Oceania Cruises’ newest ship, the beautiful 684-guest Sirena debuted in Barcelona, on April 27, 2016, where she was christened by her godmother, acclaimed cookbook author and TV chef, Claudine Pépin.

Passionate about food, wine and travel, Claudine is the daughter of world-renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin, the Oceania Cruises’ Executive Culinary Director since its inception. She co-hosts the PBS show called Heart and Soul in the Kitchen and has joined her father on his annual Jacques Pépin Cruise – a foodie favorite. Her impressive background also includes having served as brand ambassador for Moët & Chandon and Dom Pérignon Champagne in New York.

Claudine taught classes about food and wine pairing at the International Culinary Center as well as at the city’s Sommelier Society. She’s also received the prestigious honor of being named Woman of the Year in 2002 by the Académie Culinaire de France – Filiale des Etats-Unis.

Claudine was joined on Sirena’s maiden voyage by her daughter and legendary father. This was a dream come true experience for connoisseurs as there was unique opportunities to mix and mingle with this illustrious “royal culinary family” at cooking demonstrations and book-signing events. Guests were able to enjoy a new gourmet lunch experience in the Grand Dining Room called Jacques Bistro with some of the chef’s famous signature dishes.

Another perk for passengers on the inaugural sailing was that they received a complimentary copy of Claudine’s newest book, Let’s Cook French, which paid homage to French-style family home-cooking with a focus on using only the freshest ingredients. Each classic recipe is presented in a user-friendly format in both English and French, accompanied by helpful illustrations. Guests were also be treated to specially designed signature menus, food tastings, insightful lectures and more, sure to delight the most ardent culinary cruiser.

Sirena is a sister ship to Regatta, Insignia and Nautica showcasing elegant features throughout, including six lavish Owner’s Suites, each a sprawling 1,000-square-feet, as well as four stunning Vista Suites. High-end Bvlgari bath amenities are featured in Concierge Level accommodations and above. Boasting a high staff to guest ratio of nearly one to two, everyone enjoys the highest levels of pampering service.

This incredible 14-day culinary-oriented cruise experience on Sirena’s inaugural voyage sailed from Barcelona to Venice and included Marseille, Monte Carlo, Saint-Tropez, Portoferraio, Rome/Civitavecchia, Amalfi, Taormina, Valletta, cruising the Mediterranean Sea, Kotor, Split and Koper.

Sirena sails to worldwide destinations and exotic ports being offered by Oceania Cruises. These exciting cruises include Mexico, the Mediterranean, Greece, South Europe, British Isles, U.S. & Canada, South Pacific Islands, Tahiti,  Hawaii, the Canary Islands, Australia, New Zealand,  Panama Canal, South America, Transatlantic & Repositioning, World & Exotic.

For more information on the Sirena cruise deals, visit us at LuxuryTravelTeam.com or call one of our luxury travel experts at 1-866-738-2470.