If the idea of a perfect holiday involves exploring Europe’s amazing culinary scene, then you’ll want to discover Oceania Cruises’ Culinary Discovery Tour series.

Culinary traditions form the core of many cultures worldwide, and experiencing them is undoubtedly the fastest way to connect with locals. With this in mind, Oceania Cruises, the world leader in cruise liners for foodies, have recently expanded their popular Culinary Discovery Tour series, with trips now setting sail now for: Barcelona, Marseille, Antibes (France), Catania (Italy) and Iraklion (Heraklion, Greece) all through summer.

The luxurious journey first begins on the Oceania Marina or Riviera ships, and with a relatively mid-sized capacity of 1,250-guests you can be sure of unparalleled service – especially since the five-star premium cruise works in a ratio of two staff members for every three guests, so you get personalised attention every single time. Daily meals are prepared à la minute, if you are in the mood for some relaxation simply book in your session at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub®, and for dinner, why not prepare your own meal at the Culinary Center – the only hands-on cooking school at sea, where chefs from the world over will happily guide step-by-step in creating your dish. 


Once on land, that’s when you truly dive into the delicious culinary escapades that Europe has to offer. Think a trip to the local markets and learning which produce, fresh fish and exotic spices best come together in traditional recipes, farm visits, whipping up dishes while in a cooking school, relaxing over excellent food in restaurants, and vineyard hopping. Throughout, a chef from the Culinary Center will be right at your side to explain away any queries you have about local cuisine and even lead in destination-inspired cooking classes.

So, if you love hands-on experiences for instance, the ‘Catania – Chef Market Tour, Cannoli Making and Lunch’ would be on your shortlist. The day begins as you explore the exotic sights of ancient street market Mercato del Pesce di Catania, before arriving at a family-owned patisserie to learn the art of cannoli making, Sicilian-style. Lunch is done at the famous Osteria Nero d’ Avola in Taormina, where the chef himself appears to explain the day’s ingredients used in the menu. Even wines paired are sourced from local winery, Etna Benanti, served personally by one of the Benanti brothers for an intimate dining session like no other.



Answering the call of discerning epicureans with a taste for the finer things in life, there’s definitely a Culinary Discovery Tour to suit every palate, whim and fancy.  

For more information on Oceania Cruises, contact their local agent Ports & Porters at +65 6225 1322 or click here to find their latest promotion.