Oceania Cruises has long been known for elevating the standards of dining at sea. Now, the line is setting a new precedent—this time not just in the kitchen, but in maritime tradition itself. In a first for the cruise industry, Oceania Allura, the company’s newest 1,200-guest luxury ship, will be christened by a collective of Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni. The announcement, made at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen on June 21, affirms Oceania’s position at the forefront of culinary-led travel.
Departing from convention, Oceania Cruises is assigning the ceremonial title of “godparent” not to a singular celebrity or dignitary, but to a group of chefs who represent the most influential culinary minds shaping the future of food. The christening will take place in Miami on November 13, 2025, just months after the ship’s scheduled debut in July.
“The soul of Oceania Cruises has always been deeply rooted in extraordinary cuisine. By naming Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni as the godparents of Oceania Allura, we're paying homage to the future of food and the creative forces driving it forward.”Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises
The Food & Wine Best New Chefs program, established in 1988, has recognized over 400 rising culinary stars. These chefs—many now household names—have played an instrumental role in shaping dining culture across the globe.
This latest collaboration reflects a shared commitment to culinary creativity between Oceania Cruises and Food & Wine, with Editor in Chief Hunter Lewis calling the partnership:
“A meaningful opportunity to honor the lasting impact these chefs have had on the culinary world.”Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief at Food & Wine
The Oceania Allura is a floating tribute to gastronomy, offering an impressive array of epicurean experiences tailored to discerning palates. The ship introduces over 270 new recipes to the brand’s culinary repertoire, along with an expanded Culinary Center and Chef’s Studio for hands-on learning at sea.
Returning onboard is Jacques, Oceania Cruises’ signature French restaurant, named for and inspired by the legendary Jacques Pépin. Guests will also find new additions, including inventive Nikkei-style dishes—a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine—on the refreshed menu at Red Ginger, the line’s beloved pan-Asian venue.
This commitment to flavor extends beyond the restaurants. The Allura’s culinary programming is designed to immerse guests in food culture, both onboard and onshore, with destination-inspired dishes and in-depth culinary tours that bring the regions’ flavors to life.
The announcement also marks the beginning of a series of chef-led itineraries. The first Best New Chefs Cruise will set sail August 18–28, 2025, on Oceania Riviera, with 2023 Best New Chef Aisha Ibrahim onboard for a 10-day Alaskan voyage roundtrip from Seattle. Guests can expect exclusive menus, interactive cooking demonstrations, and special pairings curated by Ibrahim, bringing an elevated, personal touch to every bite.
Two additional Best New Chefs Cruises will follow in 2026 aboard Oceania Allura, with more details to be revealed later this year. These voyages promise to further deepen the brand’s ties to the culinary world, offering travelers the chance to dine alongside the very chefs reshaping how we think about food.
Oceania Cruises’ decision to name a group of chefs as godparents doesn’t just challenge industry tradition—it reflects a broader truth about the brand’s ethos: this is a cruise line for those who care deeply about what they eat, how it’s prepared, and the stories behind every dish.
As Oceania Allura prepares to make her official debut, she carries not only the prestige of her lineage but also the spirit of innovation that continues to define the future of luxury travel—served elegantly, one course at a time.