Oceania Cruises – the world’s leading culinary- and destination- focused cruise line has unveiled details of its first annual ‘Culinary Masters’ Cruise’ aboard Marina in October 2024.
Oceania Cruises’ commitment to culinary excellence shines throughout its fleet of small, luxurious ships. The gourmet culinary programme begins with sourcing premium artisanal ingredients from around the world, from prized Castilla-La Mancha saffron to fine French flour, custom-milled to our exact specifications. Spacious state-of-the-art galleys, akin to those found in Michelin-starred restaurants, are appointed with cutting-edge culinary equipment. Plus, Oceania Cruises has the highest percentage of culinary personnel devoted to the dining experience than any other cruise company. To ensure the impeccable quality of each dish, we boast one chef for every ten guests; half of the crew on board is dedicated to the cooking or serving of food.
The exclusive ‘Culinary Masters’ Cruise’, on board the 1,250-guest ship, Marina, will be hosted by Oceania Cruises’ two Master Chefs of France, Alexis Quaretti and Eric Barale, and provides the perfect opportunity to share their wisdom, creative talent and fantastic culinary connections with our guests. There will be the opportunity to hear expert insights in onstage panel discussions and enjoy live cooking demonstrations from Chef Alex, Oceania Cruises’ Senior Culinary Director, and Chef Eric, Vice President of Culinary, and their special guests.
Setting sail from Valletta, Malta, to Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, on October 16, 2024, calling at ports in Croatia, Greece and Italy. Guests can enjoy themed Chef’s Market Dinners in The Terrace Café, which will use ingredients bought from local markets by the onboard culinary team, inspired by the destinations visited. In addition, all guests will be invited to attend Oceania Cruises’ legendary signature gala seafood brunch, usually only reserved for ship launches. There will also be the opportunity to purchase bespoke experiences available only aboard this sailing; including culinary tours in local ports and hand-on cooking classes, led by Oceania Cruises’ esteemed culinary team; expert-led wine tastings; or an exclusive private dinner event.
Marina and her sister ship, Riviera, were the very first true foodie ships in the world and are now joined by Vista, which was launched to global acclaim in May this year, and Allura, set to join the fleet in spring 2025. Marina and Riviera were also the first ships ever to have an onboard cooking school. And it’s due to the immense success of the onboard Culinary Centers, that we have doubled the space of this on board our newest ships, Vista and Allura. Once again cementing the importance of the culinary experience for our guests.
The itinerary of the Culinary Masters’ Cruise is as tantalising as the cuisine which will be served on board. Sailing from Valletta, Malta’s historic capital, which has myriad international connections through London, Frankfurt, Munich and Paris among others, Marina will have a day at sea before launching into a spectacular menu of Mediterranean and Adriatic ports of call: beautiful Kotor, Montenegro; Croatian gems Dubrovnik and Split; charming Bari, Italy; the Greek ports of Corfu and Katakolon; and then onto Italy, for the final day in foodie-heaven Naples, before finishing Rome (Civitavecchia).
And with Oceania Cruises travellers will receive simply MORE, with virtually everything included in the voyage fare: a generous shore excursion credit of $800 per stateroom to be spent on tours of their choice; and a comprehensive beverage package available during lunch and dinner at onboard restaurants featuring dozens of vintage Champagnes, premium wines and international beers.
The extraordinary level of inclusions sit alongside Oceania Cruises always included amenities: gourmet dining featuring The Finest Cuisine at Sea® with no reservation fee or cover charge at speciality restaurants; a wide variety of fine teas and coffees, soft drinks and still and sparkling Vero Water®; 24-hour room service; unlimited WiFi; and fitness classes.
Created to elevate the guest experience, simply MORE means travellers receive the greatest value in luxury cruising.
Contact us for additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine and expertly curated travel experiences.