Oceania Cruises will team up with a selection of “Food & Wine” Best New Chefs alumni who will serve as godparents of its newest ship, Oceania Allura, debuting in July 2025. In a move that reflects the brand’s dedication to gastronomy and innovation, Oceania Allura will be christened not by one godmother, but by a group of “Food & Wine” Best New Chefs alumni. The announcement was made on June 21, 2025, at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen.
Since 1988, “Food & Wine” Best New Chefs program has honored more than 400 rising culinary stars who are redefining how we cook, eat, and connect through food. The alumni include some of the most influential figures in modern cuisine. Now, in a first for the cruise industry, a group of these culinary innovators will serve as the ceremonial godparents of Oceania Allura, marking the first time this title has been awarded to a group of chefs.
The 1,200-guest Oceania Allura will offer an elevated onboard experience defined by personalized service, a relaxed ambience and fine cuisine. With more than 270 new recipes, an expansive hands-on Culinary Center and accompanying Chef’s Studio, the return of Oceania Cruises’ signature French restaurant Jacques and new Nikkei dishes recently announced as additions to the menu in its pan-Asian venue, Red Ginger, Oceania Allura embodies the line’s culinary excellence while pushing the boundaries of innovation. The christening and naming ceremony will take place on November 13, 2025, in Miami, FL.
Beyond Oceania Allura, guests can share an Alaskan journey with 2023 “Food & Wine” Best New Chef Aisha Ibrahim aboard Oceania Cruises’ first-ever “Best New Chefs Cruise” on August 18–28, 2025. On this 10-day sailing from Seattle to Seattle on Oceania Riviera, food lovers will experience special menus, cooking demonstrations and fabulous pairings among the many epicurean discoveries at sea and on land. Two additional “Best New Chefs Cruises” will debut on Oceania Allura in 2026, with more details to be announced later this year.
Related Articles
Ritz-Carlton’s Winter 2026-27 Voyages Mark Debut in Polynesia
Cunard Launches 185th Anniversary Sale Across 185 Voyages