Oceania Cruises marked a major milestone this week as steel was officially cut for its newest ship, Oceania Sonata™, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Venice. This marks construction of the first vessel in the brand-new Sonata class, a series of ships set to redefine luxury and experiential travel at sea.

When she enters service in 2027, Oceania Sonata will bring the total number of ships in Oceania Cruises’ fleet to nine. She will be followed by her sister ship, Oceania Arietta, further expanding the fleet.

With a gross tonnage of approximately 67,000 tons, Oceania Sonata will feature the most spacious accommodations and finest craftsmanship the line has ever introduced. In keeping with Oceania’s tradition, the ship will be purpose-built to deliver immersive, destination-rich itineraries and exceptional culinary experiences at sea.

“Oceania Sonata marks the beginning of a new era in luxury cruising,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. “We are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Fincantieri—our trusted shipbuilding partner for nearly two decades. Together, we have brought to life ships that reflect timeless sophistication, exquisite detail, and true Italian artistry.”

The Sonata-class will build on the success of earlier ships including Oceania Marina™, Riviera™, Vista®, and the soon-to-debut Oceania Allura™, which is scheduled to enter service in July 2025. With Sonata, Oceania Cruises will deliver an elevated small-ship experience that marries space, design, and style with the brand’s core pillars: destination-focused itineraries, personalized service, and “The Finest Cuisine at Sea®.”