Chef Masaharu Morimoto joined Holland America Line’s Grand World Voyage from April 7 to April 14, hosting a series of culinary events for guests as the ship sailed through Japan. Morimoto, who serves as the cruise line’s Culinary Ambassador and Fresh Fish Ambassador, led exclusive dinners, a cooking show, and Japanese cuisine-themed trivia during his time on board.
The addition of Chef Morimoto offered guests unique opportunities to experience Japanese cuisine firsthand while traveling through his homeland. His presence aimed to enhance the voyage with destination-inspired dining experiences that reflected both tradition and innovation.
A key highlight was an Omakase Dinner in Pinnacle Grill featuring dishes crafted by Morimoto specifically for this event. The evening began with an interactive sushi experience where guests created their own handrolls and nigiri under the guidance of Morimoto and the ship’s sushi chef. Courses included bluefin tuna tartare with caviar, house-cured toro paired with Japanese musk melon, panko-crusted oyster fry, Hokkaido uni with seared foie gras in teriyaki reduction, roasted wagyu chateaubriand with seasonal vegetables, yuzu-butter poached lobster tail, Uji matcha soufflé served with vanilla crème anglaise, and cherry blossom-inspired petit fours.
Morimoto also hosted two pop-up dinners at Pinnacle Grill as part of his “Morimoto By Sea” concept. These dinners featured signature items such as fresh tuna pizza, pork gyoza dumplings, Ishiyaki Buri Bop (hot stone yellowtail rice), shrimp prepared three ways “Morimoto Style,” Angry Lobster Pad Thai, white chocolate lime ganache desserts and dark chocolate spheres. During these events he mingled with guests while sharing insights into his cooking philosophy.
In addition to dinner events, Morimoto conducted a live cooking demonstration where he broke down a whole tuna before preparing Seared Kyushu Tuna accompanied by bok choy and Shimeji mushrooms. He provided tips on technique and shared ideas for recreating the dish at home.
According to Holland America Line’s announcement about its Culinary Ambassador program, Chef Morimoto is scheduled to return for future Grand Voyages in 2027 where he will continue hosting guest dinners and related activities.
