The World, Residences at Sea Welcomes New Executive Chef, Elevating Dining Across Mediterranean, Alaska and Beyond

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The World, Residences at Sea Welcomes New Executive Chef, Elevating Dining Across Mediterranean, Alaska and Beyond

Published on
April 10, 2026

Luxury cruise dining with ocean views on the world residences at sea.

Image generated with Ai

The World Residences at Sea have made an official announcement that Lionel Catherin will assume the post of Executive Chef starting from July 2026. Lionel Catherin will be taking over from Geoffrey Murray, who is the Senior Executive Chef and has decided to retire on May 9, 2026. The appointment of Catherin comes as no surprise considering the long years of experience he has amassed over two decades on board.

A New Leadership Era for Culinary Excellence Aboard The World

In his new capacity, Catherin will work closely with Executive Chef Sebastian Gnida to oversee the culinary program aboard The World, ensuring the continued excellence of the ship’s culinary offerings. He will be responsible for all galley operations across the six onboard restaurants, ensuring that each dining venue delivers world-class meals to residents and guests.

As Executive Chef, Catherin will also oversee In-Residence Dining, managing a dedicated team of more than 50 culinary professionals. This responsibility underscores The World’s commitment to offering exceptional dining experiences for its discerning residents, who travel the globe aboard the vessel.

A Rich Culinary Career with The World

Catherin’s journey with The World began in August 2004, when he joined the cruise as Chef de Partie. Over the years, he has held various prestigious positions aboard the vessel, steadily rising through the ranks. In 2008, he became Sous Chef, followed by his promotion to Chef de Cuisine in 2009. By 2014, Catherin reached the position of Executive Sous Chef, where he further refined his leadership skills and culinary expertise.

From 2018 to 2024, Catherin also served as Relief Executive Chef, gaining valuable experience leading the ship’s culinary team in the absence of the Senior Executive Chef. These roles have provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies of running The World’s kitchens and catering to its residents, who expect nothing less than the highest standard of culinary artistry.

An Accomplished Chef with a Global Background

Catherin’s culinary career is rooted in a foundation of international training and experience. He began his formal culinary education at the age of 16 in a Relais & Châteaux restaurant in France, one of the world’s most prestigious collections of luxury hotels and restaurants. During his early years, he honed his skills working under renowned chefs, including Charles Barrier and Jacques Maximin in French Polynesia and France.

This exposure to French cuisine, paired with his extensive training, has played a crucial role in shaping Catherin’s approach to food, which combines traditional French techniques with modern innovation. Over the years, he has continued to refine his expertise, collaborating with Michelin-starred chefs and exploring culinary disciplines ranging from traditional comfort cuisine to cutting-edge molecular gastronomy.

Innovation and Culinary Diversity Aboard The World

As Catherin transitions into his role as Executive Chef, his vision for The World’s culinary offerings is to continue innovating and celebrating the diversity of global flavors. He is passionate about delivering unforgettable dining experiences to residents and guests, emphasizing quality, creativity, and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients from destinations around the globe.

Under Catherin’s leadership, The World’s dining program will continue to showcase a blend of both traditional and contemporary cuisine, reflecting the vessel’s travels to some of the most exotic and culturally rich locations worldwide. Whether it’s Mediterranean seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, or French gourmet creations, Catherin’s approach will ensure that residents experience a varied and exciting range of dining options during their time aboard.

An Iconic Vessel for Luxury Living at Sea

The World, Residences at Sea, offers a unique and unparalleled cruising experience for its residents, who are fortunate enough to call the ship their home. The vessel is a luxurious floating residence that allows guests to live, work, and explore the world while enjoying the comforts of high-end amenities and services. For these residents, dining is an essential part of the journey, and the culinary team, led by Catherin, plays a critical role in maintaining the high standards that have become synonymous with The World.

From the moment residents board the ship, they are treated to a dining experience that reflects the diversity and elegance of the destinations the ship visits. Whether in the elegant La Veranda restaurant, the more relaxed Pool Grill, or one of the exclusive dining venues, the culinary offerings aboard The World consistently impress, drawing on the expertise and passion of a dedicated team of chefs.

Looking to the Future: A Legacy of Culinary Excellence

As Lionel Catherin steps into his new role as Executive Chef aboard The World, he brings with him years of experience and a deep commitment to culinary excellence. His promotion signals a new era for the vessel’s dining program, one that will continue to celebrate the flavors of the world while offering residents innovative and unforgettable dining experiences. Catherin’s leadership is set to enhance The World’s reputation as a premier destination for luxury cruising, where every meal becomes a highlight of the journey.

Looking ahead, Catherin is excited to continue The World’s tradition of culinary excellence, focusing on creativity, quality, and sustainability. With his extensive experience, international training, and deep understanding of the vessel’s unique operational needs, Catherin is poised to take The World’s culinary offerings to even greater heights, ensuring that every resident’s dining experience remains as extraordinary as the journey itself.

A New Era of Culinary Leadership at The World

As Lionel Catherin assumes the position of Executive Chef of The World, he will guarantee that the food on board will stay ahead in the luxury cruising industry. Being a passionate cook who loves international foods, he is destined to inspire a group of talented chefs who will prepare delicious meals for the residents and tourists on the yacht. Dining aboard The World will definitely continue evolving under the leadership of Lionel Catherin, who will create an amazing combination of conventional and innovative dishes while sailing around the world’s beautiful locations.