Can You Order More Than One Entree on a Cruise?

Many cruise passengers wonder if they can order more than one main course during dinner, especially in the main dining room. While it may seem like an extravagant request, the answer depends on the cruise line, the dining venue, and the specific policies in place. Here's everything you need to know about ordering multiple entrees on a cruise.

Policy Varies by Cruise Line and Dining Venue

In most cases, you can enjoy more than one entrée during dinner, particularly in the main dining room. However, the availability of this option can vary depending on the cruise line and the specific dining venue. It's always a good idea to inquire with your server or restaurant manager for the latest policies. Many guests take advantage of this opportunity to sample different dishes and cuisines.

Buffet and Informal Dining

Unlike formal sit-down dining, buffets and informal dining venues generally allow guests to indulge freely. You can easily choose as many main courses as you desire at a buffet or poolside grill. However, in specialty restaurants where you may be charged extra, it's advisable to confirm with the server whether additional entrees are possible.

Interesting Appetizer Options

Appetizers often stand out on cruise menus, making them a popular choice for guests who want to sample different dishes. In fact, some guests opt to order several appetizers and create their own meal from these items. This is considered a common and accepted practice, as cruise kitchens are prepared to handle such requests.

Cruise Lines That Allow Additional Entrees

Certain mass-market cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess have a reputation for allowing guests to order multiple entrees. Often, you'll see a passenger ordering several main courses, especially if they are part of a larger group. Servers in these situations are typically accommodating and will bring the desired meals without objection.

Personal Experiences

A memorable experience occurred during a dinner where a couple on the menu ordered steak as one entree and lobster tail as another. They requested both main courses but only sides for one of them. The server happily agreed, and near the end of the main course, he returned with a plate of lobster tails for the table. Almost everyone at the table took a serving of the sumptuous lobster.

Another anecdote comes from a Carnival cruise where an individual at a nearby table ordered one of every entree. While this level of consumption could be considered gluttony, it is not uncommon on mass cruise lines. Servers are accustomed to handling such requests, and there's usually no issue with additional meals.

Best Practices

If you decide to order multiple entrees, it's a good idea to let the serving staff know about your plans. This way, they can manage your order effectively and ensure that everything is served correctly. If you find that the server is becoming annoyed by your requests, it's best to moderate your consumption to avoid any unwanted attention.

Additionally, cruise dining is an excellent opportunity to try new foods. If you end up not enjoying a particular dish, simply inform the server and they will bring you something else to suit your taste preferences.

Ordering more than one entree on a cruise can be a wonderful way to explore different cuisines and flavors. Whether you are dining in the main dining room, at a buffet, or in a specialty restaurant, understanding the policies and practices of each venue can help you enjoy your meal to the fullest.