Oceania Cruises has launched a multi-million dollar initiative to update and enhance its fleet of three 684-passenger vessels as it readies to greet it’s newest ship, Marina, scheduled to enter service in January, 2011.

Called  “Pillars of Distinction”, the program centers on the three hallmarks of the Oceania Cruises experience: comfort, cuisine and service.

Nautica, the first Oceania Cruises ship to undergo its Pillars of Distinction update, re-entered service June 4. Sister ship Insignia will incorporate Pillars of Distinction this November, followed by Regatta in January 2011. All work will occur during regularly scheduled dry-docks.

You’ll find the amenities on Oceania’s two new ships, currently under construction in Italy. The 1,258-guest Marina joins the fleet in January 2011 and a sister ship, Riviera, is scheduled for delivery in April 2012.

Staterooms and Suites

Prestige Tranquility Beds raise the standard even higher. The bed is composed of 400 encapsulated springs in seven zones that are covered by two inches of memory foam; a two-inch thick cushion filled with gel and wrapped in Chamomile-infused fiber tops the mattress. In addition, all beds will be dressed with 1,000-thread-count, Egyptian cotton linens and duvets and a plush down comforter.

All accommodations will also be outfitted with refrigerated mini bars, wall sconces and bedside reading lamps, as well as updated furnishings and bath amenities.

Oceania Cruises’ staterooms and Penthouse Suites will be enhanced with more luxurious amenities and stylish new décor highlights. Custom, tufted headboards with nail-head trim mounted on floor-to-ceiling Wenge walnut panels provide the dramatic focal point.

Steakhouse, Spa Cuisine

Acclaimed for its gourmet cuisine and no-charge specialty restaurants, Oceania Cruises will refine its culinary offerings with new décor in Polo Grill, enhanced menus in Terrace Café and Toscana, and the introduction of sublime Canyon Ranch Spa Cuisine.

Polo Grill is Oceania Cruises’ most popular alternative restaurant where passengers  enjoy the finest dry-aged prime beef, chops and poultry, plus seafood such as Maine lobster. Pillars of Distinction enhancements include new leather chairs, carpeting and drapes in hues of crimson, claret, gold and hunter, which evoke the glamor of a sophisticated, yet classic American steakhouse.

Terrace Café, a casual venue with both indoor and al fresco seating will expand its lavish breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets. Sushi, sashimi and made-to-order pasta dishes will be complemented with regional delicacies in selected destinations.

Toscana, the line’s upscale Italian venue, will enhance its menu with the addition of a gourmet olive oil menu and new favorite family recipes from staff and crew.

In the second phase of its proud partnership, breakfast, lunch and dinner menus in both the Grand Dining Room and Terrace Café will feature “Spa Cuisine” selections developed by the culinary team at Canyon Ranch Health Resorts, the number one healthy living company in the world. Canyon Ranch opened the onboard spas in 2009.

Visit Oceania Cruises’ web site to see photos of the ship and itineraries.