Best Cruise Lines for Foodies
For food lovers, a cruise vacation offers more than just breathtaking views and luxurious amenities. It’s a journey through a world of flavors, with each cruise line offering unique dining experiences that cater to even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re a fan of gourmet cuisine, regional specialties, or exotic flavors, these cruise lines are known for their exceptional culinary offerings. As a frequent cruiser and travel advisor, I make a point to try as much food as I can from various ships to let my clients know where to spend their time.
Here’s a closer look at the best cruise lines for foodies, along with details on what’s included and what might cost a little extra.
Celebrity Cruises
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Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its sophisticated dining experiences, combining classic dishes with modern twists. The cruise line offers a variety of specialty restaurants, including the famous Murano, where French cuisine meets innovative presentation, and Le Petit Chef, which combines dining with an interactive show.
Included vs. Extra:
The main dining rooms and buffet restaurants are included in the cruise fare. However, specialty dining venues like Murano, Tuscan Grille, and Le Petit Chef require an additional fee. Celebrity also offers dining packages that can be purchased before or during your cruise to save on these experiences.
Holland America Line
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Holland America Line is a haven for food lovers, especially those who appreciate classic and international cuisine. The cruise line is known for its collaboration with America’s Test Kitchen and offers cooking demonstrations, workshops, and specialty dining experiences. Their Pinnacle Grill stands out, offering a Pacific Northwest-inspired menu highlighting local ingredients.
Included vs. Extra:
The main dining room, Lido Market buffet, and various casual eateries are included in your fare. Specialty restaurants like Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto (Italian), and Tamarind (Asian fusion) require an additional charge. The ship also features pop-up dining events and unique culinary experiences that come with an extra fee.
Oceania Cruises
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Oceania Cruises is often hailed as having the finest cuisine at sea, with menus crafted by renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin. Oceania’s dining experience is centered around fresh, high-quality ingredients, focusing on international flavors and innovative dishes. Highlights include the elegant Polo Grill, a classic steakhouse, and Red Ginger, offering Asian-inspired cuisine.
Included vs. Extra:
A unique aspect of Oceania Cruises is that all specialty dining venues are included in your cruise fare, making it an exceptional value for foodies. This includes the Grand Dining Room, specialty restaurants like Polo Grill, Toscana (Italian), and Red Ginger, as well as the Jacques Pépin-inspired bistro.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers an ultra-luxury experience where everything, including fine dining, is included in the cruise fare. The cruise line’s culinary program features gourmet restaurants that rival some of the best on land. Chartreuse offers exquisite French cuisine, while Prime 7 is known for its succulent steaks and seafood.
Included vs. Extra:
All dining on Regent Seven Seas Cruises is included, from the casual Pool Grill to the elegant Chartreuse and Prime 7. This all-inclusive approach extends to room service, specialty coffees, and even beverages, making it a worry-free dining experience for foodies.
Disney Cruise Line
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Disney Cruise Line offers a magical dining experience that caters to all ages, from gourmet adults-only restaurants to fun and interactive dining experiences for families. Animator’s Palate, where your surroundings transform with the magic of Disney, is a favorite among cruisers. Palo, an adults-only Italian restaurant, offers an elegant dining experience with stunning ocean views.
Included vs. Extra:
Main dining rooms, including the unique rotational dining experience, are included in the fare. Adults-only specialty restaurants like Palo and Remy (French cuisine) come with an additional fee. These upscale dining venues are well worth the extra cost for those seeking a more refined culinary experience.
Norwegian Cruise Line
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Norwegian Cruise Line is famous for its Freestyle Dining concept, which allows guests to dine whenever and wherever they like. The cruise line offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual buffets to fine dining. Specialty restaurants include Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro (French), and Teppanyaki (Japanese).
Included vs. Extra:
Many dining options, including the main dining rooms and buffet, are included in the cruise fare. However, specialty restaurants like Cagney’s, Le Bistro, and Ocean Blue (seafood) require an extra charge. Norwegian also offers dining packages that provide access to multiple specialty venues at a discounted rate.
Seabourn Cruise Line
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Seabourn Cruise Line is synonymous with luxury and gourmet dining, often featuring menus created in partnership with Michelin-starred chefs. The Grill by Thomas Keller, inspired by the American chophouse, is a standout, offering perfectly prepared steaks and seafood. Seabourn is also known for its extraordinary service and attention to detail in its dining venues.
Included vs. Extra:
All dining experiences on Seabourn are included, with no additional charges for specialty restaurants. This includes The Grill by Thomas Keller, the Colonnade for themed dinners, and the Sushi restaurant, ensuring that foodies can indulge in gourmet dining throughout their voyage.
Carnival Cruise Line
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Carnival Cruise Line is a favorite among cruisers looking for variety without breaking the bank. Known as the “Fun Ship” line, Carnival offers a wide range of complimentary dining options, from casual buffets to specialty venues that don’t come with an extra charge. Guy’s Burger Joint, created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, is a crowd favorite, serving up delicious burgers and fries at no additional cost.
Included vs. Extra:
Carnival stands out for its extensive selection of free dining options, including the main dining rooms, Lido Marketplace buffet, Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and the 24-hour pizzeria. For those willing to pay a little extra, there are specialty restaurants like the Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, and Cucina del Capitano, which offer elevated dining experiences at a reasonable price.
Royal Caribbean International
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Royal Caribbean International is celebrated for its vast array of dining choices, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re craving classic American comfort food, exotic Asian flavors, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Royal Caribbean has it all. The cruise line’s culinary highlights include Wonderland, an imaginative restaurant where the presentation is as exciting as the food, and Jamie’s Italian, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Included vs. Extra:
Royal Caribbean’s main dining room and Windjammer buffet are included in the cruise fare, along with other complimentary venues like Sorrento’s Pizza and the Boardwalk Dog House. Specialty dining venues, including Wonderland, Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille (steakhouse), and Izumi (Japanese), do require an additional fee. Dining packages are available for those who want to experience multiple specialty restaurants during their cruise.
Which is Your Favorite?
Each line I’ve sailed has had something I have enjoyed more than the others. Princess had great desserts, Royal had many options, NCL was flexible, and Disney was delicious, but Carnival will always have my heart for their Blue Iguana Cantina tacos and watermelon salsa!
What’s the best cruise food you’ve eaten?
