Ferry operator DFDS will refresh its restaurants on the Newcastle to Amsterdam route, as part of extensive plans to improve customer dining choices while also lowering the price.
The new restaurants will launch on King Seaways and Princess Seaways from January.
Pete Akerman, marketing director for DFDS, commented: “We’ve taken the feedback from our customers and have adjusted our on board offering to reflect new catering concepts that we feel will meet and exceed their needs.”
He added: “The pop-up restaurant trial in 2017 in particular was a great test of the water through a diverse and changing menu.
“We’ve taken inspiration from the trial in order to propel our menu choice forward, and believe our customers will enjoy our new eateries as they travel on our Newcastle – Amsterdam route.”
The Explorer’s Kitchen will see improved buffet breakfast and dinner options include an international selection from America to the Mediterranean, the Far East and India.
On offer in the Explorer’s Kitchen, guests will find salmon and crème cheese rolls, duck rilette, veal schnitzel and puff pastry baked fish, as well as Greek meatballs, chicken tagine, paella, calamari and Chicago deep-pan pizza among many other international dishes.
Vegan options will include red lentil dahl, root vegetable tartin and vegetable korma.
Meanwhile, the North Sea Bistro is to provide an à-la-carte fine dining option for customers.
The restaurant will replace DFDS’ Blue Riband restaurant and will place an emphasis on seasonal food quality and fresh ingredients.
Sommelier-trained waiters will also be on hand to recommend wine from an extensive global selection.
For refreshments, the new Coffee Crew will replace the Lighthouse Café, with Starbucks-trained baristas offering fresh Starbucks coffee, tea, hot chocolate and frappuccinos, plus an extensive range of cakes, biscuits and sweet treats.
The Coffee Crew will sit by the children’s play area, allowing families to enjoy the trip together comfortably in one place.