Experience Flavourful France with Celebrity Chef Michael Bonacini
April 5, 2025 | 8 Days | Sensations of Lyon & Provence | EFRC050425.2
Embark on a transcendent culinary journey through the heart of France with our exclusive river cruise, personally hosted by the acclaimed Canadian celebrity chef, Michael Bonacini and for the first time with Emerald Cruises, his son, Oscar Bonacini – fellow accomplished chef and restaurateur. Immerse yourself in a symphony of flavours as you gracefully sail through the picturesque waters of southern France, weaving through Lyon, the undisputed gastronomic capital, and the captivating landscapes of Provence. Explore the luscious wine regions of Burgundy and the Rhône Valley, savouring the essence of Provençal cuisine. Join both chefs for an intimate voyage of culinary excellence amidst the beauty of France’s culinary heartland.
Celebrity chef Michael Bonacini (left), and with his son, chef Oscar Bonacini (right)
Exclusive Culinary Experiences with Chefs Michael and Oscar Bonacini:
Indulge in Michael and Oscar’s collaborative French-inspired menu at a special dinner on board your cruise
Experience Lyon’s culinary paradise at Les Halles Paul Bocuse –an indoor food market where you’ll tour and taste the city’s best-known delicacies
Oscar Bonacini
Chef Oscar Bonacini, a Toronto native, began his culinary journey at 14 with a dishwashing job, leading him to kitchens across Europe. After studying Hospitality Business Management at George Brown College, he honed his skills under chef Mark Hix in England, working at renowned establishments like St. JOHN and Holborn Dining Room. In 2019, Oscar returned to Canada, contributing his experience to the local culinary scene. Joining Oliver & Bonacini’s Maison Selby in 2022, he expanded his expertise in front-of-house management. Currently, he collaborates with restaurateur Chris White at Restaurant 20 Victoria, which earned a Michelin Star and the Michelin Guide Toronto’s Service Award in 2023.
Attend a private cocktail reception hosted by both father and son
Ask Chefs Michael and Oscar questions during an interactive Q&A session on board
Plus, enter to win the chance to dine with our celebrity chefs!
Michael Bonacini
Renowned chef Michael Bonacini, co-founder of Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality, is a key figure in Canada’s culinary scene. Born in Tenby, South Wales, Bonacini’s upbringing in a family-run hotel business shaped his passion for hospitality. After training under Chef Anton Mosimann in London, he immigrated to Canada in 1985. Partnering with Peter Oliver in 1993, Bonacini played a pivotal role in introducing regional Canadian cuisine, notably with his restaurant Canoe. He received the Ontario Hostelry Institute’s Gold Award in 1996 and has since contributed to various TV shows, released a cookbook, and served as a judge on MasterChef Canada. His Toronto restaurants and O&B’s diverse portfolio nationwide reflect a commitment to culinary excellence and a strong corporate culture.
Emerald Liberté Star-Ship
Cruising the romantic Rhône and Saône riverways aboard our purpose-built Star-Ship, Emerald Liberté, you’ll sail into the heart of stunning locales, uncovering immersing experiences and precious local insights. With up to only 132 guests on board, you’ll enjoy the small-ship lifestyle in contemporary comfort, with stylish interiors, relaxed ambience, and high level of personal service.
8-Day Sensations of Lyon & Provence
France’s gastronomic heartbeat, enjoy delights both culinary and cultural.
It is no surprise that the South of France is considered the birthplace of photography. Its unrivalled beauty comprises the finest examples of French 15th-century architecture, with Roman ruins and sun-soaked vineyards at the foot of colossal mountain ranges. In addition to experiencing the culinary highlights of the region, you’ll walk Lyon’s secret laneways, explore the vineyards of Tournon, uncover Avignon’s Celtic history and enjoy a guided walking tour of Arles showcasing the city’s ancient amphitheatre.
Experience our Emerald Cruises’ Generous Inclusions
A 9-time winner of Emerald Cruises’ Editors’ Picks award and a 2023 top winner of the Cruise Critic Cruiser’s Choice Awards for Best River Cruises, Emerald Cruises’ inclusive approach to contemporary river cruising offers so much included with one incredible price.
Port charges and taxes included Boutique hotel-style suites
All on board meals and gourmet dining at Reflections restaurant Complimentary wine, beer & soft drinks to accompany lunch & dinner on board
All airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
Daily excursions
Biking and hiking guided tours with EmeraldEXPLORER
Highlights Unique to Your Itinerary:
Cheese and olive tasting on board
Guided bike tour of Lyon
Canoeing excursion in Avignon
6 excursions, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites
Plus so much more
PLUS ALL GRATUITIES INCLUDED
Balcony Suite
Panorama
Extend Your Stay
Add a Nice 3-Night Stay from $1,675pp* (Journey Code: EFRN) Includes
