Oceania Cruises has officially begun construction on its next-generation ship, Oceania Sonata, marking a major milestone in the company’s evolution as a leading name in small-ship luxury cruising. The ceremonial steel-cutting took place this week at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Venice.
Set to debut in summer 2027, Sonata will be the first in the all-new Sonata Class, which will later include sister ship Oceania Arietta, expected to enter service in 2029. Together, the two ships are designed to further enhance Oceania’s commitment to refined comfort, culinary excellence, and destination-focused itineraries. They will become the most spacious and amenity-rich vessel in the line’s history.
“Oceania Sonata heralds the dawn of a new era in luxury cruising,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer at Oceania Cruises. “We are proud to continue our legacy of innovation alongside Fincantieri, our shipbuilding partner for close to 20 years. Together, we have crafted ships that stand as some of the most acclaimed examples of luxury, elegance, comfort, and Italian craftsmanship at sea.”
The construction of Sonata also deepens Oceania’s long-standing relationship with Fincantieri, the acclaimed Italian shipbuilder responsible for previous fleet favourites including Marina, Riviera, Vista, and Allura — the latter of which is due to launch in July 2025.
When completed, Sonata will become the ninth ship in the Oceania Cruises fleet and a flagship of its future vision. Though specific details about onboard features and itineraries are yet to be revealed, the line promises a vessel that delivers “a symphony of unforgettable experiences,” in keeping with its ethos of blending small-ship intimacy with grand, world-class sophistication.
More information about Sonata and her maiden season is expected to be announced in the lead-up to her launch in 2027.