Gabriel Gaté is the most popular French chef in Australia. Gabriel was born in the Loire Valley of France. After working at some of the finest restaurants in his homeland, he came to Australia in 1977 with his Melbourne-born wife, Angie. Gabriel is the author of 20 cookbooks, including French Cuisine for Australians, and is the popular presenter of cookery programs on television and radio.

Volendam

The Volendam is a premium mid-sized cruise ship from the fleet of Holland America Line ships, designed to be large enough to offer all the amenities while preserving an elegant and refined ambience. The beautiful garden theme of the Volendam is reflected throughout the ship's spacious public rooms and elegant staterooms. The interior of the ship has a soaring three-story atrium and a multi-million dollar collection of artwork and antiques. There are four restaurants and cafés, three pools, two whirlpool spas, fitness centre and spa. The ships Crow's nest offers sweeping 270 degree views during the day and fashionable nightclub bar each evening. Enjoy performances in the evenings in the Frans Hals Show lounge, or enjoy live cooking demonstrations by Gabriel Gaté in The culinary Arts Center. A voyage on the Volendam is an experience to be savoured and remembered!

Great cruise inclusions

• Departs Australia February 26, 2011
• 15 days/14 nights on the luxurious Holland America Volendam
• 1 night accommodation in Auckland including breakfast
• Four gourmet lunches and one dinner
• Sightseeing tours of Auckland, Tauranga /Rotorua, Gisborne, Wellington, Picton, Christchurch, Dunedin, Burnie and Melbourne
• Tour leadership by Gabriel Gaté
• Fully escorted by a professional Travelrite Cruise Manager
• Cruise taxes and port and handling charges
• All meals on board MS Volendam
• Exclusive on-board activities including Cocktail Party, Cooking Demonstrations and a cheese and wine sampling

Clothing on board Volendam
During the day casual clothing is typical, although shorts and swimwear are not permitted in the formal restaurants. There are four nights at sea classified as formal for dress purposes. Nights in port are classified as informal. During the evening on formal nights, a suit for gentlemen and eveningwear for ladies is required for the main restaurants. Smart casual attire is required in the public lounges and restaurants.

Don't worry about coming alone About a third of people on the cruise travel alone. We will match people up in twin-share cabins when available, saving you the single supplement. Travelrite will be looking after you and there will be group activities almost every day.

The advantages of the Gabriel Gaté Gourmet Cruise The cruise is fully escorted and will be a great fun holiday, with plenty of activities. Each evening you will eat with the group on our reserved group tables. You will meet a fun group of people and have a fabulous time.