You might call Regatta the perfect "Goldilocks" ship -- it's not too big, not too small, but rather just right. With only 694 passengers, you never feel like you're in a herd of cattle; there's plenty of space, whether you want to sit quietly with a book or hang out at a bar. The ship is big enough to feature a range of facilities, from lounges like the Horizon's ship-top observatory to the Martini Bar and from restaurants such as the Italian Toscana to the poolside Waves Grill. Even better: Regatta's size gives it a cozy, sociable ambiance and means it can access out-of-the-way ports of call that are off-limits to mega-ships.

Oceania is known for its cuisine, and Regatta lives up to the reputation. While it has fewer specialty restaurants than the line's larger ships, the variety and quality of food onboard is impressive. The ship nimbly walks a line between full-on luxury cruising and a more mass-market approach. You can tailor your experience to the style you prefer. On the one hand, every cabin is equipped with the most heavenly plush beds we've ever encountered, toiletries are by Bulgari, the luxurious spa is run by Canyon Ranch and the excellent specialty restaurants carry no surcharge. On the other hand, drinks and other extras are priced on an a la carte basis, standard cabins can be small (cozy, but small) with basic, shower-only bathrooms, and there are plenty of inside cabins. Want to dial it up? Splash out a little more for a Penthouse Suite with butler service. Add a drinks package or choose the OLife Choice option and get free internet, plus shore excursions or a beverage package. We like that flexibility. While Regatta might attract both the more value-minded and bigger spenders, it's likely you won't be able to tell them apart. The ship has a "country club casual" dress code, and passengers tend to be low-key in dress and behavior. That same description could apply to the decor, which is what you'd find at an upscale country club -- classic and classy. The ship attracts an older crowd, thanks to longer itineraries and far-flung destinations in places like Asia, as well as around-the-world cruises. The exception is when it visits Alaska in the summer, when you might see younger cruisers. Service is friendly and polished, whether it's your steward always calling you by name or a waiter who makes spot-on menu recommendations. Regatta's butlers are downright miracle workers, who anticipate things you haven't even thought to ask for. Uncover the best deals with a Oceania expert Heidi DesJarlais Specialities : Couples & Romance and Destination Weddings 90 reviews Contact Agent Anita Thompson Specialities : River Cruises and All Inclusive 81 reviews Contact Agent Heather Pankratz Specialities : Destination Weddings and All Inclusive 58 reviews Contact Agent Teresa Skeim Specialities : Luxury Cruises and World Cruises 51 reviews Contact Agent Maureen McNeill Specialities : European Culture and Skiing & Winter Sports 46 reviews Contact Agent Gillian Clark Specialities : Luxury Cruises and Small Ship Cruises 43 reviews Contact Agent Barbara Lawrence Specialities : All Inclusive and Family Vacations 38 reviews Contact Agent Danny Fisher Specialities : River Cruises and All Inclusive 33 reviews Contact Agent Julie Keown Specialities : Beach Vacations and Escorted Tours 29 reviews Contact Agent Rhonda Shumway CTC, ECCS, LCS, DS Specialities : River Cruises and Beach Vacations 16 reviews Contact Agent One area where you'll notice a marked difference from bigger ships is entertainment. While Regatta does have a small production cast, its shows aren't going to be the most memorable part of your cruise. Guest solo performers and a versatile show band help add some variety. If you're looking for excellent food, outstanding service, itineraries that offer overnights in port, leisurely sea days and a continual parade of different, intriguing destinations, Regatta -- and its sister ships -- are definitely worth considering.