Makoto Ocean debuts on Diamond & Sapphire Princess
Princess Cruises Expands High-End Culinary Offerings with Renowned Makoto Ocean Restaurant Aboard Two Iconic Diamond-Class Ships for Antarctic, Southeast Asia, and Japan Cruises Starting Fall 2025
Princess Cruises continues to strengthen its reputation for culinary excellence with the announcement of the expansion of its acclaimed specialty sushi restaurant, Makoto Ocean. Following its success aboard Sun Princess and the upcoming debut on Star Princess, the restaurant is now coming to Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess—two beloved ships among discerning cruise enthusiasts. This move marks a significant advancement in the onboard dining experience, offering guests a unique fusion of Japanese tradition and culinary innovation crafted by Chef Makoto Okuwa.
Diamond Princess
Sapphire Princess
Makoto Ocean is the product of Chef Makoto Okuwa’s 25 years of culinary expertise, renowned for his modern interpretation of Edomae-style sushi, a traditional technique originating in 1820s Tokyo. This style features vinegared rice paired with the freshest, locally sourced fish, creating simple yet refined dishes that highlight the authentic flavors of Japan.
Chef Okuwa brings to Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess an innovative and playful culinary offering, with artistically presented dishes designed to satisfy a broad range of palates. From classic nigiri to unique specialties such as truffle salmon, snow crab temaki, and toro tartare, each dish tells a story of passion and craftsmanship.
This expansion is much more than a menu addition—it is an invitation to an authentic and immersive experience in Japanese culinary culture, right on the high seas. The strategic decision to bring Makoto Ocean to these two Diamond-class ships is fitting, as both operate on highly sought-after itineraries known for their cultural and natural diversity—Antarctica, Southeast Asia, and Japan—providing guests the perfect setting to savor such distinctive flavors.
MAKOTO
MAKOTO
An Internationally Acclaimed Restaurant
Chef Makoto Okuwa is not only a master of Japanese cuisine but also an internationally recognized figure. With successful restaurants in Miami Beach, Washington D.C., Vail, São Paulo, Madrid, and Panama City, his reputation has been further bolstered by appearances on Food Network’s popular Iron Chef America and recognition from the prestigious James Beard Foundation.
His culinary philosophy balances tradition and innovation, a duality perfectly reflected in the Makoto Ocean menu. The focus on ingredient quality combined with creative presentation delivers an experience that pleases not only the palate but also the eyes and curiosity of guests.
Beyond high-quality sushi dishes, Makoto Ocean also offers a selection of handcrafted cocktails inspired by Japanese flavors. Highlights include the Genmai Negroni—a Japanese twist on the classic Negroni—and Kodai No Hana, which blends yuzu juice with Doburoku, an ancient style of sake. These cocktails are designed to complement the dining experience, offering perfect pairings with each course.
Located on Deck 7 of both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess, the smart-casual restaurant accommodates up to 80 guests in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The cover charge is $60 per person and is included in the Princess Premier Package, making the experience accessible to those seeking to add an exclusive touch to their cruise.
MAKOTO
MAKOTO
Princess Cruises’ Commitment to Excellence and Innovation
The introduction of Makoto Ocean on Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess exemplifies Princess Cruises’ ongoing dedication to enhancing and diversifying its onboard culinary offerings—an essential element of the luxury experience that distinguishes the line. Princess believes that gastronomy is one of the most vital aspects of a cruise, capable of enriching the journey and creating unforgettable memories.
Sami Kohen, Vice President of Food and Beverage for Princess Cruises, emphasized that the expansion of Makoto Ocean is a pivotal step toward bringing the authenticity and elegance of Japanese cuisine to more regions served by the line. This alignment of exotic destinations with authentic cuisine further enhances the travel experience, offering guests a deeper connection to the cultures they visit.
The arrival of Makoto Ocean on Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess marks a significant evolution in the culinary experience of Princess Cruises. Thanks to Chef Makoto Okuwa’s mastery and his ability to blend tradition with innovation, guests will enjoy authentic Edomae sushi in an elegant, relaxed environment while cruising spectacular routes to Antarctica, Southeast Asia, and Japan.
This initiative not only confirms Princess Cruises’ leadership in onboard dining but also reflects a forward-looking vision that unites culture, authenticity, and sustainability. For travelers seeking an experience beyond simple transportation—one filled with unique flavors and immersion in local traditions—Makoto Ocean is an essential stop on the path toward luxury and discovery.
With such a refined and innovative sushi restaurant, Princess Cruises once again distinguishes itself as a cruise line that places gastronomy at the heart of the cruise experience, offering guests memorable moments with every bite.
Don’t miss news, updates, and reviews of Princess Cruises on Cruising Journal, with photos, videos, and cruise deals.
