10 Celebrity-Hosted Cruises To Book Now Slideshow
Times Journey with The New York Times
When: Oct. 5- 17, 2012
Where: Venice, Athens, Istanbul, Ephesus, and more
Prices: $1,799 to $6,099, but an additional $1,575 for the sessions with the writers.
What: The New York Times writers such as film critic A.O. Scott, op-ed columnist Joe Nocera, and sports columnist William C. Rhoden will host about four seminars each.
Most Fitting Use of a Restaurant at Sea
Nobu Matsuhisa
When: May 24-June 5, 2012
Where: London, Bordeaux , Lisbon, Gibraltar, Monte Carlo, Florence, Porto Venere, and Rome
Prices: $3,955 to $24,930 for double occupancy
What: The chef known for high-end Japanese fusion (and a killer miso black cod) will make nightly appearances and mingle with guests at his onboard restaurants, as well as host a hands-on cooking class, perform a cooking demonstration, autograph his cookbooks, pose for photos, and even cook an "omakase" dinner with sake and sake champagne pairings. The omakase dinner costs extra, naturally.
Most Romantic
Kenny G
When: May 17-24, 2013
Where: Vancouver; Juneau, Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska
Prices: $1,999 to $7,299 (The penthouse has sold!)
What: Regular cruise passengers get special performances by Kenny G, autographs, photo ops, a limited-edition CD (one per cabin), and a chance to mingle with Kenny G at his Champagne Reception. Additional special events for suite passengers include dinner reservations with Kenny G serenading diners, a photo op at the dinner event, and an autographed photo.
Most Dependable
Food Network at Sea
When: Oct. 22-Nov. 2, 2011
Where: Rome, Cagliari, Palma de Mallorca, Lisbon, New York
Prices: Started at $1,897
What: Worst Cooks in America host Anne Burrell led two culinary demonstrations, and the Food Network chefs taught hands-on cooking classes. There were also some "by-invitation-only" Food Network events. They're dabbling in on-land adventures at the moment, but keep your eyes peeled for 2012 cruise dates.
Most Obvious Choice for Clubbing in Bermuda
New Jersey Shore Party Cruise with Deena Nicole
When: Sept. 16-23, 2012
Where: New Jersey; King's Wharf, Bermuda
Prices: $1,200 to $1,855 for double occupancy
What: The Jersey Shore star will pose for photos, host a happy hour, play outdoor games (huh?), show up at a dinner, and either teach or host dance lessons. Also, for an additional charge, you can go clubbing with Deena in Bermuda.
Most Expensive
Jacques Pépin
When: May 12–22, 2012
Where: Spain, France, Italy
Prices: $8,598 to $30,998 brochure prices
What: As the culinary director for Oceania Cruises, Pépin is reportedly "holding court" in his namesake restaurant onboard. He will also be leading Q&A sessions and cooking demos, and signing books.
Best Case of 'Oh That’s What She’s Doing Now'
Kate Gosselin Cruise
When: Aug. 12-19, 2012
Where: Florida, Haiti, Jamaica, Mexico
Prices: $1,900 to $3,175, double occupancy
What: The star of Kate Plus 8 will be hosting a brunch, barbecue, family games, Q&A session, book signing, craft session, and a shore excursion. Plus, every family gets a photo.
Most Butter-Filled
Paula Deen Party at Sea
When: Jan. 21-28, 2012 (expect another one next year)
Where: Florida, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Maarten
Prices: $1,578 to $5,178, double occupancy
What: The celebrity chef hosted a private welcome party, gave out personal gifts, posed for family photos, put on cooking and barbecue demos, had a Q&A session, and played some games, among other family-friendly activities.
Least Amount of Swag
Love Letter Cruise with R. Kelly
When: Oct. 1-6, 2012
Where: Miami, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Nassau
Prices: $899 to $4,999 for double occupancy
What: The R&B artist will host a VIP reception and meet and greet with select guests in upper-end cabins. He'll also perform twice for the all guests (although only one show is guaranteed per guest).
Most Vague
Bon Appétit Wine and Food Festival
When: Oct. 14-24, 2012 or Oct. 22-Nov. 1, 2012
Where: Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, Monaco; Greece, Israel, Cyprus, Turkey
Prices: With a special promotion, $3,204 to $14,404; $3,234 to $14,434
What: The magazine has called in "culinary stars and wine experts or editors for a palate-pleasing voyage." The Bon Appétit Culinary Center also offers onboard classes, with excursions to local markets, and more.