Review of Oceania's Coral Seas and Asian Jewels
ITINERARY This cruise itinerary proved to be very interesting and diverse, visiting ports in Australia and then jumping up to Indonesia, and then to Thailand. This was our 4th Oceania cruise, and the food was excellent as is the norm for Oceania. However, this cruise seemed to be a cut above the other 3 in the food area. I wonder how this multi-national staff can be so professionally trained in serving food and tending to the needs of the cruisers. There are no lines to enter restaurants, you eat when you want, and sit with whom you wish. The maitre d' will ask if you wish to dine alone or share with others. Sharing is a great way to meet other cruisers.
CRUISE DIRECTOR We had the pleasure of having Dottie Kulasa as our cruise director. This amazing woman is everywhere and so attentive to the needs of the cruisers. I was so pleasantly surprised when I boarded the ship to be invited to a Superbowl party, which had just begun in the Nautica Lounge. Dottie had arranged a buffet football lunch served by the wonderful wait staff. This was so important to me, as I am from New Orleans and feared that I'd miss seeing the Saints win their first Superbowl. Of course, Dottie learned quickly that I was from New Orleans as she is so observant.
We opted for the smaller balcony cabin. Having a balcony is great! We are spoiled now. There is ample space to put luggage, hanging and drawers. The desk area needs improvement. It has to double for a make-up station and desk. This is also where I dry hair as it's where the outlet for the provided hand held hairdryer is. There is a large mirror above the desk. I would suggest 2 cabinets above on each side of the mirror to store things. The drawer in the center of the desk is very shallow and nothing fits in it. A deeper drawer would be a plus. The room was very quiet even though the laundry was across from us.