Oceania Cruises‘ newest ship, Oceania Allura, will be christened Miami on 13 November 2025 by a group of Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni, with the move designed to highlight the brand’s commitment to culinary excellence.

The announcement was made during the Food & Wine Best New Chefs Gala in New York City – one of the culinary industry’s most highly regarded festivals.

“The soul of Oceania Cruises has always been deeply rooted in extraordinary cuisine,” Oceania Chief Luxury Officer Jason Montague said. “By naming Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni as the godparents of Oceania Allura, we’re paying homage to the future of food and the creative forces driving it forward. It’s a celebration of passion, talent and the global language of gastronomy.” 

The Food & Wine Best New Chefs program has honoured more than 400 rising culinary stars since it was founded in 1998.

The official group taking part in the christening will also include: Tom Bair, Publisher, Food & Wine; Nathan Hickman, Chief Commercial Officer, Oceania Cruises; Erica Barale, Master Chef of France and Executive Culinary Director at Oceania Cruises; Hunter Lewis, Editor-in-Chief, Food & Wine; Bernhard Klotz, Vice President of Food & Beverage, Oceania Cruises; Julio Mora, Head of Hotel Operations, Oceania Cruises.

“Food & Wine Best New Chefs have helped shape the future of dining through their creativity, innovation and bold ideas for more than three decades,” Lewis said.

“Oceania Cruises shares that same spirit of discovery, creativity and excellence, making this a meaningful opportunity to honor the lasting impact these chefs have had on the culinary world. We’re thrilled to team up with Oceania Cruises in this unprecedented tribute to the visionaries behind today’s most exciting cuisine.” 

This initiative reflects a broader strategic partnership between Oceania Cruises and Food & Wine that aims to push the boundaries of onboard dining.