This was our fourth cruise and first with Oceania. We did not use the cruise lines air arrangements and took their credit instead so as to have more flexibility. This enabled us to arrive in Auckland two days before the cruise to adjust to the time change. We stayed at the Westin Harbor Quay and liked its location. The day of the cruise we were able to walk to the wharf after breakfast to ensure that the Nautica was there.

Check-in on the ship was fast and professional. The ship is immaculate with pristine public areas that show no sign of wear. Our cabin was ready after lunch and our luggage was nearby in the hallway (first time in last three cruises!). The cabin while small was clean and showed no signs of wear and tear. There was adequate storage space for clothing. The balcony for us was a must-have. The cabin attendant was excellent and responsive. We used the ship's laundry service several times and our clothing always came back perfect. There is a self-service laundry, and make sure you don't book a cabin nearby.

We like the open dining experience and preferred larger tables to meet the very congenial passengers (mostly Americans with many Canadians and some British). The food was very, very good on the ship. Unlike other cruise ships it was well-spiced and nicely presented. Service in the main dining-room was excellent. The bread, deserts and pastries stand out as being special. The ship has an excellent policy when it comes to wine. You may buy a bottle and the wine steward will keep it for you and bring it out with diner every evening. We were visited by the maitre-d and the chef several times to ask how we enjoyed the meal. We took room service breakfast the days we toured and it was prompt and reliable. Read more