Cruise news: kitchen king in campaign to lure new cruisers

Regent Seven Seas has launched its own deluxe smorgasbord of 16 new cooking classes - rated among the top foodie experiences for luxe travellers. Rival Silversea plans to launch the "most immersive culinary concept ever" with S.A.L.T. - the Sea And Land Taste program next year. Opening on Silver Moon in August 2020, it offers guests the richest gastronomic experience, reflecting the destinations through taste, from market trips and special dinners in the S.A.L.T. restaurant to cooking demos with local guest chefs in the "cooking lab".

What makes this submarine so special?

Scenic has released the much-anticipated first images of the Scenic Eclipse submarine, Scenic Neptune, taking a dive in the Caribbean during its inaugural season. The custom-built U-Boat Worx Cruise Sub's acrylic spheres are constructed from a material which has the same refraction index as sea water, which means the barrier visually disappears underwater, providing an open and spacious feeling. Guests seat themselves in one of the two three-person pods, one each at the front and back, and can enjoy panoramic views of their complete surroundings from chairs mounted on a 280-degree swivelling platform. Visit: scenic.com.au

Celebrity Cruises is planning a historic sailing for International Women's Day on March 8 next year.

Commanded by Captain Kate McCue, Celebrity Edge will carry an unprecedented all-female bridge team and women officers across many areas. The 27 female crew members come from 17 countries and cover roles from captain, staff captain and chief officer to hotel director, cruise director and third engineer. Celebrity Cruises has long associated its brand with supporting equality. President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo says, "We are all passionate about closing the gender gap." Visit: celebritycruises.com

The contemporary lines are getting in on the act.

Carnival has announced plans to debut a new hands-on culinary experience, called Carnival Kitchen on the Carnival Panorama when the new cruise ship launches in December. There will be 15 onboard cooking classes inspired by the international cuisines served on the ship. Visit: carnival.com

Dream Cruises, currently sailing its first season in Australia, has announced its newest adults-only show on Explorer Dream.

The After Dark: Dream Boys midnight review show in the main Zodiac Theatre features the Dream Boys shimmying out of their skivvies with well-placed captain's hats to save their blushes.

On the introduction of the new show, Dream Cruises' vice-president of sales and marketing for Australia and New Zealand, Brigita Devries, said, "There will only be one show per cruise, strictly for guests over 18 and tickets are $30 each." Tickets can be purchased on board the Explorer Dream. The ship is currently sailing a series of round-trip week-long cruises from Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland. Cruisers also have the option to embark at Brisbane for short cruises to Sydney. Visit: dreamcruiseline.com