Food & Drink Archives - Page 2 of 2

Cruising Japan…Tips and Trips!

Selecting a Cruise Line: Research various cruise lines that offer trips to Japan. Consider factors such as price, amenities, onboard activities, and reputation. Some popular cruise lines that frequently visit Japan include Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises.
Choosing a Departure Port: Depending on your location and preferences, you’ll need to choose a departure port for your cruise. Common departure ports for cruises to Japan include Tokyo (Yokohama), Osaka, and Kobe.
Duration of the Cruise: Decide how long you want your cruise to be. Trips to Japan can vary in length from a week to several weeks, depending on the itinerary and ports of call.
Itinerary: Determine which ports of call in Japan you’d like to visit. Popular ports include Tokyo (Yokohama), Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and Okinawa. You might also want to consider stops at other destinations in Asia, such as South Korea or Taiwan.
Budget: Establish a budget for your cruise, including costs for accommodations, meals, transportation, excursions, and any additional expenses. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the cruise line, cabin type, time of year, and length of the cruise.
Booking Accommodations: Decide on the type of cabin you want (inside, oceanview, balcony, suite) and make your reservation. Consider factors such as cabin location, size, and amenities when making your decision.
Visas and Documentation: Check the visa requirements for Japan based on your nationality and make sure you have all the necessary documentation for your trip, including passports, visas (if required), travel insurance, and any other relevant paperwork.
Excursions and Activities: Research and book any excursions or activities you want to participate in at the ports of call. Whether it’s visiting historical sites, exploring local markets, or experiencing traditional cultural activities, there’s plenty to see and do in Japan.
Packaging and Preparation: Pack appropriate clothing and essentials for your cruise, taking into account the season and weather conditions in Japan during your travel dates. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, medications, and any special items you might need.
Travel to the Departure Port: Make arrangements for transportation to the departure port, whether it’s by plane, train, or car. Plan to arrive at least a day before your cruise departs to avoid any potential travel delays.
Enjoy Your Cruise: Once you’re onboard, relax and enjoy the amenities and activities available on the ship, as well as the beautiful scenery and exciting experiences awaiting you in Japan!

Remember to check for any travel advisories or restrictions related to COVID-19 or other factors that may impact your plans. Happy cruising

Silversea 2026 – 17 Voyages.

Silversea has announced its first-ever full summer season in French Polynesia, opening an exclusive pre-sale on 17 voyages between April and September 2026 aboard Silver Whisper. The line will offer deep immersion into 11 of the world’s most remote destinations in three of the region’s five archipelagos—the Society, Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands.

From April 6, 2026, the 392-guest Silver Whisper will undertake 17 voyages in French Polynesia, Papeete, Tahiti. Travelers can choose from seven- or 14-night itineraries—both of which aim to foster meaningful connections with the destination.

The shorter of the two itineraries sees Silver Whisper journey among the Society Islands’ most iconic destinations, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems. From Papeete, guests will journey to Moorea on an overnight call, besides Huahine and Bora Bora. Three late departures maximize guests’ time in Papeete, Moorea and Huahine. Hosted by an expert guide aboard a traditional boat in Bora Bora, guests will learn about the important role of storytelling in local culture and how early navigators used the stars to sail through the Pacific Ocean. In Huahine, travelers can join a cultural nature walk to discover the archeological sites of the village of Maeva, while admiring tropical plants and treetop views of the coastline. In Moorea, Bora Bora and Huahine, guests can snorkel in crystal-clear waters for the chance to witness hundreds of fish species and corals. Guests will also have the option of relaxing on a private island or motu, enjoying a traditional barbecue and local music.

Departing from Papeete on a 14-day voyage aboard Silver Whisper, guests will explore Moorea on an overnight call, besides visits to Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona, Tahuata, Rangiroa and Bora Bora, before returning to Papeete. In addition to discovering the peaks of the Society Islands and snorkeling to admire the archipelago’s abundant marine life, guests on both itineraries can spot whales (August to November), accompanied by expert guides; learn about local culinary traditions in a test kitchen in Moorea; and discover Raiatea by electric bicycle, among other immersive experiences. As on the seven-day itinerary, guests will also have the chance to relax on a private island, as a highlight experience.

Additionally, a 21-day Easter Island sailing, departing Valparaiso on March 16, and two combination voyages broaden the regional offering for guests.

Best Cruises for Foodies

If you’re a foodie, choosing to take a cruise is an excellent idea. You’ll get to visit incredible destinations with fantastic food, and you’ll also be able to enjoy delicious eats while on your cruise ship, too. Did you know many cruises offer cooking classes and other unique culinary experiences? These special programs can make for an amazing vacation experience. Here are our favorite cruises for foodies:

Holland America

When you cruise with Holland America, you’re in for a culinary treat. Their America’s Test Kitchen offers passengers the chance to take part in hands-on cooking experiences as well as watch live food demos. If you prefer, you can also take private cooking classes on board with the chef!

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is also a great cruise line for foodies. The Riviera and Marina ships have The Culinary Center available to guests onboard. The cooking classes feature recipes and ingredients from around the globe—with programs like “Discover Patagonia,” Mediterranean Journey,” and “Austin Renaissance: A Tex-Mex Fiesta.” Travelers have a personal workstation to do their prepping and cooking.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Sailing with Viking Ocean Cruises offers a great way to learn all about food. The Kitchen Table is an onboard kitchen and cooking school where travelers can learn how to cook dishes from a select destination on the cruise. When at port, travelers can shop at a local market for ingredients and then prep them on the ship along with the chef. After creating a multi-course meal, passengers get to dine and enjoy accompanied wines. This whole experience offers a unique chance to shop, cook, and eat with culinary pros.

Regent Seven Seas

When you board the Regent Seven Seas Explorer, you can join in the cooking fun at their Culinary Arts Kitchen. In this kitchen, inspired by French cooking schools, passengers can enjoy interactive lessons as they cook alongside the chef. Sample programs include Epicurian Safari, Fresh Healthy Comfort Kitchen, Northern Lights, and A Taste of Spain.

Seabourn

Seabourn is another great choice for foodies. Chef Thomas Keller leads the culinary offerings and special programs available with this cruise line. Cooking classes are available on select cruises. Seabourn also runs a Culinary Conversations program where guest speakers in the culinary industry share their knowledge and experience.

And there you have it—these are some of our favorite cruises for foodies. Of course, the fun doesn’t stop on board the cruise ships. When you book your next cruise, be sure to look into what kind of cooking classes and culinary excursions are offered at port. This is a great way to taste the local flavors of the destinations you visit.

Our Favorite Bars in Northern Europe

If you’re cruising to the Baltic and Northern Europe, you’ll get to explore several ports of call along the way. From the busy Oslo Harbor in Norway to the bustling city center of Helsinki in Finland, you can enjoy some good drinks and great food at some of the top-rated bars in the region. Here are some of the top picks for bars in Northern Europe.

Akkurat in Stockholm, Sweden

One of the top-rated pubs in Sweden, this bar serves up a variety of malt whiskies and ales. It hosts live music throughout the week and is always bustling with activity. The venue also serves food so it’s the perfect place to enjoy some Swedish specialties and taste some local flavors. It’s not a dive bar by any means but is always bustling with activity. If you head here on a Thursday night, you can enjoy ‘German nights’ with cask lagers straight from Germany and German-style food. Sundays are another popular night for live music and performances.

Leskinen in Oulu, Finland

Another highly-rated pub in northern Europe serves up 750 different types of beer and 20 different draughts. It’s a crowd favorite by locals and visitors alike. Since it’s close to the water, many travelers on a cruise or boat excursions end up here during their journey. You can settle in at the patio out front and spend some time people watching in downtown Oulu. It’s the perfect location when you’re exploring the rest of the city and want to get at taste of life as a local.

AleBrowar Gydnia, Poland

A popular bar near the water is a haven for craft beer lovers, a brewery that releases Polish favorites and regularly. The Gydnia location is the official brewpub of the Ale Browar brewery and has become a mecca for beer fans from around the globe. You can sample all types of beer and take a few favorites back to the ship to enjoy as you continue your cruise through Northern Europe.

Royal Caribbean Adds Vegan Options to Ships

When you have unique dietary restrictions, it can be more of a challenge to eat while traveling. Trying to avoid all animal products when on a cruise can feel impossible for many vegans. Luckily, some cruise lines are taking steps to offer more diverse food options for travelers who have restrictions. Vegans will be happy to know that Royal Caribbean now has vegan menu items in their main dining room.

Royal Caribbean introduced these menu offerings starting on August 1. Some of the vegan eats include: vegan spaghetti Bolognese, orzo pasta stew, edamame-stuffed Portobello mushrooms, and toffee cheesecake. The food selection will rotate. Guests must ask for the vegan menu as it’s separate from the regular dining menu. These items give vegetarians and vegans more food choices while onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise.

For buffet-style dining, Royal Caribbean has other options for vegetarians and vegans. Their Windjammer Cafe is a buffet-style dining option with a variety of food choices. Items that are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free are marked as such to make it easier for travelers to find approved foods. The cruise line will continue to feature vegan and vegetarian items at their buffets.

Sailing with Royal Caribbean isn’t your only option as a vegan. Take a look at the list below if you’re wondering what other cruise lines are accommodating vegetarians and vegans:

Regent Seven Seas has a new vegan menu will start at the beginning of October.

Costa Cruises features both vegan and vegetarian menus aboard their ships.

Oceania Cruises has a vegan menu, which they’ve continued to improve upon over the years.

SeaDream Yacht Club has a “Raw Food” menu which features raw, organic, vegan dishes.

It’ll be interesting to see what other cruise lines choose to upgrade their menu offerings to meet the needs of travelers with unique dietary needs. Will you be giving the new Royal Caribbean menu a try soon?