Breakfast! Experts say it's the most important meal of the day. Important, perhaps, but for me it is my favorite way to start the day. Be it a simple bowl of Cheerios or delectable eggs benedict, my favorite meal becomes a cherished memory when enjoyed at sea.

Aboard the Delta Steamboat Company's paddle wheeler, American Queen, I left beignets and chicory coffee behind in New Orleans. My favorite meal began with old-fashioned flapjacks or biscuits and gravy, along side a bowl of piping hot grits. I enjoyed these southern specialties in the open air of "The Front Porch of America," while watching the Mississippi's levees and Old Man River roll along.

I saw poached eggs in an entirely new light when I traveled through Burgundy on a French canal barge. Our onboard chef prepared my morning repast the "French way", poaching the eggs in a big pot of boiling red wine. Need I say more? Add the morning sun, the French countryside with a warm croissant and I defy anyone to sleep in!

While admiring Italy's Amalfi coast early one morning from the deck of the Wind Surf, I enjoyed an old New York standard with a twist... cream cheese and lox atop freshly baked French bread rather than on the traditional bagel. Garnished with Bermuda onions and capers, this favorite breakfast of mine, was accompanied by assorted fresh fruit and a magnificent view of the Italian coastline, making this yet another truly memorable breakfast!

Sailing a rough North Atlantic on the QE2 gave a whole new dimension to a typical English breakfast. It took some effort to keep those classic English bangers from rolling off the plate! There is simply nothing like starting your day enjoying kippers, toast and marmalade on a grand ocean liner crossing!

Recently, I watched the Potomac River come to life while our ship sailed through light mist and fog. The fresh October morning air on the outdoor deck of the Terrace Café onboard the Seabourn Pride was invigorating. Luscious buttermilk pancakes topped with caramelized bananas were presented at our table with Seabourn's signature white glove service. I had never experienced buttermilk pancakes in such a hauntingly beautiful venue with quite this level of elegance...yes, elegance! Stylishly served pancakes surrounded by the dawn's beauty. Morning never tasted so good.

Breakfast on deck while at sea is a magical wake up that elevates the ritual of O.J., toast and coffee to new "early morning" heights. The next time you don't feel like rolling out of bed because you're "on vacation," and don't have to get up, remember there is a beautiful, delicious adventure waiting to greet you up on deck. And, if you just can't get those eyes open, room service is always a good option on any cruise ship!

Arnold "Arie" Boris

The CruiseGourmet