Cruise Ship Alternative Restaurants: Are They Worth The Extra Cost? By Tina Rinaldi

There has been a trend in recent years to provide alternatives for selection of dining aboard cruise ships, the most popular of these alternatives are the specialty restaurants are only open for dinner. So what can be expected in restaurants specializing in cruises?

Alternative restaurants all have one thing in common ... a cover. Usually in the $ 20 to $ 30 per person range. Moreover, some have restrictions on children's ages (for example, Royal Caribbean has a policy that only children aged 13 and over can dine at the restaurant.) Furthermore, reservations are necessary and there are usually a Order dress.

Lunch at the specialty restaurant on a cruise ship often match or even exceed 4 in a room or even a 5 star restaurant, and for those in the know, the $ 20 or $ 30 per person charge is almost always worth punishment the extra money. Since the exceptional service and the exceptional quality of food is a fraction of the cost would be equivalent to a meal in a restaurant on the ground.

This dining experience not to be hasty and often cruise lines recommend allowing 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the atmosphere, the food and service.

Naysayers often complain that they have already spent enough on their cruises, and resent the fact that the cruise line is trying to nickel and dime more for the alternative restaurant experience. In addition, people try to argue that they can get the same quality of food in the main dining room. The truth is - in almost all cases - the alternative restaurants are a step or two higher in quality than the main dining ... rioja worth the surcharge. The funny thing is - people who challenge or put in the alternative restaurant concept is people who have never tried. For them, simply say "It is not enough until you have tried!

While this a very personal choice, I recommend to try the restaurant or specialty restaurants (some ships feature a choice of restaurant) and then judge for yourself. Is likely to ask why not try it before!