At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Itinerary is subject to change.
About Chef Cesar Zapata
Chef Cesar Zapata stands as one of Miami’s most celebrated culinary talents, renowned for his ability to weave together the vibrant threads of his Colombian roots with the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine. As the creative force behind the Michelin-recognized Phuc Yea, Cesar and his business partner Aniece Meinhold have redefined Miami’s dining scene, setting new standards for global fusion cuisine.
Born in Medellin, Colombia, and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Cesar’s passion for cooking emerged at a young age as the family cook. His journey took flight in Texas, where his culinary talents flourished through immersion in Texas-style barbecue, Mexican cuisine, and Gulf seafood. Graduating from the Art Institute of Houston, Cesar began building an impressive resume, working at world-class establishments such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Setai Hotels under the mentorship of culinary icons like James Beard Award-winning Timothy Keating and 2-Michelin starred Shawn Hergatt.
In 2011, Cesar revolutionized Miami’s food culture with the launch of Phuc Yea, the city’s first pop-up restaurant. The venture set the stage for his next milestone, The Federal, a beloved eatery that earned national accolades, including Food & Wine’s “Best Biscuits in the US” and Florida Trend’s prestigious “Golden Spoon Award.”
By 2016, Cesar cemented his culinary legacy with the opening of Phuc Yea’s permanent location in Miami’s MiMo District. Lauded as one of Miami-Dade County’s top restaurants by Eater and the Miami New Times, the restaurant became synonymous with culinary excellence, blending modern innovation with heartfelt tradition.
Cesar’s culinary prowess has been celebrated on national platforms, including Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Tastemade, Vice TV, and Bravo’s Best New Restaurant. His accolades include the Star Chefs Rising Star award and partnerships with global brands such as Tabasco, Cadillac, and Toyota. In 2023, his creativity shined in collaboration with McCormick’s Chefs Flavor of the Year, where he introduced a groundbreaking Vietnamese Cajun spice.
Expanding his culinary empire, Cesar debuted LcKy ChKn in 2024, a Vietnamese-inspired fried chicken concept at Hard Rock Stadium, thrilling fans with bold flavors and dynamic offerings. Recently, his expertise earned him a coveted spot as a guest judge on The Food Network’s iconic show, Chopped, further solidifying his status as a culinary leader.
Beyond the kitchen, Cesar’s commitment to community and philanthropy remains a driving force. A passionate advocate for sustainability and food justice, he actively supports the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs Boot Camp for Policy and Change and serves on the Advisory Council for No Kid Hungry. His involvement with The Humans Who Feed Us highlights his dedication to uplifting migrant women and championing equality in the food industry.
With Phuc Yea receiving the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award three years in a row (2022–2024), Cesar’s ventures continue to make waves. His portfolio includes the Pho Sho and OTC fast-casual concepts, a spice line, a forthcoming cookbook, and the beloved Rice and Noodz stand at Miami’s Kaseya Center.
Chef Cesar Zapata’s story is one of relentless passion, culinary talent, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—a legacy that inspires not only Miami but the global culinary community. www.phucyea.com
Chef Cesar Zapata stands as one of Miami’s most celebrated culinary talents, renowned for his ability to weave together the vibrant threads of his Colombian roots with the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine. As the creative force behind the Michelin-recognized Phuc Yea, Cesar and his business partner Aniece Meinhold have redefined Miami’s dining scene, setting new standards for global fusion cuisine.
Born in Medellin, Colombia, and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Cesar’s passion for cooking emerged at a young age as the family cook. His journey took flight in Texas, where his culinary talents flourished through immersion in Texas-style barbecue, Mexican cuisine, and Gulf seafood. Graduating from the Art Institute of Houston, Cesar began building an impressive resume, working at world-class establishments such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Setai Hotels under the mentorship of culinary icons like James Beard Award-winning Timothy Keating and 2-Michelin starred Shawn Hergatt.
In 2011, Cesar revolutionized Miami’s food culture with the launch of Phuc Yea, the city’s first pop-up restaurant. The venture set the stage for his next milestone, The Federal, a beloved eatery that earned national accolades, including Food & Wine’s “Best Biscuits in the US” and Florida Trend’s prestigious “Golden Spoon Award.”
By 2016, Cesar cemented his culinary legacy with the opening of Phuc Yea’s permanent location in Miami’s MiMo District. Lauded as one of Miami-Dade County’s top restaurants by Eater and the Miami New Times, the restaurant became synonymous with culinary excellence, blending modern innovation with heartfelt tradition.
Cesar’s culinary prowess has been celebrated on national platforms, including Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Tastemade, Vice TV, and Bravo’s Best New Restaurant. His accolades include the Star Chefs Rising Star award and partnerships with global brands such as Tabasco, Cadillac, and Toyota. In 2023, his creativity shined in collaboration with McCormick’s Chefs Flavor of the Year, where he introduced a groundbreaking Vietnamese Cajun spice.
Expanding his culinary empire, Cesar debuted LcKy ChKn in 2024, a Vietnamese-inspired fried chicken concept at Hard Rock Stadium, thrilling fans with bold flavors and dynamic offerings. Recently, his expertise earned him a coveted spot as a guest judge on The Food Network’s iconic show, Chopped, further solidifying his status as a culinary leader.
Beyond the kitchen, Cesar’s commitment to community and philanthropy remains a driving force. A passionate advocate for sustainability and food justice, he actively supports the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs Boot Camp for Policy and Change and serves on the Advisory Council for No Kid Hungry. His involvement with The Humans Who Feed Us highlights his dedication to uplifting migrant women and championing equality in the food industry.
With Phuc Yea receiving the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award three years in a row (2022–2024), Cesar’s ventures continue to make waves. His portfolio includes the Pho Sho and OTC fast-casual concepts, a spice line, a forthcoming cookbook, and the beloved Rice and Noodz stand at Miami’s Kaseya Center.
Chef Cesar Zapata’s story is one of relentless passion, culinary talent, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—a legacy that inspires not only Miami but the global culinary community. www.phucyea.com
Day by Day
*On rare occasions, this itinerary may change.
Solo Pricing: Solo cabins start at $5862.50 based on availability. You may also share a double occupancy cabin and beds may be separated.
Cancellation Policy: For group departures you may cancel 125 days or more before departure and receive a full refund minus a $200 per person cancellation charge. If you cancel between 124-95 days in advance, there is a $400 cancellation fee. For cancellations between 94-65 days prior to departure the penalty is 35% of the cruise price, between 64-35 days the penalty is 50% of the cruise price and less than 34 days prior to departure the penalty is 100% of cruise price.
Cancellation Policy: For group departures you may cancel 125 days or more before departure and receive a full refund minus a $200 per person cancellation charge. If you cancel between 124-95 days in advance, there is a $400 cancellation fee. For cancellations between 94-65 days prior to departure the penalty is 35% of the cruise price, between 64-35 days the penalty is 50% of the cruise price and less than 34 days prior to departure the penalty is 100% of cruise price.
