Chef Rachel Hargrove, who later worked as the chef on Bravo’s Below Deck seasons 8 through 10, has signed a multi-year partnership with Emerald Cruises to host culinary-focused yacht and river cruise experiences beginning in December 2026. Hargrove has more than 20 years of culinary experience, including time aboard M/Y Odessa, M/Y Elysian, M/Y Mosaique, M/Y Apogee and M/Y Noble House. She also studied in Japan, Thailand, and India, completed coursework at the Culinary Institute of America, and staged at Michelin-starred restaurants Quattro Passi and Core by Clare Smyth. “Most of my career has been in the private yachting world, cooking at the highest level for very small groups of guests,” Hargrove said in the press release. “This is one of the first times I’ve been able to translate that level of precision and personalization into a broader luxury travel setting. Emerald allows me to create meaningful guest experiences at scale without losing the craftsmanship or intimacy that defines luxury yachting.” For this first cruise, Hargrove will host an eight-day “Culinary Collection” from December 13–20. The sailing will take guests through the Caribbean aboard the 128-guest Emerald Sakara and feature chef-led culinary events, cooking demonstrations, and destination-inspired dining experiences. “Food shouldn’t just be served; it should be experienced,” Hargrove said. “Flavor always comes first, but storytelling and guest interaction elevate everything. I want guests to understand where ingredients come from, what region inspired a dish, and why it matters. When people feel connected to the food, it becomes something they remember long after the voyage ends.” Emerald Cruises said additional sailings featuring Hargrove are planned for 2027 and 2028 as part of the multi-year agreement.