Nautica Review
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We like small ships and river cruises so Oceania was a preference over larger ships to see these locations. Verandah stateroom was roomy enough although bathroom and shower were small (not a surprise if you follow Cruise Critic). MDR food was good although we could not say it was head & shoulders above everyone else, as some would have us believe. Both specialty restaurants were better - we enjoyed the extra attention and quality of food. Polo Grill was our preference over Toscana.
We found Nautica to be a good blend of the 'large ship' (specialty restaurants, casino, library, etc) and the 'small ship' (easy on and off at all times). However, other than the enrichment lectures, the rest of the on-board activities were the usual mundane mix - I would have expected better from Oceania. Staff was the usual multi-national mix. All were competent but only a few were genuinely engaging. Captain Max was excellent - personable, informative and funny. David was a competent but not terribly warm cruise director.
Oceania lived up to its reputation for having a relaxed attitude to bringing wine and beer on board for in-cabin consumption and we certainly appreciated this sensible approach compared to some of the large cruise lines.
Cabin Review
Perfectly adequate living area, good beds, just enough balcony for 4 (if you are good friends).
Ship shows its age around the balcony doors, etc. - e.g. rust.
Cramped entrance way with bathroom door and closet doors. We found lots of drawer and cupboard space and also used suitcases under the bed.
Bathroom is cramped and shower stall would be very tight for larger people.
Port Reviews
St. Petersburg
Small group of 16, excellent guide, well organized 2 days which allowed us to see everything in St Petersburg at better value than cruise line options.
Tallinn
A member of our Cruise Critic roll call arranged a private tour for 14 of us. This ended up being a highlight for all. Beautiful, picturesque old town and a remarkably good young woman as our tour guide. Then lunch on our own in the town square and a stroll back through the streets to the ship.
Visby
Fortunately, weather was excellent and Nautica docked in Visby rather than tendered as we expected. Another independent tour arranged through our Cruise Critic roll call group. Very good walking tour with lots of history, personal experiences and yarns along the way. An easy stroll to and from the ship to the town centre.
Brugge (Bruges)
Ypres and Flanders Fields. For anyone with an interest in WW1, this was an excellent experience with a knowledgeable guide who spoke from the heart. Tyne Cot cemetery, Menin Gate, Flanders Field Museum, Essex Farm Cemetery and John McCrae memorial.