Make way sun-worshippers and party goers, there’s a new kind of cruiser in town: the foodie. Between visits to port cities and an array of luxury and casual dining experiences on board, food lovers are cruising more than ever. Some of our best cruises for food:
Oceania Marina
Lead by master chef Jacques Pépin, Oceania Cruises often claims to have the best cuisine at sea. Of all their ships, the Marina is most famous for its culinary delights such as Italian specialties, French fare, tender steaks, and gourmet food and wine pairings. Not only can travelers satisfy their taste buds onboard the Marina, they can also improve their cooking skills at the Bon Appétit Magazine Culinary Center. But wait, there’s more: as an added bonus, Oceania has open seating so guests can sit wherever they want, whenever they want without dining surcharges at all restaurants on the ship.
Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas
Comfort food, contemporary cuisine, California Mediterranean fusion, Pan-Asian fusion and Continental cuisine are just a few of the many culinary specialties offered on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas. In addition to this wide variety, the ship also has several smaller venues with menu options from top chefs around the world such as Jamie Oliver and Michael Schwartz. Looking for something more casual? Visit one of the Anthem of the Seas’ more laid-back options like Johnny Rockets.
Regal Princess
It’s all about variety on the Regal Princess. The ship is equipped with three main dining rooms, the Symphony, Allegro and Concerto, where guests can choose between anytime dining or a sit-down meal. In addition to the three main dining areas, there are also two pizzerias, a pastry shop, ice cream bar, grill, room service and a buffet onboard. For a romantic occasion or a tasty treat, encourage travelers to indulge in a Norman Love chocolate-wine pairing flight. Combine this with a stroll down the Princess SeaWalk, a walkway that extends 30 feet over the edge of the boat, for an unforgettable experience.
Celebrity Reflection
The Reflection includes the staples of every Celebrity ship: the Sky Observation Lounge, an entertaining Martini Bar and the Lawn, an out-of-the-box dining experience where travelers can cook their own steaks to perfection on a plot of lush green grass. Think summer cookout, but at sea. In addition to these familiar choices, the Reflection has many of its own unique spaces like the Oceanview Café, which is modeled after an international marketplace where the menu changes every day. Once dinner rolls around, guests can choose between traditional dining or flexible Celebrity Select Dining from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.
Disney Fantasy
The Disney Fantasy takes the seaside culinary experience to the next level with its over-the-top presentation and meal-side entertainment. Like all Disney cruises, eateries change each night, allowing travelers to experience a variety of dining options throughout the duration of their trip. Those looking to splurge are encouraged to visit Remy’s for a three-hour, seven-course meal and wine-pairing that’s as indulgent as it is delicious. Guests can even meet with a wine expert before their meal for planning, and as if all this isn’t enough, upon returning to their room guests will find a “thank you” box of Remy’s chocolates.
