Travel agents tell us traditional dining has long been the standard for cruises. Traditional dining means there is a set time to eat dinner at night, at a specific table with the same people and the same waiters. Open seating gives passengers the option of when and where they prefer to dine, generally passengers choose between first and second seating in the main dining room and are seated where there is availability at any table. When you book a cruise, you are given the option to request a dining preference. Keep this in mind, especially if you have kids who should be in bed at a certain bedtime. There's nothing worse than a crabby, hungry child on your relaxing family vacation so plan accordingly.
Travel agents have mixed feelings when it comes to dining. If you book a cruise with a large number of people and you all want to sit together, it is almost necessary to choose a dining time. Just another consideration of group travel and well worth it! Early or late dining will depend on your groups preferences, just be sure to get a read before you set sail. The good and the bad of open seating offers passengers control of time to eat, different table each night, different people and waiters. Of course the buffet and casual dining options are always available! We offer family cruise packages and even family cruise deals that offer both traditional and anytime dining and would be happy to find what works for you!
