For the past 15 years, Oceania Cruises' Culinary Center has been turning this dream into reality, offering guests an unparalleled hands-on cooking experience aboard their luxurious ships. As the first-ever cooking school at sea, the Culinary Center has become a hallmark of Oceania Cruises, blending gastronomy with travel to create unforgettable journeys for food enthusiasts.
In honour of this significant milestone, Oceania Cruises is expanding its culinary offerings with new classes and experiences set to debut in 2025 and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious beginner, the Culinary Center invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure that transcends traditional cruise activities.
Since its inception 15 years ago, the Culinary Center has been at the forefront of culinary education on the high seas. Founded by Chef Kathryn Kelly, Oceania Cruises' Director of Culinary Enrichment, the centre was established with the vision of creating an interactive learning environment where guests could immerse themselves in the art of cooking while exploring the world's most captivating destinations.
The Culinary Center is now featured on four of Oceania Cruises' elegant ships: Marina, Riviera, Vista, and the newest addition set to join the fleet in Summer 2025, Allura. Each ship boasts state-of-the-art teaching kitchens equipped with individual workstations and professional-grade appliances, allowing guests to receive personalised instruction in a setting that rivals top culinary schools on land.
At the heart of the Culinary Center's success is Chef Kathryn Kelly, whose passion for culinary arts and education has shaped the program's innovative approach. With a background that spans prestigious culinary institutions and a deep understanding of global cuisines, Chef Kelly has curated a curriculum that reflects both classic techniques and contemporary trends.
Under her leadership, the Culinary Center's team of 11 talented chef instructors brings a wealth of experience from diverse culinary backgrounds. From former executive chefs of renowned restaurants to graduates of esteemed institutions like Le Cordon Bleu and The Culinary Institute of America, guests are assured they are learning from the best in the business.
To commemorate its 15th anniversary, the Culinary Center is introducing a series of new classes that showcase flavours from around the world. These offerings are designed to deepen guests' connection to the destinations visited, providing a richer understanding of local cultures through their culinary traditions.
One of the exciting new classes, Culinary Northwest Passage, invites guests to explore the vibrant food scene of the Pacific Northwest in the United States. Celebrated for its farm-to-table ethos and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, this region's cuisine is a tribute to both the farmer and the fisherman. Participants will learn to prepare dishes that highlight the area's renowned seafood and signature desserts, bringing a taste of Seattle to Anchorage right to their plates.
Down Under Abundance transports guests to the bountiful culinary landscapes of Australia and New Zealand. Known for their diverse seafood and world-class meats, these countries offer a wealth of gastronomic delights. Collaborating with local chef colleagues, the class celebrates the sea, mountains, and vineyards that define this special region, allowing guests to recreate authentic dishes that capture its essence.
For those with a penchant for sweets, It's a Dessert Party offers a delightful evening experience. Scheduled after dinner, this class focuses on creating decadent desserts paired with complementary beverages. Imagine crafting a luscious lava cake served with a glass of Champagne or mastering the art of crêpes Suzette accompanied by a Grand Marnier spritzer. It's the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth between dinner and the evening show.
South Seas Salt Life immerses guests in the rich culinary traditions of Polynesia. Emphasising fresh, local ingredients with influences from French and Chinese cuisines, this class captures the essence of island living. Participants will prepare dishes that reflect the Polynesian "salt lifestyle," enjoying meals that resonate with the laid-back yet flavourful approach to food in this tropical paradise.
Embracing the comfort of home-cooked meals on a chilly day, Snow Days Brunch celebrates the joy of sharing hearty dishes with loved ones. Guests will learn to make favourites like cinnamon rolls and egg casseroles, paired with warming or bubbly cocktails perfect for taking the chill off. It's an invitation to recreate those leisurely mornings when the world outside is blanketed in snow, and the kitchen is filled with warmth and enticing aromas.
Beyond the onboard classes, Oceania Cruises enhances the culinary journey with its signature Culinary Discovery Tours™. These chef-led excursions are available in over 40 destinations worldwide, offering guests the opportunity to delve deeper into local food cultures. From shopping for fresh ingredients in bustling markets to learning from local artisans, these tours bridge the gap between exploration and education.
After gathering ingredients ashore, guests return to the ship's Culinary Center to prepare destination-inspired dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. This immersive experience not only refines cooking skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the regions visited.
Chef Kathryn Kelly is planning a new array of chef-led tours for 2025, which will be announced in the coming months. These additions promise to expand the horizons of guests even further, connecting them to the culinary heartbeats of new destinations and cultures.
The strength of the Culinary Center lies in its diverse team of chef instructors, who bring hundreds of years of combined experience to the table. Their backgrounds are as varied as their culinary styles, including roles such as Julia Child's executive assistant, executive chefs for acclaimed television shows like "Sesame Street" and "30 Rock," and leaders of food programs for global companies like Google and Amazon.
Residing in locations from Christchurch, New Zealand, to Riga, Latvia, and San Francisco, California, these chefs are attuned to global food trends. Their international perspectives enrich the Culinary Center's programs, ensuring that guests receive a truly world-class education.
Participating in the Oceania Cruises Culinary Center is more than just taking a cooking class; it's about embracing a lifestyle that celebrates food, culture, and travel. The hands-on approach allows guests to engage all their senses, creating dishes from scratch and enjoying the fruits of their labour.
The Culinary Center's facilities are designed to provide an optimal learning environment. Individual workstations equipped with top-of-the-line appliances ensure that each guest receives personal attention and the opportunity to fully engage with the recipes and techniques being taught.
Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, encapsulates the company's philosophy: "We are the only cruise built by foodies, for foodies. Food is at the heart of everything we do at Oceania Cruises—we have literally built our ships around the culinary experience." This commitment is evident in every aspect of the Culinary Center, from the expansive galley spaces to the unparalleled range of restaurants on board.
If the idea of enhancing your cooking skills while exploring exotic destinations appeals to you, now is the perfect time to consider a voyage with Oceania Cruises. The upcoming classes and Culinary Discovery Tours™ offer a unique blend of education and adventure that caters to both the palate and the soul.
To explore the itineraries and experiences available, visit our Cruise Planner. Here, you can discover the perfect cruise that combines your love for travel and cuisine, all while sailing in luxurious comfort.
At S.W. Black Travel, we specialise in crafting personalised travel experiences that cater to your passions and interests. Our expertise ensures that every detail of your cruise is thoughtfully planned, from selecting the ideal stateroom to securing spots in the Culinary Center's sought-after classes.
Ready to embark on a voyage that tantalises your taste buds and broadens your horizons? Contact a travel adviser today and let us help you plan an unforgettable culinary adventure at sea.