Yes this was our first cruise, not just with Oceania but ever so we came into the experience with no expectations other than the high recommendations made by friends who had sailed on Riviera before. We did get notification prior to leaving that Noro virus on the last cruise would cause delays during boarding so were prepared and in comparison to others were in our room fairly quickly with luggage. First off let me start by stating that this is a beautiful boat and most certainly gives the WOW factor with string quartet, circular staircase and chandeliers upon entry. The art collection displayed through out is also impressive and the overall feel is as 'high end' as was promised. Unfortunately our experience nose dives quickly after that first impression.

The first 4 days were filled with excessive sanitation solution making everything sticky and wet (yes I know it was as per CDC requirements)-by the end of the 4 days the finish was coming off the handrails and wall paper was bubbling. The staff as others have said were friendly but so busy with added duties that service was slow and sometimes non existent. There was little to no communication by those in charge on how the situations was progressing or what to expect, even to as simple as what the sanitization solution contained for those who might be sensitive as it was everywhere! Yes I am aware that there is a fine line between informing and alarming the passengers but Oceania caters to generally mature well educated adults who I think would have appreciated being more included in what and why certain processes were continuing. Other passengers were constantly telling us to reserve judgement on the ship as this experience was not normal for the line.

After the 4 days a ray of light did come thru as we entered the dining room to find linens, salt and pepper on the table, and settings already in place- sounds small but made a big difference. Unfortunately, although the extra cleaning requirement had been lifted the service and mood on the boat never quite recovered. We found staff tired and irritated. In the buffet area staff seemed scarce making any kind of service such as drink orders or coffee refills beyond slow (40 minutes to get coffee). The service in other general areas was not any better. Read more