Fred. Olsen Wins MIDAS Award for Italian Menu

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has been recognized with a MIDAS (Menu Innovation and Development Awards) award in the Travel & Leisure category for its Italian menu, the company said in a statement.

The award was presented during the 2026 MIDAS Awards ceremony held in Birmingham in the United Kingdom on March 5.

Corporate Executive Chef Zoe Hayward represented Fred. Olsen at the event. She joined the cruise line in 2025 and brings more than 30 years of culinary experience, along with extensive expertise in menu development.

“We’re incredibly proud to receive this award. It reflects the care we put into creating menus that offer our guests real variety, thoughtful flavors and the chance to discover something new on board,” said Hayward.

“The MIDAS Awards also provide an important forum for chefs and development teams to collaborate with suppliers, explore new products and develop fresh concepts that continue to enhance the food experience across our fleet.”

The award recognizes the cruise line’s newly introduced Italian menu featured within Colors & Tastes, one of three rotating specialty dining menus launched this year. Drawing inspiration from regional cuisine across Italy, the menu combines traditional seasonal dishes designed to deliver an authentic culinary experience for guests onboard.

According to the company, the recognition highlights Fred. Olsen’s achievements in menu innovation and development within the food and hospitality industry.