Regatta Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We looked forward to what we believed to be a cruise to have an insight into Australia. The actual outcome on the Regatta to circumvent round Australia was something else. Having being taken in by what cruise details via the Oceania brochure and having researched over a considerable amount organising private and ship tours at the proposed destinations. From the day of departure the cruise became a great disappointment as we missed 4 ports of calls, our personal brochure had Esperance and Exmoor as docked and Alotua and Port Moresby were anchors. This turned out to be the complete opposite. We also have now learnt of the ships ongoing problems from when the ship left San Diego to reaching Sydney for our cruise.
Unfortunately any excuse was made to not use the tenders for going on shore, this became a joke as every time we heard the Captain or the Cruise Director come over the speakers we knew there was going to be a statement saying that the sea was to rough and the tenders as you can see are taking on water via the open windows. And that we are waiting for Miami to make a decision. It was obvious the ship engines were not being taxed as for some days it just virtually treading water.
Out of a 34 day cruise we had 13 days at sea, so we were left to look at the horizon for 2 x 4 days and 1 X 3 days at sea. The entrainment was really never changed to accommodate this fact. An additional film was laid on in the grand lounge. And we continually heard from the Cruise Director that Oceania appreciated the passengers understanding and by way of appreciation Oceania will be giving free cocktails for 1 hour. Well, that was really considerate. Well, some passengers did not drink alcohol.
Cabin Review
Penthouse Suite
The cabin was average, shower configuration was terrible. Balcony door was in poor condition. Cabin had a damp smell at the end of the cruise, also made our clothes smell. When at port in Bali we were awakened during the night by a very obnoxious smell which seemed to be coming up from the bilge area of the ship.
Port Reviews
Komodo Island
Was not made aware until after booking the cruise that we were not allowed to get off the ship if not booking the ships tour to see the Dragons.
Geraldton
Explored the area independently and found some very nice places to see, local people who volunteer were most helpful.
Perth (Fremantle)
Visited to Fremantle Prison for some 3 hours which was very good, walked up the hill to the War Memorial, Maritime Museum. Then told we were to stay over night so we took the train into Perth and walked around Kings Park which had tremendous views over Perth and marvellous trees, plants etc.
Adelaide
Took the train which stops out side the port terminal. Walked around the city parks, cricket ground. Had lunch in the History Museum and you need a full day to explore this museum. Modern city, well worth seeing.
Melbourne
Caught the local tram that sits some 100 metres from the port, this runs around every 30 mins, uses a Mickey card purchased from the terminal. We found the I'mfree tour guide outside the City Libary who took us around some 16 places of interest. Tipped at the of what was a very good tour.
Eden (Australia)
The ship managed to have the tenders in use, we walked over to the golf course to see lots of Kangaroos. Then down along the coast road to view the some great views across the bay.