French Flavours on the Seine with Michael and Oscar Bonacini

Vancouver, BC, May 28, 2026 – Emerald Cruises & Tours is excited to unveil its most anticipated itinerary yet - an immersive gastronomic adventure along the storied waterways of Northern France, curated by celebrated Canadian culinary duo, Chefs Michael and Oscar Bonacini. Marking their third father-and-son river cruise partnership, this is a collaboration that only gets richer with time. The brand-new Sensations of Seine & Normandy itinerary - an 8-day cruise departing August 7, 2027 - winds through Normandy's breathtaking gardens, towering cathedrals, working harbours, and world-renowned food-and-wine country, crafted for discerning travellers with a passion for history, art de vivre, and world-class cuisine. Best Available Offer fares start from $6,595 CAD per person, including complimentary flights. Full itinerary details and a downloadable flyer are available here.  

"Normandy is one of those rare places where history and flavour are completely inseparable and cruising the Seine through it, with just 130 fellow travellers aboard the stunning new Emerald Lumi, makes it all the more special," said Chef Michael Bonacini. "Getting to experience and share this with Oscar, and now for the third time, makes it even more meaningful. This voyage takes us through some of France's most inspiring landscapes, and there's no one I'd rather explore it with - or share it through food - than my son."

"Northern France has a culinary soul that I've long wanted to explore more deeply, and this journey gives us the chance to do exactly that," said Chef Oscar Bonacini. "From the iconic waterways of the Seine to the storied flavours of Normandy, we can't wait to share everything this remarkable corner of France has to offer - one incredible meal at a time."

Newest River Star-Ship, Emerald Lumi

Guests will be among the very first to sail Emerald Lumi, Emerald Cruises’ newest Star-Ship, debuting in Spring 2027. Specially built to sail directly into Honfleur - a rare opportunity on the river - guests will be able to step off the ship and into this charming harbour town with ease, all while enjoying the elevated comfort and services synonymous with Emerald Cruises.

Relaxed Luxury on the Seine

Staying true to its hallmark of relaxed luxury, Emerald Cruises takes care of the details that matter most, from airport transfers and daily excursions to gourmet dining, complimentary beverages, and all gratuities, so guests can focus entirely on the experience. The Star-Ship channels the personalized elegance of a luxurious hotel, complete with modern interiors, spacious suites and a curated selection of onboard amenities.

For more information about this immersive culinary experience with Chefs Michael and Oscar Bonacini, visit: Sail the Seine with Michael & Oscar Bonacini

About Michael and Oscar Bonacini

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. 

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. Oscar spent two and a half years at Restaurant 20 Victoria, which earned a Michelin star and the Michelin Guide Toronto’s Service Award in 2023. Currently Oscar is the Assistant General Manager at Canoe, which celebrated its 30^th year in 2025.

About Emerald Cruises & Tours

Founded in Australia, Scenic Group has established a strong presence in Canada, with its head office located in Vancouver, British Columbia. The company employs over 80 people across the country, including an all-Canadian Contact Centre dedicated to supporting both travel advisors and guests. By leveraging global expertise alongside a local presence, Scenic Group is able to deliver high-quality service and support tailored to the needs of Canadian travellers.  

For 40 years, Scenic Group has redefined luxury travel, gaining global acclaim for its award-winning river cruises, intimate yacht experiences, and meticulously curated land journeys. With a portfolio of renowned brands – Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises & Tours, and Mayflower Cruises & Tours – Scenic Group delivers transformative experiences that provide unparalleled access to the world’s most breathtaking destinations across all seven continents and over 100 countries.

Emerald Cruises & Tours continues to expand its fleet of innovative ships on Europe and Asia’s rivers and coastlines of the Mediterranean, Caribbean and beyond. Emerald Kaia joined Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara to further enhance the luxury yacht cruising fleet, with itineraries across the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean and Central America, Seychelles and Indian Ocean. Additionally, Emerald Astra, debuted in May 2026 as the 10th Emerald Star-Ship in the river fleet, will elevate Emerald’s renowned river cruising experience. Looking ahead to 2027, the 11th Emerald Star-Ship, Emerald Lumi, will mark the brand’s first sailing on the Seine River, offering round-trip cruises from Paris. The fleet will further grow with Emerald Raiya (2027) and Emerald Xara (2028), offering new boutique superyacht itineraries in warm-water destinations.

Emerald Cruises can be found on Twitter at @emerald_cruises, on Facebook as @EmeraldCruisesGlobal and on Instagram as @EmeraldCruises.global. Additional information can be found by contacting your local travel advisor on Emerald Cruises’ website www.emeraldcruises.ca, or by calling the Canadian reservations line at 855-444-0161.

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Contact: 
Andrea Mancini 
ScenicGroupCA@casacom.ca