Imagine spending the morning exploring a Moroccan market, then returning to your ship for a cooking demonstration that makes sense of the spices you've just seen. That's the idea behind Atlas Ocean Voyages' 2027 Epicurean Expeditions, and the small-ship line has now added two new names to its food and wine programme.
Chef and restaurateur Crista Luedtke, known for winning Food Network's Guy's Grocery Games, and wine writer and educator Anthony Giglio are joining a roster of returning chefs and culinary specialists. Atlas announced the additions on 29 October 2026, with sailings planned across the Mediterranean and Atlantic-facing parts of Europe.
Two voyages worth a closer look
Luedtke will join World Traveller on an eight-night sailing from Las Palmas to Málaga, departing 15 April 2027. The route links the Canary Islands, Morocco and southern Spain, which is a brilliant mix for anyone who likes to understand a destination through its food. Think the contrast between North African spice traditions and Andalusian produce, rather than simply another tasting menu at sea.
Giglio's sailing is a different kind of treat. He'll be aboard World Traveller from 20 August 2027 for a nine-night voyage from Livorno to Dubrovnik, with wine conversations inspired by Tuscany, the Mediterranean islands and the Adriatic. You don't need to know your grape varieties by heart to enjoy that sort of experience. In fact, the best wine sessions are often the ones that make the subject less intimidating.
What happens on board?
Atlas says the Epicurean programme will run across World Traveller, World Navigator and World Voyager. The line describes yachts carrying fewer than 200 guests, with opportunities for cooking demonstrations, tastings, discussions and its Yachtsman Cook-Off. Returning names include Massimo Capra, Bobby Marcotte, Ippy Aiona, Martin Gimenez Castro, Anna Wilamowska and Julieta Davey.
The interesting bit isn't simply having a recognisable chef on the passenger list. It's whether the activities connect with the places you're actually visiting. On a smaller ship, there's at least the potential for a more personal conversation than you'd get at a large theatre-style demonstration.
These are specific 2027 departures, not an announcement that every Atlas sailing will have the same guest experts. Check the chef assigned to your chosen date and the exact inclusions before booking. Our Canary Islands guide and Mediterranean cruise guide can help you get a feel for the regions.
Source: Atlas Ocean Voyages' original announcement, 29 October 2026.
Before booking an expert-hosted sailing
Confirm the named guest expert, sailing date and which tastings or demonstrations are included. Ask whether limited-capacity experiences need advance reservations and whether any activities carry an additional charge. A themed voyage is most worthwhile when the itinerary itself also suits you, even if a particular event changes.
Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Navigator in Rhodes on 12 August 2025, shown for context. Photo by Pjotr Mahhonin. Original photograph · CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized proportionally and recompressed as JPEG.
