great Elizabethan eras. She was named in Southampton on 6th April 1995 by Her Majesty, the Queen Elizabeth II. Combining elegance and classic cruising, Oriana's timeless style is a favourite with many. Wooden panelling, traditional artworks and tiered decks provide the most refined of settings. Her terraced stern and sense of history epitomise the romance of cruise travel. Broad decks, quiet nooks and sparkling pools invite you to linger and relax. And her open bow provides the perfect vantage point as you sail.

Oriana caters for all ages. Her children's clubs keep even the youngest seafarer entertained, while there are plenty of diversions for adults too. Slightly more formal than Arcadia and Oceana, Oriana embraces the elegance of evenings on board. Enjoying traditional Club Dining in the main dining rooms, you can really get to know your table companions. Bistro dinners in Le Jardin and grills at the Terrace Grill present mouth-watering Select Dining alternatives. After a leisurely meal numerous choices beckon. The lights, drama and majesty of the Theatre Royal. The thrill of the spin of the roulette wheel in the casino. The inviting ambience of Anderson's. Cabaret, comedy and live music. Or a night cap in the Crow's Nest overlooking a moonlit ocean. Classic cruising at its very best!

Ship facts :

• Country of registry London
• Entered service April 1995
• Named by Her Majesty the Queen
• Gross tonnage 69,153 tons
• Length overall 260 metres (853 feet)
• Service speed 24 knots
• Crew 794
• Regular passenger capacity 1,822
• Passenger decks 10
• Passenger cabins 914

Click on the ship name to read more staff cruise reviews:
P&O Cruises' Arcadia
P&O Cruises' Oceana
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Ocean Village
Fred Olsen's Braemar
RCI's Voyager of the Seas
Hebridean Spirit
Family Cruising aboard Oceana

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