Oceania Cruises Partners with Renowned Food & Wine Best New Chefs Alumni to Serve as Godparents for the Highly Anticipated Oceania Allura, Set to Debut in July 2025

Published on June 24, 2025

Oceania Cruises has unveiled an exciting collaboration with a select group of esteemed Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni, who will serve as Godparents for the Oceania Allura scheduled to debut in July 2025. The announcement was made on June 21 at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, where it was revealed that the Oceania Allura will be christened by a group of distinguished culinary talents unique occasion, as it will be graced by a group of renowned chefs, rather than a single Godmother. This marks an unprecedented step for the cruise line, highlighting its commitment to exceptional culinary experiences.

The decision to appoint Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni as the godparents of the Oceania Allura underscores Oceania Cruises’ deep-rooted connection to extraordinary cuisine. By doing so, the company acknowledges the culinary trailblazers who are redefining the way food is prepared, experienced, and celebrated around the world. This honor is seen as a tribute to the creative and innovative chefs shaping the future of dining and gastronomy on a global scale.

Since its inception in 1988, the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program has been a cornerstone in recognizing emerging culinary talent. The program has celebrated over 400 chefs whose contributions have helped redefine the culinary industry. These chefs are known for their groundbreaking approaches to food, their bold ideas, and their ability to push the boundaries of traditional cooking. Their influence extends far beyond the kitchen, as they continue to inspire and influence food culture worldwide.

The partnership between Oceania Cruises and Food & Wine Best New Chefs is not just about honoring the past, but also looking toward the future. The cruise line shares the same spirit of discovery, creativity, and excellence that the Best New Chefs program promotes. This collaboration is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the ongoing impact these chefs have on the culinary world. The chefs selected as the godparents of Oceania Allura are emblematic of the talent, innovation, and passion that are driving the future of food. The partnership also emphasizes Oceania Cruises’ commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences to its guests, with cuisine being an integral part of the cruise line’s identity.

Oceania Allura, set to debut in 2025, promises to offer an unmatched culinary experience for its guests. The ship will feature more than 270 new recipes, showcasing a diverse range of flavors and culinary influences. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the ship’s state-of-the-art Culinary Center and Chef’s Studio, which will offer hands-on cooking experiences and demonstrations. For those seeking a taste of fine French cuisine, the ship will feature the renowned restaurant Jacques, along with an array of Nikkei-inspired dishes that blend Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

In addition to its culinary offerings, the Oceania Allura will provide an extraordinary setting for guests to indulge in a truly luxurious cruise experience. The christening and naming ceremony of the ship will take place on November 13, 2025, in Miami, Florida, marking a pivotal moment for the cruise line and its culinary initiatives.

As part of this collaboration, Oceania Cruises will also offer an exclusive Alaskan journey with one of the 2023 Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni. The first-ever “Best New Chefs Cruise” is scheduled to sail from August 18-28, 2025, aboard the Oceania Riviera. This 10-day voyage will depart from Seattle and return to Seattle, offering guests the opportunity to experience world-class cuisine while exploring the stunning Alaskan landscape.

Oceania Cruises is set to offer two more Best New Chefs Cruises aboard the Oceania Allura in 2026. These cruises will provide guests with an opportunity to experience exceptional culinary talent while traveling to exciting destinations. Further details about these cruises will be announced later this year, as the company continues to expand its culinary offerings and further cement its reputation as a leader in gastronomic travel.

In conclusion, the partnership between Oceania Cruises and the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program represents a celebration of creativity, innovation, and excellence in the culinary world. By selecting a group of these talented chefs as the godparents of the Oceania Allura, the cruise line is paying homage to the culinary pioneers who are shaping the future of food. With an emphasis on exceptional dining experiences and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of gastronomy, the Oceania Allura promises to be a true culinary haven for those seeking the very best in fine dining and travel.