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Luke Nguyen inspects APT's new ship

Celebrity chef and APT Asia Ambassador, Luke Nguyen took a quick trip to Yangon in Burma this week to check on the cruise line's latest river ship.

Celebrity chef and APT Asia Ambassador, Luke Nguyen took a quick trip to Yangon in Burma this week to check on the cruise line’s latest river ship.

The chef has been appointed to create food for the vessel, RV Samatha, which is scheduled to launch in 2016.

Joining APT Global Head of Operations, Innovation, and Procurement, David Courage and APT Asia Product Manager Goldie Chong, Luke met with ship builders to discuss plans for the kitchen layout and catering requirements aboard the luxury RV Samatha.

RV Samatha 2

Rendering of the rooms aboard RV Samatha.

APT’s new ship – the RV Samatha (named to reflect the Buddhist practice of calming the mind to achieve peace and tranquility) – is a high end luxury vessel featuring 30 suites ranging from 27 sqm to 48.7 sqm, many of which will feature twin balconies.

It will offer a swimming pool, air conditioned lounge area on the sundeck, an observation deck, two restaurants – a main restaurant and a private fine dining restaurant, and a spa and massage facility.

RV Samata

Rendering of what to expect on RV Samatha

Guests who set sail aboard the RV Samatha on the Irrawaddy with APT will enjoy exclusive dinners every evening that have been personally designed by Luke.

Also exclusive for APT guests is the chance to sample Luke’s specially designed degustation menu in the ship’s private dining room, an intimate eight-seat venue.

“As well as planning how we will be setting up the dining experience onboard, I also spent time travelling by land through the country so that I could immerse myself in the culture and gain a deeper understanding of the dishes that reflect the true Burmese local lifestyle.”

Luke Nguyen, APT Ambassador 

“This journey will serve as the inspiration for the special menus and dishes I am designing for APT’s guests.”

Have you ever tried Luke Nguyen’s dishes with APT? What was your favourite?