Oceania Cruises, which is part of the Prestige Cruise Holdings group, has welcomed Insignia, one of the three 30,300 gross ton ships of its original fleet, back following a two-year charter to Hapag Lloyd Kreuzfahrten to whom it sailed as Columbus 2, and an extensive dry dock.

Insignia is the first of three sister ships of Oceania Cruises to undergo a $50 million refurbishment.  Nautica and Regatta are scheduled to enter dry dock and receive similar enhancements over the next four weeks.  Renovating three ships from bow to stern in a six-week time period marks the largest refurbishment programme in Oceania Cruises’ history.

The multimillion dollar makeover brings many of the interior design elements from the award-winning Marina and Riviera ships to Insignia, Nautica and Regatta while maintaining the warmth, intimacy and charm Oceania Cruises’ guests cherish in the 684-passenger ships.  In addition to elegant new furnishings and décor for all public rooms, suites and staterooms, Insignia added several new guest experiences, including the ever-popular Baristas coffee bar, a cook-to-order grill at Terrace Café and new outdoor recreation on the Sports Deck. 

In preparation for two special 180-day voyages, a version of the Artist Loft enrichment centre was added exclusively to Insignia during the dry dock.  The “Around the World in 180 Days” cruise departs from Miami on 10th January 2015, and the “180 Day World Odyssey” sails from Miami on 8th July 2015.

“This is a milestone moment for Oceania Cruises.  Not only did we welcome home a family member with Insignia re-joining the fleet today, but she comes out of dry dock essentially a new ship, reflecting an even higher level of elegance and design,” said Kunal S. Kamlani, president of Oceania Cruises.  “By adding features our guests adore from Marina and Riviera to Insignia, Nautica and Regatta, it further enhances the upscale cruise experience and exceptional value for which Oceania Cruises is known throughout the industry.”