Cruise Ship Dining Guide

Types of Cruise Ship Dining

Main Dining Room (MDR)

Every cruise ship has at least one main dining room offering multi-course meals included in your fare. Most lines offer both fixed-time dining (assigned table and time) and flexible/anytime dining. Dress codes typically range from casual to formal depending on the evening.

Buffet

The buffet is the most casual dining option, usually open for breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner. Modern cruise ships have upgraded buffets with made-to-order stations, international cuisines, and themed food festivals.

Specialty Restaurants

Most contemporary and premium ships offer specialty dining at an extra charge (typically $25-$75 per person, as of 2026). Options often include steakhouses, Italian trattorias, sushi bars, French bistros, and teppanyaki grills. Reservations are recommended, especially on sea days.

Room Service

Available 24/7 on most ships, room service is typically complimentary for continental breakfast items. Some cruise lines have started charging a small delivery fee ($3-$10) for other meals. Luxury lines include full room service at no extra charge.

Casual Dining

Many ships offer complimentary casual options beyond the buffet: poolside grills, pizza counters, taco bars, and 24-hour cafe bites. These are great for quick snacks between activities.

Dining Tips

• Book specialty restaurants early: popular venues fill up fast, especially on sea days
• Check drink packages. If you plan to order wine with dinner, a beverage package may save money
• Flag allergies early: cruise kitchens accommodate dietary needs well if notified in advance
• Try the main dining room. The included multi-course dinners are often surprisingly excellent
• Ask your waiter for recommendations. They know the menu inside and out

Dining by Cruise Line Type

Contemporary Lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC)

Large variety of casual and specialty options. Main dining is included and specialty restaurants run $25-$50 per person. Expect lively atmospheres and family-friendly menus.

Premium Lines (Celebrity, Princess, Holland America)

Higher-quality main dining with more sophisticated menus. Specialty restaurants run $35-$75 per person. Often feature renowned chef partnerships and curated wine lists.

Luxury Lines (Regent, Silversea, Seabourn, Oceania)

All dining is included in the fare, with no extra charges. Multiple gourmet restaurants, wine pairings, and personalized service. Oceania Cruises is particularly known for the best food at sea.