Avalon Waterways Names Joerg Penneke New Culinary Director

On the heels of it's new partnership with the Wrenkh brothers to design Avalon Fresh, Avalon Waterways is also announcing its new director of culinary, Joerg Penneke. As the culinary director for Avalon Waterways, Penneke will help Avalon's team of culinary artisans bring destinations to life by creating every day's menu using fresh ingredients. Penneke will also oversee the new Avalon Fresh program with chefs Leo and Karl Wrenkh to provide Avalon's guests healthy alternative dining options. 

Penneke will bring nearly 30 years or experience to the new position. Previously, he set up kitchens and menus on seven new river ships in Asia for Haimark, held position as Corporate Chef for Uniworld, Executive Chef for Silverseas' Silver Cloud and Chef Entremetier for Crystal Cruises' Crystal Symphony. 

Also onboard Avalon's ships, guests can take advantage of the Panorama Bistro - a casual dining venue offering a variety of regional and tapas-style dishes, hand-paired with local wines. 

Chef Joerg Penneke studied in Germany at the Hotel Gaststatten Berlin under Simon Bolivar. Since then, he has spent nearly three decades working in award-winning restaurants, hotels and cruise ships throughout Europe, New Zealand and Asia in a multitude of positions including executive chef, food and beverage manager, corporate chef and culinary director.

Avalon Waterways offers river cruises with Panorama suites, equipped with Open-Air balconies and window-facing beds. The vessels also offer two full decks of 200- and 300-square-foot suites. All-inclusive amenities include: spacious accommodations, regional wines and beer at every onboard dinner, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, VIP entrance into sites, and the freedom of Avalon Choice – allowing travelers to personalize their trip.