Sydney, 23 July 2024 — Cunard has revealed a remarkable culinary journey on board Queen Elizabeth, featuring the legendary Indigenous chef, Mark Olive. Known for his innovative approach to native Australian cuisine, Olive will bring his exceptional culinary talents to life with an exclusive pop-up restaurant at sea.
Departing Sydney on 27 November 2024 (voyage number Q434N), this seven-night round-trip voyage to Tasmania invites guests to savour a selection of Olive’s renowned native Australian dishes. Highlighting Indigenous produce and culinary heritage, the menu at the Lido Alternative Dining restaurant features exquisite creations such as Bush Tomato Soup, Braised Wallaby Shanks, Barramundi in Paperbark, and Pavlova with Wattle Seed Cream.
Experience the Flavours of Australia
As Queen Elizabeth sails to Hobart, Port Arthur, and through the scenic Great Oyster Bay, guests will enjoy an unparalleled experience of luxury and style. Cunard’s renowned White Star Service, combined with Olive’s diverse and exquisite menu, promises an unforgettable culinary exploration.
Mark Olive, Ambassador Chef at Midden by Mark Olive at the Sydney Opera House and fondly known as “The Black Olive”, shared his enthusiasm for this unique collaboration.
“My greatest passions in life are travelling and sharing the amazing flavours of our Australian native cuisine with people from all over the world. And, what better way to travel than on Cunard’s luxurious Queen Elizabeth! I can’t wait to get back on board to create a week of special menus – bursting with truly unique Australian flavours – and share the incredible stories behind the dishes with all the passionate foodies joining me on this magnificent sailing,” said Olive.
Cooking Demonstration at the Royal Court Theatre
In addition to Olive’s exceptional dining experiences, he will take the stage of the Royal Court Theatre for a live cooking demonstration. Here, guests can learn the celebrity chef’s culinary secrets, techniques, and the stories behind the native ingredients he uses in his dishes. This interactive session promises to be both, educational and entertaining, providing a rare insight into the art of cooking native Australian cuisine.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, commented: “Our Australian guests have shown immense appreciation for authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experiences from award-winning chefs, as evidenced by the resounding success of our annual Great Australian Culinary Voyage.”
“We are proud to present yet another signature gastronomic experience featuring the renowned Mark Olive. We are confident that our guests delight in his charisma, creativity, and unique ability to fuse native ingredients and culture with contemporary cuisine.”
A Unique Culinary Adventure
Guests joining this sailing will have the extraordinary opportunity to experience the culinary magic of Mark Olive. Whether it’s a food enthusiast seeking an exceptional dining experience, eager to explore the wonders of Tasmania, or looking to indulge in the luxury of a Cunard Queen, this voyage is a highlight not to be missed.
Queen Elizabeth boasts sumptuous dining experiences across 10 restaurants, bars and cafes, world-class entertainment, and fabulous wellness and leisure activities, ensuring a truly memorable voyage. Its Queens Grill Suites epitomise luxury at sea offering a private residence at sea with a fully stocked complimentary bar, fresh flowers, daily canapes and a butler service. Daily Afternoon Tea served by white-gloved waiters and Gala Evenings in the Queens Room are just some of the many Cunard staples guests can look forward to.
For more details and to book using Cunard’s limited-time The Grandest Destinations on Earth offer, please visit www.cunard.com/en-au/find-a-cruise/Q434N/Q434N.
