Cruise Vacations: Yes, your meals are really included in the price!

I received what I consider a somewhat odd email asking if meals where included in cruise vacations. However, going back to my travel agent years, this isn't the first time I've been asked this question and, in today's cruising world, it's actually an excellent topic to discuss.

Most people know it's a forgone conclusion that there is a lot of food on cruise ships, and, no one will ever go hungry. Occasionally, like today, someone might not understand how food on a cruise ship works so this is an attempt to try to explain it to those who fall into this category.

The Main Dining Room - No additional charge
The main dining room is where you can eat breakfast, lunch and, dinner every day of your cruise. This is included in the price of your cruise, and, there is no extra charge. However, be aware if you order drinks then you on-board account will be charged for the drinks you order. There are some exceptions to the rule such as water, coffee, and tea.

Afternoon Tea - No additional charge
Many cruise ships offer afternoon tea. Check with your daily program to see if one is scheduled (usually between 3:30 pm and 5 pm on most ships.) Cunard takes afternoon tea to new heights in true British style while lines such as Carnival offer a very civilized-but-shorts-are-ok-to wear atmosphere. It offers the perfect pick me up, especially for those with late sitting for dinner!

The Buffet - No additional charge
The buffet on most cruise ships is open for breakfast and lunch and are included in your cruise fare. Dinner time varies from ship to ship. For example, on Cunard's Queen Mary 2, the King's Court is transformed into four alternative dining venues - three of which are included in your cruise fare. And, on other lines such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean (just for example) a dinner buffet is available every night of your cruise. A few lines such as Princess offer a 24 hour buffet.

Some people prefer the buffet over the dining room, especially if they do not feel like conforming to the dress code for the dining for the evening. And, it also makes for a great alternative to the dining room on days you might have early shore tours.

The Midnight Buffet - No additional charge
This is a favorite among many cruisers and a long time standing tradition. The midnight buffet is a chance for the ship's chefs to show off their skills, and, passengers often attend just to take photos of the amazing creations.

Hamburger Grill - No additional charge
Even Cunard has a hamburger grill on board, and, there is no additional charge. Just like every dining venue listed above, it is included in your cruise fare. Hamburger grills usually serve burgers, hot dogs, and, of course the usual accompaniments like french fries.

Alternative Restaurants - Additional charge, fees vary
This seems to be the one that trips everyone up - the often misunderstood Alternative Restaurant. Yes, there is an additional fee. Yes, it is going to be in the $25 - $35 per person range. Yes, it's true most discourage bringing young children. However, it is oh-so-worth-it!

As good as the food and service in the main dining room is on most cruise ships, your alternative restaurant on-board will put it to shame!

The dining experience in an alternative restaurant should not be rushed, it recommended that you allow two to three hours for the full experience, and, bring a healthy appetite - you won't be walking away hungry.

Hopefully this clears up a bit of the mystery on dining aboard. So relax and enjoy!