Oceania Cruises celebrated the christening of its newest ship Vista last night at a ceremony in Valletta, Malta.
The first of the line’s Allura-class vessels, the 1,200-guest, all-balcony ship made her debut with a celebration headlined by her godmother, Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur, and TV personality Giada De Laurentiis. The event also included a performance from award-winning musician Harry Connick Jr.
Guests at the ceremony were treated to the opening performance of “Into the Night” from Vista‘s dance-centric theater show led by “Dancing with the Stars” pro dancer and choreographer Britt Stewart, before De Laurentiis took the stage to officially name and christen Vista with the champagne bottle break across the hull. The evening ended with fireworks over Valletta’s harbor.
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“We have been eagerly awaiting this historic day as we christen our first new ship in more than ten years and pave the way for an exciting future,” said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises.
“The world-class experience of this beautiful ceremony perfectly aligns with Vista‘s impeccable onboard experience, which features a stunning design, exceptional entertainment, top-notch service and innovative culinary delights. We are so thankful to our team members and partners worldwide who have worked tirelessly to bring us to Vista‘s grand debut.”
The 67,000 gross-ton Vista boasts the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, which are more than 290 square feet, and also includes new Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms for solo travelers. The ship features eight bars, lounges, and entertainment venues, 11 dining venues — including three that are new to Oceania — and the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center and Aquamar Spa Terrace.
“I am so honored to have been chosen as godmother of this incredible new ship and be a part of this glorious night in Malta,” said Giada De Laurentiis. “From amazing culinary experiences to thoughtful details at every turn, Vista is truly a dream ship. Cheers to this inaugural season and to everyone who sails aboard her.”
As godmother, De Laurentiis is creating two signature dishes that will be served at the ship’s Italian specialty restaurant, Toscana, as well as in The Grand Dining Room.
Following her seven-night christening cruise, Vista will sail her official maiden voyage on May 13th from Civitavecchia to Venice before beginning her summer schedule in the Mediterranean.
In September, the ship will sail to Canada and New England before heading south for a series of winter itineraries to the Caribbean and Bermuda from Miami.
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