Cruise News

Holland America introduces Cooking Classes

April 20, 2009

Holland America Line is expanding its onboard enrichment programs with a series of culinary classes for passengers taught by the line’s culinary staff.

Hosted by the line’s onboard party planner, these classes are in addition to the guest chef program and take place in the ships’ Culinary Arts Centers or in one of the bars and lounges. The line schedules classes throughout the day on both sea and port days.

“The classes are very popular with Holland America Line guests, and we’re able to make their cruise even more enriching with these entertaining subjects,” said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president of marketing, sales and guest programs. “By showing our guests how to make orzo while sailing in Greece or how to arrange a beautiful bouquet, we’re creating experiences that they can take home and share with their friends and family.”

The itinerary-themed cooking demonstrations focus on the ship’s sailing region and bring the local flavors on board. When in Alaska, for example, the program offers “Flavors of the Northwest” and “Fresh Ketch.” Guests sailing on Caribbean itineraries may learn how to make jerk chicken or shrimp scampi, while those on Mediterranean cruises could prepare pasta with chorizo sauce or a warm crostini with classic caponata and mozzarella.

And finally, any client who has marveled at the ambitious ice sculptures seen on past cruises would want to know about the “Art of Ice Carving” class. During the instruction, the ship’s professional ice carvers demonstrate their skills, transforming a 300-pound block of ice into a sculpture in under an hour.

For reservations and information contact Paul Mermelstein at cruise@takeuscruising.com or call 703-722-6070.

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