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Holland America Line is enhancing its iconic Grand Voyages in 2026 with culinary experiences featuring four new additions to its Culinary Ambassador Program.
Chef Masahara Morimoto, Seattle Restauranteur Chef Ethan Stowell and Steve Schwartz, Master Tea Blender, Founder and CEO of Art of Tea will join segments of the 122-day Grand World Voyage and Chocolatier Jacques Torres will join a portion of the 93-day Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage.
Torres will also host a Chocolate Teatime onboard when two Grand Voyages meet March 7, 2026 in Sydney, Australia.
“Our Grand Voyages are already among the most remarkable travel experiences in the world, and the addition of our Culinary Ambassadors and special events elevates them to a new level,” said Michael Smith, Holland America Line’s senior vice president, guest experience and product development.
He added, “From Chef Morimoto’s artistry with fresh fish to Jacques Torres’ mastery of chocolate, these exclusive programs give guests the rare chance to engage with culinary legends. It’s an extraordinary way to pair world-class destinations with world-class flavors, creating memories that can only be found on Holland America Line.”
Both Grand Voyages depart Jan. 4, 2026. The Grand World Voyage sails roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, aboard Volendam, and the Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage roundtrip leaves from San Diego, California, aboard Zaandam.
Guests with less time or wanting a sampling of a Grand World Voyage can choose from 10 booking dates ranging from 14 to 72 days, and two segments on the 2026 Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage of 33 or 60 days.
Culinary Ambassador segments include:
- Chef Masaharu Morimoto: Grand World Voyage, will be on the Sydney to Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan, segment that departs March 7, 2026. Morimoto will be cruising while the ship is in his native Japan, offering locally inspired culinary experiences.
- Chef Ethan Stowell: Grand World Voyage, will be on for part of the Yokohama (Tokyo), to San Diego segment, embarking in Seattle.
- Master Tea Blender and Art of Tea Founder and CEO Steve Schwartz: Grand World Voyage, will be on for a part of the Singapore to Yokohama (Tokyo) segment, departing March 24, 2026.
- Chocolatier Jacques Torres: Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage, will be on for a part of the Sydney to San Diego segment, departing March 6, 2026.
This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.
Contact My Journey Begins Travel to book your 2026 Grand Voyage with Holland America.