Makoto Ocean Sushi Expands to Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess in Fall 2025
Princess Cruises is expanding its acclaimed specialty sushi restaurant, Makoto Ocean by Chef Makoto Okuwa, to Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess, beginning Fall 2025. The announcement follows the restaurant’s successful debut on Sun Princess in 2024 and precedes its scheduled launch on Star Princess in October 2025. The move reflects growing guest demand for elevated Japanese dining experiences at sea.
Traditional Edomae Sushi with a Modern Twist
Makoto Ocean offers a refined take on Edomae-style sushi, a technique developed in 1820s Tokyo that emphasizes vinegared rice and fresh, local fish. Chef Makoto Okuwa brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to the table, crafting dishes that blend historical roots with contemporary presentation and flavor.
The menu will feature highlights like truffle salmon, snow crab temaki, and toro tartare, alongside playful and artistic plating designed to appeal to a wide range of guests. The restaurant, located on Deck 7 aboard both ships, will accommodate 80 guests in a smart-casual setting. Dining comes at a $60 per person cover charge or is included for guests with the Princess Premier Package.
A Culinary Expansion with Cultural Depth
“This expansion is especially meaningful as we bring a guest favorite to those sailing to other regions,” said Sami Kohen, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Princess Cruises. “Makoto Ocean reflects the elegance and authenticity of Japanese cuisine our guests will enjoy across Japan.”
Chef Okuwa is a globally recognized culinary talent, known for his restaurants in Miami Beach, Washington, D.C., Vail, São Paulo, Madrid, and Panama City. He has competed on Iron Chef America and received recognition from the James Beard Foundation. His partnership with Princess Cruises allows him to share the flavors of his heritage with travelers visiting his homeland and beyond.
“It’s a true honor to bring Makoto Ocean to Diamond and Sapphire Princess,” said Chef Okuwa. “Sharing the spirit, tradition, and flavors of Japan with Princess guests is a deeply personal and meaningful opportunity for me.”
Craft Cocktails and Elevated Ambience
In addition to its curated sushi menu, Makoto Ocean will feature a selection of handcrafted cocktails. Notable options include the Genmai Negroni, which adds Japanese ingredients to the classic recipe, and Kodai No Hana, a cocktail made with yuzu juice and Doburoku, an ancient style of unfiltered sake.
This thoughtful pairing of cuisine and beverage enhances the immersive dining experience that Princess Cruises aims to deliver across its fleet.
Why This Matters for Cruisers
- Expanded access to a guest favorite: Cruisers heading to Japan, Southeast Asia, or Antarctica can now enjoy the Makoto Ocean experience without waiting for the Star Princess launch.
- High-end dining that complements the destination: Japanese sailings aboard Diamond Princess now feature an authentic, culturally aligned dining option that enriches the onboard experience.
- Clear value for Premier Package guests: With the $60 cover charge included for Premier guests, this specialty venue becomes a must-try.
