Pepin hosts culinary cruise

World-renowned master chef Jacques Pepin will host a 14-day culinary odyssey aboard Oceania Cruises' intimate Insignia. Sailing from Lisbon to Venice on August 25, guests will delight in exploring the Mediterranean's most celebrated ports-of-call and draw upon the experiences of one of the world's most acclaimed chefs.

As the executive culinary director for Oceania Cruises, Pepin will treat guests to evenings of specially designed signature menus in the four gourmet dining rooms. And by day, guests may participate in culinary demonstrations, engaging question-and-answer sessions, and one-of-a-kind "Epicurean Excursions."

As fine food must be accompanied by fine wines and to compliment the culinary experience, master sommeliers and guest wine experts will lead guests through wine tastings where they may enjoy and compare appellations, vintages, and varietals from wine-producing regions around the world. They will also learn the history of wine along with the art of choosing and pairing wines, and familiarize themselves with Oceania Cruises' extensive cellar.

Of course, guests will also want to experience the historic, cultural, and culinary wonders of this voyage's magical ports. Oceania Cruises has gone to great lengths to design a wide variety of shore excursions and exclusive epicurean experiences that capture the essence of the places its ships visit.

For more information contact your travel agent or Oceania Cruises (Cruise Travel Magazine), 8120 NW 53rd St./Suite 100, Miami, FL 33126; or log on to www.oceaniacruises.com.