Seven Weeks Until Oceania Cruises Debuts its Elegant Ship Marina in Australia

Award-winning cruise line Oceania Cruises is set to reveal its luxurious ship Marina down-under this March. Currently cruising around the pristine French Polynesia, Marina is sailing her way to Australia with first port of call in Hobart on March 9th followed by Melbourne and Sydney.

With style, taste and flare, Marina made her maiden voyage in January 2011 as the host of many firsts redefining the upper-premium cruise market.

~ The first hands-on cooking school at sea, Bon Appétit Culinary Center

~ The first namesake restaurant at sea of Master Chef Jacques Pépin

~ The first Ralph Lauren Home furnished Owner's Suites and luxurious accommodations by Dakota Jackson

~ The first Wine Spectator wine program

~ The first Lalique grand stairway

Carrying 1250 guests, onboard facilities include 10 dining venues (six of which are open-seating gourmet restaurants), an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub and fitness centre, swimming pool and hot tubs.

The exclusive Bon Appétit Culinary Center, available on Marina and sister ship Riviera, features 24 fully equipped work stations with induction cook tops and convection ovens. Oceania Cruise's culinary enrichment program Culinary Discovery Tours provides guests the opportunity to explore local food markets in small groups alongside an expert chef.

Recently honoured with two prestigious awards for "Best Dining" and "Best Suites" at the Cruise Critic 2012 Editors' Picks on December 4th, Oceania Cruises is renowned for its world-class gourmet cuisine, unparalleled service and award-winning itineraries.