Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled an extraordinary selection of internationally renowned guest chefs, pastry experts, food historians, and winemakers who will join its 2026 European season, reinforcing the brand's commitment to immersive enrichment through its acclaimed Epicurean Expeditions and select cultural cruises.
Throughout the season, guests aboard World Traveller, World Navigator, and World Voyager will enjoy intimate and engaging culinary programs led by top talent. Experiences include live cooking demonstrations, tastings, and onshore gastronomic discoveries, such as the passenger favorite Yachtsman Cook-Off, where travelers actively participate while renowned guest chefs act as judges. All of this is made possible by Atlas Ocean Voyages' expertise in smaller ships, with fewer than 200 guests.
“Our Epicurean Expeditions are designed to go far beyond exceptional gastronomy,” said James A. Rodriguez, president and CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “By welcoming such an extraordinary array of culinary talent, we create a deeply personal environment where guests can learn, interact, and forge authentic connections, whether sharing a meal, participating in a shore excursion, or simply conversing at sea. This level of access, enrichment, and closeness is an essential part of the Atlas experience and a tremendous added value for our guests.”
Guest chefs and featured culinary experts:
Guest chef Ippy Aiona brings a vibrant culinary voice, shaped by his Italian-American heritage and Native Hawaiian upbringing on the Big Island. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu San Francisco and a culinary prodigy, Aiona gained national recognition as the youngest finalist on Food Network Star and was later recognized by Forbes Food & Wine's 30 Under 30.His cuisine fuses tradition, storytelling, and playful creativity into an unforgettable dining experience.
World Traveller — July 10 and 20, 2026
Guest chef Luciana Berry, winner of Top Chef Brazil 2020, is a global ambassador for Brazilian cuisine and culture. Based in the UK, she masterfully combines modern and classic culinary techniques, highlighting Brazil's exotic flavors and ingredients. Berry frequently collaborates with the Brazilian Fruit Association at major international food fairs, showcasing her country's vibrant culinary identity to a global audience.
World Navigator — April 2, 2026; World Traveller — August 16 and 27, 2026; World Navigator — October 14, 2026
– Guest chef Regina Charboneau, known as the “Cookie Queen,” has a style deeply rooted in her Natchez, Mississippi, heritage. After gaining culinary experience in Alaska and training in Paris, she founded several renowned restaurants in San Francisco, including Biscuits and Blues. Author of four cookbooks and a champion of Southern American cuisine, Charboneau was instrumental in establishing Natchez as the “Cookie Capital of the World.” She continues to mentor young chefs and preserve regional culinary traditions.
World Traveller — July 30, 2026
Guest chef Massimo Capra is widely recognized as the host of Gourmet Escapes, a judge on Chopped Canada , and co-host of Restaurant Makeover. Owner of several acclaimed Italian restaurants and author of award-winning cookbooks, Capra brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep passion for Italian cuisine.
World Traveller — May 9, 2026; World Traveller — September 9 and 15, 2026
– Guest chef Martin Gimenez Castro, an international seafood specialist and sustainability advocate, is the Michelin-recommended restaurateur behind Ceviche Bar and Tuna in Warsaw, a Marine Stewardship Council ambassador, and the first winner of Top Chef Poland. He is known for his refined, globally inspired seafood cuisine, which combines meticulous technique, artistic presentation, and responsibly sourced ingredients.
World Traveller — June 20 and August 9, 2026
– Guest pastry chef Anna Wilamowska, trained in Michelin-starred restaurants and French patisseries, is a master chocolatier and pastry chef renowned for her artistic presentation and impeccable quality. In collaboration with local artists and sculptors, she brings creativity to each dessert, carefully adapting to vegan and gluten-free options.
World Navigator — April 2, 2026; World Traveller — May 9, 2026; World Traveller — September 9 and 15, 2026
Guest chef Christian Orner, founder of SALT Co. and based in Dorset, UK, has nearly two decades of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens. Influenced by Norwegian, English, French, and Italian culinary traditions, his bold yet refined style has earned him multiple industry awards, including a Gold Destination Award. His bespoke tasting menus and handcrafted desserts are a major draw to his presence on board.
World Voyager — May 13, 2026; World Traveller — August 27, 2026
– Flavors and Traditions expert Mara Papatheodorou, Master Foodie™ and longtime editor at Bon Appétit, is a culinary historian and hospitality specialist who connects gastronomy with culture through stories, flavors, and folklore. She has produced award-winning international culinary editions focused on Europe and the Mediterranean and continues to collaborate with chefs and food brands worldwide.
World Voyager — May 13, 2026; World Traveller — June 20 and July 1, 10, 20, and 30, 2026; World Voyager — April 16, 2027
– Renowned winemaker and Master Sommelier Peter Neptune, one of only 279 Master Sommeliers in the world, has 40 years of experience in the wine industry and is the founder of the Neptune School of Wine. A nationally acclaimed educator and popular YouTube content creator, Neptune brings profound knowledge and engaging instruction to Atlas guests who wish to deepen their understanding of the world of wine.
World Traveller — August 27, 2026
Atlas Ocean Voyages invites travelers and travel agents to take advantage of the Explorer's Choice Offer and the Enhanced Offer, available for a limited time and including double benefits on select expeditions. These offers increase savings and value, making Atlas's intimate expedition journeys even more appealing.
Double enhanced amenity benefits are available on select dates for bookings made before March 31, 2026. Guests are encouraged to explore individual itineraries and secure their preferred departures before the promotion ends.
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