FORT LAUDERDALE — Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings now considers Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises to be luxury lines, and which one is right for clients is a matter of what they’re looking for, executives said at CruiseWorld on Nov. 7.
Oceania offers an “entry level” luxury experience, said the line’s chief commercial officer, Nathan Hickman. Oceania hasn’t always defined itself as luxury — it’s a new development within the last year after previously categorizing itself as a premium cruise line. Part of that evolution has been increasing personalization, Hickman said.
He offered the example of a recent change in inclusions. Oceania fares now include either a shore excursion credit or a wine-and-beer drink package.
“We’ve had that luxury product delivery for years,” Hickman said. “I think what luxury means in the cruise space is evolving, and we’re there to meet that.”
The line’s hardware has evolved to meet the luxury standard, too, said NCLH chief luxury officer Jason Montague, who oversees Oceania and Regent. He noted that Oceania launched in the early 2000s with R-class ships that were built for Renaissance Cruises, a line that ceased operations in 2001.
“The R class ships, we love them, they’re beautiful ships, but when you look at the ships that we purposely built for the Oceania brand, they are luxury from top to bottom,” Montague said.
Oceania debuted its latest ship, Oceania Allura, in July. The ship’s christening will happen Nov. 13 in Miami.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises, meanwhile, is delivering more space than ever in suites and public areas, and the most all-inclusive cruising experience, said chief commercial officer Wes D’Silva.
Regent is anticipating its newest ship, the Seven Seas Prestige, which is scheduled to begin sailing next year and is the first in the brand’s new class.
“When you think about what luxury travelers are looking for, they’re looking for more space, and they’re looking for more personalization,” D’Silva said. “We’re leaning into that with that next ship class.”
That doesn’t mean clients can’t be customers of both. It’s something NCLH is encouraging perhaps more than ever now, after introducing a tri-brand loyalty program.
Montague said NCLH is excited to give guests more options and an incentive try all of its brands, giving them “the opportunity to experience the world the way they want to experience the world.”
