MSC Group names culinary chief for Explora Journeys launch

Explora 1 will launch as the first of four luxury all-inclusive ships in May 2023. They will offer 461 oceanfront suites, with every guest having a private terrace. The vessels will also offer private cabanas, a spa, four pools and nine “distinct culinary experiences” overseen by Garanger.

Michael Ungerer, Explora Journeys chief executive, said: “Explora Journeys isn’t just an opportunity to discover the world, we also see it as a way for our guests to taste it too, actively discovering new cuisines and experiences. 

“Franck’s pedigree in European luxury, combined with his passion for true cooking, will shape an evolution of how dining at sea can be transformed.

“Blending flavours from all over the globe with ingredients that have been hand-selected and sourced by Franck himself will ensure that every guest leaves their journey not just with memories from the places they have visited, but from some of the finest cuisine at sea.”

Garanger was born in the Loire Valley and grew up helping his father in his patisserie-boulangerie. He trained at the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Vert D’Eau in Angers and was nominated as one of the 10 best young chefs of his generation.

Garanger was previously Silversea Cruises’ fleet corporate chef for four years before he took a position as culinary director for Oceania Cruises.