When she debuts in winter 2010, Oceania Cruises’ new 1,258-guest Marina will offer a state-of-the-art culinary studio with fully equipped individual work stations, each with induction cook tops, a first at sea, affording guests the opportunity to gain a hands-on learning experience.

The new ship’s multi-million-dollar, ground-breaking culinary center was announced today in New York by Bob Binder, president of Oceania Cruises, and Risa Aronson, associate publisher, Bon Appétit magazine.

“Many ships offer cooking demonstrations. Our goal when designing Marina was to be the first to let guests actually cook for themselves as opposed to passively watching from the audience,” stated Binder. “We are proud to have Bon Appétit serve as our culinary partner on this pioneering project.”

Oceania Cruises’ curriculum, designed in part by Bon Appétit, will appeal to a wide range of tastes and incorporate regional cultures and cuisines. Depending on the itinerary, classes may range from 45 minutes to three hours, and cater to all levels of aptitude, from beginner to master-chef level. The culinary experience will also be brought ashore with market tours where guests will shop for local ingredients with the chef. Additionally, guest chefs may arrange for students to have private tastings at wineries and access to famous shore-side kitchens.

“Oceania Cruises is taking shipboard cooking classes to a new level aboard Marina,” said Aronson. “Bon Appétit welcomes the interactive component of this curriculum and is delighted to share our expertise and access to master chefs and rising stars.”

A Ship for Food Lovers

Oceania Cruises’ new Marina has been purposefully designed for epicureans with 10 dining venues, including six open-seating, gourmet restaurants. Public spaces awash in rich woods, marble and granite, fine wool carpets and lustrous leather retain the intimacy and signature design elements of the line’s three sister ships while affording an increased level of space, comfort, convenience and luxury amenities. Guest accommodations are comprised of 629 staterooms and suites, 96 percent of which have private verandas. Facilities include an array of elegant bars and lounges, a full-service spa, spacious fitness center, outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs.