Celebrity chef to join Saga Cruises sailing

Saga Cruises has unveiled its collection of “culinary expert” sailings, including a first-time appearance from John Torode.

Best known for hosting Masterchef, Torode will join the 14-night Flavours of France, Spain and Portugal cruise, departing Dover on August 6.

During the sailing, Torode will host cooking demonstrations, give two talks and hold a Q&A session.

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Prices for the sailing start at £4,161 based on two people sharing.

Torode said: “I’m so looking forward to my first venture on a Saga Cruise this month.

“I’m told the guests are passionate about great food so I expect the cooking demonstrations using flavours of the region and the question and answer sessions to be a lot of fun.”

Saga Cruises will also see the return of Phil Vickery and Oz Clarke later this year.

Chef, presenter and cookbook author Vickery will depart on the 28-night Autumn Colours of New England itinerary in September, followed by the 30-night Island Hopping in the Caribbean sailing in November.

Prices for the former sailing start at £7,554, while the latter leads in at £6,512.

Wine expert Clarke will join the line’s 21-night Cape Verde and the Canary Islands cruise departing November 13. The lead-in price is £4,150.

Saga Cruises chief executive Nigel Blanks said: “As renowned experts in the culinary world, we know John Torode, Phil Vickery and Oz Clarke will be thoroughly welcomed by our guests.

“Fine dining and wine are a real passion for many of our customers so these events are always popular, and we’re delighted to have Phil and Oz joining us again and to welcome John for the first time.”