In a bold and flavorful move that redefines tradition, Oceania Cruises has announced that a group of Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni will serve as the godparents of its newest ship, Oceania Allura. Set to make her debut in July 2025, Oceania Allura will be officially christened during a dazzling ceremony in Miami on November 13.
This unprecedented decision reflects Oceania Cruises’ deep-rooted commitment to gastronomy and innovation. Rather than naming a single godmother, the cruise line has chosen a celebrated group of culinary trailblazers – alumni from the prestigious Food & Wine Best New Chefs program – as the ceremonial godparents of Oceania Allura.
“The soul of Oceania Cruises has always been deeply rooted in extraordinary cuisine,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. “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. It’s a celebration of passion, talent, and the global language of gastronomy.”
Since 1988, the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program has honored more than 400 emerging culinary talents who have transformed the way we experience food. These chefs are known for pushing boundaries, creating connections through cuisine, and shaping the future of dining. Their involvement as godparents marks a historic first in the cruise industry and underscores Oceania Cruises’ reputation as a line designed by foodies for foodies.
Oceania Allura, the line’s newest 1,200-guest vessel, will elevate the onboard experience with a renewed focus on exceptional service, an elegantly relaxed atmosphere, and what the brand proudly calls The Finest Cuisine at Sea. The ship will feature more than 270 brand-new recipes, an expansive hands-on Culinary Center, and an intimate Chef’s Studio.
Signature dining experiences also make a celebrated return. Jacques, Oceania Cruises’ beloved French restaurant, will once again delight guests with refined classics. Meanwhile, Red Ginger, the line’s popular pan-Asian venue, will debut inventive new Nikkei dishes, blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors in a fresh take on fusion cuisine.
The naming ceremony in Miami will not only introduce Oceania Allura to the world but also pay tribute to the culinary creativity that defines the brand. With this announcement, Oceania Cruises is setting a new precedent in how cruise ships are christened – honoring not tradition for its own sake, but excellence in its most delicious form.
As part of the collaboration, Oceania Cruises will also launch its first-ever Best New Chefs Cruise in 2025. Sailing roundtrip from Seattle aboard Oceania Riviera from August 18 to 28, this exclusive Alaskan voyage will feature 2023 Best New Chef Aisha Ibrahim. Guests can expect specially curated menus, live cooking demonstrations, expertly paired tastings, and immersive food experiences both at sea and ashore.
Looking ahead, two additional Best New Chefs Cruises will debut aboard Oceania Allura in 2026, with more details to be announced later this year. With this unique series, Oceania Cruises continues to enrich its culinary story while offering guests unforgettable opportunities to connect with the chefs shaping the future of food.
Contact us for additional information and to book your voyage with Oceania Cruises.