The primary reason most chefs do TV cooking shows is to drive viewers to their restaurants. Emeril Lagasse and Paula Deen fill theirs with TV fans hoping to get a glimpse of the stars, taste their creations, and brag about the autographed copies of the chef’s books they purchased.

Cruise lines have figured this out, too, offering chefs the chance to open onboard restaurants staffed by the cruise ship companies, but directed by the chefs. Now, The Food Network is getting in on the act with Celebrity Cruises – apt, right?. They are stocking the cruise ship Celebrity Solstice with their entertainers who will get publicity for the network and their shows.

The first Food Network at Sea is setting sail on August 22nd on a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard the Celebrity Solstice. What do fans get? Cat Cora and Aaron Sanchez culinary demonstrations. And a bit more:

* VIP pier-side check-in
* “Welcome aboard” red carpet reception
* “Battle of the Celebrity Solstice Chefs” competition event
* “Dine-around” experience – samplings of favorite Food Network recipes
* Access to Food Network VIP Lounge and screening room
* Caribbean cocktails on Celebrity Solstice’s Lawn Club
* Pre-paid gratuities and turndown gifts

So, instead of spending time enjoying the beaches, wind, surf and other attractions of the Caribbean, along with the great local cuisine, you can spend your time watching FN shows, eating FN food, and watching the onboard chefs compete. Talk about couch potato.