P&O Cruises is doubling down on its love for great food with the return of its popular Food Heroes program in 2026.
The cruise line has confirmed a series of special sailings that will put celebrated British and European culinary talent front and center.
The 2026 lineup includes nine dedicated Food Heroes cruises, each hosted by well-known names from the food and drink world.
Guests won’t just be eating well, they’ll be learning, tasting, and connecting with the people behind the menus.
At the heart of the announcement is a major milestone for the brand. Legendary chef Marco Pierre White will mark 20 years of collaboration with P&O Cruises during the 2026 season.
A Lineup Built Around Flavor, Stories, and Experience
The upcoming Food Heroes cruises will feature two sailings hosted by Marco Pierre White, four led by wine expert Olly Smith, and two with Spanish restaurateur José Pizarro.
Each host brings a different perspective, from classic British cooking to bold Mediterranean flavors and wine storytelling.
According to P&O Cruises, food on board isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about the stories, destinations, and inspirations that shape each dish and drink served at sea.
This latest addition builds on P&O Cruises’ broader focus on elevating its onboard dining, following recent culinary collaborations such as Celebrity chef Shiva Ramoutar joining P&O’s culinary lineup, further strengthening the brand’s food-led cruise experience.
The standout sailing of the year will bring all three Food Heroes together on one cruise. This rare combination is being positioned as a signature event for food-loving guests looking for something truly special.
What Guests Can Expect Onboard
Each Food Heroes sailing will offer a program designed to go beyond standard dining. Guests can look forward to exclusive menus, hosted tastings, informal talks, and interactive events throughout the voyage.
Marco Pierre White will curate special dining experiences and celebration nights. Meanwhile, Olly Smith and José Pizarro will host tastings and share insights drawn from their careers and travels.
The nine themed sailings will take place between March and September 2026. They’ll be hosted across Iona, Arvia, and Britannia, giving guests multiple ways to experience the program.
For P&O Cruises, Food Heroes is about more than celebrity names. It’s about turning meals into moments and making food a central part of the cruise experience once again.
