Will I regret early dinner seating?

[arb711]

Middle-aged (okay, early 50s) solo cruiser - This will be my third cruise. On the first two I took late dining, both because it's closer to when I generally eat and because I thought it would be a more compatible crowd. Worked both times - I found people at my table who were in my general age group, one or two other solos, no families or young couples, etc.

 

The problem with late seating is that, well, I eat that big meal, finish around 10-10:30, and then I don't feel like doing anything other than go to bed! I'm not a huge late-nighter, but I'd like to at least have the energy to sit on deck with a drink looking at the stars, listen to music and watch people dancing in the clubs, go to a midnight buffet, whatever!

 

So on my upcoming cruise I'm asking for early seating. Will I regret it? I love kids, have no problem sitting with anyone, but I count on having a couple of people at my table that I can really bond with, look forward to dining with. It's what makes traveling alone perfect - I do whatever I please during the day, but have people at dinner to talk with about it! Will I get that eating at 6-6:30?

[Lois R]

Middle-aged (okay, early 50s) solo cruiser - This will be my third cruise. On the first two I took late dining, both because it's closer to when I generally eat and because I thought it would be a more compatible crowd. Worked both times - I found people at my table who were in my general age group, one or two other solos, no families or young couples, etc.

 

The problem with late seating is that, well, I eat that big meal, finish around 10-10:30, and then I don't feel like doing anything other than go to bed! I'm not a huge late-nighter, but I'd like to at least have the energy to sit on deck with a drink looking at the stars, listen to music and watch people dancing in the clubs, go to a midnight buffet, whatever!

 

So on my upcoming cruise I'm asking for early seating. Will I regret it? I love kids, have no problem sitting with anyone, but I count on having a couple of people at my table that I can really bond with, look forward to dining with. It's what makes traveling alone perfect - I do whatever I please during the day, but have people at dinner to talk with about it! Will I get that eating at 6-6:30?

 

Hi,:) I am in your age group (I am 51) and for me, I never eat

early on a cruise. Oh, I always sail solo as well.

You are asking a question that only you can answer. I can give you

the reasons why I prefer late, but of course I cannot tell you if you

will regret changing.

I always go to the Martini Bar before dinner. It is a ritual I enjoy

very much:D and I get there between 7 and 7:30 each night.

If eating early I could never do that;)

I don't take long to dress for dinner but if eating early, I would still

have to go back the cabin before 5:00 and that is just too early

for me.

Other factors, excursions, if I want to do one in the afternoon,

I don't concern myself with rushing back for early seating.

And even if I don't have an excursion (sea day for example)

I just know I have more time to do whatever is I want to do for the

entire day...which might be nothing at all.:D..or a late soak in

one of the hotubs..or a late afternoon nap...you get the picture.

 

As for finishing dinner after 10, I have been lucky enough

to have such wonderful tablemates in the past we have been

known to close down the dining room:). The time never bothers

me. I don't always go to shows. I will hit the casino or maybe

see what is going on in one of the lounges. Maybe just stroll

the deck.

Eating late is definitely my preference. Actually, for me, its

a no brainer. That early seating just doesn't fit into my plans.

 

Have fun on your cruise, whichever dinnertime you choose;)

[kitty9]

Lois and I differ on this LOL. I always dine early as I cannot finish a big dinner at 10:30 and then have to sit up until after 1am to allow the meal to settle. I don't think I've missed anything by dining early. I've always been lucky with my table mates and conversation at dinner. I like to sit in the Martini Bar after dinner and after the shows.

[JerseyJaguar]

I prefer the later dining. Seems to be less children then and more people dress according to the attire for the evening request.

[kitty9]

I prefer the later dining. Seems to be less children then and more people dress according to the attire for the evening request.

 

You can avoid the children by cruising when school is in session. When I was on Navigator of the Seas in February, I was shocked by how few kids there were on board. I was expecting a lot, and for some reason, many of the passengers with kids ate in the second seating. That's probably because these were not American kids, but kids from South America where they are used to eating later than 8pm.

[Happy Cruiser 6143]

I'm with Darcie on this one. 10:30 is just too late to me to be finishing dinner. Sometimes it's a rush to get to early dinner, but I don't let that bother me. You just need to pick what works for you--that's why there are two seatings!

[kek123]

Hi,:) I am in your age group (I am 51) and for me, I never eat

early on a cruise. Oh, I always sail solo as well.

You are asking a question that only you can answer. I can give you

the reasons why I prefer late, but of course I cannot tell you if you

will regret changing.

I always go to the Martini Bar before dinner. It is a ritual I enjoy

very much:D and I get there between 7 and 7:30 each night.

If eating early I could never do that;)

I don't take long to dress for dinner but if eating early, I would still

have to go back the cabin before 5:00 and that is just too early

for me.

Other factors, excursions, if I want to do one in the afternoon,

I don't concern myself with rushing back for early seating.

And even if I don't have an excursion (sea day for example)

I just know I have more time to do whatever is I want to do for the

entire day...which might be nothing at all.:D..or a late soak in

one of the hotubs..or a late afternoon nap...you get the picture.

 

As for finishing dinner after 10, I have been lucky enough

to have such wonderful tablemates in the past we have been

known to close down the dining room:). The time never bothers

me. I don't always go to shows. I will hit the casino or maybe

see what is going on in one of the lounges. Maybe just stroll

the deck.

Eating late is definitely my preference. Actually, for me, its

a no brainer. That early seating just doesn't fit into my plans.

 

Have fun on your cruise, whichever dinnertime you choose;)

 

Have to agree with Lois on the later seating for most of the same reasons. Agree that this is something you have to decide on your own based on what you know you can/will be comfortable with. I would rather sit by myself than sit with a table full of people that have nothing to say to me (or are outright rude and insulting as has happened when sailing solo) or rush around and miss something interesting to make an early dinner. But you have to make that call on your own. The good news is that you are going period!

[afcj1]

For the 1st time I've requested late seating on my cruise in Sept. I'm a bit skeptical since I'm usually not up that late regularly. Also, I'm concerned about having a full stomach and being too tired to doanything else other then going to bed.

 

Since it's only a 5 day'er, I quess it'll be a good intro to whether of not I'll want to do it again.

[Cuizer2]

Middle-aged (okay, early 50s) solo cruiser - This will be my third cruise. On the first two I took late dining, both because it's closer to when I generally eat and because I thought it would be a more compatible crowd. Worked both times - I found people at my table who were in my general age group, one or two other solos, no families or young couples, etc.

 

The problem with late seating is that, well, I eat that big meal, finish around 10-10:30, and then I don't feel like doing anything other than go to bed! I'm not a huge late-nighter, but I'd like to at least have the energy to sit on deck with a drink looking at the stars, listen to music and watch people dancing in the clubs, go to a midnight buffet, whatever!

 

So on my upcoming cruise I'm asking for early seating. Will I regret it? I love kids, have no problem sitting with anyone, but I count on having a couple of people at my table that I can really bond with, look forward to dining with. It's what makes traveling alone perfect - I do whatever I please during the day, but have people at dinner to talk with about it! Will I get that eating at 6-6:30?

 

It is very unlikely that you will be placed at a table with children. Typically families are seated with other families.

[Venusleo1]

I think you should try your 1st seating as it works better for your schedule and if you don't like your table mates, just go up to the host the next day and request to be changed to late. It's VERY easy to change a solo traveler's table assigment since there is almost always 1 seat available at most tables. Then if you don't like your table mates at 2nd seating ask to switch tables for night three!

 

I just went on Enchantment in June and I originally picked My Time Dinning just cause late is sometimes too late and early there are normally not alot of my demo (20's-30's) So when I went to get a seat at My Time Dinning the host politly pulled me aside and told me that he thought I would much prefer traditional dinning. He got on his little computer and there's a map of all the tables and it says the age and gender of each person at the table and he took a couple of minutes to hand picke me a table full of people my age both male and female and it MADE my trip. I tipped him more then generously because he rocked it!!!!! Our table which was three other couples two of them in their 20's and one in their 40's and myself (26) hung out at every single show, trivia, night club, gambled together at the casino and we even decided to book some excursions together. We even got the 40 year old guy to strip down to his skivies and wear a bra lipstick and heals at Quest! (We won 2nd place!)

So if you don't like what you got your first try, ask to change. No biggie!

[COMBOY]

Middle-aged (okay, early 50s) solo cruiser - This will be my third cruise. On the first two I took late dining, both because it's closer to when I generally eat and because I thought it would be a more compatible crowd. Worked both times - I found people at my table who were in my general age group, one or two other solos, no families or young couples, etc.

 

The problem with late seating is that, well, I eat that big meal, finish around 10-10:30, and then I don't feel like doing anything other than go to bed! I'm not a huge late-nighter, but I'd like to at least have the energy to sit on deck with a drink looking at the stars, listen to music and watch people dancing in the clubs, go to a midnight buffet, whatever!

 

So on my upcoming cruise I'm asking for early seating. Will I regret it? I love kids, have no problem sitting with anyone, but I count on having a couple of people at my table that I can really bond with, look forward to dining with. It's what makes traveling alone perfect - I do whatever I please during the day, but have people at dinner to talk with about it! Will I get that eating at 6-6:30?

 

Well...go ahead and try the early seating. I used to always want the late seating; however, now I prefer the early seating because I don't like to go to sleep on a full stomach. Early seating also gives you more relaxed time to enjoy the evening vs finishing dinner then going to the show. You won't be seated with families or children unless you want to. The amount of families and children depends on the time of year and ship. I would verify your dining seating with the Maitre'd above embarkation if you are truly worried whom you will be seated with. On my last cruise in July 08 Mexico there were all types of folks on the early seating so I really don't think you will regret it. To me the only disadvantage for early dining is you have to get ready for dinner earlier in the evening.

[Brockwest]

The boards are almost unanimous in liking late seating, so I tried it for the first time this last cruise and hated it (for me.) I LIKE early seating as one gets hungry, doesn't want to waste their appetite on junk food, and it's nice to get the meal out of the way, then leisurely stroll to the show, then have time for drinks or whatever or even go to bed early.

It is NOT helpful "giving more time in port" as everyone generally is back on-board before first seating anyway. Yes, you have to rush a tad getting dressed, but then you have an elegant meal and drinks and a place to discuss the day.

Nice thing about cruises? Everyone gets to do what's right for THEM. Want to eat late...eat late. Want to sleep in? Sleep in. Want to jog around the track or read a book? Want to enjoy the ship in port with everyone on excursions? Do what YOU want to do.

Same with cabins, I have friends who get the cheapest category 1 cabins, figuring it's the same food and entertainment, and they can go on deck to see the ocean. Other's want a balcony, others want luxury. Some like to lounge in their rooms with a view. On R.C., some actually like the inner rooms overlooking the Promonade.

Some adore the Deli, others have no desire to be in a High School line again. It's Your vacation, do YOUR thing.

[cmhmarine]

I think you should try your 1st seating as it works better for your schedule and if you don't like your table mates, just go up to the host the next day and request to be changed to late. It's VERY easy to change a solo traveler's table assigment since there is almost always 1 seat available at most tables. Then if you don't like your table mates at 2nd seating ask to switch tables for night three!

 

I just went on Enchantment in June and I originally picked My Time Dinning just cause late is sometimes too late and early there are normally not alot of my demo (20's-30's) So when I went to get a seat at My Time Dinning the host politly pulled me aside and told me that he thought I would much prefer traditional dinning. He got on his little computer and there's a map of all the tables and it says the age and gender of each person at the table and he took a couple of minutes to hand picke me a table full of people my age both male and female and it MADE my trip. I tipped him more then generously because he rocked it!!!!! Our table which was three other couples two of them in their 20's and one in their 40's and myself (26) hung out at every single show, trivia, night club, gambled together at the casino and we even decided to book some excursions together. We even got the 40 year old guy to strip down to his skivies and wear a bra lipstick and heals at Quest! (We won 2nd place!)

So if you don't like what you got your first try, ask to change. No biggie!

 

Well I need to re-think my solo dining plans. I like you thought my time would be the way to go, but you make a great point. I will have to have them asign me to a seating.

 

I prefer the late seating.

[pom]

Well I need to re-think my solo dining plans. I like you thought my time would be the way to go, but you make a great point. I will have to have them asign me to a seating.

 

I prefer the late seating.

 

 

Now after reading these articles, I am thinking that some of my tours are not leaving until afternoon and that means I will miss supper if they are longer than 4 hours , since I have booked the 6:15

 

What happens if you do miss your supper time, I guess its too bad for you right?

[Cuizer2]

Now after reading these articles, I am thinking that some of my tours are not leaving until afternoon and that means I will miss supper if they are longer than 4 hours , since I have booked the 6:15

 

What happens if you do miss your supper time, I guess its too bad for you right?

You can eat at the buffet.

[Lois R]

Now after reading these articles, I am thinking that some of my tours are not leaving until afternoon and that means I will miss supper if they are longer than 4 hours , since I have booked the 6:15

 

What happens if you do miss your supper time, I guess its too bad for you right?

 

Hi, I see you are on SUMMIT:)....Celebrity does not offer

a "traditional dinner buffet" but they do offer alternative options

to the main dining room.

They have a Sushi area and a pizza/pasta station.....

Also, they offer what is termed "Alternative Dining"....where it is

set up near the buffet but you are served on linen, off a menu in a

more casual atmosphere. The wait staff is in training and they offer

about 3 different entree choices....and appetizers and desserts

are on the menu as well.

I have eaten there and its quite nice:) and would be a nice option

if you miss your normal dinnertime. There is also room service. So when you say

"too bad for you"...that is not the case. You will have other choices for dinner.

 

Hope you have a wonderful cruise.:) She is a lovely ship.

[BlueC5Kitten]

I tend to be with the majority of the late seating posters...it just typically works out better for my day. I am not a late eater at home; however, some evenings dinner starts at 8pm due to work and workout schedules in the evening. Regardless, I am always hungry in time for the late dinner seating!

 

I also hate the idea of missing an afternoon/evening excursion (e.g. sunset catamaran cruises, climbing the skyway in St. Thomas and enjoying a late afternoon snack or Bushwacker at the top, etc.) because I wouldn't want to miss the delectable and elegant dinner. The buffet is an acceptable alternative, but I usually prefer a sit-down environment.

 

I have often gone on cruises with groups of friends (they are often married or coupled), though usually sailing alone in my own cabin (the fifth wheel, so to speak), so meeting people on cruises at dinner always seemed to work out well for me. If they don't want to go do dinner late, no worries...I'll sit at the table and enjoy new acquaintances. That being said, I haven't yet had the opportunity to enjoy an early seating, because, out of habit, I traditionally book a late seating.

 

The decision for you should be based on your preferences, however.

[pom]

Thank you for letting me what other choices I do have, it is just to bad that my tours are in the afternoon but what can I do my cousin is not a morning person. ahhaahahhahaha:D

[AmoMondo]

I also prefer the late sitting. Like Lois, i like my ritual of a drink in the Martini bar before dinner and as a European I eat late at home anyway, so for me that is normal. I hate getting up early when on holiday, so tend to be more of a night owl on cruises. the eating late bit is fine because i go to the show afterwards and then perhaps to a lounge to listen to some music before heading to bed between 12 and 1.

 

It really comes down to your own personal preferences and for me it will always be late whether on land or sea

[Lois R]

Thank you for letting me what other choices I do have, it is just to bad that my tours are in the afternoon but what can I do my cousin is not a morning person. ahhaahahhahaha:D

 

Hi Pom, glad I could help:)oh I forgot 2 things.

They do request you make a reservation for alternative dining...

but you can do it the same day. And many times you can get

a table as a walk up as long as space is available.

And #2) they suggest a 2.00 tip per person.....the wait staff

are in training there. It is not mandatory....I always leave it

though...those folks work really hard too:)

[pom]

Hi Pom, glad I could help:)oh I forgot 2 things.

They do request you make a reservation for alternative dining...

but you can do it the same day. And many times you can get

a table as a walk up as long as space is available.

And #2) they suggest a 2.00 tip per person.....the wait staff

are in training there. It is not mandatory....I always leave it

though...those folks work really hard too:)

 

Now this I had no idea , but I was planning to take US currency with me in small bills to take care of tipping as I do know about the tipping for room service

 

thanks again :)

[zebra36]

Re: the OP's quandry.

Though dining can be one of the positive aspects of cruising if the late dinner time puts you in the mood to just retire shortly after eating you will miss out on the activities for the evening. I have a few years on you but in my earlier cruising days I almost always tried for the later seating, however, as the years rolled by and I began to nod off during the late show I just decided to to switch to an earlier dinner time. Give the early dinner a try and see how that works for you.

[Traveler353]

For me the early seating is too early and the late seating is too late. I end up eating at the late seating somehow. My only problem with that is if they do have a midnight buffett I'm usually not hungry by that time. I have yet to be on a ship with anytime eating in the main dinning room. I do thank that would be more to my likeing. However I do like having the same tablemates each night. So many decisions, I think that is time to go on a cruise and leave the problems at home.:D

[Dancer Bob]

I prefer early seating when I travel solo (sometimes when I travel with a group, the group get late seating). I find on most ships, early works better for the evening activities.