Holland America Unveils “Culinary Ambassador” Cruises

Holland America Line is unveiling a new lineup of “Culinary Ambassador” cruises that combine the line’s destination-focused itineraries and a robust lineup of culinary programming.  The sailings, which are available on segments of Grand Voyages, as well as select other departures in 2025 and 2026 will each be hosted by one of Holland America’s culinary ambassadors.

The culinary ambassadors will offer activities during which they can share their knowledge, techniques, and tips. For the chef ambassadors, guests can attend a live cooking demonstration led by the chef, join a coffee chat to learn more about them, and dine at an intimate reservation-only dinner with a curated menu hosted by the chef. The beverage experts will offer tastings, special events, and host a pairing dinner in a specialty restaurant.  

“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 for Holland America Line. “Through the Culinary Ambassador cruises, we can bring some of the world’s most celebrated experts on board to elevate the journey. It’s not just about eating well for our guests — it’s about learning, tasting something new, having fun, and perhaps getting some tips to use in their own kitchens.”

 Holland America Line’s culinary ambassador chefs include David Burke, Masaharu Morimoto, Ethan Stowell, and Jacques Torres. Culinary ambassador beverage experts, who created regionally inspired cocktails for the cruise line’s bars and menus, include Sam Ross (Alaska), Ivy Mix (Mexico), Tess Posthumus (Northern Europe), and David Wondrich and Jeff Berry (Caribbean).

Culinary Ambassador cruise options include:

• Aug. 7-12, 2025: Chef David Burke, Voyage of the Vikings from Dublin to Reykjavik (Zuiderdam)
• Nov. 15-22, 2025, Bartender Ivy Mix, Baja Peninsula, roundtrip San Diego (Nieuw Amsterdam)
• March 25-30, 2026, Master Tea Blender Steve Schwartz, Grand World Voyage Segment from Singapore to Halong Bay (Volendam)
• April 29-May 3, 2026, Chef Ethan Stowell, Grand World Voyage segment from Seattle to San Diego (Volendam)
• Dates to be announced, Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Grand World Voyage segment in Japan (Volendam)