When planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, one of the key aspects to consider is your dining experience. The cruise line offers multiple dining options to cater to every guest’s preferences, from scheduled sit-down dinners to flexible dining times. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding these dining options can enhance your experience on board. Here’s a breakdown of Royal Caribbean’s dining times and options.
1. Traditional Dining
If you enjoy the structure and routine of having set mealtimes, Royal Caribbean’s traditional dining is ideal for you. With this option, you’ll be assigned to a specific table at a designated time for dinner each night, allowing you to have a consistent dining experience with the same wait staff and fellow guests. This is perfect for those who like to build connections with their servers and tablemates.
Traditional dining is offered in two main seating times:
Early Seating: Typically around 5:30 or 6:00 p.m.
Late Seating: Usually around 8:00 or 8:30 p.m.
2. My Time Dining
If you prefer flexibility, Royal Caribbean’s My Time Dining gives you the freedom to dine when you want. This option allows you to make reservations in advance for different times each night or simply show up when you’re ready to eat. This is great for guests who like to plan their evenings around shows, excursions, or onboard activities.
My Time Dining is available in the main dining room, typically between 6:00 and 9:30 p.m., and is suited for those who want the sit-down experience without being locked into a specific time each night.
3. Windjammer Café
For guests who want an even more casual or quicker dining experience, the Windjammer Café buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can come and go as you please, without needing reservations, making it the most flexible option. The Windjammer serves a wide variety of cuisines, offering something for everyone.
Dinner: Generally served between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m.
This option is perfect for families, solo travelers, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed setting.
4. Specialty Dining
Royal Caribbean also offers specialty dining venues, which come with an additional cost but provide an elevated dining experience. These include restaurants like Chops Grille (steakhouse), Giovanni’s Table (Italian), and Izumi (Japanese). Each specialty restaurant has its own hours, which are usually similar to the main dining times but vary by venue and ship.
Reservations for specialty dining can be made in advance or onboard, though it’s recommended to book early as these spots can fill up quickly.
5. Room Service
If you want to dine in the comfort of your stateroom, Royal Caribbean offers 24-hour room service (with a small fee for orders after breakfast). You can order breakfast in bed or enjoy a late-night snack at your convenience.
How to Choose the Right Dining Time for You
Early Seating is best for families with young children or those who prefer having more time for evening activities.
Late Seating appeals to those who want to enjoy a longer day ashore or a more relaxed evening onboard.
My Time Dining offers flexibility for guests who want to tailor their dining around their schedule.
Windjammer Café and Room Service are perfect for casual or quick dining experiences.
No matter which dining option you choose, Royal Caribbean’s diverse dining experiences are designed to accommodate all tastes and preferences, ensuring a delicious and enjoyable time onboard.
oooh! Thanks for the quick summary. When you book the cruise, is there a separate section for meal preference?
On almost all cruise lines, you can order whatever you want from the menu. You can also order as many appetizers and entrees as you want.