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How Do I Get Invited to the Captain’s Table on My Cruise?

Well there really is no answer to this because the selection is still quite random and none of these tips can ensure you will get the invitation from the captain’s table.  But there are some tips that people who have been cruising for a while now recommend.  This should help your chances, but keep in mind that you still may not be chosen.

Sometimes even first time cruisers are invited to eat with the captain, but I have found that this is not usually the case, unless the ship is only half full or no ways near capacity.  You can always try to be vocal about eating with the captain, but being too obnoxious about it or trying to approach him when he is eating at the buffet may be a bad idea.  After all, sometimes you just want to be alone.

• Be a regular cruiser.  I have seen that Platinum and Diamond pass members are more likely to get invites to eat with the captain than other passengers on board.  This may be just because they see more cruises are so are more likely to talk about getting an invitation, but it certainly seems to help your chances of seeing the captain.  It helps if you booked a lot of cruises with that specific cruise line as well.
• Get to know the staff .  Being friendly with the staff has its perks too.   This doesn’t mean you need to be flirtatious or anything.  In fact, you shouldn’t be.  But get to know them and sometimes they can recommend you to be selected to eat at the captain’s table.
• Look all fancy and dressed up .  Bringing a nice suit or dress to formal night can have its benefits as well.  You are more likely to be chosen if you are dressed appropriately for formal night, as they only like people who look classy to have this privilege.
• Have fun at your table .  I have also heard that sometimes the staff looks for a large table that has people that seem to be having a good time and asks them if they would like to eat with the captain.  This may or may not be true but you should be enjoying your dining experience anyway, so this can only help your chances.
• Be famous or important .  Ok, this might be a tough one to work on.  But famous people usually get an invitation to the captain’s table.  Probably because he wants to meet these famous people.  So if you are an interesting person who you think the captain may want to meet maybe it will help you here.

Hopefully these tips will help you on your next cruise.  But here are some cruise don’ts if you want to eat with the captain:

• Don’t constantly be asking to eat with the captain.  Remember that this is an invitation only ordeal and the squeaky wheel doesn’t always get the oil here.  It just gets ignored even more.
• Don’t try to chat with the captain every time you see him on the ship.  An occasional chat is fine, but if he is eating alone he probably wants it that way and you don’t help your chances by joining him.
• Don’t get all upset if you do not get invited to eat with him.  Remember that the process is still pretty random and even if you follow the tips above you may not be selected.  After all, there are thousands of other people on that boat too.

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How to Get on the Captain’s Table

Author: [email protected]

Published on: 11 April 2019

Updated on: 04 December 2020

Presenting our top tips for getting a seat at the most exclusive table on board

Sitting at the Captain’s Table is not only the ultimate accolade, but it’s also a way to mingle with interesting guests, meet the person in charge of your cruise, enjoy the finest food the kitchens can provide and – of course – watch your shipmates turn green with envy. If you’d like to join the elite few, here are our top tips for receiving that golden ticket.

Network with the Host

Since it’s generally the cruise’s social host or hostess who picks out the lucky passengers to sit at the Captain’s Table, it makes sense to cultivate this highly influential person. Hosts are looking for people who will add colour to dinner-table conversation, so make sure you tell him or her about the time you came face-to-face with a lion, rafted the Amazon or walked the Camino de Santiago (and back).

Ask your Travel Agent

Friends with your travel agent ? Ask them to suggest the best person to talk to on board, if you want someone to pull a few strings on your behalf. Your agent can even send a letter of recommendation, though it will need to reach the cruise line well in advance. Guests celebrating a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon should also let their agents know as often they will get chosen.

Look the Part

We’re not talking black tie or posh frock every night, but it’s well worth dressing for dinner, since sartorial elegance is another key factor when it comes to choosing passengers for the top table. This is literally a case of dressing to impress, so make sure you pack accordingly.

Loyalty Pays

Most cruise lines run loyalty programmes or frequent travellers’ clubs, so if you’ve found a favourite operator, stick with them. The complimentary bottle of fizz in your cabin is just the start – notch up enough sailings and you’re very likely to find yourself opening that golden envelope. Head of hotel operations at Marella Cruises, Joanna Morgan, acknowledges how those invited onto the table are typically customers “who have cruised with us many times”, so it’s good to know loyalty does pay off.

Blow your own Trumpet

It may not be the most British, but a little gentle boasting can go a long way. You may not have starred in the latest 007 film or even appeared on Masterchef , but if you’ve saved lives, won a special award or have some other claim to fame, tell the staff on board. Some discreet trumpet-blowing can help to secure that sought-after seat.

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When Is The Captain’s Dinner On Carnival Cruise: 2023 Updated Guide

Willa Carson

October 30, 2023

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The captain’s dinner may be a familiar term to you, but when is the Captain’s dinner on Carnival cruise ? On board Carnival Cruises, guests can participate in fun activities and enjoy themed nights out. One of such activities is the Captain’s Dinner.

In this article, I will explain what a captain’s dinner is about, what to wear to the captain’s dinner when it takes place, and if it is a must for you to attend. Let’s begin!

What Does the Captain’s Dinner Entail on a Cruise Ship?

The term “Captain’s Dinner” can be used to describe several distinct cruise ship activities. On most contemporary vessels, it is an occasion of formal dinner, often accompanied by a pre-event gathering where attendees can interact with the ship’s captain.

• The concept of a Captain’s Dinner, often known as the Captain’s Table, has been a longstanding tradition in cruise line experiences.
• This invariably signified a singular aspect – the chance for patrons to accompany the vessel’s captain to the most desirable table within the dining establishment for the evening meal.
• On specific trips, it still refers to eating at the captain’s table as in the past.

Does the Captain’s Dinner Still Exist?

Captain’s Dinner, once regarded as thrilling and limited, has experienced a decline in prominence within the past two decades. The term typically denotes the initial formal evening at sea and a dinner with the captain, which may be accessible to a more extensive gathering or all individuals on board.

What Has Changed in the Captain’s Dinner?

Several things have changed, including the following:

• One potential scenario has the ship’s captain delivering a formal address at the commencement of the evening meal, followed by the subsequent events unfolding customarily.
• In certain instances, alternative cruise itineraries may include a pre-dinner cocktail reception, during which the captain is in attendance, allowing visitors to engage with them and potentially get a photo opportunity with the captain.

When Is the Captain’s Dinner on Carnival Cruise Line?

The second day of a Carnival Cruise is typically reserved for the Captain’s Dinner. However, the schedule is flexible and may vary to accommodate the trip.

There will be a formal dinner when the captain and crew can be photographed with guests. It’s typically incorporated in the trip’s price and happens once or twice. Here are the highlights:

• For this occasion, the main dining area will be appropriately furnished.
• On this night, visitors will be seated at predetermined tables and treated to a unique supper menu and performance.
• The captain and his crew have their table.
• The gathering is kicked off with a toast from the captain.

You should get there early to secure a comfortable seat at this popular event.

What Does a Formal Night on a Carnival Cruise Mean?

Throughout the voyage, one or two formal events called “Formal Nights” are hosted by Carnival voyage. Except for the event days, this is the same as the Captain’s Dinner.

Formal Night spans multiple evenings over the voyage, whereas Captain’s Dinner is a dedicated event on the second day. Formal attire is required; you can choose from various fine dining options.

What Is the Average Number of Formal Evenings on a Carnival Cruise Line?

The cruise duration determines how many nights are designated as Formal evenings ( Cruise Elegant ).

• There is often only one formal night on a short (two- to five-day) cruise.
• You may count on two formal nights if your cruise is six days or longer.

The inaugural formal night often occurs on the voyage’s second night or third day. The subsequent formal evening is usually planned for the second or third day preceding the conclusion of the cruise, contingent upon the specific itinerary.

Does Everyone Have to Attend the Captain’s Dinner at the Main Dining Room?

The answer to this question is not universal because it will vary depending on your chosen cruise line. Before booking a cruise, it is recommended that you contact the cruise line directly to learn about their unique regulations. You can glimpse Captain’s Table, one of the ship’s finest restaurants, at some point during your voyage.

How Does One Go About Having Dinner With the Captain?

You can request a few ways to join the captains’ table for dinner. What happens during the captain’s dinner?

• When having a cocktail party, the captain’s table service typically includes a photograph of the captain after that.
• In rare instances, the captain may delegate sitting duty to another senior staff member.
• In addition, the captain may offer you a bridge tour while you’re at sea.

Formal Night

A formal evening aboard a cruise ship is something that requires advanced preparation. The shipmates have a blast getting to know one another and enjoy a good time during Captain’s Night. This should, however, not make you tense.

To maximize your time, you should:

• Schedule your arrival on the cruise for early evening.
• Remember that a  formal night is more than just a chance for visitors to don their finest attire.

Given this is such a momentous event, the cruise ship’s official photographers will be present to take pictures.

Determining Appropriate Dress Code for the Captain’s Dinner on Carnival Cruise Lines

Occasionally, a captain’s reception or ball may be organized with formal nights on cruises. Most cruise lines establish dress standards for captain’s balls to ensure attendees wear acceptable dress during the elegant night. Men are advised to make use of:

• The sport coat;
• Button-down shirt;
• A well-chosen tie.

For women, it is imperative to:

• Discard outdated cocktail dresses and gowns currently stored in one’s wardrobe.
• Instead of choosing to wear flip-flops within the cabin, it is advisable to consider alternatives such as heels, flats, or elegant sandals.

Typically, cruise lines offer the convenience of online tuxedo rental services before embarking on a voyage. Before the formal nights, it is advisable to schedule a date with the salon on the ship to avail oneself of hair-cutting services and manicure and pedicure treatments.

Elegant Cruise Elegant Event: Formal Evening Outfit

Guests at a “ cruise elegant ” affair are expected to dress formally during this elegant night. Acceptable men’s attire includes:

• A sports coat;
• Dress shirts with suits or dress slacks.

Women can wear anything like:

• Cocktail dresses;
• A skirt and blouse.

Unwanted and Sometimes Forbidden Elements of Closet at the Dinner

However, guests on the carnival cruise are asked to refrain from putting on the following items in Carnival’s main dining room:

• Men’s sleeveless button-downs;
• Denim cutoffs;
• Caps and hats;
• Sportswear;
• Flip-flops.

When and How Can I Reserve a Table at the Captain’s Dinner on a Carnival Cruise?

The Captain’s Dinner is available to all Carnival Cruise passengers. However, reservations are strongly suggested. Here are some tips for reserving a table at the captain’s table on your Carnival Cruise:

• You should see if this is part of the itinerary of your carnival cruise.
• You can reserve a cabin on carnival.com in advance of your cruise. Use the “cruise manager/Manage my booking” link to reserve a spot for yourself and your travel companions.
• To finalize your reservation on the carnival cruise, full payment is required when booking.
• The Carnival cruise line may be reached at (800) 764-7419, where you can also reserve a spot at the Captain’s Dinner or acquire any other information you might need.

Captain’s Dinner operates under a “first come, first served” policy, so don’t delay making your reservation.

The Captain’s Dinner Menu on the Carnival Cruise

The Captain’s Dinner menu in the main dining rooms of Carnival cruises includes a variety of delectable foods, such as:

• Shrimp cocktail;
• Chocolate lava cake;
• Soup of the day;
• Grilled salmon;
• Caesar salad;
• Filet mignon;
• Lobster tail.

There may be changes to the menu depending on the specific vessel and the particular cruise. There are multiple factors contributing to this phenomenon, like:

• The accessibility of food;
• The destinations visited by the cruise ships;
• The expertise of the culinary personnel.

How Much Is Dinner at the Carnival Captains?

Dinner at the Carnival Captain’s main dining room is $18 per person. If you have a child under 11 years you will pay for them $6 if they order from the kids menu.

How Do You Get Invited to the Captain’s Table on a Cruise?

The social hostess or host on board is your best bet for a seat at the captains’ table in the main dining room for dinner. You’ll likely encounter them while boarding, and they’ll be the ones to hand out invites.

How Long Is Chef’s Table on Carnival?

The chef’s table at the carnival will take two to four hours. Attendees can anticipate a more extended and lavish supper that is more of an experience than a simple meal.

Is the Captain’s Dinner Worth It?

Yes, the captain’s dinner is worth it. You will gain invaluable experience that is well worth the cost. Make reservations for this supper one night in advance if your cruise is only half-board.

Even though the custom of having dinner at the cruise ship captain’s personal table still exists, it is much less prevalent than it once was. Even when held more regularly, participation was still limited to a select few. That’s why you should jump at the chance to dine with the captain at his table on today’s cruises.

Ensure you are appropriately dressed. Men, prepare your tuxedo, and women, prepare your cocktail dress or evening gown. Even if you do not get a chance to dine with the captain, enjoy the first formal night, where the captain throws a welcome aboard party.

I hope you now understand how the captain’s dinner happens, what you are expected to wear, and when you should attend the dinner. Please share this article with your friends.

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How to get invited to the Captain’s Table

The invitation often comes in a gold envelope and is slipped discreetly under your door, or propped up on your pillow.

“Captain Smith would be delighted if you could join him for cocktails, followed by dinner in the Grand Ballroom. Dress: Formal.”

The anticipation of an evening spent rubbing shoulders with the ship’s royalty is palpable. What will you wear? And are there any appointments left at the salon?

Dinner at the Captain’s Table is a highly sought-after experience. But just how does one get on the guest list?

Rule #1: Present your best self

On some ships, the crew scour the dining room for well-presented guests. Those who can hold an educated conversation. If you wake up with a hangover every morning, chances are you didn’t make the best impression the night before. And those thongs and T-shirts wouldn’t cut it either. Slacks and a shirt are the order of the day.

Rule #2: Join the club

You’d be hard-pressed to find a cruise line that doesn’t offer memberships. Generally, you’re given one point for every sea day. The more you cruise, the faster you’ll soar through the different membership levels. Once you hit the top tier, chances are you would have been able to meet and become friendly with the captain on your travels – just remember not to ask for an invitation straight away; these things have to be earned, you know…

Rule #3: Get your travel agent to put in a good word

Cruise lines get so many requests like this from agents, but it would be remiss of us to leave it out. There’s no harm in letting them know you’re interested in dining at the Captain’s Table.

Rule #4: Celebrate a special occasion

What better way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, wedding or honeymoon than with a cruise? A celebration is something else you can mention to your travel agent – anything positive that will set you apart from other passengers is a good thing.

Rule #5: Be a VIP

In the cruising world, this means repeat cruisers to the cruise line and those staying in a high-end suite. After all’s said and done, if you do get invited, don’t leave before the captain – he’ll usually excuse himself straight after dessert, anyway. Oh, and in regards to outfits, pack a nice suit or dress just in case.

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Captain’s Table

Dining at the Captain’s Table on a cruise ship is always a special treat.  Not only is it a thrill to get invited, but makes for a fun night, and long-lasting memories.  Traditionally the Captain hosted the special table (and still does on some ships), but depending on the cruise length, availability of the Captain, two seatings etc, this honor often goes to the Hotel Director or Assistant Hotel Director.  Still known as the ‘Captain’s Table’ by most, or ‘Hotel Director’s Table’ this sole dining table is normally in a prime dining spot, and is waited on by the best waiters the dining has to offer.

The Captain’s Table has changed somewhat (don’t want to use the word diminished) over the last few years due to the abundance of flexible (anytime) dining, multi-dining rooms depending on cabin booked, specialty dining, more casual ‘formal nights’, etc,  but traditionally when there was only the main dining room for dinner, this was (and still is) a big deal to get invited.

We’ve been fortunate to dine at several Hotel Director’s Tables, and it’s always a wonderful night.  Typically you receive a verbal request, followed by a formal written invitation confirming the date and time of the dinner.  Every time we have been invited (and it is tradition to do so), you are requested to meet in a lounge at the specified time, where a reserved seating section awaits you and your fellow Captain’s Table mates.

It is at the Lounge where you are introduced to your fellow seat-mates by the ship hostess, and are offered a complimentary drink or Champagne, while you get acquainted with the other passengers.  The time of the pre-dinner cocktail gathering is typically the actual time of the First or Second seating dining time.

The first time we were invited, I thought this was strange meeting at 8:30pm, when dinner started at 8:30pm, however this is intentional by the ship. The event is typically on Formal Night, and after 15 minutes or so of meeting your table-mates, you are escorted (some might say marched) to the Captain’s Table.  Normally you haven’t finished your drink when they escort you down, so Celebrity Cruises requests you leave your unfinished drink, and the server will bring it down for you (don’t worry, they won’t get it mixed up!)  Royal Caribbean offered nice Champagne which we finished before leaving for dinner.

On Celebrity Cruises ‘M Class’ ships, you walk down the main stair case while music is playing, and hope you don’t trip while the whole dining room is watching you!  You then walk all the way to the aft Captain’s Table, which is elegantly set with white table cloths, fresh flowers, wine glasses and your name card, indicating where you are to sit (pre-arranged by the hostess.)

As you sit down, you are told to glance up towards the balcony where a ship photographer takes a couple photos of the table.  You will receive the complimentary photo usually by the time you go back to your cabin, where it is placed on your bed.  It normally comes in a folder too, with each passengers name and their seated position at the table.

At dinner, you normally have a special personalized menu you can take with you, and the wine is complimentary and free-flowing throughout the meal.  So no one passenger dominates the conversation, the Hotel Director (or host) includes each passenger as much as possible.  We actually prefer having the Hotel Director as they are directly responsible for all aspects of the hotel side of the ship (food, drink, cabin, entertainment etc – basically most everything by Engineering and Navigation), and they have many interesting experiences both on board as well as land, and they are generally very easy to talk to, without feeling so intimidating in the fancy setting.

Normally the Host has to leave right after dessert, but most passengers at the Table wish to remain for awhile as they are having such a good time.  This is normal, (and expected), and usually exchange contact information with each other.  When we’re in the Penthouse or Royal Suite, we usually invite the guests by for a cocktail party later in the cruise.

Dining at the Captain or Hotel’s Table is truly memorable, and here are some of the tables we’ve been lucky to have been invited too.

South America Repositioning Cruise

Valentine's Cruise

West Caribbean Cruise

Bahamas cruise

Baltic cruise

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Dinner At The Captain’s Table

the captain’s table set up for dinner

In the afternoon of the first formal night on Royal Caribbean ‘s Explorer of the Seas we found an invitation in our cabin to eat at the Captain’s Table that night. Of course we responded yes. We’d never been invited to a captain’s table before, nor actually even realized it was a thing. Maybe it’s not on the other lines we’ve sailed on, or maybe we’ve just never had the honor of receiving an invitation before. Even the staff captain that we had dinner with had no idea who they would choose or why, though I assume special invites are most likely extended to suite guests, high rollers at the casino, and people high in their loyalty program , of which we are none. Sometimes being a cruise ship blogger has its perks.

even the napkins are special at the captain’s table – and resemble a shirt and jacket

Our dinner at a large circular table at the center of the main floor of a 3-tiered dining room consisted of 4 invited couples, Staff Captain Luther Bradley Olson, and Chief Safety Officer Ivan Ramirez Villaneuva. Seating was assigned by little name cards set at each chair. We sat next to the captain, who was a very nice guy. The chief safety officer was at the far end of a very large table so we never got a chance to talk to him. The staff captain is the second in command of the entire vessel. Besides being in charge of all the ship’s employees, he is also responsible for docking the ship. Hierarchy must not be the same on all cruise lines because some ships we have sailed on said the ship’s captain docked the ship. When underway it is usually the officer of the watch driving – though more likely than not it’s actually the autopilot.

menu from the Captain’s table

Although some of the crew like stateroom stewards often work 9 months straight before having any time off, the staff captain said his hitches ran 10 weeks on and 10 weeks off. He could have his wife on board if he wanted, but said she had a life of her own on shore and didn’t stay on the ship with him all the time. The cruise director was traveling with his wife and young daughter though so family privileges extended farther than just the bridge staff. Originally from Canada, the staff captain now lives in the USA, in the same general region where we do. My husband found lots to talk to him about since they both enjoy fishing.

people at the Captain’s table

The meal had a special menu separate from what everyone else in the dining room ate that night. We got to keep the menus as a souvenir. They also took a photo of everyone at the table from the deck above and gave one to each of the attendees. The food was superb, the best food we ate in the entire cruise.

goat cheese soufflé and salad

pan seared scallops

After an extra little starter the appetizer course had three choices, a goat cheese soufflé, scallops, or a Caesar salad. I chose the soufflé and John went with the scallops.

roulade of chicken

The main course offered 4 choices, a fillet of beef, fillet of salmon, roulade of chicken, or stuffed avocado. We both went with the chicken.

dessert at the captain’s table

Dessert was a generous portion of banana, oreo chocolate mousse with salted caramel and wild berries. It’s an honor to get invited to the captain’s table and we quite enjoyed the dinner as well as the company.

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How to get invited to the Captain's Table on your cruise holiday

BY Reader's Digest Editors

18th Jul 2017 Travel Stories

Get to know your hosts

Senior social team, should you complain, once you’ve been invited.

Oh, Captain! – Dining at that table is a great honor… and, for some of us, a challenge.

Monday mantra.

I want to dine with the Captain…I want to dine with the Captain…I want to dine with the Captain…

Oh, Captain!

Dining at that table is a great honor… and, for some of us, a challenge..

I love John Cleese — Monty Python, Fawlty Towers, A Fish Called Wanda . So, it’s not surprising that I had an extreme reaction to the captain of SeaDream I’ s entertaining account of when he tried to persuade the star to man the reception desk as his eccentric Basil Fawlty character during a 1970s sailing on his previous ship. Unfortunately, I was seated beside the captain when he told the story and, in my excitement, grabbed his shoulder and came away with his epaulet in my hand.

Not my proudest Captain’s Table moment.

An invitation to dine with the captain is one of the greatest honors for a cruise passenger. Service is impeccable, fine wines flow throughout the meal, and conversation is dazzling — unless the chat is monopolized by some pompous know-it-all who seems intent on convincing everyone that he or she is infinitely more fascinating than anyone else at the table. Including the captain.

Best of all, being seated at the most coveted table in the dining room earns you the envy of your shipmates, including that horrible woman who shooed you away from the deck chair you wanted earlier that morning. With a little luck, she’ll be nearby with an unobstructed view of you schmoozing with the big guy. Nyah, nyah, nyah, nyah, nyah, nyah.

I used to wonder how the Captain’s Table selection process worked, but finally gave up in much the same way you give up trying to figure out how certain people win the lottery more than once or how Taylor Swift can win every single music award out there. I was nearly convinced that Captain’s Table diners are always repeat guests, occupants of owner’s suites, journalists, or local celebrities until I shared a Captain’s Table with a couple of first-time cruisers who were actually sailing in an inside cabin. That blew that theory.

Whether it’s your standing with the cruise line, your reputation, or just the eenie-meenie-miney-moe method that has singled you out, nothing beats returning to your cabin to find that elegant invitation stating that the ship’s captain requests the honor of your presence for dinner. RSVP immediately, don your finest evening wear, and prepare for an exclusive experience that will make you the envy of all of your friends and, more importantly, your enemies.

Have you ever dined at the Captain’s Table? Tell us about it in the comments below!

— Judi Cuervo

Judi Cuervo

Judi Cuervo is a New York City native who fell in love with cruising in 1976 during her first sailing aboard Carnival Cruises’ Mardi Gras. Twenty years later, she began her freelance cruise writing gig and, since that time, has covered mass market, ultra-premium, riverboat and expedition ships for regional, national and international publications as well as cruise websites.

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Video of the Day

How to Sit at the Captain's Table

An invitation to the captain's table began as a gesture of compassion to hungry travelers but today it is a place of honor for a select few of the ship's guests. You cannot buy your spot at this table, but you may be able to improve your chances with some planning. If you can nab your spot, you will enjoy a sumptuous meal, mingle with interesting guests and have some face time with the ship's captain.

Book a premium room through a travel agent. Having inside help may increase your chances to get an invitation to the captain's table. Tell the agent if you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary. A special occasion may bump you up the list of potential guests.

Request a letter of recommendation from the travel agent. This letter should be mailed or faxed to the cruise line in advance of your trip.

Arrive on board early and participate in any meet-and-greet events. Introduce yourself to the staff and be friendly to the director.

Enroll in the cruise line's frequent travelers club. Sometimes, a cruise line will offer special perks to repeat customers.

Be lucky. Sometimes it's a matter of luck whether or not you are invited to the Captain's Table. Your cruise line may leave it up to the captain or cruise director who gets invited.

• Pack formal clothing for the trip in case you get an invitation. Some ships do offer formal rentals.
• Fodor's: Invite to Captain's Table?
• The Washington Post: Captain, Please Pass the Salt
• Cruise Mates: Formal Dress on Cruise Ships

About the Author

Mimi Bullock's writing reflects her love of traveling the back roads of small towns and sampling the local cuisine. As a regular feature writer for "Southern Hospitality Traveler" and journalist for "Beachin' Magazine," she gets to experience the rich heritage of the southern culture. She is also a licensed cosmetologist who has her own skin care line.

Photo Credits

• Steve Mason/Photodisc/Getty Images

• All Dining Options

The Chef's Table

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* Coming Soon

Treat your taste buds to the experience of a lifetime, culminating in a sumptuous multicourse dinner hosted by the Master Executive Chef. Your VIP experience starts with a champagne toast and hors d’oeuvres for a select group of 12-16, followed by a tour to see the galley in operation. The evening concludes with a mind-blowing full-service dinner of amazing appetizers, entrées and desserts not found on our regular dining menus.

Tip: Reserve early because this once-in-a-lifetime experience has limited seating. Reservations can be made online after booking your cruise.

The Details:

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

Proper attire if invited to Captain's Table for Dinner?

By dongordon , September 19, 2014 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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What would be the proper attire for a man and a woman if invited to the Captain's Table for dinner?

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Share on other sites, barb nahoumi.

For a man, a jacket and tie would be appropriate if you brought one along. Otherwise, dress slacks, with a dress shirt.

For a woman a nice dress, or a dressy pant outfit. Just my opinion.

For a man, a jacket and tie would be appropriate if you brought one along. Otherwise, dress slacks, with a dress shirt.   For a woman a nice dress, or a dressy pant outfit. Just my opinion.

We would just dress as we always do. No tie, dress shirt or jacket for my husband. We would never pack them.

Seeing as all we'll have are collared shirts with jeans, that's what we would wear.

I third this.

The captain's likely to be in his dress uniform, but since NCL went super-casual, a lot of passengers probably pack only daytime-type clothes, as the other poster said.

If you think there's a chance of an invite, it would be prudent for a guy to pack at least one nice shirt and sports jacket (tie optional, but definitely a suave touch ;)), and a woman to pack a dress that could go day to evening, or accessories to glam up a daytime outfit.

On my last NCL cruise, I did get invited to the captain's table and had the "what to wear" dilemma. I wore a sleeveless black top and slacks with a lacy shawl, dressy earrings, evening bag, and low heels. My look turned out to be a tad more formal than the other women, who wore simple daytime dresses.

In my etiquette book :), dressing in line with the host shows respect for the host's hospitality.

I couldn't agree more!

Our experience has been quite different. On our last five cruises the concierge has arranged an invite to dine with the Captain every time. We have been the best dressed at the table with a sport shirt and dockers. The Captain and his officers have always been dressed in their everyday whites, same as you see them wearing around the ship. At our most recent table we had everything from jeans to dockers, nothing more. I can't imagine there are very many on board these days that have a jacket let alone a tie. Concierge has always told those invited that resort casual, same as any other meal was appropriate. I've not noticed anyone made to feel uncomfortable, so I assume resort casual is good.

Exact same thing as we find at all of the Chef's Tables, three years ago one gentleman showed up in a sport coat and when he found he was the only one, he took it off for the evening.

I would wear the nicest clothes I brought.

Our experience has been quite different. On our last five cruises the concierge has arranged an invite to dine with the Captain every time. We have been the best dressed at the table with a sport shirt and dockers. The Captain and his officers have always been dressed in their everyday whites, same as you see them wearing around the ship. At our most recent table we had everything from jeans to dockers, nothing more. I can't imagine there are very many on board these days that have a jacket let alone a tie. Concierge has always told those invited that resort casual, same as any other meal was appropriate. I've not noticed anyone made to feel uncomfortable, so I assume resort casual is good. Exact same thing as we find at all of the Chef's Tables, three years ago one gentleman showed up in a sport coat and when he found he was the only one, he took it off for the evening.

Very surprised that the Captain and officers were in whites, as it is NCL policy to change into blues at 1700 if you are going to be in guest areas.

Our experience has been quite different. On our last five cruises the concierge has arranged an invite to dine with the Captain every time. We have been the best dressed at the table with a sport shirt and dockers. The Captain and his officers have always been dressed in their everyday whites, same as you see them wearing around the ship. At our most recent table we had everything from jeans to dockers, nothing more.

Interesting... of course, my experience with this goes back 8 years, but the captain I dined with wore his formal blue uniform, as Chengkp75 said.

I spent some years on the SS Norway sailing with a senior officer (well before Freestyle). Some nights he had more costume changes than a Vegas showgirl. He said the rules for which uniform he could wear, where, were stringent. Day whites OK for out on deck evenings, but long white wool jacket (he called it "the blanket") in inside public spaces. Formal uniform (short white jacket, black trousers then) on formal nights.

To wear the wrong thing in the wrong place was considered gauche.

I'm glad to hear things may have relaxed somewhat, but I wouldn't want to see the senior officers in day whites all the time. The uniform and epaulettes should command respect, not be considered "overdressed," IMHO.

The only time I saw the Captain in Blues on any of our cruises was for photo night.

We usually see a couple of the ships senior officers at dinner each night as they sometimes stop by and say hello. HD and Staff Captain have always been in whites.

Maybe we're cruising the wrong ships?

The only time I saw the Captain in Blues on any of our cruises was for photo night. We usually see a couple of the ships senior officers at dinner each night as they sometimes stop by and say hello. HD and Staff Captain have always been in whites. Maybe we're cruising the wrong ships?

Policy may have changed. When I was working there 6 years ago, it was the biggest pain to go change uniforms just to eat dinner in a guest area, so it wasn't real popular, at least with the Deck/Engine officers. Maybe that is why there is now a new policy. Could also be that they are trimming costs by not issuing more uniforms. I had khakis, whites, blues, and formals.

Quick question; what do the officers wear for the "wave" on the last night? I know my friend who is still Chief on the POA wears blues for this and photo night.

This :) . Otherwise I wouldn't worry. One thing about Norwegian--I have never been made to feel uncomfortable in any way about anything...

People who are well-mannered & practice good etiquette make their guests feel comfortable no matter what they are wearing. I personally do not care what any one seated at my table or at the captain's table or in the buffet is wearing as long as they have good table manners.

The nicest thing you brought.

Edit: Just read through and see mine was not the first same answer. So, I agree with previous posters.

SuiteCruisin14

Having been invited only once on our Jade cruise, we were excited to go. DH wore the one long sleeve, button down we had with dockers and I wore a plain black sundress with a sweater. Felt right at home and the dinner was great.

Just be yourself and have fun.

luvtheships

Does one know ahead of time if they are invited? Probably not

Personally I like casual but we always bring at least one nicer outfit along anyway

Silk slacks and top for me that roll up to nothing

Dark slacks and nice checked sort of casual to nicer type dress button down for dh.

Either way if invited I would just say that we only brought casual stuff if that were the case and would it be ok?

Bet the answer is yes

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Find out what they are wearing that night...their whites or their dress uniform...if their dress uniform, then the dressiet thing you brought. If whites, then the dressiest thing you brought! LOL.

On a side note...in the old Norwegian way...they want you to wear whatever you feel most comfortable in...they know you are vacation and they want you to enjoy yourself and not worry about it.

Whenever I have dined with an officer, they're in blues. I usually pack a slightly fancy blouse & black pants just in case I want to get a little bit dressy; they don't take up much room and I feel better.

They don't kick you out if you don't dress up, so don't sweat it!

Policy may have changed. When I was working there 6 years ago, it was the biggest pain to go change uniforms just to eat dinner in a guest area, so it wasn't real popular, at least with the Deck/Engine officers. Maybe that is why there is now a new policy. Could also be that they are trimming costs by not issuing more uniforms. I had khakis, whites, blues, and formals.   Quick question; what do the officers wear for the "wave" on the last night? I know my friend who is still Chief on the POA wears blues for this and photo night.

The most recent cruise was blues for the last night. Dug out a couple of pictures to make sure.

Never had dinner with the Captain, but had dinner with the Staff Captain which I guess is the next closest thing. The men had jackets and ties. Then again, sometimes I have a jacket when it is just us. It's NCL, I don't think the Captain cares if the guests are less formal, he would rather have them comfortable.

medicalma'am

At my first Chef's Table, the Staff Captain was there with I believe his parents. He wore his blues.

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What Do the Cruise Captains’ Quarters Look Like? (inc Videos)

Have you ever wondered where the cruise ship captains’ quarters are located and what they look like?

Well, you are not alone, it’s a common question, and not unsurprisingly, there aren’t many captains sharing details of their private quarters.

However, after some research, we have found some glimpses of the inside of the captain’s quarters.

The size and spec of the quarters will vary depending on the cruise line and the individual ships’ perceived prestige.

So we have endeavored to find as many examples as possible.

What Do the Cruise Captains’ Quarters Look Like?

The cruise captain’s quarters will usually be on par with the average suite types of rooms you’ll find on the ship.  Typically the larger or more luxurious the ship, the larger and more luxurious standard you can expect the captain’s quarters to be.

Although often traveling alone, the captain’s quarters will be large enough for when they do have family or guests staying onboard with them.  Hence large bedrooms and living space.  Much larger than the rest of the crew’s cabins.

As well as typical suite-like features the quarters will have an office with monitors, wifi and various forms of communication, and navigational indicators and monitors so the captain can keep abreast of everything at all times.

There will also be room for meetings with the crew and navigational staff members.

Below are some real-life examples of cruise captains’ quarters that we have found. 

Royal Caribbean Cruise Captains Quarters

TikTok and Royal Caribbean cruise captain @captainjohnnyfaevelen gave a scarce insight into the cruise captain’s quarters on mega cruise ship Harmony of the Seas , one of the largest cruise ships in the world, and no doubt a larger than average captains cruise quarters.

@captainjohnnyfaevelen #welcome to the #captain #cabin and #office #onboard @Royal Caribbean #harmonyoftheseas #oasis #class #modern #cruiseship #shipslife #comfortable #life #at #sea ♬ original sound – Captain Johnny

On its launch in 2016, Harmony of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world.  It has since been overtaken by Symphony of the Seas (2018) and now Wonder of the Seas (2022).

So this captain’s quarters are likely also proportionally larger than many others, so not typical size-wise for the average cruise ship.

From the video, we can see Royal Caribbean Oasis-class cruise ships have very generous-sized captains’ quarters.

On entering the cabin, there is a spacious foyer with doors to:

• Guest Bathroom
• Master Bedroom 
• Large Living room

The quarters have a larger Master Bedroom with Queen size bed.  The bedroom includes a walk-in closet and bathroom with a large bathtub and shower.

The living room is large and spacious, with a dining table and four chairs.   A more relaxed sofa area includes a coffee table, a 55-inch TV, and a recliner chair.

The living room leads to the pantry, which has a refrigerator and dishwashers, various cooking appliances, and lots of food storage space.

Off the living room is the Captain’s Office which can also be accessed directly from the navigation bridge .  The captain’s office has a deck and chair and various monitors on display.

Celebrity Cruise Captains’ Quarters

The video below is by Captain Kate McCue, who has a well-known social media presence in the cruising world.

She’s captain of the cruise ship Celebrity Edge at the time of the recording.  This is a 130,000 gross tonnage cruise ship with the capacity to carry over 2900 passengers.

@captainkatemccue CRIBS: Captain’s Quarters, Suite Life Edition & tour du jour. You asked for it… #fyp #foryou #captainscabin #celebrityedge #cruise #captain #room ♬ Alone – Petit Biscuit

The video above just gives an inside view of her Captains quarters.   She walks through the entrance foyer to the main living space with a large corner sofa, some other comfy-looking chairs, and a large wall-mounted TV.

Kate then highlights the infinite verandah window, which opens fully at the touch of a button.  This makes the verandah feel like part of the quarters, letting in the fresh sea air and natural light. 

The floor-to-ceiling window gives the captain a view of the bridge.

In Kates’s quarters, she highlights her patron saint of seafarers, St Nichols, which many seafarers, not just cruise captains, always travel with for good luck.

The captain’s bedroom has a King Sized bed facing another reasonably large TV.  

Attached is a water closet with dual sinks, a shower, and a smallish soaking tub (which kate uses to wash her Elf Sphynx cat named bug).

She separated the 

dining room with a TV, and a small galley area with a refrigerator.  These rooms are open-planned, joined with the captain’s office which is directly attached to the bridge. 

Where Are the Cruise Captains’ Quarters?

The cruise captains’ quarters are typically located to the rear of the ship’s bridge.  This provides the captain with speedy access to the bridge at a moment’s notice, should it be required.

The access from the bridge with usually be to the captain’s office area of their living quarters., Access to their main living quarters can also be accessed by a separate entrance.

When Does The Cruise Captain Sleep?

Cruise ship captains will typically sleep at night, however, they are on call 24/7 for any emergencies that may arise.  

The captain doesn’t need to be on the bridge at all times as there will be much other staff who can navigate the ship in the captain’s absense, or while they sleep.

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19 Shocking Cruise Ship Secrets And Tips I Learned After Going On Seven Cruises

Booking a cruise is just like buying a car, meaning you can negotiate the price and get bonus perks, so ~never~ pay the price you see online.

BuzzFeed Staff

Hey! I'm Spencer , and I just got back from my seventh cruise. I've seen and learned a lot of really cool behind-the-scenes secrets while traveling the world on these ships, so I wanted to share some of the most interesting ones with you here, including some tips that may be helpful for your own future adventures. Enjoy!

For context, I've traveled on four different cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, and now Carnival. My most recent trip was a seven-day sail aboard Carnival Firenze, which traveled throughout Mexico. This was my first time on Carnival, and I somehow managed to get a private tour to areas of the ship that even the most elite VIP passengers will never, ever see. Here are some things I learned along the way.

1. First of all, yes, most cruise ships have both a jail and a morgue on board. These were the only areas of the ship where I wasn't allowed to visit (trust me, I asked multiple times) because they're strictly off limits unless you find them the old-fashioned way...by getting arrested or dying. I didn't want to take those chances, but I did find out that shorter cruises tend to see a LOT more action in the jails (aka "the brig"). Guests typically treat shorter sailings as more of a party by taking advantage of unlimited drink packages, and more alcohol = more fights on board, so needing a jail totally makes sense.

In terms of the morgues, those are usually located on one of the ship's lowest decks. Think of these as giant refrigerators that, depending on the ship's size, can house anywhere from a couple to nearly a dozen bodies. The majority of these deaths are obviously of natural causes – for reference, as of 2018, fewer than  25%  of global passengers were under the age of 30 – but the average age of a cruise ship passenger is getting younger and younger every year now.

2. The higher you are on a ship, the more movement you'll feel, so if you're someone who tends to get motion sickness then you should definitely book your room on the lowest floor possible (just not in the morgue). I've personally never had an issue with motion sickness on a cruise, but I'll occasionally see passengers with at-sea patches behind their ears for help. Contrary to what you might think, though, you'll probably get the best night's sleep of your life on a cruise. Yes, there's a ~very~ slight rocking, but it'll feel sort of like you're a baby again who's being lulled to sleep in a cradle. Just trust me on this one.

This is a photo of what my cabin looked like. I also included a picture of my bathroom, which was a little bigger than I thought it'd be. The shower itself was a pretty decent size and left me with room to spare (if you want a point of reference, I'm 5'11" [a real 5'11", not a Tinder 5'11"]).

I was in a balcony room on Deck 6, and, again, I had no issues with motion sickness. I've also sailed on higher deck levels before (up to Deck 9) and didn't have any issues then either. In terms of where on each deck you should book your cabin (i.e. midship, aft, or forward), that doesn’t actually matter because you won’t really feel the motion differently in other spots on the same deck.

3. But I promise that you probably won't even have to worry about getting seasick. I got a private tour of the ship's control room, and I learned that they do a lottttt to combat any movement from the waves. For example, ships try to hit waves at a 45-degree angle because that's apparently the most effective way to help break them up and cut down on the extra motion. Ships also have stabilizers that can extend outwardly (picture, like, wings on an airplane), which help to keep things super, super stable.

Think of these stabilizers like fins on a fish, so they help each ship glide along the water. I spoke with the captain and some of the engineers in the control room, and they explained that the stabilizers require extra fuel and also decrease the speed of the ship, so they tend to not use them unless the water is pretty rocky.

4. Before you book a cruise, you should know that they're sort of like buying a car: you can negotiate! Basically, the price you see online should almost never be the price you pay (though they often offer great discounts that you should absolutely check out!). Instead, it's best to call and book your trip with an actual person (i.e. someone who works for the cruise line, a travel agent, etc.). For example, travel agents are usually free, and they can get you a ton of bonus perks and huge discounts on rooms for a fraction of the original price.

A lot of cruise lines occasionally offer "buy one, get one" discounts, as well as a ton of other sales around specific holidays. There are also a bunch of sites where you can book discounted sailings to fill the leftover rooms that haven't sold, so just do a little research. Also, places like BJ's and Sam's Club offer trip discounts if you have a membership card to their stores, so take advantage! I booked a previous cruise through one of them a few years back and got a massive discount for my room, onboard credit, and free gratuities. It pays to save!

5. And if you ever want a "free" cruise then you should definitely hit up the casinos on board. It's super common to get extra perks on future sailings (like free Wi-Fi, drink packages, or even entire trips altogether) if you're someone who gambles a lot. Basically, each bet is tied to your personal cruise card (i.e. your room key) every time you play the slots or put money down at a table game. Your total winnings are tracked on that card, and you'll earn points based on the amount you spend. The more you gamble, the more likely you are to get offered those extra perks.

I'm always mesmerized by cruise casinos because they literally created their own mini Las Vegas on board. Like, there are pit bosses and thousands of tiny security cameras and everything else that a real casino would have. The only downside is that these casinos are obviously much smaller than what you'd find in Vegas, so they probably won't have every table game you're looking for. Yes, they have roulette (my favorite) and craps and half a dozen variations of poker, but I still haven't found a pai gow table on board. Maybe next time!

6. The cool thing about cruises – especially for people who are ages 18 through 20 – is that they can sort of make their own laws while at sea. This is known as Maritime Law. For example, gambling at the casino is only allowed once the ship is at least 12 miles from land, but that also means they can lower the age limit from 21 to 18 while in international waters. The legal drinking age on most cruise ships is also 18, not 21.

There were actually two separate casinos on my recent Carnival ship. The larger area allowed smoking and had hundreds of slot machines, a ton of table games, and "adult" claw machines that replaced stuffed animals for huge wads of cash. The other casino, though, was the designated non-smoking area, and even though it was much smaller it still got the job done.

I'm still surprised that people are allowed to smoke in the main casino (there was also a cigar room on board but on a different deck), but, hey, I guess that's Vegas, baby.

7. There are themed cruises for pretty much anything you could ever imagine – for example, Royal Caribbean offers an immersive Star Trek cruise , and Norwegian is even offering a 2,300-person nude cruise next year – but on "regular" cruises there are certain SFW guidelines that guests (and staff!) need to adhere to. For instance, it's forbidden for staff to hook up with guests on board. Doing so would result in a pretty quick termination of their employment contract. Also, there are thousandsssss of security cameras on board, so, like, good luck trying to get away with it.

Years ago I befriended one of the gym trainers on a cruise, and he revealed that he actually managed to hook up with a guest on board. Because there are so many security cameras, it would have been impossible for either of them to visit the other person's cabin without getting caught, so he told me they hooked up in a random towel closet. I guess this is why a lot of cruise ship employees end up dating each other instead of the guests, because it's way less risky and a lot more convenient.

8. Speaking of hooking up on board, there was so much "swinging" happening between couples that a lot of cruise lines had to create training programs for the staff. Basically, decorating cabin doors is a pretty common thing for elite cruisers (as pictured below), and the secret symbol for swingers is an upside-down pineapple. As a result, a lot of couples would decorate their doors with upside-down pineapples to let other guests know that they're open for fun. According to the high-up staff member I talked to, employees on their previous ship were instructed to report any pineapple decorations found on board.

That staff member also told me that this whole issue started because some couples would leave their cabin doors ajar as an invitation for other swingers. However, the housekeeping staff (who are truly, truly incredible!) unknowingly entered while the couples were ~doing the deed~. Employees on cruises typically come from all over the world (on my Carnival ship, they had staff from over 100 different nations), which means they also have certain religious backgrounds. Spotting and removing these pineapple decorations was done in an effort to protect the staff and their religious beliefs.

9. You have to remember that these ships are basically floating cities, so they have everything you could ever want. Like, I've been on ships with a freaking ice skating rink before, and my recent Carnival sailing had an 18-hole mini golf course on the top deck. Also, itineraries are left outside each guest's stateroom every morning, and they list alllll the activities you can do (or not do!) that day. Want to try your luck at bingo? Have at it. Always wanted to go to an art auction? They've got those too. Want to prove your sports, movie, history, Harry Potter , Friends , or just general knowledge at dozens of trivia events? Be their guest! I promise that you'll never be bored on a cruise.

Cruises even have LGBTQ+ mixers, silent disco parties, wine tastings, and cooking classes. There are also discreet meetings for those who are sober or in recovery. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are labeled as "Friends of Bill" events on each ship's itinerary (this is a nod to Bill Wilson, who co-founded AA).

10. Keep in mind that items on cruise ships are definitely more expensive than what you'd normally pay on land. The spa and salon on my last sailing, for example, charged $175 for a 75-minute Swedish massage and $99 for a "red carpet blowout." If that's somehow in your budget then have at it, but if you want heavily discounted prices then you should book those treatments on days when the ship is at port – this is when most passengers will be off the vessel, so a lot of cruise lines offer discounted treatments to help fill up those time slots and prevent people from hitting up the spas on land. Again, though, you can typically negotiate for certain spa perks when booking!

Every cruise I've been on has had a full-fledged shopping mall on board. There are dozens of stores that sell everything from designer goods to any type of candy or snack you could want. Again, these prices are pretty steep, so if you forget to bring sunscreen then it's probably best to just wait until you get to the next port. Even so, there are definitely ways to save money while cruising! 

11. The more you cruise with a specific line, the more perks you'll get (like free room upgrades, priority access, unlimited internet, and on-board casino credit). These loyalty programs are based on the number of days you sail with each line, so, for example, everyone on their first Carnival cruise is in the Blue tier, then they reach Red status on their second sailing, and once they hit 25 days on board they'll reach the Gold tier. Platinum is achieved after 75 total days of sailing, and Diamond status is for people who've sailed for at least 200 days. I met so many Diamond members that my jaw kind of dropped – like, these people LOVE cruises and go on several a year. It isn't just a vacation for them; it's a full-on hobby.

While doing some research, I also found out that Royal Caribbean even has a "Pinnacle Club" for people who've sailed for over 700 days on their ships, which, holy crap??? So if you're prepared to spend the equivalent of two years on a ship (which kind of sounds like a dream to me, to be honest), then get ready for the ultimate form of perks and luxury.

12. Another way to save money is by booking your shore excursions through third-party vendors. Booking through the ship is definitely the most expensive route, but it's also the safest because you'll never have to worry about the ship leaving without you. Ships have strict docking schedules to follow on port days, so they ~will~ leave without you if you aren't back in time. Otherwise, you're in charge of making it to the next port of call on your own, so good luck. If you have a short port day and are only docked for a few hours then I'd suggest booking through the ship so you don't risk getting left behind.

Cruise lines display all excursion reviews from past passengers on their site, so this can be such a helpful resource to prevent you from booking something that sounds good on paper but is underwhelming in reality (been there, done that). I typically book excursions through vendors who are waiting outside as soon as everyone gets off the ship, but I do a lot of research ahead of time and will often find things to do that aren't even offered by the cruise.

You obviously don't have to go on any excursions at all either. There have been plenty of times when I've simply explored on my own by walking around, grabbing a bite from a local spot, or relaxing at the beach. You also don't even have to leave the ship if you don't want to. In fact, port days are incredible for peak relaxation on board because it's way more quiet, and you'll never struggle to find an open lounger by the pool. Free is my favorite number, so remember that there will always be plenty to do no matter your budget.

13. You should know that there are some banned items you simply can't bring on a cruise. Before boarding, you'll quickly go through security, sort of like a relaxed version of TSA at the airport. The whole process typically only takes a few minutes. Depending on the cruise line, you're usually allowed to bring up to 12 cans of non-alcoholic beverages (my friend brought a six-pack of ginger ale in case she felt seasick, and those made it through just fine. I also saw a bunch of Diet Coke-obsessed people with whole cases, and those made it through too). Candles, hot plates, and the obvious knives, guns, fireworks, etc. are all banned as well.

Bottled water isn't typically allowed through security when checking in, but you can absolutely buy it on board. More importantly, though, there will be plenty of free fill-up stations for your water bottle throughout the ship, so that's an easy fix. I can't stress enough how necessary having a water bottle is, so make sure you bring one (both for your regular onboard living but also for when you leave the ship on port days).

14. Also, don't even try to sneak alcohol on board because you'll definitely get caught. Each ship is different, but for the most part you're only allowed one unopened bottle of wine or champagne in your carry-on. If you buy spirits while at port then you'll have to check them when you get back on the ship, and they'll be returned when you disembark. After all, most cruises only become profitable after adding up their total alcohol sales and casino winnings (I guess it helps that Carnival's 27 ships, for example, sell over 14,000 margaritas each day). For reference, a standard cocktail on my last trip was about $13, and the unlimited drink packages were about $60 a day.

Depending on the cruise line, these unlimited drink packages can range from $55 to over $100 each day. These include specialty coffees, soda, beer, wine, cocktails, and the works. Remember, some people treat cruises like parties (my last sailing had FIVE different types of espresso martinis at the bars, so, like, I sort of don't blame them), and they certainly try to get the most bang for their buck. I've done the math, and you need to have at least five specialty drinks per day to make the unlimited package "worth it."

Non-alcoholic drink packages also exist, like a $9.50-a-day pass that'll get you unlimited sodas. But there are free drinks on board, whether you're at the buffet or sit-down dining, like tap water, brewed coffee, hot teas, hot chocolate, lemonade, iced tea, fruit juices (fresh-pressed ones will cost extra), and milk.

15. Cruise ships obviously make tons (and I mean that literally, not figuratively) of food every single sailing. After all, the average ship holds about 3,000 guests and 1,000 crew members. An employee who I spoke with said Carnival serves about 30,000 burgers every single day, and they'll make over 1.3 million pounds of French fries each year. There are free sit-down restaurants and buffets on board, but there are also specialty dining options that guests can pay for, like hibachi and steak houses. My family always sticks with the free dining options, and I think non-cruisers will be shocked by how good the food actually is, but the best part is that you can order several appetizers, entrées, and desserts per person, so, like, you'll never leave hungry.

All of that food used to mean there's a lot of food waste, but that's not really the case anymore. In fact, a lot of ships are working on how to become more and more sustainable and environmentally friendly. For example, rather than dumping food waste in the water, I saw on my private tour that Carnival has a "food digester" room. Basically, it's a massive machine filled with bacteria that'll break down all the food scraps, just like how your own body breaks down food. Yes, it smelled just as bad as you probably think it would.

Similarly, some ships are even using artificial intelligence to make their sailings more environmentally friendly. While in the control room, one of the engineers told me about how their ship is using new AI that basically studies each sailing so it can recommend new ways to make future voyages as efficient as possible, like by creating energy-saving routes and so on.

16. If you're worried about potentially having bad weather on your cruise then, well, think again. Yes, there's obviously a lot to do inside, but a lot of ships also have retractable roofs on their top decks. So, if it's ever too cold, rainy, or windy then they can usually cover the entire lido deck (i.e. where most of the pools, jacuzzis, and lounge chairs are), which means you can relax "outside" even in the terrible weather. A lot of ships also offer indoor pools and adults-only sections, so, like, you'll totally be set no matter what.

My recent cruise had a regular pool and jacuzzi setup on the lido deck, but there was also another section at the back of the ship with one more pool and two more jacuzzis. There was even a "Serenity" section at the top deck, which served as an "adults-only retreat," meaning passengers younger than 18 weren't allowed. That area unfortunately filled up super fast on sailing days, so if you ever go on a ship with one I'd definitely recommend getting there early.

A lot of ships also offer private areas and decks that are exclusive to only those who book certain rooms. This secluded area was much quieter, super luxurious, and actually felt like I was on a totally different ship. If you're booking a cruise and see that there's an exclusive area, you should absolutely ask about how to get access ahead of time.

17. It's tradition for every ship to have a celebrity godmother or godfather who christens the boat before the inaugural launch, and those celebs are typically rewarded with free cruises for life (!) on that specific vessel. For example, Oprah Winfrey is the godmother of a Holland America ship, and even Audrey Hepburn was the godmother of a Princess ship. Carnival only has two godfathers, and they're fittingly both for their Italian-themed cruises: Jay Leno and now Jonathan Bennett. Christening the ship used to entail smashing a bottle of champagne against its hull, but the night before my cruise I got to watch Jonathan Bennett pour a bottle of champagne over the ship's bell to toast its safe travels instead.

Judi Dench is also the godmother of a ship, and it famously took her three different attempts to break the bottle of champagne against its hull, which then sprayed all over her. That was in 2002, so I think switching to this new christening method with the ship's bell is definitely less messy.

18. One of the most unique parts about cruising is that you'll typically find a cool towel animal waiting for you after returning to your cabin every night. The housekeeping staff are all trained in towel folding, so after dinner you'll have a new animal sitting on your bed or, in my case, hanging from the ceiling. A lot of ships even host towel-folding classes during sailings so guests can learn how to make the animals themselves, and how-to books are also available in the bookstore. I found out that Carnival's housekeeping team makes about 15 million towel animals every single year, which, holy crap.

One morning while on my way to the gym, I walked through the lido deck and saw hundreds of towel animals sitting on every single lounge chair outside. There were monkeys and elephants and dogs, but the most impressive towel animal that I saw was an octopus. I still have no idea how they managed to pull this off, and I'm genuinely so impressed.

19. And finally, the most important thing you should know about cruises is that there are several self-serve ice cream machines on board, and they're all completely free (and unlike McDonald's, these machines are always working!). If you're like me and deserve a sweet treat after dinner – or, let's face it, after or even before breakfast – then you understand how big this is. After all, you're on vacation, so you should be eating as much ice cream and frozen yogurt as you can get your hands on.

I worked at Dairy Queen for a few summers as a teen and genuinely loved it there, so having the ability to serve myself a cone whenever I wanted made me feel at home. And if you're more of a gelato person then I totally understand! Luckily for you, cruises have got you covered. My ship had a freaking gelato spot on board, and they expect to serve about 750,000 scoops this year, but I have a feeling half of them were because of me.

That's it! If you have any other cruise travel tips that have worked for you, please feel free to share them in the comments. Thanks!

Note: BuzzFeed was granted this cruise aboard Carnival Firenze for free, though we were under no obligation to provide a positive review.

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6 reasons you’ll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

Is it worth paying extra for a balcony cabin?

As someone who has written about cruising for more than two decades , I have heard that question a lot, and I know where I stand on it: Absolutely .

You'll almost always pay more for a balcony cabin on a ship than for a cabin that just has a window — the latter being known in industry lingo as an "ocean-view" cabin. But often, it's not outrageously more. For example, at the time of this story's publishing, fares for balcony cabins on some fall 2024 cruises out of Galveston, Texas, were just 7% more than fares for ocean-view cabins. (Specifically, that was the differential on seven-night sailings in October 2024 on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas).

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Ocean-view cabins, in turn, were running about 29% more than windowless inside cabins — the third major category of cabins you'll find on ships.

These differentials aren't insignificant, of course. For many vacationers on a tight budget, though, an extra 29% or even 7% for a room can be a deal breaker.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

In addition, some people with extra money to spend would rather splurge on shore excursions or other extra-charge items, such as shipboard spa treatments, than on a higher-priced cabin. That makes perfect sense to me. What is most important to one person on a vacation may be different from what is important to another person.

However, here are six things you'll get out of a balcony cabin that I personally think make it worth the extra cost if you have the money to spare.

The fresh air

For me, this is the big reason to get a balcony cabin. At any time of the day — or night — you can slide open your balcony door and breathe in the fresh ocean air. You'll also be able to hear the sounds of the waves as they crash against the bow of your ship. It's a wonderfully soothing, rhythmic sound — so soothing that it can lull you to sleep.

Even on cruises in cold weather, there's nothing quite like stepping out on a balcony for a few minutes or more to soak in the salty breeze. It's invigorating.

Related: 5 reasons you might want to turn down a cabin upgrade

The fresh air available on balconies also can be a lifesaver — at least for your sanity — should you find yourself confined to your cabin due to an illness. That can happen if you come down with something like norovirus or COVID-19 on a ship. This happened to cruisers quite a bit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of the people who were isolated in cabins without balconies for days weren't thrilled with the lack of access to fresh air.

I can attest personally to the fact that it isn't a great situation to be stuck in a room that doesn't have a balcony for days. In late 2020, I was isolated in a cabin without a balcony for four days during a COVID-19-related ship quarantine, even though I wasn't sick. I would have paid just about anything during those days for even the smallest bit of outdoor space.

The ultimate privacy

Cruise ships can be crowded places . Even on luxury ships, which generally have more space per passenger than mass-market vessels, you'll likely be sharing the pool deck with dozens or even hundreds of other people. On some of the biggest vessels, such as Royal Caribbean's giant new Icon of the Seas , you'll compete for deck chairs with literally thousands of others. Private, it isn't — nor is it often quiet. The pool decks of cruise ships can be noisy places.

If you have a balcony cabin, you're always guaranteed an outdoor space where you can lounge for a few hours in complete privacy. And, in general, it will be a quiet outdoor space. While you will sometimes hear the sounds of other passengers nearby on their own balconies, for the most part, it's a much more serene experience than being up on the top deck.

The best views

Balcony cabins don't just offer you access to an outdoor space. They typically also offer you a great view of the outdoors from inside your cabin.

This is because the doors leading to balconies in balcony cabins usually are made almost entirely of glass running from floor to ceiling. Often, a balcony cabin will have both a floor-to-ceiling glass door leading to the outside as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that make for what is, in effect, an outward-facing wall made entirely of glass. Ocean-view cabins without balconies, by contrast, often have just a single window. Some just have portholes.

Related: 7 reasons to splurge for a suite on your next cruise

The result is that you'll generally have a much better view of the outdoors from the inside of a balcony cabin than from the inside of an ocean-view cabin.

The chance for wildlife encounters

Speaking of the view, you're going to be able to see passing wildlife much better from a balcony cabin than an ocean-view cabin. If you stand at the edge of your balcony railing, you'll be able to twist your head side-to-side to get a 180-degree view of the passing waters. That's two or three times the field of vision that you'll get from gazing out a cabin window.

Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship

I've found balcony cabins to be particularly wonderful to have in wildlife-filled destinations such as Alaska, where ships sometimes pass such spectacular creatures as whales in the water or bears along the shoreline. Often, the captain of a vessel will spot such animals first and then make a public announcement to passengers to head to the sides of the ship to look. If you're in a balcony cabin (and on the correct side of the ship), you'll be gazing down upon these sights in no time.

The chance for a romantic dinner

There's nothing that says romance like a private dinner for two under the stars. And that's exactly what you can do on your balcony on many cruise ships, with the waves as a background soundtrack.

Some upscale lines will arrange an elegant, private dinner for two on your balcony — think white tablecloths, multiple courses, the works — at no extra charge. Among mass-market lines, Princess Cruises offers an Ultimate Balcony Dining experience at an extra charge that brings a four-course meal, Champagne and cocktails or a glass of wine. In the case of the Princess offering, you'll even get fresh flowers and a (flameless) candle on your table.

The perfect spot to watch a port arrival

I'm a big fan of getting up early to watch as cruise ships pull into ports. In some places, such as New York and Sydney, the experience is a highlight of the trip. The arrival into New York, in particular, is one of the great cruise experiences. Your ship will glide under the giant Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (often with just feet to spare) before passing the Statue of Liberty and the skyline of lower Manhattan.

Related: What's a cruise cabin guarantee — and can it save you money?

But as spectacular as they are, these arrivals into ports often take place very early in the morning, before you (or at least your bed-head hair) may be ready to go out into the world. What's great about having a balcony is that you don't have to get dressed and ready for the day to watch a port arrival. You can just roll out of bed in your jammies and head out on the balcony.

Of course, you have to be on the correct side of the ship to get certain views. Arriving in New York, there is an allure to watching the arrival from both sides of a vessel. From the port side, you'll get the best view of the Statue of Liberty. But the starboard side brings you the best views of downtown Manhattan, assuming you're on a vessel heading to a midtown pier.

Bottom line

Balcony cabins cost more than ocean-view cabins or windowless "inside" cabins. But they can be worth the splurge if you're the kind of person who likes a private place to be outdoors during a vacation. No matter how crowded your ship is, you always can escape to your balcony, if you have one, and watch the world go by with few distractions.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your 1st cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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From ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE - onboard CELEBRITY INFINITY

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At Celebrity Cruises®, we believe choice matters. That’s why we’ve pre-packaged our most popular amenities—drinks, and Wi-Fi— Tips charged separately. So you can now choose the most convenient way to get the best value from your cruise.

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Celebrity Infinity Along Panama Canal

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A serenely beautiful adults-only pool and hot tub experience, The Solarium let’s you relax and daydream of the next destination you’ll be exploring.

Basketball Court

Shoot some hoops before or after your day’s adventure. Located centrally aboard the ship, you can enjoy a great basketball game while a nice ocean breeze keeps you cool.

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Price is per person and applies to selected sailing, lowest available fare stateroom category, based on double-occupancy, reflects any promotional savings, and is subject to change and availability until booked. Additional terms and conditions apply to offers. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see Celebrity’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit Bookings (“NRDB”): To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. All deposit payments for NRDB made after 03/02/23 are non-refundable from the time of booking. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. 

Celebrity Edge® Series Iconic Suites, Edge Villas, Penthouse Suites, Royal Suites, Celebrity Suites, AquaClass® Sky Suites, and Sky Suites (and Family Suites during Holiday sailings) require double the deposit amounts listed.

All Included  pricing applies to sailings booked and departing on or after October 4, 2023, excluding Galapagos cruises, in an inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass stateroom (“Eligible Bookings”). All guests within an Eligible Booking who choose “All Included” pricing, will receive a Classic Drinks Package and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi package. All guests in the same stateroom must choose the same rate.  Please visit www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/beverage-packages for further information on available beverages and full restrictions and www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/internet-and-phone-packages for further information on wi-fi.

All Included pricing applies to new individual bookings only. Changes to booking may result in removal of Offer. Prices and Offers are subject to availability and change without notice, may be withdrawn at any time, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. All Included pricing is non-transferable and not combinable with certain rates including, Travel Agent, Interline, Net, Exciting Deals, or worker cabins.  Single occupancy guests paying 200% cruise fare are eligible for All Included pricing. Refer to celebritycruises.com and the Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to cancel offer at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and change or update fares, fees, and surcharges at any time without prior notice.

Imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.

Departing May 16, 2024

$6,799 USD * Avg Per Person

DAY 1 - Thursday , May 16

DAY 2 - Friday , May 17

DAY 3 - Saturday , May 18

DAY 4 - Sunday , May 19

DAY 5 - Monday , May 20

DAY 6 - Tuesday , May 21

DAY 7 - Wednesday , May 22

DAY 8 - Thursday , May 23

DAY 9 - Friday , May 24

DAY 10 - Saturday , May 25

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