Oceania Cruises has introduced Culinary Discovery Tours to more than 25 ports worldwide, following the debut of its new luxury cruise ship Riviera last month.

Uniquely designed for each port, the new tours allow guests to explore local food markets in small groups, alongside an expert chef.

“With the introduction of sister-ship Riviera we are taking culinary enrichment to a whole new level to solidify our reputation as the cruise line for epicureans,” said Oceania president Kunal Kamlani.

Tours incorporate mini lectures, demonstrations or lunch before returning to the ship’s Bon Appétit Culinary Centre for a hands-on cooking class.

“In Athens, guests will visit the Agora meat and fish market followed by lunch in the Plaka,” said Kathryn Kelly, culinary enrichment director of Oceania Cruises.

“In Barcelona, we enjoy olive oil tasting, shop at Santa Caterina Market and then finish the day with lunch at a top tapas restaurant.”

Culinary Discovery Tours are offered aboard the 1250-guest luxury cruise ships Riviera and Marina and can be booked prior to departure. Prices start at $175 (€140) per person, including the escorted market tour and cooking class.

On Oceania Cruises’ 650-guest ships – Regatta and Nautica – the new Culinary Discovery Tours will combine excursions to local markets with hands-on cooking experiences at a shore-side cooking school or restaurant kitchen.

To find out more, visit www.oceaniacruises.com or www.royaltravel.com.mt.