Phoenix Reisen Adds Oceanias Insignia as the Alvara

Phoenix Reisen has confirmed that it will add the Insignia to its fleet, with the ship set to begin sailing for the Bonn-based operator as the Alvara in November 2027.

Built in 1998, the 700-guest vessel currently sails for Oceania Cruises. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The ship is scheduled to arrive at the Lloyd Werft shipyard in Bremerhaven in September 2027, where it will be painted in Phoenix's signature turquoise livery and undergo a series of modifications to bring the onboard experience in line with the rest of the fleet.

"With the Alvara, we are welcoming a fantastic ship into the Phoenix family," said Managing Director Benjamin Krumpen. "It is exceptionally well-maintained, in excellent technical condition and is already equipped for shore power."

Operations will be handled by two longtime Phoenix partners, with BSM providing ship management and sea chefs overseeing hotel services.

The Alvara's inaugural program will include a series of short cruises, a Christmas sailing and two longer voyages in the Mediterranean. The cruises will be featured in the Phoenix magazine, due out Nov. 6, 2026, and the company's "Seereisen 2028" catalog, due out Dec. 18, 2026. Online bookings open Oct. 23, 2026.

Following company tradition, the christening will not coincide with the maiden voyage. Instead, the ship will be named in Hamburg on Nov. 26, 2027, which marks the 54th anniversary of Phoenix Reisen's founding.