Understanding Cruise Dining Options
Most cruise ships offer several dining styles included in your base fare: a main dining room with sit-down service and a rotating menu, a casual buffet open most of the day, and often a poolside grill or pizza spot for quick bites. Room service is typically available too, sometimes with a small delivery fee depending on the line and time of day.
Beyond what's included, most ships also have specialty restaurants - steakhouses, Italian, Asian fusion, and more - that carry an extra cover charge, generally ranging from a modest per-person fee up to a more premium price for higher-end venues. Main dining rooms typically offer either a fixed traditional dining time or 'anytime dining,' where you can eat whenever you like within dining room hours.
Dietary restrictions and allergies are generally well accommodated across cruise lines if you flag them in advance. For exact specialty dining pricing and packages on your specific cruise line, call +1-800-406-8495.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dining included in the base cruise fare?
Main dining room meals, the buffet, and casual venues like a poolside grill are typically included. Specialty restaurants carry an extra charge on top of your fare.
What's the difference between traditional and anytime dining?
Traditional dining assigns you a fixed table and time each night, while anytime dining lets you show up within dining room hours whenever you'd like, generally with a wait if you don't have a reservation.
How much do specialty restaurants cost on a cruise?
Pricing varies by cruise line and restaurant type, from a modest per-person cover charge to a higher fee for premium steakhouse or chef's table experiences.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated on a cruise?
Yes, most cruise lines can accommodate allergies, gluten-free, kosher, and other dietary needs if you notify them in advance, ideally at the time of booking.
Does room service cost extra?
It depends on the cruise line - some include basic room service in the fare, while others charge a small delivery fee, particularly late at night or for certain items.
What's the difference between the main dining room and the buffet?
The main dining room offers table service with a set menu, while the buffet is self-serve and typically more casual with a wider variety of stations.
Do I have to pay extra for room service?
Basic room service is often included at no charge, though some cruise lines now add a small delivery fee or charge for certain items.
Can I request a table for two in the main dining room?
Yes, most cruise lines let you request table size when booking your dining time, though availability isn't guaranteed on every sailing.
Are drinks included with dinner in the main dining room?
Standard beverages like coffee, tea, and iced water are typically included, while soda, alcohol, and specialty drinks usually cost extra unless you have a drink package.
How many specialty restaurants does a typical cruise ship have?
Larger ships often have anywhere from 3 to 10 specialty dining venues, while smaller or older ships may have just one or two.