The world of culinary cruising just got a little more refined. Oceania Cruises, widely regarded for offering The Finest Cuisine at Sea, is set to elevate its already gourmet reputation with a new signature dining experience that celebrates France’s south in every sip and bite. Introducing the Gérard Bertrand Food and Wine Pairing Lunch — a thoughtfully curated six-course journey that will make its debut aboard Allura this July before rolling out fleet-wide.
This isn’t just a fancy lunch. It’s an immersive experience built for epicurean travellers who crave more than just good food — they seek connection, storytelling, and the terroir behind each pour.
A Culinary Showcase at Sea
The Gérard Bertrand pairing lunch in Oceania isn’t your average wine tasting. It’s a spotlight on sustainability, craftsmanship, and the joy of discovery — all taking place in the intimate French restaurant, Jacques.
A New Chapter Begins with Allura
Set to launch during Allura's inaugural voyage on July 18, 2025, this elegant affair marks a bold new addition to Oceania’s lineup of discovery-led experiences. The six-course meal is more than a treat for the palate — it’s a celebration of Gérard Bertrand’s Languedoc-Roussillon roots, paired with masterfully created dishes that highlight the region’s biodiversity and bold flavours.
Soon after Allura, the experience will expand to Vista by September, followed by Marina and Riviera by 2026, making it accessible to a wide circle of discerning Oceania guests.
Guided by Culinary Experts
Each lunch is personally guided by Oceania Cruises’ expert chefs and sommeliers, blending educational insights with indulgent bites. From the first pour to the final course, guests are taken on a journey through organically and biodynamically produced wines that complement a standout seasonal menu. Think of this as a cruise within a cruise — just for your tastebuds.
The experience is designed for up to 40 guests and is priced at $175 per person (plus gratuities), available on select days per sailing.
Highlights from the Sample Menu
Among the showstoppers? A potato fritter with Ossetra caviar paired with Clos du Temple Rosé, a risotto-style riced calamari with Château l’Hospitalet White Blend, and a slow-braised short rib with Gérard Bertrand’s acclaimed Clos d’Ora. The finale? A gold-leaf-topped Callebaut chocolate cake alongside a vintage 1975 Maury. Each dish is paired with intention, balancing textures, acidity, and regional expression.
Bringing the South of France to the Sea
While the South of France has long captured the imaginations of artists and travellers alike, this new collaboration transports its sensuality and richness directly to the dining table — no vineyard tour required.
Gérard Bertrand Wines Meet Jacques' French Flair
The exclusive collaboration isn’t just a branding exercise. It’s the convergence of two philosophies: Gérard Bertrand’s deep commitment to terroir and sustainability, and Oceania’s culinary artistry. Bertrand’s wines, known for their organic purity and biodynamic complexity, perfectly complement the cuisine that Jacques is revered for.
Guests can expect a layered, educational experience — one that appeals to both wine connoisseurs and curious cruisers. Each pour is paired with context and commentary, turning the lunch into a masterclass of flavour, history, and regional pride.
A Broader Collection of Gourmet Experiences
This latest launch joins a robust portfolio of Oceania's pairing experiences, including:
- The Dom Pérignon Experience — an intimate six-course dinner with rare vintages
- The Moët & Chandon Champagne Experience — a bubbly pre-dinner journey offered aboard Allura and Vista
- Connoisseur Wine Pairing Lunches — Mediterranean menus with expertly curated vintages
- The Odyssey Menu — a seven-course exploration across global cuisines
- Private wine-led dinners in Privée, available for just eight guests per evening
Each one is designed to immerse guests in the story behind the sip, and the Gérard Bertrand lunch is no different.
Why This Launch Matters
Luxury travel has moved past white-glove service and lavish interiors. Today’s guests want stories, connection, and sensory authenticity — and that’s exactly what Oceania Cruises delivers with this newest experience. The Gérard Bertrand lunch isn’t about indulgence for indulgence’s sake. It’s about understanding wine as a cultural artefact and food as a bridge to place.
The menu doesn’t just change the way guests dine at sea — it sets a new benchmark for how cruise lines integrate fine dining with place-based education. And by blending French viticulture with Jacques’ celebrated cuisine, Oceania isn’t just reinforcing its food-forward identity — it’s expanding it.
Whether you're a seasoned Oceania enthusiast or someone just beginning to explore the world of culinary cruising, this new experience is a delicious reason to look ahead to 2025 and beyond. With itineraries spanning Europe, the Americas, and beyond, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge — both onboard and ashore.
Start customising your gourmet voyage with our handy Cruise Finder tool. Filter by destination, cruise line, or departure date and build your next unforgettable journey at sea.
Let Your Next Cruise Be Your Most Flavourful Yet
The Gérard Bertrand Food and Wine Pairing Lunch is more than a culinary treat — it's a declaration of Oceania Cruises' commitment to thoughtful, elevated travel. For travellers who savour both discovery and depth, this is your invitation to sip, savour, and sail differently.
Reach out to us today to learn more about Oceania’s gourmet offerings or to book your spot aboard Allura’s debut — speak with our travel experts and let’s get you sailing towards your next flavourful escape.
Comments