Top Chef: Season Finale Sets Sail on Holland America Cruise Ship

For the first time, the popular TV show Top Chef hosted its season finale aboard a cruise ship in the Caribbean. The episode featured Holland America Line’s (HAL) Fresh Fish Ambassador, Chef Masaharu Morimoto, and the Signature-class vessel MS Eurodam.

The upcoming episode will show the final four chefs being whittled down as they compete for the coveted Top Chef title, a $10,000 cash prize, and a 10-day Holland America cruise. 

Chef Morimoto will make a surprise guest appearance before the contestants cook an eight-course fish-tasting menu for the judges. During the show, the renowned “Iron Chef” will whip up a meal for the finalists, including the Halibut XO, his signature dish available across the fleet.

You can catch the Finale 21 episode on Bravo on June 12 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Meanwhile, Peacock subscribers can stream it on June 13.

Featuring the Global Fresh Fish Program

HAL partnered with the producers of “Top Chef” season 21 to highlight its Global Fresh Fish Program, an initiative that serves 80 types of sustainably sourced fish from 60 ports around the world. Launched in September 2023, the cruise line boasts a port-to-table experience that takes less than 48 hours.

HAL President Gus Antorcha said the season-ender allowed the company to highlight its cruises and culinary offerings.

“We are highly focused on providing our guests with exceptional culinary experiences, and teaming up with Bravo’s ‘Top Chef’ is an incredible opportunity to not only bring attention to our Global Fresh Fish Program but to give a glimpse into cruising,” he remarked.

Foodies who want to sample Chef Morimoto’s creations personally can dine at Morimoto By Sea, a specialty restaurant that can only be found on Nieuw Amsterdam. Pop-up stalls in Tamarind and Pinnacle Grill also showcase his dishes. These temporary outlets are available once per cruise across HAL voyages.