RSSC-Regent Seven Seas Cruises is taking its culinary experiences to new heights by introducing 128 captivating culinary-focused shore excursions in the Mediterranean.
In collaboration with local chefs and culinary experts, these exceptional excursions will provide guests with an unforgettable journey through France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey. Travelers will have the opportunity to indulge in the finest regional delicacies and uncover the secrets of authentic cuisine.
Luxury travelers can choose from a diverse selection of immersive epicurean experiences, guided by knowledgeable local experts who will lead them through exclusive wine tastings, cooking classes, and exquisite gourmet meals. This introduction of thoughtfully curated culinary adventures reaffirms Regent's commitment to delivering unforgettable moments both on land and at sea.
Regent boasts an extensive collection of approximately 5,000 shoreside experiences worldwide, with nearly 3,900 of these extraordinary tours offered free of charge to guests as part of the all-inclusive Regent experience, providing exceptional value in luxury cruising.
This collection of culinary-focused shore excursions is a key component of Regent's Epicurean Perfection program, which celebrates the flavors of the world while immersing guests in the breathtaking beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultures of the destinations they explore.
Highlights of Regent's new European culinary-focused shore excursions include:
Minoan Gastronomy Through History: Heraklion (Crete Greece) – Guests can participate in a hands-on cooking class at a restaurant in Amnisiades Park, surrounded by ancient olive trees. They will discover the ancient Minoan diet, preparing dishes with seafood, goat, wild deer, lentils, fruits, and nuts, accompanied by wine. The experience allows guests to delve into the flavors and history of Crete's early inhabitants, cooking an authentic meal using local organic ingredients, including baking dishes in a Minoan-style oven with olive oil sourced from the park's ancient trees.
Cooking Class with Local Chef: Dikili-Pergamum (Turkey) – This excursion offers a chance to learn traditional Turkish cuisine at a Bergama restaurant amidst Greek and Roman ruins. After a brief tour of the city's historical sites, guests will enjoy a hands-on cooking class using locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes regional dishes such as shepherd's salad, yuvalama soup, and adana kebab made with lamb. Participants can savor their creations alongside local wine for lunch, with the menu tailored to the freshest seasonal ingredients.
Farm to Table Amalfi-Style: Amalfi/Positano, Italy – This experience involves a tour of a family-owned organic farm in Scala, a hilltop village founded in the 4th century. Guests will learn about organic farming methods and taste the natural flavors of freshly harvested produce. An inspiring lunch made with farm-fresh ingredients awaits, providing panoramic views. The menu varies depending on the freshest seasonal offerings of the day. The Ciccio family, owners of the farm, will guide visitors through their vineyards, fruit orchards, and vegetable fields.
Porto's Port Wine Cellars: Porto, Portugal – Following a scenic drive through Porto, guests will enjoy a delightful dining experience paired with the renowned port wine. The UNESCO-recognized historic district of Porto, featuring architectural landmarks like Casa da Musica and the baptism site of explorer Henry the Navigator, will be explored before immersing in the city's culture to learn about the production of port wine. At Graham's Port Lodge in Gaia, guests will indulge in a refined tasting of appetizers expertly paired with port wines, including the refreshing Graham's Extra Dry White.
Ultimate Provence Specialties: Toulon, France – Regent Choice $139 per guest. Embark on an exceptional gastronomic journey through the Provence countryside after exploring the renowned Saint-Tropez. The scenic drive to both destinations is truly breathtaking, and the visit to Saint-Tropez adds a touch of glamour. As guests approach Ultimate Provence, an environmentally friendly hotel wine estate situated in France's largest nature reserve, anticipation builds. Take an enlightening tour of the property and its organic vineyards, immersing yourself in the experience. Indulge in delectable delicacies like fresh oysters, succulent seafood, and exquisite French cheeses such as abondance. The dining experience is perfectly complemented by a selection of carefully chosen wines, including the award-winning rosé blend from Ultimate Provence.
Menorcan-Style Lobster: Mahon (Menorca), Balearic Spain – Regent Choice $139 per guest. Delight in Menorca's renowned dish, lobster stew, at the Sa Llagosta restaurant in Fornells. This classic dish, originating over a century ago, showcases spiny lobsters sourced from the surrounding waters. Chef David Coca puts his own twist on the recipe while keeping the traditional sofrito base of tomato paste, onions, and garlic. Conclude your meal with a flao, a delectable dessert resembling cheesecake. On the way to Fornells, soak in the natural beauty of the island, including the awe-inspiring Monte Toro, the highest peak offering panoramic views.