Luxury cruise line Silversea Cruises has announced the appointment of Gianluca Sparacino as its new Global Head of Food and Beverage, effective August 18, 2025. Known for his dynamic leadership and deep expertise in global luxury hospitality, Sparacino will play a pivotal role in enhancing and innovating Silversea’s award-winning culinary program.
Reporting directly to Michael McCarthy, Vice President of Operations for Silversea, Sparacino will collaborate closely with both shoreside and shipboard teams. His focus will be on culinary evolution and innovation, elevating service excellence, and expanding Silversea’s gastronomic offerings for guests around the world.
A Culinary Visionary with Global Experience
Born in Rome, Sparacino is a graduate of the prestigious Les Roches Hotel Management School in Switzerland. His hospitality career spans over three decades and has taken him to some of the world’s most celebrated culinary destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Geneva, and Miami.
Throughout his career, Sparacino has been instrumental in creating and leading award-winning dining concepts, collaborating with more than a dozen Michelin-starred restaurants. His leadership style is defined by innovation, mentorship, and a guest-first philosophy, which has consistently redefined luxury hospitality experiences.
Before joining Silversea Cruises, Sparacino served as Vice President of Food and Beverage for the Americas at Four Seasons Resorts, following a successful tenure overseeing the EMEA region.
Silversea’s Commitment to Culinary Excellence
“Gianluca’s proven track record of delivering epicurean excellence, paired with his deep passion for hospitality will be instrumental in advancing our commitment to creating memorable dining experiences that connect our guests deeper with each destination we visit,” said Bert Hernandez, President of Silversea. “His leadership will continue to elevate our culinary program to new heights, ensuring our guests experience a truly remarkable experience every time they sail with us.”
Silversea Cruises is renowned for its world-class dining and destination-inspired cuisine, with its acclaimed S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program at the forefront. This immersive culinary concept offers guests curated experiences led by top chefs, featuring regionally inspired menus and a focus on authenticity that connects travelers to the destinations they explore.
Beyond S.A.L.T., Silversea offers diverse dining venues serving everything from fine French cuisine and flavorful Asian dishes to authentic Italian specialties and international favorites, ensuring every guest finds something to suit their palate.
Driving Innovation in Destination-Inspired Dining
“Culinary excellence is a core pillar of the Silversea experience, and our guests expect continued innovation for our culinary offerings,” said Michael McCarthy, Vice President of Operations at Silversea. “Gianluca’s expertise aligns with our mission to redefine experiential luxury travel, through meaningful, destination-inspired dining. We’re excited for what guests will experience under his leadership.”
Sparacino shares this vision, stating, “It is an honor to join Silversea – a brand synonymous with unparalleled experiences and service – at such an exciting time. I look forward to building on this legacy, crafting memorable culinary and beverage experiences that reflect authenticity, innovation, and the soulful pleasure of travel.”
Strengthening the Culinary Leadership Team
Sparacino’s appointment comes during a period of rapid culinary innovation for Silversea Cruises. Earlier this year, the cruise line welcomed Anthony Maubossin as Director of Culinary Operations & Innovation. Maubossin brings exceptional expertise and was recently inducted as a Membre Auditeur of the Académie Culinaire de France, one of the oldest and most prestigious culinary institutions in the world, dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of French cuisine.
Additionally, Jordan Bernstein joined as Director of Food and Beverage Operations, contributing nearly two decades of experience in elevating onboard culinary and hospitality standards.
With the addition of Gianluca Sparacino at the helm of food and beverage operations, Silversea Cruises is poised to further enhance its reputation as a leader in luxury cruise dining, delivering unforgettable gastronomic experiences at sea that connect travelers with the world in the most delicious way possible.
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