A look inside Oceania Cruises' second Allura-class ship

He says in addition to showcase spaces, such as the atrium, the interior design was equally focused on every area of the ship.

“We know what works on board and what doesn’t from a functional standpoint, but we like to challenge ourselves to manipulate perception,” he explains. “We consider every square millimetre and every touchpoint in the guest journey. This means choosing textures, patterns and materials that make the guest feel comfortable, inspired and uplifted. We make sure to consider negative space as well, including the areas around chairs, beds and in corridors, to offer everyone a sense of luxury and comfort.

“Our guests are sophisticated travellers. They always expect great design, but they tend to be unforgiving about an awkwardly conceived wardrobe or an inconvenient night stand.”

Mr Ruiz says the design has been created to evoke a luminous, residential estate‑home ambience that he describes as light, airy, and gracious.

“Public spaces are articulated with generous volumes, subtle natural light filtering, reflective surfaces, and layered lighting,” he says. “Oceania Allura features a grand staircase, crystal‑inset balustrades, and warm walnut, sea‑inspired colours, with an elegant flow from arrival to central gathering spaces.

“Studios and public venues interconnect in a logical yet leisurely pattern - central atrium leading to dining, lounges, spa and enrichment zones, encouraging intuitive movement while maintaining serene retreat moments.”

He says Studio DADO is particularly proud of spaces such as the atrium, which has a floor-to-ceiling crystal chandelier alongside a curving staircase.

“It feels more like a piece of sculpture than a light fixture,” he continues. “It works as a composition because it suggests the lines of a nautilus shell or the organic shape of a whirlpool. It alludes to water and the ocean through shape, form and materials.”

Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Oceania brand, and Mr Ruiz also cites the restaurants as outstanding spaces on the ship.

“The team challenged us to create memorable, authentic places that guests would never forget,” he says. “The Creperie is a brand-new culinary concept for Oceania Cruises, inspired by French cafes. An informal, light-hearted venue, it is already proving to be a popular addition to Oceania Cruises culinary offering. The beloved signature French restaurant, Jacques, named for legendary chef Jacques Pepin, the line’s first-ever culinary director, returns with a bistro‑elegant decor that reinforces ‘l’art de la table’.

“The dining venues rival any great restaurant you might find in London, New York or Tokyo. Oceania Cruises leads in the industry with cuisine, and it’s a joy working with its team who are fully committed to making the venues world class and unforgettable.”

Moving to materials, Mr Ruiz says rich woods, marble, plush fabrics and custom textiles in a colour palette inspired by coastal and estate‑home tones, such as creamy neutrals, warm metallic accents, deep blues, sienna and chocolate browns, create understated elegance and continuity throughout the ship.

“Our residential approach ensures comfort, elegance and refined finishes that align with the line’s brand DNA, he adds. “Hospitality design is a partnership and it often relies on positive tension, especially when the goal is to take something to the next level. As designers, we ensure that every touchpoint is thought through, intentional, and perfect.”

Commenting on Oceania Allura’s 613 staterooms and suites, all ocean-facing and the majority with step-out balconies, he says, “We wanted them to feel special, comfortable and residential, but elevated, like a better, more elegant version of home. The result is a classic, even timeless design that feels fresh and contemporary.”

Summing up the new ship, currently the eighth in the fleet, he says, “The design reinforces Oceania Cruises’ brand pillars: culinary excellence, destination‑focused refinement, and small‑ship luxury. Oceania Allura is the most innovative and luxurious Oceania Cruises’ ship to date; it represents a bold vision for an entirely new generation of luxury travel experiences.

“Our long-time partnership with Oceania Cruises means deep brand familiarity. We understand Oceania Cruises guests: affluent, experiential, culinary‑driven travellers. And our residential approach ensures comfort, elegance and refined finishes that align with the line’s brand DNA.”

Oceania Allura is currently sailing on a variety of Mediterranean itineraries and will then reposition for an autumn season on North America’s East Coast, followed by Caribbean cruises out of PortMiami for winter 2025/26.

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