Umi Sushi – Marella Cruises – Marella Voyager

Submitted by: Luke Murphy
Lead Designer: Marella Cruises
Studio: Marella Cruises Product Development Team
Outfitter: Aecor Marine
Shipyard:
Completion Date: 30/11/2025

Umi Sushi on Marella Voyager is a contemporary Japanese-inspired dining destination that combines immersive design, culinary theatre and social dining to create one of the most distinctive speciality restaurant experiences at sea. Developed through the complete transformation of an existing venue, the project demonstrates how thoughtful design, atmosphere and guest engagement can create a compelling culinary destination without increasing footprint.

Located aft on Deck 7, Umi Sushi delivers an intimate and premium dining experience for just 32 guests, with limited counter seating that enhances exclusivity. Warm lighting, natural wood finishes, Japanese-inspired artwork and decorative maple trees create a calm, contemporary atmosphere that stands apart from traditional cruise ship dining venues.

A defining feature is the interactive sushi counter and temperature-controlled display, placing culinary craftsmanship at the centre of the guest experience. Guests can engage directly with chefs, transforming food preparation into part of the entertainment and creating a dynamic environment where culinary theatre becomes integral to the venue’s identity.

The interior balances authenticity with accessibility. Decorative divider screens create intimate dining zones while maintaining an open feel, while bespoke furnishings and branded design elements reinforce a consistent visual identity throughout the space.

The guest journey has been designed with equal care. Menus are presented in hard-backed cases, guests receive a complimentary amuse-bouche platter, and service incorporates storytelling alongside the traditional greeting “Itadakimasu” as dishes are served. These touches create an immersive blend of atmosphere, service and cuisine.

At the heart of the concept is discovery and personalisation. Guests create their own dining journey through ramen, sushi, sashimi, poke and sharing dishes, with freshly prepared items crafted and displayed at the counter. The venue encourages interaction and exploration while maintaining the intimacy expected of a premium speciality restaurant.

Since launching as Voyager’s fourth à la carte restaurant, Umi Sushi has introduced a new culinary proposition to the ship, combining experiential design, interactive dining and contemporary Japanese-inspired styling. Through intimate scale, immersive atmosphere and integration of food theatre, Umi Sushi demonstrates how venue design can transform a meal into a memorable experience.