When it comes to dinner on cruises, most cruise lines let you choose what time you want to dine. You will have two choices: anytime dining or traditional dining. Most cruise lines will allow you to choose your dinner time except for Norwegian Cruise, which only does anytime dining.
How Does Anytime Dining Work?
Anytime dining gives you the flexibility to choose when you want to have dinner. You can eat whenever you are ready- just show up at the main dining room to get a table. You can also make reservations.
How Does Traditional Dining Work?
Traditional Dining is when the cruise assigns you a set dinner time and a set table. Usually, there are two seatings in traditional dining- early or late. Early seating starts around 5:30 pm and Late Seating starts at 8:30 pm.
Flexibility
The main advantage of anytime dining is that it is flexible. You are not locked into a dinner time, so you can eat whenever you feel hungry. Simply walk up to the main dining room to get a table and be seated for dinner. It’s nice to have the flexibility, especially if it’s a port day. There is no need to rush back to the ship to make it in time for your dinner seating.
Long Wait
A main disadvantage of anytime dining is that you might experience a long wait just to get a table. This is especially true if you are trying to have dinner during the peak dinner times or if you are a big group and will need a big table. If you have traditional dining, you simply walk into the dining room and head straight to your table—no waiting is required!
No Rush
One advantage of anytime dining is that you can take your time having dinner. If you are in the early seating of traditional dining, you might feel rushed toward the end of dinner because your waiters will want to prepare for the second seating. While with anytime dining, you can leisurely enjoy your dessert. Check out 7 Ways to Get a Cabin Upgrade on a Cruise for Free (or Cheap)
Different Waiters
One negative of anytime dining is that you get a different waiter every night. You won’t experience the same rapport you get from having the same waiter throughout the cruise. If you value the consistency of having the same waiter on your cruise, you should choose traditional dining. Check out Is Celebrity Cruise Really More Upscale? Honest Review
Different Tables
Another negative of anytime dining is that you will be seated at a different table each time. If you are particular about table location, like sitting by a window, you might prefer traditional dining because you don’t have to request a window table every night. Check out What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag (Free Packing List)
Table for Two
It’s easier to get a table for two than a table for 6. If there are just two of you in your party and you want flexibility, then anytime dining is a good choice. Check out 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise
You Eat Late
If you are used to eating late, 8 pm. or later, then anytime dining is a good choice for you. Getting a table later in the evening is easy—you won’t have to wait long. Check out 10 Cruise Private Island Mistakes You’ll Regret Making
You Have a Food Allergy
If you have a food allergy or other dietary requirements, you should choose traditional dining. That’s because you want consistency in having the same waiter who knows about your food allergy. You’ll be able to get a preview of tomorrow’s menu and place your order ahead of time, so they will make sure to prepare food that is safe for you to eat. Check out 9 Cruise Main Dining Room Mistakes You’ll Regret Making