My Mediterranean Cruise Adventure Aboard Oceania Riviera: A Tale of Feasting, Foiled Plans, and Fantastic Views

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my travels, it’s that no matter how well you plan, the universe is always ready to throw in a plot twist. My recent escape aboard Oceania Riviera was no exception—full of breathtaking views, unexpected detours, and an obscene amount of food that left me questioning my life choices (and waistband). So, grab a snack (you’ll need one after reading this) and let’s relive the adventure together!

Athens: The Warm-Up Round

After landing in Athens, I checked into The Gatsby, a boutique hotel that felt like a stylish fever dream in the best possible way. The service was impeccable, the location was prime, and I briefly considered never leaving.

Before boarding the ship, I went on a local food tour. Greek hospitality dictates that you cannot leave a meal even remotely hungry, which is why I found myself consuming at least 15 different dishes in one afternoon. Then, because clearly, I hadn’t walked enough, I embarked on a private tour of the Acropolis and Plaka. If I wasn’t burning enough calories to justify the baklava at the end of the day, I don’t know what would.

Boarding Oceania Riviera: Where Calories Don’t Count

The boarding process was smoother than most, and within no time, I was standing on deck, admiring the ship and an Instagram-worthy sunset. That night, I kicked things off at Polo Grill, Oceania’s steakhouse, where I was presented with a feast that could have fed a small village. My approach? Say yes to everything and pray my metabolism could keep up.

Surprise! Mykonos Became Syros

Mother Nature decided Mykonos wasn’t in the cards, as high winds made tendering a no-go. But in a true power move, our captain rerouted us to Syros, a lesser-visited island with a charming town and a relaxed vibe. Best. Decision. Ever. I took a leisurely stroll, browsed the local shops, and for the first time on this trip, wasn’t actively stuffing my face. (Don’t worry—this momentary lapse in overindulgence was quickly rectified at Jacques, the French specialty restaurant, later that evening.)

Santorini: Where My Legs Weren’t Ready

Ah, Santorini! The island of blue domes, whitewashed buildings, and approximately one million steps. After navigating the tender and a 45-minute wait for the cable car, I finally made it to the top. My small-group tour hit all the highlights: Oia before the crowds, Megalochori’s cave homes, and the black sand beach of Perissa.

The return journey, however, was less than glamorous. Faced with an hour-long cable car line and an impending sail time, I made the brave (read: ridiculous) decision to walk down the steep, winding stairs back to the tender pier. By the time I reached the bottom, my legs felt like they belonged to someone else, but I made it back to the ship on time—and that’s what matters, right?

Crete: Chania, Wine, and More Food (Obviously)

Crete welcomed me with a relaxing morning in Chania, where I enjoyed local tea overlooking the harbor, a casual wine tasting (because hydration is important), and another delicious meal filled with Greek delicacies. Back on board, I indulged at the Italian specialty restaurant, because when in doubt, eat pasta.

Sicily: A Side of Wine with My Volcanic Views

After a sea day, we arrived in Sicily, where my excursion, in partnership with Food & Wine, took me to Taormina. With Mount Etna casually erupting in the background, I explored this charming coastal town before heading to Barone di Villagrande winery for a wine-fueled lunch. Later, back on the ship, I attended La Reserve by Wine Spectator, an exclusive dinner with expertly paired wines, because at this point, moderation was no longer an option.

Sorrento & Amalfi: Limoncello Dreams

In Sorrento and along the Amalfi Coast, I explored picturesque villages, historic sites, and lemon groves producing the famous limoncello. The scenery was out of this world, and I spent the entire day wondering how real estate laws worked in Italy because I was ready to move in immediately.

Rome: The City That Never Runs Out of Ruins

With limited time in Civitavecchia, I opted for a private tour—best decision ever. My guide, Simona, expertly maneuvered through Rome’s chaotic streets, showing me everything from the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain to secret spots I’d never even heard of. The Vatican Museums were stunning, though maneuvering through the crowds felt like an Olympic event. Still, a bucket list experience for the books!

Tuscany & Super Tuscans

In Livorno, I ventured into Tuscany for another culinary adventure. Suvereto was a charming medieval town that quickly stole my heart (and my euros for gelato). Then, at the legendary Tua Rita winery, I sampled exceptional Super Tuscans and somehow resisted the urge to buy a vineyard.

Saint Tropez: Where Even the Wine is Chic

The final full day of the cruise brought me to Saint Tropez, where I visited Château de Saint-Martin, a historic winery with ancient underground vats. The rosé was so good I had no choice but to bring some home. That evening, I attended a cooking class onboard, where I made Roman-inspired dishes and discovered that I could, in fact, cook something besides reservations.

Barcelona: One Last Hurrah

Debarkation day didn’t mean the fun was over. With a full day before my flight, I explored Barcelona, starting with breakfast at Mercat de Santa Caterina (cava included, obviously). Then, I finally saw the magnificent Sagrada Família before capping off the trip with back-to-back Tipsy Tapas tours through the Gothic Quarter and El Born. Because if you’re going to end a trip, it should be with food, wine, and new friends from around the world.

Final Thoughts: Book the Cruise, Eat the Food, Take the Stairs (Sometimes)

This journey was everything I hoped for—stunning destinations, unforgettable experiences, and enough food to make my jeans file for early retirement. Oceania Riviera delivered on luxury, incredible cuisine, and top-tier service. Would I do it all again? In a heartbeat. But next time, I’m training for the Santorini stairs in advance.

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