Ultra-luxury cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages will offer culinary-focused Epicurean Expeditions to European ports beginning in April 2023.
Listen to this articleOn January 19, 2023, small-ship cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages announced it will offer new Epicurean Expeditions in Europe aboard the company’s 198-guest ultra-luxury yachts.
Epicurean Expeditions on Atlas
Each of the new culinary-focused sailings will feature a Gastronomic Guest who might be a renowned chef with a long history of cooking at Michelin-starred venues or a local culinary rock star skilled in preparing authentic, regional delicacies.
Along with demonstrations and interactive cooking classes, the Gastronomic Guest will participate (along with the ship’s executive or sous-chef) in the Yachtsman Cookoff—Atlas’ version of a culinary “Ironman” competition.
They will also join each of the foodie-focused Cultural Immersion shore excursions, which are complimentary for all guests on every Epicurean Expedition.
Depending on the itinerary, guests might sample tapas in Barcelona, explore a farmer’s market in Corsica, or shop for chocolates and wine in Cinque Terre.
Each Epicurean Expedition will also host a Visiting Vintner to treat oenophile guests to lectures and tastings exploring the subtleties of local wines.
“We specialize in expeditions that provide insights, indulge the senses, and inspire discussion among like-minded travelers,” said James Rodriguez, the line’s president and CEO.
“With the addition of our new Epicurean Expeditions, discerning explorers can now truly immerse themselves in the culinary culture of European ports, while cruising aboard a luxury yacht,” Rodriguez continued.
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Dining aboard the Atlas Ocean Expeditions fleet
Dining on Atlas’ Epicurean Expeditions sailings also includes the Josper Grill Experience and Atlas Heritage Dining Experience. Cruisers can enjoy both for no additional charge in the ship’s two open-air specialty dining venues.
Alma Alfresco, the outdoor area aft of the main restaurant, showcases the culinary soul of Portugal—alma means soul in Portuguese. Alma’s recipes have been passed down for generations and are prepared using artisanal techniques.
Selections may include Bacalhau a Bras (shredded, salted cod with potatoes, olives, onions, and eggs) from Lisbon, or the Setúbal specialty Torta de Azeitão—a decadent egg custard rolled in pastry.
The ship’s casual poolside venue 7-AFT Grill transforms into a chophouse by night, searing steaks and fresh seafood on a charcoal-fired Josper grill.
Featured steaks at the Josper Grill might include Black Angus filet mignon, New York strip, or a 35-ounce tomahawk. Other selections often include lamb, shrimp, lobster, and vegetarian dishes.
Related: Which Cruise Lines Have All-Inclusive Cruises?
About Atlas Ocean Voyages
Launched in August 2021, Florida-based Atlas Ocean Voyages is a newcomer to the ultra-luxury cruise category. With two 198-passenger ships—World Navigator and World Traveller—the company describes its experience as “intimate yacht style cruising”.
Atlas’ stylish expedition yachts offer cruisers five-star comfort, from luxurious accommodations and an all-inclusive onboard experience to in-depth shore excursions and customized private tours. Both ships feature 100 staterooms and suites, including accommodations for solo guests.
Sister ship World Seeker is scheduled to join the fleet in November 2024.
Guests can enjoy free drinks aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages ships, including craft beers, specialty coffees, and smoothies. The cruise line also provides luxurious L’Occitane bath amenities, free Wi-Fi, prepaid crew gratuities, and complimentary emergency medical evacuation insurance.
In addition to the new Epicurean itineraries, Atlas also visits remote, polar destinations including Antarctica and the Arctic for adventurous expedition cruises.
Related: What Is an Expedition Cruise (and Why You Should Consider One)
Do you love cruising to experience amazing food around the world (I sure do!) Would you consider booking one of Atlas’ Epicurean Expeditions? Let me know in the comments below!
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