Holland America Line Announces Star-Studded Culinary Ambassador Cruises for 2025 and 2026

Holland America Line is bringing world-class flavor to the high seas with a brand-new lineup of Culinary Ambassador cruises set for 2025 and 2026. These specialty sailings, featured on select Grand Voyages and other itineraries, promise a rich mix of food, drink, and cultural experiences hosted by renowned chefs, mixologists, and beverage experts.

Each Culinary Ambassador sailing will offer a series of immersive activities where guests can connect with the culinary stars behind the ship’s menus. Whether it’s a cooking demo by a celebrity chef or a cocktail tasting with a globally celebrated mixologist, guests will enjoy hands-on experiences that blend delicious learning with unforgettable travel.

“Dining has become an essential part of how people explore the world, and our Culinary Ambassador program allows us to offer something truly special, an experience that goes beyond the plate,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage, and rooms division at Holland America Line.

“Through these cruises, we bring some of the world’s most celebrated experts on board. It’s not just about eating well, it’s about discovering something new, having fun, and even taking home some inspiration for your kitchen.”

What Guests Can Expect:

• Live cooking demonstrations led by Culinary Ambassador chefs
• Interactive coffee chats with the featured guests
• Reservation-only dinners with custom-curated menus
• Specialty beverage events, including tastings, pairings, and themed dinners
• Opportunities to learn techniques, tips, and insider stories from top industry names

Meet the Culinary Ambassadors:

Holland America Line’s elite team of Culinary Ambassadors includes:

• Chefs: David Burke, Masaharu Morimoto, Ethan Stowell, and Jacques Torres
• Beverage Experts: Sam Ross (Alaska), Ivy Mix (Mexico), Tess Posthumus (Northern Europe), David Wondrich, and Jeff Berry (Caribbean)
• Master Tea Blender: Steve Schwartz (Asia)

Each expert brings their signature style and regional influence, helping guests connect with the destinations through food and drink.

Highlighted 2025–2026 Culinary Ambassador Cruises:

• Zuiderdam — Voyage of the Vikings

Chef David Burke will join from August 7–12, 2025, sailing from Dublin, Ireland, to Reykjavik, Iceland.

• Nieuw Amsterdam — 7-Day Baja Peninsula

Mixologist Ivy Mix will be on board from November 15–22, 2025, on a roundtrip sailing from San Diego.

• Volendam — 2026 Grand World Voyage

Tea Expert Steve Schwartz will host from March 25–30, 2026, during the segment from Singapore to Halong Bay (Hanoi), Vietnam.

• Volendam — 2026 Grand World Voyage

Chef Masaharu Morimoto will be aboard during the Japan segment (exact dates to be announced).

• Volendam — 2026 Grand World Voyage

Chef Ethan Stowell will join from April 29 to May 3, 2026, sailing from Seattle, Washington, to San Diego, California.

These cruises are more than just getaways; they’re floating culinary festivals, offering travelers a rare opportunity to connect with some of the brightest names in the food and beverage world, all while sailing to bucket-list destinations.

Travelers interested in these special sailings are encouraged to book early, as spaces for the hosted events are limited and highly sought after.