Oceania Cruises took the first step in building a ship at the ceremony commemorating the cutting of the first piece of steel and announced the new vessel’s name:  Marina.  The first of two new ships to enter the fleet will set sail September, 2010.  The 66,000-ton Marina will carry 1,252 passengers in elegant creature comforts.    

Oceania will continue its policy of single open seating and aboard Marina, passengers will have six restaurants to choose from, none carrying a surcharge.  Staterooms will be 50% larger than those currently found aboard the cruise line’s Regatta-class ships; standard cabins will be 312 square feet and Penthouse Suites will be 429 square feet with a living room, separate sleeping area, walk-in closets and space for in-suite dining.  All staterooms will have marble bathrooms with separate shower and tub.

Oceania’s sister ship, still unnamed, will enter service in July, 2011.