Cruise ship buffets are a staple for many travelers, offering a convenient and often free dining option that’s open early in the day. For most passengers, these buffets serve as the go-to spot for breakfast or lunch, especially on sea days when there’s no port to explore. The variety of food changes daily, making it an appealing choice for those looking for something different each time.
Several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity, and MSC Cruises, emphasize their buffets as a key part of the onboard experience. These spaces are not only functional but also designed to accommodate a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. For families, buffets are particularly useful, as they allow parents to quickly grab meals without worrying about timing or waiting for a table.
Despite the convenience, there are several common mistakes that travelers can make when using a cruise ship buffet. To help avoid these pitfalls, travel experts Dan Kline and Dennis Post from TravelHost offer some essential tips.
Mistake 1: Don’t Forget to Secure a Table First
One of the biggest errors people make is rushing to fill their plates before finding a place to sit. If you don’t secure a table first, you could end up with a full plate and nowhere to eat. This can be especially frustrating if you’re traveling with a group, as everyone may be scattered trying to find a spot.
Kline suggests that one person in the group should stay at a table to hold it while others go to get their food. This way, everyone knows where to meet. Even if you’re alone, taking a few minutes to find a seat before grabbing your meal can save you from the stress of searching for a place to sit later.
Mistake 2: Take Time to Explore the Buffet
Another mistake is not taking the time to look around the buffet before filling your plate. There are often hidden gems that you might miss if you rush in and start grabbing whatever is closest.
Dennis Post advises travelers to walk through the entire buffet area first. This allows you to see all the options available and choose the best items for your meal. Even if you do this, it’s still possible to overlook something. Kline recalls a recent trip where he missed a creme brulee station, which he later realized was a big oversight.
Mistake 3: Avoid Combining Incompatible Foods
The third common mistake is not pairing foods properly. While it might seem like a good idea to take everything you like, some combinations don’t work well together. For example, coleslaw and pudding are unlikely to complement each other.
Instead, Kline recommends choosing items that go well together. If you’re unsure about a dish, take a small portion, try it, and then decide whether you want more. Cruise ship buffets are designed to be used multiple times, so there’s no need to load up your plate all at once. You can go back as many times as you like, and no one will count how many plates or how much food you take.
Tips for a Better Buffet Experience
In addition to avoiding these mistakes, there are a few other things to keep in mind when dining at a cruise ship buffet:
- Take your time: Rushing can lead to poor choices and unnecessary stress.
- Be adventurous: Try new dishes that you wouldn’t normally eat.
- Stay organized: Keep your plate manageable and know where you’ll be sitting.
- Use the space wisely: Buffets are meant to be enjoyed, so take advantage of the variety and flexibility they offer.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your cruise ship buffet experience and avoid the common pitfalls that many travelers fall into. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these strategies can help ensure that your meals are both enjoyable and stress-free.
