Windstar expands partnership with James Beard Foundation

Windstar Cruises is marking the tenth anniversary of its partnership with the James Beard Foundation in 2025 – expanding their series of yearly themed culinary sailings.

To further commemorate this milestone, Windstar will be welcoming five distinguished “All-Star” chefs, four who have previously sailed with the cruise line as part of the ground-breaking partnership and are guest favourites.  

The five acclaimed chefs — Jamilka Borges, José Mendin, Jennifer Hill Booker, Jennifer Jasinski, and Larry Forgione (new to Windstar) — will bring their regional culinary expertise and signature dishes to sea.   

About the James Beard sailings 

Windstar is the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to celebrate, support, and elevate the people behind America’s food culture, while championing a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability.

The Foundation firmly aligns with Windstar’s commitment to fresh and local epicurean experiences around the world, as well as efforts to reduce food waste. 

James Beard Foundation sailings include plenty of time to personally interact with the chefs through a chef-hosted dinner and wine pairing, two onboard cooking demonstrations with takeaway recipes, and a shoreside market tour. More than three dozen James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs have sailed with Windstar since the partnership’s inception.  

“We are thrilled to recognize our 10-year partnership with the James Beard Foundation,” said Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “We take pride in the numerous chefs who have sailed with us, shared their stories, and crafted signature dishes – enhancing the culinary experience for all of our guests on Windstar.” 

Find out more about James Beard Foundation cruises with Windstar.