If you love travel and cruising as much as we do, chances are you love food, too, which is why we’re serving up the best cruises for foodies. With cruise lines offering immersive food tours and collaborating with celebrity chefs like Cunard and two Michelin-starred chef, Michel Roux, there has never been a better time to indulge while on a cruise holiday.
We’ve pulled together our top picks of the best cruises for foodies that offer itineraries spanning Europe, Asia, America and beyond. Keep reading if you’re keen on satisfying those cravings with a cruise like no other.
Bon Appetit!
The Then And Now of Cruise Line Food
Maritime travel was restricted to certain dining times in the grand dining room. Here, travellers could pick off a limited menu or from a buffet that lacked variety, freshness and some destination-specific flair.
Now, you do not need to be confined to set meal times. Want a burger at 2 am? Too easy. Are you keen to sail into the sunset with an intimate private dining experience for two? Would you prefer high-tea in the afternoon, must-try wine pairings, or a chance to savour the flavours of an authentic Brazilian steakhouse? Whatever your tastes, you’ll find mouth-watering cuisine that will blow your taste buds away!
Today’s cruising scene will allow you to indulge, taking your taste buds on a journey. Immerse yourself in cooking classes, savour a variety of wine tastings, explore vibrant food markets, and enjoy dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chefs. It’s time to treat yourself to a culinary journey filled with fresh, exciting flavours and healthier dining experiences.
Let’s explore the best cruises for foodies.
Discover an Incredible Variety of Dining Options
While on board, you’ll discover that most dining venues are included with your cruise fare. Often, you’ll find several specialty restaurants that require an additional fee. Our advice? Dine at as many different places as possible to fully enjoy the variety. And, if you’re particularly excited about a specific restaurant, be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.
You’ll find many specialty dining options, from authentic Italian eateries and classic steakhouses to Teppanyaki, culinary explorations, wine bars, and beyond. Cruise lines invest heavily in providing a diverse array of global flavours for every palate, which means you’ll always have a choice. Additionally, some cruises feature a gala or themed evening where guests are invited to dress elegantly and experience signature dining menus in the main dining room, should they choose to.
If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, you can rest easy knowing you’ll be well-catered to. Cruise ships make every effort to accommodate the dietary needs of all their guests.
The Best Cruise Lines for Foodies: Our Top Picks
Here are some of our favourite flavour stations across ocean liners and river cruises – our list of the best cruises for foodies are:
Cunard
With a sophisticated approach to dining, Cunard’s dining options offer food lovers a journey filled with remarkable culinary moments. The Grills Suite dining experiences alone are a testament to this, providing an exquisite, personalised gourmet experience with access to exclusive venues and tailored menus. From world-class chefs, innovative alternative dining options on Queen Anne, and the timeless elegance of Cunard’s High Tea to intimate and luxurious settings, every meal on a Cunard cruise is an opportunity to explore new flavours and traditions. Cunard is not just a cruise for foodies—it’s a culinary adventure.
High Tea – A Timeless Tradition with a Modern Twist
For lovers of classic afternoon tea, Cunard offers an elegant and delicious quintessential experience. Served daily in the grand setting of the Queens Room, Cunard’s High Tea is an indulgent affair that foodies will relish. Grills Suite guests enjoy the additional luxury of private high tea service in the exclusive Grills Lounge, with a curated selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and exquisite pastries. Whether it’s the signature blend of Cunard teas or the gourmet bites served, this is a must-experience ritual that evokes the grandeur of ocean travel.
Queen Anne's Alternative Dining – A New Era of Culinary Adventure
Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, raises the bar for food lovers with its array of alternative dining venues. Guests in Grills Suites can explore a world of flavours through this innovative dining concept, which features diverse global cuisines and contemporary culinary techniques.
From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Asian fusion, Queen Anne’s alternative dining venues offer exciting options for every taste. These venues are perfect for food enthusiasts seeking new experiences while maintaining the luxurious standards expected from Cunard.
Grills Suite Dining – The Pinnacle of Luxury Cuisine
For foodies seeking the ultimate dining experience, Cunard’s Grills Suite Dining provides an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in culinary excellence. The Grills Suite Experience is designed with gourmet travellers in mind, offering refined dining, world-class service, and exclusive access to unique culinary experiences that elevate any cruise.
Cunard’s Grills Suite guests enjoy exclusive access to the Princess Grill or Queens Grill restaurants, where the focus is on haute cuisine and personalised service. These sophisticated venues feature daily menus, as well as classic favourites emphasising the finest ingredients and global flavours, all prepared to exacting standards by expert chefs. Whether you’re savouring dishes like pan-seared scallops or indulgent soufflés, the Grills Suite dining experience ensures that each meal is an event.
With innovative alternative dining options on Queen Anne and the timeless elegance of Cunard’s High Tea, Cunard is the perfect choice for those who view fine dining as a central part of their travel experience.
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn is a proud member of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world’s most renowned gastronomic societies dedicated to the art of fine dining.
When a cruise features a unique event like “Caviar in the Surf,” where waiters wade into the surf to serve caviar and hors d’oeuvres to passengers, you know you’re in for an exceptional experience. Seabourn, a favourite among culinary enthusiasts, has collaborated with Chef Anton “Tony” Egger, the mastermind behind two of Seabourn’s most popular onboard dining concepts, Earth & Ocean and Sushi, to elevate its onboard dining.
Guests are encouraged to try the new Mediterranean fine-dining concept, Solis, which is complementary and a must-try during your voyage. For those who love to explore, join the onboard chefs as they venture into local markets to shop for fresh ingredients. And if you ever crave caviar, Seabourn offers complimentary servings whenever you desire.
Several factors distinguish Seabourn’s outstanding dining experiences:
- Gourmet Cuisine: Seabourn’s menus, often curated by renowned chefs, showcase innovative, restaurant-quality dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Diverse Dining Options: The cruise line provides a variety of dining environments, from formal to casual, catering to every palate.
- All-Inclusive Luxury: All meals and premium beverages are included so that guests can enjoy fine wines and spirits with their meals at no extra cost.
- Personalised Service: With nearly one staff member per guest, the service is attentive, focusing on individual preferences and dietary requirements.
- Elegant Ambiance: The dining venues are designed beautifully, featuring stunning ocean views that enhance the atmosphere.
These elements combine to make dining on Seabourn not just a meal but a memorable luxury experience filled with personalisation and culinary excellence.
Norwegian Cruise Line
On NCL, you’ll have an array of dining options, including complimentary menus in up to three main dining rooms, a buffet, various casual eateries, and speciality dining. Whether you opt for cruise casual or to dress up, you can enjoy a vast selection of culinary delights, ranging from global-inspired dishes to BBQ and steakhouses, not to mention sweet treats to add a little extra indulgence.
Freestyle Dining offers a variety of choices to please even the most discerning palate in the family. The dining options include:
- Complimentary Dining: Enjoy expertly crafted menus in up to three Main Dining Rooms, a buffet, and various casual eateries at no extra cost. Each venue offers a range of dishes to cater to all tastes.
- Speciality Dining: For a more refined experience, guests can explore global cuisines at specialty restaurants featuring Japanese, Italian, French, and Brazilian dishes, among others. These venues provide authentic flavours and gourmet presentations.
- Casual and Outdoor Venues: Dine al fresco at The Waterfront and other outdoor spots, combining delicious meals with beautiful ocean views and breezes.
- Desserts and Treats: Indulge in sweets and treats at onboard bakeries and cafes, offering everything from gourmet chocolates to speciality coffees and ice cream.
This flexible dining approach ensures everyone finds something delectable, enhancing the cruise experience with variety and personalisation.
VIVA
On VIVA river cruises, you can expect a delightful and diverse food experience that combines local flavours with international cuisine. The culinary offerings range from hearty German dishes to Mediterranean specialities and Asian-inspired meals. Guests can discover new menus daily, promising a fresh dining experience throughout the journey.
Meals on board are typically a mix of buffet and à la carte options. Breakfasts include a wide spread of cold and hot items, from meats and cheeses to eggs and pancakes. For lunch and dinner, you can enjoy a selection of starters, soups, and main courses, with choices covering meat, fish, and vegetarian options. The dining experience is rounded off with delicious desserts like eclairs and cobblers. Additionally, the cruise includes an all-inclusive service, providing a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your stay.
Whether enjoying a meal in the main dining area, the bistro or grabbing a drink and a snack during the aperitif hour, VIVA aims to satisfy all palates.
Let's Serve Up Your Next Holiday!
As you set sail on your next gourmet adventure, look for the best cruises for foodies, and remember that each cruise line offers a unique experience of culinary delights meticulously crafted to enhance your journey. Whether indulging in Cunard’s refined Grills Suite dining, experiencing Seabourn’s signature caviar service, or exploring the vibrant flavours on board Norwegian Cruise Line ship, your taste buds are in for a treat. Embrace the opportunity to dine exquisitely as you traverse the globe, making unforgettable memories one bite at a time. Let your love of food guide you to the best cruises for foodies and discover the joy of dining on the open seas—where every meal is not just a dish but a destination.
Hungry for more?
Exploring The Alternative Dining Experiences Aboard Queen Anne
