Luxury expedition cruise firm Atlas Ocean Voyages introduces its enhanced culinary programme helmed by corporate executive chef René Aflenzer.
Under Aflenzer’s visionary leadership, guests aboard Atlas' luxury expedition yachts will discover an array of innovative dishes that celebrate artistry, seasonality, and authentic regional flavors.
Cruise line president and chief executive James A Rodriquez said of this latest offering: "Our culinary programme is one of the cornerstones of the Atlas experience. Chef René's commitment to quality and innovation continues to elevate the dining experience for our valued guests. His creativity, passion, and the talented team of culinary professionals aboard our ships are delivering beyond expectations. Our guest feedback and consistently strong ratings are proof that Atlas dining is truly exceptional."
In addition to onboard dining, Atlas Ocean Voyages continues to expand its Epicurean Expeditions, with new 2026 and 2027 expeditions returning to the Mediterranean.
These immersive sailings offer guests exclusive culinary-focused programming, including guest chefs, wine pairings, market-to-table experiences, and shoreside tastings designed to connect travelers with the rich gastronomic traditions of the regions they explore.
A stellar menu
Atlas' 2025 menu rollout is divided into distinctive categories, offering guests a wide range of dining options designed to inspire the senses:
Starter course highlights
- Chilled Tomato Essence – smoked cherry tomato, basil oil
- Raw Hamachi – aqua de chile espuma, soybean-parsley & dill salad, herb oil
- Cured Mackerel – verjus dressing, parsley oil, Giaveri Oscietra caviar
Signature Main Course highlights
- Chilean Seabass Tiradito – yuzu-passion fruit leche de tigre, pickled cucumber, crispy quinoa
- Lobster Ravioli – garlic butter sauce, salmon skin
- Veal Tenderloin – finished with Porto wine au jus
Plant-Based course highlights
- Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad – herbed white beans
- Roasted White Onion – wild mushroom ragout, hazelnut, parsnip cream
- The Aubergine Mess – hummus, lychee, fresh herbs, chimichurri
- Additional offerings include kartofelnie, plant-based moussaka, vegetable curry, and more
Dessert course highlights
- Infinity Chocolate Peanut Butter cake
- Pistachio Tart | Pistachio Caramel Sauce | Crumble
Inspired by travel
Aflenzer recently returned from a sourcing journey across Argentina, where he collaborated with local farmers, vintners, and artisans to bring the freshest seasonal ingredients to guests aboard Atlas' luxury expedition yachts.
These partnerships ensure that locally sourced fish, prime proteins, fresh produce, regional wines and seafood are featured throughout the onboard dining experience.
Aflenzer said of the gustatory experience guests can expect onboard: "Food is an integral part of exploration. Guests deserve a culinary journey as rich and inspiring as the destinations we visit. Our menus are designed to surprise and delight, blending creative presentation, exceptional quality, and fresh regional flavors."
Atlas guests can enjoy Chef Aflenzer's creations across all onboard dining venues, including the elegant Main Restaurant, the al fresco 7Aft Grill, casual Paula's Pantry grab-and-go café, and 24-hour room service.
