Cunard kicks off post COVID cruise ship experience with bespoke culinary experiences

Guests aboard the luxurious Queen Elizabeth cruise ship will be treated to an extensive itinerary of food and wine experiences including bespoke dinners, exclusive menus, talks, interviews, cooking masterclasses, wine tastings, and curated onshore excursions as part of Cunard’s inaugural Great Australian Culinary Voyage. 

The five-night voyage will depart from Sydney on 28 January 2023, sailing to Melbourne and Burnie in Tasmania, before returning to Sydney on 2 February. 

A highlight will be the impressive line-up of chefs joining Matt Moran on this voyage. 

Mark Olive will apply his 30-years’ experience to treating guests to a native Australian ingredient cooking demonstration.

Olive will collaborate with Cunard’s chefs to create a 3-course menu incorporating indigenous produce. The dinner will be followed by a Q&A session. 

Owner of Melbourne’s B&P Sweet Studio, Darren Purchese, will put his acclaimed pastry skill to use to create unique pastries for an exclusive menu. He will also present a live cooking demonstration where guests can learn tips and tricks. 

Two of the industry’s best food writers, restaurant critics and cookbook authors Terry Durack and Jill Dupleix will host the series of talks, cooking demonstrations, Q&A sessions and a very special dinner for Queen Elizabeth guests. 

Leading Australian independent wine writer and critic, Huon Hooke will present a wine masterclass, various talks and wine pairings at special dinners.

Katrina McAlpine, Commercial Director at Cunard Australia and New Zealand said: “We are delighted to finally reveal the rest of our incredible talent for what is set to be one of Cunard’s most memorable cruises to date in Australia.

“We’ve handpicked every one of them, ensuring there’s an amazing experience to suit all guest tastes quite literally. I’m so excited with what we are offering for the onboard and onshore experiences for this voyage which will be a true homage to Australian produce, indigenous food culture and the creative people that make it so fantastic.”

Cunard is offering a special launch fare starting from AU$1,349 per person for a twin share Inside Stateroom. 

Guests will also be able to enjoy bespoke shore experiences amongst Sydney, Melbourne, and Burnie’s food scenes.

Irit Jackson, 24^th March 2022