Maximizing Your Dining Experience on an All-Inclusive Cruise: Tips for Avoiding the Worst Time to Hit the Buffet
An all-inclusive cruise is a dream come true for many travelers, offering a wide range of dining options and the convenience of not worrying about the bill. However, if you don't plan your dining strategy, you may end up with a less-than-ideal experience. Here are some tips to help you avoid the buffet pitfalls and maximize your dining experience on your next all-inclusive cruise.
The Worst Time to Visit the Buffet
According to Melissa Cabey, a former cruise ship performer with almost seven years of experience, the worst time to visit the buffet is when you first board the ship. "Most of the staterooms won't be ready yet, so most people choose to head straight to the buffet," she explains. This means that the buffet will be crowded, and wait times will be long. In addition, once you receive a table, the food will likely be picked over, and you may not get to eat what you want.
If you're hungry when you board the ship, it's better to visit a bar or the main dining room. These spots won't be as crowded as the buffet, and guests with loyalty status may even have access to special menus. The main dining room is especially good for guests with food allergies, as you can speak to the maître d' about what items will be safe for you to eat.
The Best Time to Visit the Buffet
A better time to visit the buffet is an hour or so after the ship sets sail, when the other guests have gone to their rooms. To learn the other peak dining times of the ship, ask a crew member. Certain cruises attract certain kinds of guests, who will all prefer to eat at different times. In general, though, you'll have better luck eating slightly outside the usual times for each meal. One user on Reddit shared, "Lunch at [1:30 to 2 pm] was pretty good. Dinner time after [7 pm] was great."
Explore Other Dining Options
Keep in mind that the buffet is not your only choice. Many cruise ships include the cost of dining at on-site pubs or snack bars as well. Cabey suggests not snubbing the specialty restaurants, as "the experience of being served in these restaurants is always top-tier, and the food can end up being some of the best you'll have on the entire ship." For instance, Royal Caribbean features specialty restaurants that specialize in seafood, Italian cuisine, and izakaya-style dishes. To really maximize your dining experience, consider sailing with one of the best cruise ships for dining.
In conclusion, while the cruise ship buffet offers a wide variety of options and a convenient all-you-can-eat experience, it's important to plan your dining strategy to avoid crowds and poor selection. By visiting the buffet at off-peak times and exploring other dining options on board, you can ensure a truly luxurious and satisfying dining experience on your all-inclusive cruise.
