Oceania Cruises: A New Era Setting Sail from Tampa
Oceania Cruises, renowned for its focus on culinary experiences, has announced that starting in 2026, it will offer new winter routes to the Caribbean and the Panama Canal, departing from the Port of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This event marks a historic milestone for the company, as its ship “Insignia” with a capacity of 670 passengers, will be the first ultra-premium category vessel to depart from Tampa Bay.
Starting in March 2026, travelers will have the opportunity to explore exotic destinations aboard Insignia, thanks to itineraries ranging from one week to twenty days. The routes will include stops at Caribbean islands such as St. Thomas, St. Kitts, and Tortola, as well as visits to fascinating places like Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Belize City. One of the highlights will be the daytime transit of the famous Panama Canal, accompanied by an overnight stay in vibrant Panama City. The itineraries are made more accessible with 41 direct flights connecting Tampa International Airport.
OC Insigna_credit to Oceania Cruises
Sparkman Wharf_credit to Visit Tampa Bay
City of Tampa Mural_credit to Visit Tampa Bay
Oceania Cruises President Frank A. Del Rio described this expansion as a “natural evolution” for the brand, emphasizing that Tampa, with its vibrant culinary scene and rich cultural heritage, represents an ideal choice for the company. The city, known for its gastronomic diversity ranging from street food to gourmet dinners, perfectly reflects Oceania Cruises’ cosmopolitan approach.
Paul Anderson, CEO of the Port of Tampa Bay, also expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting that the arrival of Insignia will strengthen Tampa’s role as a premier cruise destination. According to Anderson, the growth in tourism will have a positive impact on the local economy, creating new opportunities for workers and businesses in the region.
Passengers choosing to travel aboard Insignia will enjoy an environment in line with Oceania Cruises’ standard of excellence. The ship offers a wide range of gourmet experiences, with restaurants such as Polo Grill, specializing in American steakhouse fare, and Toscana, offering authentic Italian cuisine. Additionally, passengers can relax in the onboard spa, participate in fitness classes, or simply enjoy activities like mini-golf and shuffleboard. The ship also features lively lounges, bars, a casino, and a large library located in a panoramic area.
OC Pool Deck Sunset_credit to Oceania Cruises
OC Grand Staircase Art Chandelier_credit to Oceania Cruises
OC Insignia Concierge Veranda View__credit to Oceania Cruises
Among the highlight voyages departing from Tampa are Tropical Harmony a 9-day cruise departing on February 22, 2026, visiting destinations like Bridgetown and Montego Bay, and Leeward Isles Serenade a 15-day itinerary departing on March 3, 2026, that will take passengers to explore Caribbean islands such as St. Thomas and St. Maarten. The latter voyage, enriched by exclusive tips from Condé Nast Traveler experts, will offer passengers suggestions on what to see and taste in some of the most captivating destinations.
Another itinerary, Palms & Panama Canal scheduled for March 25, 2026, will offer a unique 10-day experience with a daytime transit of the Panama Canal and an overnight stay in Panama City, while the longest cruise, Panama Canal Connoisseur lasting 20 days, will end in Miami after visiting spectacular locations like Cartagena, Willemstad, and George Town.
With this new cruise offering, Oceania Cruises solidifies its role in the ultra-premium cruise sector, providing its guests with the opportunity to explore some of the most enchanting destinations in the world.
Stay tuned for more information, news, and reviews on Oceania Cruises at Cruising Journal.
