Special Edition: Dinner on a Disney Cruise!

My Favorite Things!

Anyone who knows me know that a Disney Cruise is one of my favorite ways to take a vacation! The very first time I went on a Disney Cruise I wasn’t sure we would like it and only booked a 3 night trip. Boy! Was I ever wrong! By the 2nd night I knew I had made a mistake and should’ve booked a longer trip! Why? Lots of reasons. Today I’ll focus on one: dinner!!

What’s for dinner?

In a word: everything! Ok, not actually everything, but it feels like it! You can choose from the nightly dinner rotation restaurants, the buffet, the upper deck quick service, and room service . ALL of these options are included in the cost of your trip! With so many choices, there is no good reason to be hungry! Want a special adult only dining experience? They have those too for an additional fee!

Dining Rotation

Unlike many other cruise lines, Disney Cruises offer a dinner rotation. Each night you will enjoy 1/3 dining experiences. When you book your trip, you will select either the 1st or 2nd seating. Worried about getting a good table? Don’t! They already have your table ready!

It is important not to be late for dinner though because you don’t want to miss anything. Some restaurants have a show with dinner, while others are a little quieter with a lovely ambiance.

The servers will be your servers for the entire trip. They will get to know you and your preferences. By the end of your cruise, it might be hard to say goodbye!

The menus for each restaurant of course have specialties for that particular ship, itinerary, and restaurant. All items on the menu are included in the price of your cruise, with the exception of alcohol and specialized coffees. In addition to these specialties, they also include a lighter side menu of salads, steaks, chicken and more! Have a food allergy? No problem! Simply notify your server and they will take care of it!

If you are traveling with another party and wish to eat with them you will need to call the cruise line to link your parties together so you will be seated together.

The Buffet, Upper Deck Quick Service, and Room Service

The buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If for any reason you would prefer the buffet for dinner, you can make that choice!

The Quick Service restaurant on the upper deck is located near the 24 beverage and ice cream area. It is open for lunch and dinner, as well as a little later night snacking! This too is available as a dinner replacement if this works better for you!

Room service is available all day and into the night. The cost of the items are included in your cruise as well! There is not an extra charge. It is customary to tip your server. Many people tip $1/item. Also, the Cast Members ask you to leave the tray in your room when you leave and your steward will remove it. Why? The narrow hallways become impassable for wheelchairs and scooters when trays are set out.

Adult Only Dining

Each Disney Cruise Ship has several special, adult only dining experiences which may be reserved before your cruise. There is an extra charge, but most guests feel it was well worth it!

So where do your children eat if you reserve one of these dinners? In the Oceanear Club! While you enjoy your fine dining, they can have a blast in their age appropriate kid’s club. Of course, if they are still hungry when you reunite, head upstairs to the Quick Service or order some room service! Trust me, your kids will eat!

More!

If you want to add a Disney Parks component to your vacation you can of course do that! Click here to read My Magical Guide to a Disney Vacation! Looking for a good deal? Read My Ultimate Guide to Saving Money!

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