Oceania Cruises was founded in 2002 by luxury cruise veterans Frank Del Rio and Joe Watters -- former heads of Renaissance Cruises and Crystal Cruises, respectively. The Miami-based Oceania Cruises styles itself on a destination-intensive, floating-hotel experience with excellent food and superior service. In the beginning, the cruise line originally chartered vessels from the now non-operational Renaissance Cruises (its 684-passenger R1 and R2, renaming them Regatta and Insignia). Their third ship, another Renaissance R-class vessel, joined the fleet in 2005 and is named Nautica. Oceania Cruises now owns all the ships.

The company have spent more than $10 million to refurbish all the vessels since their introduction. Public rooms, including restaurants, are graceful and elegant. The newly renovated pool area is now surfaced in teak and boasts teak furnishings (including double sunbeds). Cabins have also been tweaked and now feature more comfortable bed linens and mattresses.

In 2007 the cruise line placed orders for its first-ever new-builds. Two 1,252-passenger vessels, to be built at Italy's Fincantieri shipyard. The first vessel will be called Marina and will set sail in 2010 with the second vessel following in 2011. Overall, Oceania has managed to create a luxury 5* cruise experience especially in the areas of onboard cuisine and service at a 4* price. Ultimately, the company offers one of the industry's best value-for-money options in cruising.