Foodie Voyages To Savour in 2026
For many travellers, food is the heart of discovery. It tells the story of a destination – its people, its history, its passions – in every flavour. That’s why culinary-focused cruises are becoming one of the hottest trends in 2026, offering holidaymakers the chance to let their taste buds lead the itinerary.
Unlike traditional sailings, where dining is simply one of many features, foodie cruises put cuisine in the spotlight.
Who’s leading the way?
P&O Cruises – P&O Cruises’ Food Heroes programme has been a pioneer, bringing household names like Marco Pierre White and Olly Smith onboard. Guests can attend masterclasses, sip fine wines, and dine on menus created by the UK’s favourite chefs.
Princess Cruises – Royal Princess has recently been named ‘World’s Best Culinary Cruise Ship’ by the prestigious World Culinary Awards, celebrating the very best in global gastronomy. From Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria offering diners traditional Tuscan recipes with curated wine pairings to the Chef’s Table Lumière with champagne, hors d’oeuvres and an extravagant multi-course dinner created and hosted by the ship’s executive chef.
Silversea – Silversea’s S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) programme takes an ultra-immersive approach. Passengers might tour a vineyard in Sicily, then return on board for a wine-pairing dinner designed around the day’s discoveries.
Emerald Cruises – Emerald Cruises has partnered with TV chef Ben Robinson, offering sailings where guests cook alongside him while exploring foodie havens like Italy and Croatia.
Expect celebrity chef demonstrations, interactive cooking classes, curated wine tastings, and shore excursions built around food markets and restaurants rather than just museums and landmarks. The draw lies in authenticity. It’s not just fine dining – it’s connecting with a region through its food. You’ll have the chance to learn how to make
Basque pintxos in San Sebastián or taste fresh olive oil in Crete, not just order them from a menu.
“I would recommend S.A.L.T to anyone who is looking to travel differently, to travel deeper and immerse themselves fully in a destination. Food is a great way to get under the skin of a country, while also enjoying some amazing cuisine and wine.” Product Development Specialist for S.A.L.T, Ilaria Edoard
Foodie cruises are also keeping pace with modern dietary needs. Plant-based menus, allergy-friendly dining, and low-alcohol or alcohol-free pairings are increasingly common. Cruise lines know that food travellers value inclusivity and ethical sourcing just as much as flavour.
How to choose?
Not every foodie cruise suits every appetite. Cruise lines like P&O and Princess offer excellent value, especially for shorter itineraries from Southampton. Luxury lines like Silversea provide unparalleled depth and exclusivity, but at a higher cost. We can help you find out what’s included: some classes or tastings are complimentary, while others carry an extra charge.
Looking ahead
Expect culinary cruising to continue diversifying in 2026. Smaller group excursions, collaborations with local producers and sustainability-focused programming are all on the rise. Imagine foraging for wild herbs in Croatia, then joining a chef onboard for a zero-waste cooking class using what you gathered. These micro-moments are the future of foodie travel.
Ready to book
Discover a new way to travel in 2026 with a foodie cruise designed around your tastes, with help from us, your local travel agent. From hands-on cooking experiences to unforgettable dining at sea and ashore, we’ll plan it all so you can simply enjoy the journey.
