Jacques Pépin’s Floating Restaurant Sails into Miami

You can always count on the French to pull off a good cruise collection.

If the only options were to sink or swim, leave it to internationally renowned French gourmand Jacques Pépin to find his own way in the water; float. Jacques, Pépin’s first eponymous restaurant at sea, is poised to be the signature venue within a collection of ten exquisite dining choices aboard Oceania Cruises’ new ship Marina.

The epicurious must book a cabin to see what Jacques brings to the sea. Deconstructing classics, the master chef draws inspiration from Paris brasseries and Pépin’s hometown of Lyon. From fresh mussels, free-range chicken, pork, duck, lamb, and veal to homemade pumpkin soup a l’Angalise, coq au vin, steak frites, prime beef, and pommes de terre, Jacques’ fare combines the best of land and sea, and changes depending on local markets at each port stop.

Start with Gratinée à L’Oignon, traditional French onion soup with Gruyère gratinated crouton, followed by Agneau de Lait, rotisserie roasted baby lamb Provencal style, before delighting in Crêpes Suzette au Grand Marnier, prepared à la minute with homemade vanilla ice cream. Pure French cuisine served on Pépin’s signature china, along with antique flatwork and artwork he created exclusively for Marina, Jacques c’est maqnifique.

Marina is a ship of firsts. Inclusive of Jacques, the ship is home to the Bon Appétit Culinary Center, the first hands-on cooking school at sea; Ralph Lauren Home-furnished Owner’s Suites; luxurious accommodations by designer Dakota Jackson; Wine Spectator wine program; a Lalique Grand Staircase; and full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub.

Inaugural seaworthy cuisine cruises into the Port of Miami tomorrow, Feb. 4 on Marina’s maiden voyage from Barcelona. Just when you thought you knew Jacques.

Visit www.oceaniacruises.com to book your cruise aboard Marina.

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