Oceania Allura: The Culinary Cruise Ship with Godparent Chefs

A Culinary Revolution at Sea: Oceania Allura

Oceania Cruises, renowned as the leading culinary-focused luxury cruise line in the world, has announced an innovative and historic move. This July, their newest ship, Oceania Allura, will set sail, and in a pioneering spirit, it has selected a group of the Food & Wine Best New Chefs as godparents. This decision reflects Oceania's ongoing commitment to gastronomy and culinary excellence as part of the cruise experience.

The announcement was made during the Food & Wine Classic held in Aspen on June 21, 2025. Oceania Cruises has always prided itself on its extraordinary dining experiences, and naming a collective of chefs as godparents not only redefines traditional maritime customs but celebrates the culinary creativity that these chefs represent. By bringing together some of the most talented individuals from the Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni, Oceania provides a powerful tribute to those shaping the future of dining.

Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, noted, "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. This is a celebration of passion, talent, and the global language of gastronomy."

Since its inception in 1988, the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program has recognized over 400 rising culinary stars who redefine the way we eat and connect through food. This year marks a significant milestone as these acclaimed culinary figures take up the ceremonial role of godparents for a ship, which for Oceania signals a deeper commitment to its mission.

Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief of Food & Wine, remarked on the significance of this collaboration, stating, "Food & Wine Best New Chefs have helped shape dining with their creativity and innovation for over three decades... Oceania Cruises shares our spirit of discovery and creativity, making this a meaningful opportunity to honor the lasting impact these chefs have had on the culinary world."

Expectations for Oceania Allura are high, as the ship aims to deliver an elevated onboard experience. It will host only 1,200 guests, allowing for personalized service in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Guests can look forward to The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, featuring over 270 new recipes, which includes updates to the menu in its popular pan-Asian restaurant, Red Ginger, and the return of the beloved French-inspired restaurant, Jacques.

The inaugural christening ceremony is expected to be a grand affair scheduled for November 13, 2025, in Miami, Florida. In addition to this, Oceania Cruises plans to expand its offerings with unique culinary voyages. Food enthusiasts can join Aisha Ibrahim, a 2023 Food & Wine Best New Chef, on a special cruise titled Best New Chefs Cruise from August 18 to 28, 2025, sailing from Seattle on Oceania Riviera. Guests will enjoy exclusive menus, cooking demonstrations, and fabulous pairings designed to enhance their culinary journey.

2026 promises further excitement with two additional Best New Chefs Cruises set to debut aboard Oceania Allura, showcasing Oceania’s ongoing dedication to food and travel enthusiasts alike. With this unprecedented approach to naming godparents and the promise of exquisite dining experiences, Oceania Cruises clearly positions itself as a cruise line created by food lovers, for food lovers.

Oceania Cruises, with its small luxurious fleet, invites travelers to explore diverse global destinations while indulging in the finest cuisine inspired by world-class chefs. For more details about Oceania Allura's exciting itineraries and innovative culinary opportunities, visit OceaniaCruises.com. Whether you are embarking on a new cruise adventure or indulging in culinary delights, Oceania Cruises redefines the cruising experience with every voyage, solidifying its status as a leader in luxury culinary travel.