A series of indulgent new experiences expands Regent Seven Sea Cruises’ immersive Epicurean Perfection programme in the Mediterranean.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is elevating its culinary experiences to new heights with the introduction of 128 captivating culinary-focused shore excursions in the Mediterranean. Crafted in collaboration with local chefs and culinary experts, these extraordinary excursions promise guests an unforgettable journey through France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey, where they will indulge in the finest regional delicacies and uncover the secrets of authentic cuisine.
Discerning luxury travellers can delight in a varied selection of immersive epicurean experiences, accompanied by knowledgeable local guides who will lead them through exclusive wine tastings, cooking classes, and exquisite gourmet meals. The unveiling of these thoughtfully curated culinary adventures reaffirms Regent’s commitment to providing guests with unforgettable moments on land and by sea.
Regent boasts an extensive collection of approximately 5,000 shoreside experiences around the world, with nearly 3,900 of these extraordinary tours included as part of the all-inclusive Regent experience, providing the best value in luxury cruising.
This collection of culinary-focused shore excursions is an integral part of Regent’s Epicurean Perfection programme, which celebrates the world’s flavours while immersing guests in the breathtaking beauty, storied history, and vibrant cultures of the destinations they explore.
Highlights of Regent’s new European culinary-focused shore excursions include Minoan Gastronomy Through History at Heraklion, Greece. where guests can experience a hands-on cooking class at a restaurant in Amnisiades Park, surrounded by ancient olive trees; discover the ancient Minoan diet with dishes made from seafood, goat, wild deer, lentils, fruits, and nuts, accompanied by wine; and immerse themselves in the flavours and history of the early inhabitants of Crete, learning about Minoan culture while cooking an authentic meal prepared with local organic ingredients. Some dishes will be baked in a Minoan-style oven using olive oil sourced from the park’s ancient trees.
In Pergamum, Turkey, during the Cooking Class with Local Chef experience, guests will learn to cook traditional Turkish cuisine at a Bergama restaurant, surrounded by Greek and Roman ruins. A quick tour of the city’s historical sites precedes the hands-on cooking class, which emphasises locally sourced ingredients. With guidance from the chef, guests will prepare a variety of regional dishes including shepherd’s salad, yuvalama soup, and adana kebab made with lamb. Participants may then enjoy their creations and local wine for lunch. The exact menu depends on seasonal availability, ensuring fresh and delicious ingredients.
During the Farm to Table Amalfi-Style excursion in Italy, foodies can experience a tour of a family-owned organic farm in Scala, a hilltop village founded in the 4th century, and learn about organic farming methods and taste the natural flavours of the produce at their absolute peak. Travellers will be able to enjoy an inspiring lunch made with fresh ingredients from the farm while taking in the panoramic views. The farm is located inland and is owned by the Ciccio family, who will guide visitors around their vineyards, fruit orchards, and vegetable fields.
In Portugal, the Porto’s Port Wine Cellars activity sees gourmands embark on a scenic drive through Porto, followed by a delightful dining experience complemented by the renowned port wine. Porto’s historic district is recognised for its architectural significance, and travellers will witness landmarks like Casa da Música and the baptism site of explorer Henry the Navigator, before being immersed in Porto’s culture to learn about the production of port wine. At Graham’s Port Lodge in Gaia, savour a refined tasting of appetisers expertly paired with these wines, including the refreshing Graham’s Extra Dry White.
The Ultimate Provence Specialties in France including a remarkable gastronomic journey in the Provence countryside after exploring iconic Saint-Tropez. The scenic drive to both destinations is breathtaking, while the visit to Saint-Tropez adds a touch of glamour. Anticipation builds as guests approach Ultimate Provence, an eco-friendly hotel wine estate in France’s largest nature reserve. Take an enlightening tour of the property and organic vineyards, before indulging in delicacies like fresh oysters, succulent seafood, and French cheeses such as Abondance. Carefully selected wines perfectly complement the dining experience, including Ultimate Provence’s award-winning rosé blend.
Finally, the Menorcan-Style Lobster experience in Mahon, Spain, offers guests the chance to savour Menorca’s signature dish, lobster stew, at Sa Llagosta restaurant in Fornells. This classic dish, which originated over a century ago, centres around spiny lobsters caught in the surrounding waters. Chef David Coca adds his own twist to the dish, but a traditional sofrito of tomato paste, onions, and garlic remains its base. Finish with a flaó, a cheesecake-like dessert. On the way to Fornells, take in the island’s stunning natural areas, including Monte Toro, the highest peak, offering breathtaking views.
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