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9 cruise lines with the best food.

Set sail with one of these cruise lines for an epicurean adventure at sea.

Cruise Lines With the Best Food

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America Line's Tamarind restaurant offers delicious Pan-Asian cuisine.

Taking a cruise vacation transports you to coveted destinations in places around the world. For many people, though, it's all about the culinary experience, especially for those who return time and again to dine at their favorite onboard venues – many of which rival the best restaurants you'll find on land. While most cruise lines still offer all-you-can-eat buffet-style venues, some also feature next-level culinary experiences with world-renowned chefs at the helm, menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, and immersive food and beverage programs.

If you're a foodie looking for the cruise lines with the best food, U.S. News has compiled this list of cruise lines focused on delivering an extraordinary dining experience, based on expert opinion and reviews. We've also highlighted two of the venues on each line that receive accolades for outstanding food and service.

Luxury cruise lines

Mainstream cruise lines.

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Oceania Cruises

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises' culinary program has long been regarded as one of the best of any cruise line – and the company has even trademarked the term "The Finest Cuisine at Sea." Jacques Pépin, the renowned French master chef, has been the executive culinary director since 2003; he has inspired the menus and cuisine on board the line's seven small luxury ships since that time, including the newest vessel, Vista . Oceania is also committed to sourcing the best ingredients from destinations around the world. In addition, the line has a high ratio of culinary staff to guests, and the ship's galleys are outfitted with equipment you'd typically see in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Guests can book exclusive Culinary Discovery Tours on two of the ships, Marina and Riviera . Hone your culinary skills or learn to prepare new types of cuisine at The Culinary Center, found on Marina, Riviera and Vista. You'll also find special wine-tasting and Champagne events in partnership with La Reserve by Wine Spectator. In addition, the line has just announced its first Culinary Masters' Cruise featuring Oceania's two French master chefs aboard Marina in October 2024.

Most of the dining venues are complimentary on Oceania Cruises (except for Privée and La Reserve), and options run the gamut from French and Asian cuisine to Italian fare and steakhouse specialties. There are also new culinary concepts on board Vista – including Ember, which features American classics, as well as Aquamar Kitchen, a venue focused on healthy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Here are two of Oceania's best restaurants:

• Red Ginger: Red Ginger's colorful red and gold interiors, designed with feng shui in mind, draw guests in when they enter the restaurant, but it's the bold Asian flavors that keep them coming back for more. With Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese specialties to choose from, diners will enjoy selections such as caramelized tiger prawns, crispy ginger calamari, red and green curries, and bulgogi rib-eye steak. Red Ginger is available on Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Vista.
• Toscana: The hearty cuisine inspired by Tuscan and northern Italian flavors at Toscana is served on Versace china that's custom designed for the restaurant. Diners should come with an appetite to enjoy several courses before the main event, including a hot or cold antipasti or soup, a selection of pastas, and a classic version of Caesar salad prepared tableside. Traditional main dish favorites include osso buco alla Milanese, veal scaloppini, lobster fra diavolo and Dover sole. Toscana is available on Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Marina, Riviera and Vista.

Book an  Oceania Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea is another cruise line known for its culinary excellence. Guests will find a selection of international venues featuring Italian, Asian and French cuisine on board the line's fleet of 12 ships.

S.A.L.T., an immersive dining experience that stands for "Sea and Land Taste," is available on Silver Nova , Silver Moon and Silver Dawn . The S.A.L.T. program was created by Adam Sachs, former editor-in-chief of Saveur magazine and three-time James Beard journalism award winner. The innovative program invites guests to experience the destination and local food culture through on-board hands-on activities, including making local recipes in the S.A.L.T. Lab. You can also attend cooking demonstrations and lectures, or book in-depth culinary excursions to working organic farms, Sicilian pasticcerias (where you'll learn how to make pastries) and vineyards in destinations around the world.

The all-inclusive luxury line's restaurant venues are complimentary with the following exceptions: French fine dining restaurant La Dame; the S.A.L.T. Chef's Table experience available on Silver Nova; Seishin Restaurant, which serves Asian fusion dishes on Silver Spirit; and Kaiseki, the Japanese, sushi and teppanyaki venue available on five Silversea ships.

These are two standout dining venues on Silversea:

• S.A.L.T. Kitchen: S.A.L.T. Kitchen's menu changes daily inspired by the destination, but diners will also find a "Voyage" menu that reflects the influences from the overall region of the itinerary. The daily "Terrain" menu in Italy might include dishes likes prawns cooked in a cherry tomato sauce with garlic, white wine and parsley or a classic risotto with clams topped with a pan-fried filet of sole. The "Voyage" menu on an Eastern Mediterranean sailing would feature dishes from Greece, Croatia and Italy. The immersive dining experience is available on Silver Ray, Moon, Dawn and Nova.
• La Dame: The curated menu at La Dame was created by Silversea's top chefs and is served in an elegant contemporary space with white-glove table service. The cuisine pays homage to classic French gastronomy along with modern techniques and flair. Guests can expect to dine on traditional French dishes such as seared duck foie gras, French onion soup, lobster bisque, Dover sole and souffles for dessert. La Dame is available on all the line's ships, except for Silver Origin.

Find a  Silversea Cruise  on GoToSea.

Explora Journeys

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

MSC Group's new luxury brand, Explora Journeys, features a top-notch culinary program with a team of international chefs at the helm. Acclaimed chef Franck Garanger, the line's head of culinary, has been recognized as a French master chef since 2008; he has also overseen the culinary programs for both Silversea and Oceania cruises before joining Explora.

According to Garanger, Explora Journeys has one of the highest chef-to-guest ratios and food costs of any cruise line, which is why you'll see offerings like freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, ceviche, free range and organic chicken, made-to-order grilled fish, and other freshly prepared items in Emporium Marketplace, Explora's globally inspired all-day dining venue. There's also a large focus on plant-based dishes, wellness and healthy menu selections in venues across the ship.

The first of six 922-guest superyacht-style vessels, Explora I, offers guests a choice of six restaurant venues, including the French-inspired Fil Rouge; Marble & Co. Grill, an elegant European steakhouse; and Med Yacht Club, which features delightful Mediterranean cuisine. Guests will also enjoy boutique international and regional wines; try a glass of Moët & Chandon, Explora's "house" Champagne.

During your "journey," you can also attend cooking classes at the Chef's Kitchen, a private dining and culinary school with lead enrichment chef Jean-Louis Dumonet at the helm. Another world-class chef, Dumonet received the distinction of becoming a French master chef in 1994 and has had a very successful culinary career, including achieving his first Michelin star at age 28.

Explore these standouts in Explora's culinary program:

• Sakura: This beautiful Pan-Asian restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The bright and airy design features cherry blossoms suspended from the ceilings and Asian-inspired decor. The authentic dining experience also boasts an open kitchen and a sushi bar with many ingredients sourced from Japan, and the venue has outdoor seating and indoor tables with floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Begin your evening with an Asian-inspired cocktail and a starter of crispy duck leg confit, wagyu beef tataki or soft-shell crab tempura. Main dish highlights include a miso black cod fillet, 72-hour slow-cooked short rib beef panang and an addictive lobster pad Thai.
• Anthology: The innovative concept at Anthology "is imagined as a unique culinary stage showcasing global cooking talents and cuisines, provenance and rare ingredients along with wines by highly coveted winemakers." The tasting menus are curated by a rotation of top chefs that changes throughout the year. The first chef who opened the new ship, Mauro Uliassi, has a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the coastal town of Senigallia, Italy. The second chef (through April 2024) is Swedish-born Emma Bengtsson, executive chef at the two-Michelin-starred Aquavit in New York. Anthology is the only dining venue on Explora I that comes at an additional cost. There's also an optional wine pairing.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas' culinary program, "Epicurean Indulgence," features top-notch dining experiences on board the luxury line's six ships. Guests will also find educational hands-on cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen and Epicurean Explorer tours focused on the wines, spirits and regional foods in destinations around the world. Regents' all-inclusive cruise fares include as many as seven dining venues (depending on the ship), that feature French, Italian, Pan-Asian and steakhouse restaurants as well as 24-hour in-suite room service. You can also enjoy fine wines and spirits in all the restaurants, bar and lounges.

Regent Seven Seas boasts a variety of excellent restaurants, but here are two top options:

• Pacific Rim: The entrance to Pacific Rim is just as impressive as its food with the floor-to-ceiling bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel that sits just outside the venue. Inside, your evening experience in this beautiful zen-like space begins with a signature cocktail and a difficult decision of which Thai, Japanese, Korean, Chinese or Vietnamese dishes to order for dinner. Begin your meal with a selection of sushi and sashimi, then sample pork and shrimp siu mai or thom kha gai soup. For a main dish, don't miss elevated dishes like miso black cod, Canadian lobster tempura or aromatic duck.
• Compass Rose: Compass Rose is the largest specialty restaurant on Regent's ships, and you'll find the elegant venue across the fleet. The menu features classic favorites and dishes that are always available, including foie gras, escargot, Alaskan crab salad, black Angus cuts of beef, New Zealand lamb chops and a daily choice of pasta. The additional chef's gourmet menu changes daily. If you prefer lighter fare, choose one of the healthy Serene Spa & Wellness selections. Guests can also customize their dining preferences and order from any of the menus.

Explore  Regent Seven Seas  deals on GoToSea.

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Courtesy of Viking

Viking's nine 930-guest and adults-only ocean-going ships offer destination-focused dining highlighting regional cuisine and local specialties. In addition, cruisers will find their favorite classic dishes (some with a twist), such as a Norwegian baby shrimp cocktail, beef tenderloin and linguine with clams in The Restaurant, Viking's main dining venue.

Other dining options include an open kitchen and international fare at World Café, which also has a large alfresco dining area called Aquavit Terrace. For more casual fare, head to Mamsen's, a favorite spot for Norwegian specialties, or stop by the Pool Grill, where you'll find made-to-order burgers and light bites. All of these venues – plus two specialty restaurants, Manfredi's and The Chef's Table – are included in the cruise fare.

Guests on board Viking's ships are also treated to a daily afternoon tea in the Wintergarden, a Scandinavian-inspired, light-filled space located next to the main pool. If you're interested in learning more about destination-focused cuisine, reserve a spot in one of the hands-on cooking classes at The Kitchen Table to learn how to prepare some of the local dishes. These special excursions and culinary classes begin with a visit to a local market and end with an evening of cooking (or watching the dinner preparation) – plus multiple courses of food and wine pairings. There is a fee for the class.

The two specialty restaurants provide an exceptional experience with Viking :

• Manfredi's: Plan to make a reservation at Manfredi's, Viking's Italian restaurant. It features an impressive menu of Italian specialties, including dishes with influence from Tuscany and Rome. Start the evening with a selection of antipasti for two and pasta e fagioli or crème of porcini soup. Then, choose between traditional offerings like osso bucco alla Milanese, rosemary parmesan-crusted lamb or the Tuscan favorite dish bistecca Fiorentina (Florentine-style steak). There are also wonderful fresh pasta dishes and several types of risotto.
• The Chef's Table: The Chef's Table menu changes several times throughout the cruise, allowing guests to sample a variety of multicourse tasting menus that highlight international and regional specialties. The beautiful venue is perfect for a special evening and a "food journey" where you'll savor a selection of Asian, Norwegian, French or other cuisines paired with wines by the ship's master sommelier.

Book a  Viking Ocean Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America's master chef and creative culinary artist, Rudi Sodamin, has been with the line for around 20 years. He also heads up the Culinary Council, a group of well-known chefs who will be on board for culinary cruises scheduled throughout the year. During these special voyages, guests can attend cooking demonstrations and coffee chats and make reservations for exclusive chef-hosted dinners and events throughout the cruise.

Holland America also has a new initiative with Fresh Fish Ambassador, chef and TV personality Masaharu Morimoto (you'll recognize him from "Iron Chef"). The Global Fresh Fish program affords the line the ability to source more than 80 varieties of fresh fish in destinations around the world. In addition, you'll find certified sustainable Alaskan seafood on the menu during Alaska cruises .

Wine aficionados can look for wine tastings and wine blending sessions on board the ship and excursions to wine regions ashore, some in partnership with Food & Wine magazine. Rudi's Sel De Mer is an excellent choice for a fine dining evening, but the French brasserie-inspired venue is only available on three ships.

Here are two of Holland America's top specialty restaurants:

• Pinnacle Grill: Pinnacle Grill, an upscale steakhouse, is a specialty restaurant (with an additional fee) that's available on all of the line's 11 ships. It's a favorite spot for couples to enjoy a romantic evening and features classic dishes like shrimp cocktail, jumbo lump crab cakes, lobster bisque, filet mignon, surf and turf, and grilled lamb chops. Seafood lovers will also find Alaskan king salmon and halibut. Be sure to save room for a twist on a timeless dessert – the not-so-classic baked Alaska with Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia ice cream.
• Tamarind: Tamarind's elegant atmosphere and flavorful Pan-Asian cuisine make this another top pick for Holland American cruisers. The specialty restaurant is available on four ships (for an additional fee) and features dishes from Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and other Asian countries. Appetizers include specialties like crispy duck with a steamed bao bun, shrimp tempura and Chinese five-spice baby back ribs. For the main course, choose from several types of curries, sample Mongolian barbecue lamb chops, or feast on wok-seared shrimp and lobster. Plan to come early to Tamarind Bar to enjoy a cocktail such as a saketini while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Find a  Holland America  cruise on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line

Mark Ashman | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers excellent family-friendly dining options with over-the-top Disney- and movie-themed venues with live character performances and shows. The ships also have upscale adults-only lounges, bars and restaurants that are perfect for a romantic date night. Disney Cruise Line 's unique rotational family dining concept allows guests to experience three different restaurants while having the same dedicated servers every one of those evenings, so the service is personalized throughout your voyage.

Guests on board Disney Wish can dine in the fictional kingdom of Arendelle at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure. The "Frozen"-themed evening includes Nordic-inspired dishes, musical performances by the characters and even singalongs for the audience. On Disney Wonder , guests are treated to a night filled with New Orleans-style jazz and street parties plus Southern-influenced fare at Tiana's Place. You can also meet Princess Tiana from Disney's animated feature "The Princess and the Frog."

Other top dining venues on Disney Cruise Line include:

Palo: This adults-only Venetian-inspired venue is an upscale spot ideal for a quiet evening without the kids (who will be very happy to spend time at the onboard kids club). The fine dining experience features northern Italian cuisine and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views from nearly every perspective. The specialty restaurant also serves brunch on longer cruises. The prix fixe (or "prezzo fisso") menu includes four courses, or you can opt to choose from the regular menu with a selection of appetizers, salads, pizza, pasta and main dishes that are individually priced. Guests will find Palo on Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy.

On Disney Wish, there's an updated version of the dining concept, Palo Steakhouse. The modern steakhouse and Italian restaurant – inspired by Cogsworth, the enchanted clock from "Beauty and the Beast" – offers cuts of Australian wagyu, Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef as well as delightful Italian cuisine and spectacular ocean views. Be sure to splurge on a cocktail at The Rose before dinner if you're dining at Palo Steakhouse. Note that meals at Palo and Palo Steakhouse come with an additional charge.

Remy: The exquisite dining experience at Remy is a collaboration between French chef Arnaud Lallement from l'Assiette Champenoise (a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in France) and Walt Disney World Resort 's chef Scott Hunnel from the renowned restaurant Victoria & Albert's. Your leisurely evening of fine wines and a tasting menu of French fare begins with a signature Taittinger Champagne cocktail prepared tableside.

Special touches in the "Ratatouille"-inspired venue include Frette linens, Christofle silverware, exclusive Bernadaud china made for Remy, Riedel glassware, tableside international cheese service and decanting stations for wines. A Champagne brunch is served on sea days and select port days. There is an additional charge to dine at the restaurant, which is available on Disney Dream and Fantasy.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' creative approach to cruising can be found in nearly every aspect of the line's three ships, including its adults-only vibe and fresh approach to dining. Virgin Voyages does not have a traditional main dining room – and there's no onboard buffet or large dining halls. What you will find is more than 20 eateries with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs that are included in the cruise fare. These smaller and more intimate venues include The Galley, a food court-style spot for casual and grab-and-go fare like bento boxes, tacos, salads, sushi, burgers, noodle bowls and desserts.

Meat lovers and vegetarians will love the veggie-forward dishes and indulgent pork or chicken specialties at boldly designed Razzle Dazzle. At Extra Virgin, sample trattoria-style Italian fare like crispy artichokes, seafood pasta, grilled Mediterranean sea bass and a special tableside preparation of affogato for dessert. For a Korean barbecue experience, head over to Gunbae, a fun spot where your evening begins with a shot of soju – Korea's national drink and the best-selling liquor in the world. The Wake is the largest venue on board and the closest restaurant to a main dining room; it sits at the back of the ship and features a raw bar in addition to a selection of steaks and seafood (some offerings come with an upcharge).

There are many excellent options for dinner, but these are two cruiser-favorite venues:

• The Test Kitchen: Inspired by Auguste Escoffier's "Ma Cuisine," The Test Kitchen is a favorite spot for its laboratory-like eatery and cooking school. The interior decor features metal furniture, beakers and test tubes to get diners in the mood for the exploratory culinary evening. Menus at this innovative venue are presented as a list of ingredients, and guests get to watch the chef combine the selected ingredients of the day for the six-course tasting menu. The upscale experience takes about 2.5 hours. Wine, beer or cocktail pairings come at an additional fee.
• Pink Agave: Virgin's stylish Mexican dining venue, Pink Agave, was inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico City – and the restaurant features what the line calls the most extensive selection of mezcal and tequila at sea. The menu offerings include small, medium and large plates plus desserts. To begin the evening, order a few small bites to share, including esquites (a grilled corn dish) and aguachile, which is a ceviche made with raw tuna, avocado and jicama. Then, for the main course, choose between options like roasted duck or chicken, achiote marinated pork, or a vegetarian stuffed poblano pepper.

Compare  Virgin Voyages  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's selection and quality of restaurant venues – and attentive service – have made the line a favorite for food-focused cruisers for many years. If you're sailing on one of the Celebrity Edge-class ships ( Ascent , Beyond , Apex or Edge ), you'll have up to 32 restaurants to choose from with globally inspired menus created by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher.

You can also look for special culinary cruises and onboard events designed in partnership with renowned Michelin-star French chef Daniel Boulud, the line's global culinary brand ambassador. Some of the onboard programs include wine-blending classes, whiskey and scotch tastings, mixology classes, and food and wine pairing workshops.

With so many complimentary dining and specialty options on Celebrity ships (making it hard to choose where to dine), here are two of the unique experiences not to be missed:

• Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud: Daniel Boulud's first signature restaurant at sea is inspired by the chef's global travels. The interior of the specialty restaurant, designed by the Parisian architect-design team of Jouin Manku, is as much of an experience as the meal with its intimate decor and banquette seating. Guests can choose between a standard dinner menu, a regular five-course tasting menu or a plant-based tasting menu. Le Voyage is available on the new Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond and costs an additional fee.
• Le Petit Chef: The innovative and fantastical 3D dining experience at Le Petit Chef is one of the most unique ways to spend an evening at sea. The immersive meal, which is either served in the quirky Qsine restaurant or Le Grand Bistro, depending on the ship, will delight cruisers of all ages, especially younger children. The tiny, animated chef (think about the size of your hand) entertains guests while preparing each dish. You may see him firing up a grill to sear a steak, picking fresh vegetables from a garden or even going on a fishing adventure in search of lobster. After each dish is prepared by "the chef," waiters will arrive with the actual dish. The 1.5-hour-long experience is an additional cost.

Explore  Celebrity Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

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Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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• Global Tastemakers

The 10 Best Cruises for Food

From intimate cruises with chef-led concepts to mega-ships with enough options to satisfy the whole family, these cruises topped our Global Tastemakers awards.

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Global Tastemakers is our first-ever reader’s choice awards, celebrating the best culinary destinations in the U.S. and abroad. F&W readers voted based on travel completed within the past three years, on categories including restaurants and bars, cities, hotels, airports, airlines, and cruises. Due to the limitations of pandemic travel, this year’s Global Tastemakers winners reflect a smaller portion of the globe. In many categories, we’re including an editor’s pick to shout out some more culinary destinations in places you can’t miss. See all the winners at foodandwine.com/globaltastemakers .

Gone are the days when all-you-can-eat buffets dominated cruise ships. More and more, cruise lines are creating smaller specialty restaurants that offer guests a diverse variety of cuisines and hands-on experiences. The best cruise lines are ensuring quality dining onboard. Some have menus developed by celebrity chefs, while others are doing away with rigid mealtimes and making it easier for guests to eat whatever they want, whenever and wherever they want. 

When voting in our inaugural Global Tastemakers survey for the best cruises for food, our readers rewarded cruise lines placing quality above all else. Mid-size ships claimed the top three spots, and the No. 4 spot went to a river cruise company with a wealth of wine-focused itineraries in Europe. Nos. 5 to 10 are large and mega-ships where the number of onboard drinking and dining outlets ensure that there’s something to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Below, the full list of the ten best cruises for food. 

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

Award-winning company Viking consistently ranks among the best for both ocean and river cruises. Known for engaging itineraries designed for inquisitive travelers, Viking is also known for the consistent quality across all of its ships, especially in the culinary department. Its ocean cruises have eight different food and beverage outlets, ranging from the Restaurant (its main dining venue serving regional cuisine and international classics) to the Wintergarden serving afternoon tea with live music by a string quartet. Every ship has an onboard herb garden, and ocean cruises have cooking classes onboard. And Viking never upcharges guests for its more upscale restaurants.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Beloved by industry experts and travelers alike, Regent Seven Seas Cruises has truly all-inclusive rates that include gourmet dining, unlimited beverages, and unlimited shore excursions, which might take the form of market tours with the chef, wine tastings, and more. Every ship has Compass Rose, the largest restaurant onboard the fleet, as well as the elegant steakhouse Prime 7 and the buffet restaurant, La Veranda, which transforms into a casual Italian restaurant in the evenings, and the Pool Grill. Select ships also have a French restaurant and a pan-Asian restaurant.

Oceania Cruises

Legendary chef Jacques Pépin is the executive culinary director for Oceania Cruises , and the executive chefs have star-studded resumes peppered with experience at the world’s top hotels and restaurants, so you can rest assured that quality is the brand’s top priority. In addition to the Grand Dining Room — inspired by Europe’s five-star hotels — all ships have the Terrace Café for informal dining, Waves Grill for al fresco dining, afternoon tea, and a coffee bar serving Illy coffee. Select ships also have specialty restaurants that serve Italian cuisine, bold Asian cuisine, steakhouse staples, inventive American cuisine, French cuisine by Jacques Pépin, and more.

AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

In addition to general interest river cruises in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, AmaWaterways is known for an extensive selection of wine cruises that bring travelers to Burgundy, Bordeaux, Provence, and other wine regions in Europe. Naturally, guests enjoy regional wine pairings with lunch and dinner, which are served either in the main restaurant or at the chef’s table. Snacks are available between meals at the main lounge. All of the European ships are members of the prestigious Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a gastronomic society founded in Paris.

Princess Cruises

Alfredo Martinez / Getty Images

With cruises going to North and South America, Asia, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean, Princess has a wide variety of ships and itineraries. In addition to the main dining room, specialty restaurants serving an array of cuisines, like French, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, steakhouse, and New Orleans-style seafood are available for an extra charge. Princess also recently introduced OceanNow, which lets guests order food and drinks delivered to them wherever they are through an app or stateroom TV.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Finnbarr Webster / Getty Images

Norwegian ’s fleet sails pretty much all over the world, with destinations including the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Aegean, the Pacific, and beyond. It’s notable for its “Freestyle Dining” concept, which lets guests eat anytime, anywhere, without fixed dining times or assigned seating. Options range from the three main dining rooms, wide-ranging buffet, and 24-hour eatery, in addition to specialty dining, where guests can enjoy Mexican tacos, Brazilian meats, Texas BBQ, Spanish tapas, and more.

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

A favorite among families with young children, Disney Cruises also caters to adults traveling without kids by offering adults-only pools, nightlife, and specialty restaurants. All of the ships have different dining venues, ranging from the elegant 1923 — named for the year the Walt Disney Company was founded — to character-themed dinings, like the Royal Tea Court, where kids can enjoy a tea party in the company of Disney princesses. Kids — and let’s be honest, adults — love the unlimited soft serve ice cream. There’s also 24-hour room service and late-night snacks in the adult nightclubs and lounges.

Holland America Line

Courtesy of Holland America Line

A team of six world-class chefs — Rudi Sodamin, Ethan Stowell, David Burke, Jacques Torres, Jonnie Boer, and Andy Matsuda — form the Culinary Council that advises the culinary direction of Holland America ’s ships. The chefs’ influence can be felt everywhere from the flagship Dining Room to the specialty restaurants like Pinnacle Grill, which serves steakhouse recipes by David Burke, Rudi’s Sel de Mer, and sushi master Andy Matsuda’s Nama Sushi. It’s also worth noting that Holland America is the only cruise line with Alaska seafood certified sustainable by the Responsible Fisheries Management.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity positions itself as a relaxed luxury resort at sea, with entertainment, pools, a spa, and diverse drinking and dining outlets. From its four Main Restaurants, Cyprus, Normandie, Tuscan, and Cosmopolitan, you'll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy your taste buds, while its specialty dining venues offer something exceptional, too, including Le Grand Bistro, serving meals inspired by classic French bistros. Guests of the all-suite Retreat also get exclusive access to Luminae, which serves dishes by its Brand Culinary Ambassador, Daniel Boulud.

Royal Caribbean International

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Despite its name, Royal Caribbean goes far beyond the Caribbean, with sailings to Alaska, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, Asia, and Canada. The massive ships have a suitably huge variety of onboard dining options. Highlights include Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver, meat and seafood grilled right before your eyes at Teppanyaki, modern American at 150 Central Park, and a globally-inspired buffet at Windjammer. There are plenty of kid-friendly options, like Johnny Rocket’s, as well as bars like a Latin-themed club with a live band playing salsa, merengue, samba, and cumbia.

Related Articles

The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Admit it – you think of cruises as floating smorgasbords, bastions of gluttony with all-you-can-eat lobster tails and molten chocolate cake served 24/7. You imagine onboard restaurants as an overcrowded, at-sea outpost of Golden Corral or perhaps a formal banquet hall straight out of the Titanic movie.

Clearly, you haven't been on a cruise in a long time.

It's true that a day aboard a cruise ship can revolve around food. Three days into a sailing, I start getting that feeling where I wake up stuffed from the night before and also hungry for breakfast.

My personal pledge to eat only eggs for breakfast, salads for lunch and skip dessert at dinner usually falls apart quickly, as I can't keep away from the sugar-laden dessert tables, always-available pizza and cheese-heavy entrees.

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Yet a modern-day cruise ship is more akin to your local downtown, with multiple restaurant choices and a range of cuisines on offer. You can find healthy or vegetarian food, ethnic options and everything from fast-food burgers to upscale molecular gastronomy dishes. Meals can be quick or lengthy, formal or casual.

The choice can be overwhelming for a new cruiser – as can the complicated rules around who can eat where and when, while wearing what. Even if you don't live for food, you'll want to peruse this guide to cruise ship food and dining to get the lay of culinary land before your next sailing.

Is food included on a cruise?

You do not have to pay for food on a cruise – but you might want to.

Unless you're sailing on an all-inclusive luxury cruise ship , you'll find two types of restaurants on board a cruise ship: free venues and extra-charge, specialty restaurants.

The included dining venues are typically the main dining room or rooms, large banquet-style spaces that serve sit-down dinner off a wide-ranging menu. On some ships, you will be assigned to a specific main dining room; other ships, such as Norwegian Cruise Line' s fleet, will offer a couple and you can choose which one to go to on any given evening. Smaller vessels may only have one main dining room on board.

The other standard included option is the buffet , typically located near the pool. The buffet will offer multiple themed stations (salad bar, carvery, deli, pasta station, dessert bar, etc.) and will either be self-serve or have crew ready to portion out food from large serving dishes for you. Once you've filled a plate, you find your own table, either indoors or sometimes outside. You can go back for seconds, thirds, fourths until you're full.

Other included cruise food options will vary by ship and cruise line. Many have poolside grills serving burgers and hot dogs. Some will have casual cafes and complimentary pizza, Mexican, Asian, fried chicken and barbecue restaurants or food counters.

Some cruise lines – such as Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises and Holland America – have special restaurants reserved for VIP guests, usually a mix of passengers in the top suites and the most frequent cruisers on that line. These dining venues are included in the cost of the cruise yet may require reservations for dinner.

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

What is specialty dining on a cruise?

Specialty dining is the cruise industry name for onboard restaurants you have to pay for. Some charge a flat cover charge to dine there; others price dishes a la carte, as you'd find in most land-based eateries.

These extra-fee cruise ship restaurants cover a wide variety of cuisines and styles. You might find a family-style Italian trattoria, group dining at a teppanyaki grill or a French bistro perfect for date night. Steakhouses are common, though they can have American, Brazilian or Italian influences. Sushi and Asian-fusion restaurants are popular, as are broader seafood venues, both upscale and lobster shack-style.

Royal Caribbean has a new southern comfort food restaurant , and its molecular gastronomy venue, Wonderland, is definitely something different. Carnival partners with Emeril Lagasse to offer a New Orleans-themed Creole restaurant.

If you're an uber-foodie, you'll want to look for intimate Chef's Table dining events for a gourmet meal paired with wine, personally planned by one of the onboard chefs.

For specialty restaurants, you'll want to make reservations in advance, though walk-ins are allowed if tables are available. Try to book your favorite eateries online in advance of your sailing; if not, make it a priority to get dining times lined up as soon as you can on your first day on board.

Related: The 7 best meals you can have at sea

What is open dining vs. set seating on a cruise?

When you book many big-ship cruises, you'll be asked to choose early seating, late seating, or flexible or anytime dining. What does this mean?

Lines like Carnival Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean, Holland America and Princess manage the flow of passengers in and out of their main dining rooms by assigning cruisers to specific dining rooms and times.

Passengers who choose set-seating dining will opt for an early dinner (usually around 5:30 or 6 p.m.) or late dinner (between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.). They will be assigned a specific table and have the same waiters every night. A table might be one four-person family or it might be a mix of unrelated singles, couples and groups gathered at a 10-person table. Desirable two-tops can be hard to come by.

Because not everyone wants to eat at the same time and with the same people every night, cruise lines reserve a number of slots for a flexible dining option. You might see these referred to as "My Time Dining" or "Anytime Dining." Guests who choose this option can show up at the main dining room for dinner anytime during designated open hours (typically 5:30 to 9 p.m.).

The catch is you might have to wait for a table, and you might not be able to get the table size you want at the time you want. You might score a two-top on one night and have to eat at a group table the next or wait an hour to be seated. On the other hand, if you make friends on board who also chose the flexible dining option, it's easy to meet up for dinner.

Several lines have done away with the assigned dining concept, most notably luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea and Seabourn , but also brands such as Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages . The ships in these lines offer multiple onboard dining venues where you either make a reservation or try your luck as a walk-in, as you would at any land-based restaurants. Most will have one main dining room venue that is larger and does not require reservations or extra fees to eat there.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Is food available around the clock?

You might be thinking that, with so much for breakfast, lunch and dinner, why would you want to eat at any other time? I can think of several reasons.

On sea days, it's blissful to sleep in and have a late breakfast, which then bumps your midday meal to an odd time. My kids are always hungry for mid-morning or afternoon snacks, or post-kids club/pre-bedtime treats. Late-returning shore excursions can mess up your meal schedule – and sometimes you just need that 1 a.m. pizza after a night of dancing or bar hopping.

So, yes, cruise ships offer food around the clock, though the options at off hours can be limited.

Most ships have a 24-hour dining option, typically pizza or a cafe with premade items like cookies and mini sandwiches. Breakfast options can often run from 6 a.m. to 11 or 11:30 a.m., with full breakfast offered at typical dining times and continental selections offered early and late. Some lines also do a sea-day brunch to accommodate your lazy morning.

Mid-afternoon is often a tricky time for snacks. Some lines run an afternoon tea with petit fours and crustless sandwiches, or have a deli or burger counter open from late morning until early evening. Look for cafe venues that might have some fruit or something a tad less greasy. The self-serve ice cream and frozen yogurt stations are often available all day long.

The buffet usually closes around 9 or 10 p.m., though some lines might offer a limited selection of fried, late-night favorites for the party crowd.

Many all-day options are free of charge, but some, like Royal Caribbean's Playmakers Sports Bar, charge for food.

Is there room service?

Yes, cruise ships offer room service, and that's another 24/7 dining option for hungry travelers.

Historically, room service was free – an amazing perk of cruising, compared to hotels. But after years of cruise ship hallways cluttered with trays of half-eaten cheeseburgers at 3 a.m., the cruise lines decided to take a different stance.

Now, most lines offer a complimentary continental room service breakfast. Depending on the line, all orders outside of breakfast will come with a per-order charge, or the room service menu will have a mix of complimentary and extra-fee dishes. Some lines include hot breakfast, while others charge for eggs and pancakes delivered to your cabin.

All-day in-cabin dining menus will offer a limited selection of salads, sandwiches, hot entrees, desserts and kid favorites. At peak dining hours, you might have to wait up to an hour for your order to be delivered.

Consider tipping your room service delivery person a dollar or two to say thanks for not making you walk a few flights over to the buffet or all-night pizzeria.

Related: 11 extra charges on cruise ships that will drive you nuts — and what to do about them

Do solo travelers have to dine alone?

No. Solo travelers have many options to meet others and break bread with their shipmates.

Singles who choose early or late seating will be put at a shared table with other solo travelers or families so they don't have to worry about dining alone. Request a larger table to get a larger social circle.

If you prefer flexible dining, ask to be seated at a group table when you approach the hostess stand.

Some cruise lines will offer hosted tables for solo travelers, especially on luxury lines where dining is always flexible. These lines may even employ gentleman hosts to guide the conversation and make sure everyone feels welcome and included. Inquire with guest services or the maitre d' and they can get you sorted.

Sometimes single traveler meetups will be held during pre-dinner cocktails, with the idea that travelers can head to the buffet or another onboard eatery for dinner together afterward.

Solo cruisers can also take the initiative and invite fellow cruisers they meet at trivia or on a tour to join them for dinner at a specialty venue or fast-casual dining spot.

Can cruise ship restaurants accommodate my kids?

Yes. Cruising is a family vacation , and onboard restaurants know all about your child and her love affair with chicken nuggets.

With the exception of a handful of cruise lines that don't allow children on board, such as Viking , nearly all cruise lines will offer kids menus with all the greatest hits: chicken tenders, pasta, burgers, hot dogs, and sometimes grilled chicken or a small steak. Kiddos can start with fruit plates or chicken noodle soup and end with ice cream sundaes or chocolate cake. They can also order off the adult menu, or switch back and forth.

Some cruise lines will have pureed baby food on hand ( Disney Cruise Line will puree it for you), but don't assume it's available. Check with your cruise line before booking.

Ships will have high chairs and booster seats on hand in all dining venues.

One handy tip: If you've got a picky little eater, save mini boxes of cereal, yogurt cups and muffins from the breakfast buffet to keep on hand for snacks later in the day. Sometimes it's hard to find peanut butter and jelly at lunch, so I've been known to make sandwiches in the morning to serve up at noon.

Can you bring food on or take food off of a cruise ship?

I might be the only person to cruise with Zip-loc bags full of snacks…but I bet I'm in good company.

Cruise lines allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of packaged food on board, and I'm all about stocking up on protein bars and snack bags of pretzels or trail mix to avoid hangry meltdowns (of kids and adults) on shore excursions or before a late dinner.

If you have a dietary restriction, you might have a greater need to bring along snacks you know are safe to eat.

When it comes to taking food off of a cruise ship, it's up to each port to decide. In general, it's not OK to bring fresh fruit or meat off a ship. I have, however, smuggled my share of pastries and peanut butter sandwiches off ships to eat when I'm feeling too cheap to buy food in port, and no one has ever complained. It's also perfectly fine to pack your pre-packaged snacks in your day pack – and bring back local chocolates, rum cakes, hot sauces and other packaged, edible souvenirs when you return.

Will a cruise ship accommodate my food allergies and dietary restrictions?

Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, lactose or gluten intolerant, low-carb, low-salt, kosher or allergic to certain food items, cruise lines can generally accommodate your dietary needs.

As someone who does not eat meat or shellfish, I've had no problem feeding myself with the available menu items on board. Some cruise lines will put icons on their menus next to vegetarian or gluten-free items, but it's hit or miss across the industry. You can always ask the waiters to find out if a dish contains ingredients you can't eat, and in specialty restaurants, the chef can often create a dish to accommodate your dietary restrictions if there's not an obvious choice on the menu.

If you require specific food items on board (dairy-free milk, gluten-free bread, kosher meat, etc.) or have severe allergies, you or your travel agent should always contact your cruise line's accessibility department ahead of the cruise to inform the ship about your dietary restrictions. This allows the cruise line to ensure the ship is provisioned with special food items and flags you in the system for the restaurant staff.

On the first day of the cruise, be sure to meet with the maitre d' or other designated food and beverage officer to introduce yourself and discuss dining options. On some lines, you'll get the dinner menu in advance to mark with the items you prefer so the galley can prepare your food to your specifications. At the buffet, a crew member may be assigned to show you which items should be avoided.

In general, however, cruisers with severe allergies or strict restrictions will do better in a sit-down restaurant than a buffet, which has a higher risk for cross-contamination.

Passengers who keep kosher can get kosher meals at no extra charge, but they will be pre-packaged, rather than made from scratch in the ship's galleys. The exception is specific kosher charters, where rabbis will come on board and ritually clean a section of the ship's galley. Halal food is not that common and lines like Royal Caribbean, which do carry it, only do so on select itineraries.

Do I need to dress up for dinner?

Cruise line dress codes have come a long way since the Titanic. You will never have to don a gown or tuxedo to eat dinner on a modern-day cruise ship.

That said, most cruise lines have some kind of evening dress code . Most nights are a dressier version of casual, with shorts and ratty T-shirts banned but jeans allowed. (Though if you're sailing a luxury cruise line, expect a dressier crowd and no jeans in the main restaurant.)

One or two nights will be designated for fancier dress; think wedding guest attire such as cocktail dresses and jacket for men. On big-ship lines, these are usually optional, and you can always escape the dress code by going to the buffet.

Some specialty restaurants will have a dress code distinct from the main ship one, so check if you plan on heading to the more expensive, upscale eateries on board.

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• Cruise Ships With the Best Food

From buffets stuffed with delicious morsels to munch on to specialty restaurants touting Michelin-starred food, there is  a lot to consider about eating on a ship . It used to be that the hallmark of cruise dining was sauce-heavy foods and calorie-busting desserts (think hollandaise-drenched veggies and baked Alaska). No more. 

These days, many cruise lines are partnering with respected chefs to develop diverse dining experiences at sea to rival those on land  and to offer the cruise ship food ever. As cruise ships get larger, less expensive, and more popular, cruise lines are having to contend with a rising expectation for gourmet cuisine - not just buffet-style pig-outs. 

Some cruise ships are truly rising to the occasion - others, not so much. Wondering which cruise ship has the best food? Or which  the best Foodie Cruises  are?Here we break down the best cruise food available - from 5-star fine dining to budget dining options. Plus, we’ll help you follow your craving to the best cruise lines with the best food.

Best Cruise Ships for 5-Star Dining

Best cruise ships for foodies on a budget, best cruise ship by food, hungry for more.

While you’re sure to get delicious fare in almost any specialty restaurant at sea, luxury cruise lines offer the créme de la créme of ocean dining. Gourmands will love these cruise ships for their ultra-upscale menus, local delicacies, fusion food, and top-tier service. The best part? Most luxury cruise lines offer all-inclusive cruise fares, meaning these decadent dinner experiences are included in your cruise fare. For foodies definitely one of the main  reasons for luxury cruises .  

Crystal Serenity by Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises ranks consistently high on foodie cruise charts, and  Crystal Serenity is no exception. Nobu-trained chefs wield the blades behind Silk Road’s sushi bar. Piero Selvaggio’s Vegas-inspired Italian cuisine is a hallmark of onboard trattoria Prego. And the bottles uncorked in the Vintage Room are enough to tempt any wine connoisseur. Plus, even more casual eateries offer fare that tastes authentic, from cafe croissants to duck quesadillas and juicy burgers. Even the main dining room, Crystal Dining Room, offers a varied and painstakingly prepared nightly menu.

Crystal Serenity also wows with epicurean shore excursions through the world’s best vineyards, kitchens, and markets. Check with your travel agent or with Crystal themselves to see which tours are available on your sailing.

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Silver Spirit by Silversea Cruises

Boasting an industry-leading six fine dining restaurants onboard the 540-passenger  Silver Spirit ,  Silversea Cruises is one of the cruise lines with the best food. Passengers won’t want for variety either, as each restaurant caters to different themes and tastes. 

Try Le Champagne for stunning six-course menus, expert wine pairings, and a sophisticated ambience. Carnivores won’t want to miss the Grill, an al fresco dining experience focused on pork chops, choice ribeye, and getting in on the cooking process. Head to Stars for Gatsby-esque refinement, small plates, and refined conversation. Seishin sports Asian dishes and an intimate environment. La Terrazza offers a Slow Food dining experience. 

Of course, you could also opt for Silversea’s elegant take on room service, featuring butler-serviced course-by-course in-suite meals.

Seabourn Odyssey by Seabourn

Caviar and Champagne feature heavily in the luxurious culinary creations on  Seabourn Odyssey , as does prime beef and chocolate. The Restaurant and Restaurant 2 offer modern American cuisine refined by French techniques, including chocolate covered ice cream balls on sticks reminiscent of popsicles. Decadent pastries and luxuriously foamy coffees are available from the Coffee Bar, and the clean, dreamy decor on this  Seabourn  ship make it all the more idyllic.

Marina by Oceania Cruises

For the gourmet looking to get their hands dirty,  Marina  by  Oceania Cruises is ideal. Guests are encouraged to participate in cooking classes at  the Bon Appetit Culinary Center . Featuring 24 well-stocked stations, this state of the art enrichment area offers lessons in everything from handmade pasta to ganache-filled desserts. Guests can also channel their inner enologist at La Reserve, which offers wine tastings and impeccable wine-paired seven-course meals. 

Oceania also partnered with chef Jacques Pepin to create the eponymous onboard French restaurant, which also displays art pieces from his collection. Veal and duck are favorites, served with olive tapenade. However, the pinnacle of fine dining is undoubtedly the custom dinners at Privée, served in private for up to eight guests in an all-white marble and crocodile-skin room. Dinners here start at $1,000 and are truly unforgettable. For more details about the high quality food selection you can read this article about  dining on Oceania cruises .

Seven Seas Mariner by Regent Seven Seas

Seven Seas Mariner thrills gourmands with its partnership to culinary legend Le Cordon Bleu. Chefs onboard this  Regent Seven Seas vessel train extensively in the Parisian techniques perfected there, and their hard work is evident at Signatures. From the decor to the dishes (peux-tu dire Camembert?), this eatery is a foodies favorite. 

Other restaurants include Prime 7, where you can order a 36-ounce porterhouse wheeled to your table on a sizzling marble platter; Compass Rose, the main dining room, which offers lighter fare from the Canyon Ranch spa menu. Classic cruise venues like the buffet and poolside pub are upgraded on Seven Seas Mariner to La Veranda, a gourmet buffet featuring local specialties, and the Pool Grill, where extra-large burgers and housemade ice cream are the norm.

It can be easy to go overboard on a cruise, especially with specialty restaurants tempting you at every turn. And while many of us would love to indulge in the fancy fare of a 5-star cruise, it simply might not be possible. However, that doesn’t need to stop the foodies among us. Eating on a cruise ship can be a great opportunity to expand your horizons, tempt your palate, and sample savory specialties. Finding cheap food on a cruise is easy - and these cruise ships also make it easy to find excellent eats. Using the free dining options is definitely an effective  money saving tip on a cruise.

Koningsdam by Holland America Line

Koningsdam wows foodies with its superb Culinary Arts Center, including show kitchen and individual cooking stations. Classes are available for all ages, and include taste tests and demos. Plus,  Holland America Line also partners with hit TV show “MasterChef” and “MasterChef Junior” on some sailings. Take advantage of celebrity chef-taught classes and intimate meet-and-greets with the stars of the show on these cruises.

Quantum of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

Gourmets will love the sheer abundance of dining options on  Royal Caribbean ’s  Quantum of the Seas . In fact, both Quantum of the Seas and  Anthem of the Seas feature a similar restaurant lineup. The best part for budget-conscious cruisers is that many of the delicious restaurants onboard are complimentary. Included restaurants serve everything from American comfort food (American Icon Grill) to Asian fusion cuisine (Silk), as well as some with an upscale twist, like Coastal Kitchen and Chic, which serve more contemporary favorites. 

Royal Caribbean has also partnered with celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Michael Schwartz to create two excellent specialty restaurants: Jamie’s Italian and Michael’s Genuine Pub. No matter what your style or tastes, Royal Caribbean caters to you.

Carnival Vista by Carnival Cruise Line

While  Carnival Cruise Line is better known for fun than food, this budget-friendly line offers an excellent chef’s table experience on  Carnival Vista . It costs a little extra, but it’s worth it for foodies who love to cook. Take a chef-guided tour of the galley, Champagne in hand, before settling down in a dedicated dining area overlooking the galley for a multi-course meal accompanied by sommelier-picked wines. In keeping with its brand, Carnival keeps this tour open to kids 12 and up, making it a great option for foodie families.

Nieuw Amsterdam by Holland America Line

HAL really rolls out the red carpet for gourmets, and its Chef’s Table on  Nieuw Amsterdam is a little piece of luxury that won’t break the bank. You’ll be treated to a seven-course meal designed by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin built from decadent ingredients like lobster and truffles. High-quality bottles of wine accompany this epicurean dream, and it’s all served on the ship’s best china. This is a great option for food and wine lovers who aren’t on a cruise to lose weight, as seven courses of rich food will probably leave you sated but a couple pounds heavier.

Norwegian Getaway by Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line ’s Miami-based  Norwegian Getaway earns high marks for its variety of dining options, as well as its for-fee restaurant Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian. Ocean Blue features a carefully curated menu of locally-sourced cuisine, including Florida grouper and lobster risotto. Miami flavors are a major influence in this Getaway-specific restaurant, which is definitely worth a splurge.

Cruisers with a tighter budget needn’t miss out, though. Norwegian Getaway also houses an all-star array of complimentary eateries ranging from typical cruise buffet fare to Irish pubs and Asian fusion. If you’re looking for dinner and a show, opt for the Getaway-only Illusionarium, which offers sublime specialties with a side of live magic performances.

Allure of the Seas by Royal Caribbean

The largest of its Oasis-class ships, Royal Caribbean’s  Allure of the Seas is a great foodie pick both for its superb specialty restaurant 150 Central Park, and for its more casual dining spots. 150 Central Park offers prime seafood specialties, including lobster salads and crab cakes. You’ll need to reserve a table and pay a little extra, but the exceptional menu is crafted by celeb chef Michael Schwartz, and definitely warrants a taste test. 

If you’re craving some simpler sustenance, head to the Boardwalk Dog House, Allure’s open-air hot dog stand. If you’re feeling particularly peckish, you can sample a sausage from seven different styles, from German bratwurst to Sicilian sausage to Coney Island dog.

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When it comes to cruise ship cuisine, there are some mainstays you can always count on - soft serve ice cream, cheeseburgers, and pizza among them. Cruise ships will always offer bountiful cornucopias of healthy eating options like fresh fruit and vegetables. And while we’ll always encourage you to branch out and try new delicious dishes, we also understand the desire to find the best of the best. It’s always amazing to spontaneously encounter the best burger, pizza, sushi, steak, or dessert you’ve ever had. While we get the thrill of the chase, we’re here to offer a bit of a roadmap to guide you to the right cruise ship for your culinary quest.

Best burger: Carnival Breeze

We’ll be the first to admit: Carnival’s cruise food hasn’t always been the main draw of the line. But we also have to admit that Guy’s Burger Joint on  Carnival Breeze (and 19 other Carnival ships) is an amazing exception. The menu is built from five official burgers with a smattering of different toppings ranging from the traditional (cheese, lettuce, tomato) to the intense (roasted green chili salsa, mushrooms, “donkey sauce”). However, you can also make your own custom burger at the toppings bar, and feel free to slather the included side of fries with whatever you like as well. 

This super-casual eatery can usually be found by the pool, and we have it on good authority that the fries are best enjoyed al fresco. An added bonus for this spot (as if it needed one) is that Guy’s Burger Joint is totally free for all passengers.

Best pizza: Grand, Royal, Regal, & Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises serves up pure Neapolitan pizzas at the complimentary Alfredo’s Pizzeria, onboard  Grand Princess ,  Royal Princess ,  Regal Princess , and  Sapphire Princess . While the crust might be extra thin, each hand-tossed pizza is piled high with tons of toppings, from typical mozzarella and tomatoes to avocado and squash. These pies are a far cry from the buffet slices that can be disappointing for true foodies, and Alfredo’s Pizzeria is definitely worth a visit.

Best international cuisine: Celebrity Reflection

We couldn’t overlook  Celebrity Cruises , as their whimsical Qsine tops many a food-lover’s bucket list. With quizzical decor and unconventional plating, Qsine really brings the fun and playfulness of an adventurous palate to life. Sushi is served like cake pops (on popsicle sticks), spring rolls are served in literal springs, and a smorgasbord of international options awaits. 

Celebrity Reflection also offers an expansive Lawn Club, where guests can sear their own steaks on a perfectly manicured open-air green. An impressive array of complimentary restaurants can also be found on this cruise ship, which is the largest in the fleet.

If you still have questions, like “Is food included in a cruise?” or “How can I stick to my diet plan while on a cruise?” check out other helpful articles from our guide to the  best cruise food experience  and learn everything you need to know about cruise ship dining from  how to plan your perfect foodie cruise to  the best cruise destinations for foodies and make the most out of your cruise vacation.

• Everything You Need to Know About Cruise Ship Dining
• How to Plan Your Perfect Foodie Cruise
• Best Cruise Destinations for Foodies

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9 Cruise Lines With Best Food: A Gastronomer’s Sea Adventure!

Maybe I’m alone in this (doubt it) but when I travel, food is one of my top priorities. The word ‘diet’ flies out the window and I wholeheartedly enjoy myself.

So when booking a cruise, I want to make sure the food onboard is top-notch.

You’ll be having the majority of your meals on the ship anyways, you may as well make sure they’re enjoyable.

And if you’re a true foodie like myself, finding the cruise lines with the best food is high on your list.

So we did the dirty digging for you and rounded up the best cruise lines based purely on their food quality.

Get ready for your mouth to water…

Table of Contents

Which Cruise Lines Have The Best Food?

The top cruise lines for food enthusiasts are Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Each of these lines excels in culinary excellence, offering everything from sophisticated, award-winning menus to immersive, destination-focused dining experiences.

The choice of the best depends on individual preferences for style, ingredients, and variety, with each line presenting its unique approach to gourmet cruising.

How We Decided Which Cruise Lines Have The Best Food

The hallmark of quality cruise ship cuisine lies in its fresh ingredients, creative menus, and experienced culinary teams who craft each dish.

Presentation is key; each plate is often a work of art, visually impressive and designed to add to the overall dining pleasure.

In terms of flavor, the best cruise ship cuisine will take you on a journey, with authenticity in ethnic dishes and innovation in combining flavors.

Dining on a cruise ship is a complete sensory experience, with the gentle ocean backdrop and meticulous service enhancing the delight of each bite.

These are what we consider the best foodie cruise lines based on our own travel experience and online chatter.

Top 9 Cruise Lines for Foodies

Crystal cruises.

On Crystal Cruises, you’re treated to an array of sophisticated dining options that cater to your appreciation for gastronomic finesse.

The elegant main dining room and specialty restaurants offer menus crafted by award-winning chefs, featuring dishes like succulent lobster or perfectly aged steaks.

In addition to these exquisite dining venues, Crystal Cruises offers the unique Vintage Room, where wine connoisseurs can indulge in exceptional wine-pairing dinners.

For a more casual yet equally refined experience, the Lido Café presents a buffet-style service with an array of international cuisines.

The Bistro, a Parisian-inspired café, offers a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon, with specialty coffees and light snacks surrounded by an air of sophistication.

Whether it’s a formal dinner, a casual lunch by the pool, or a late-night snack, your taste buds will rejoice in the luxury that graces every plate.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises prides itself on what many call “The Finest Cuisine at Sea” .

Indulge in the signature dishes of world-renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin at the French-inspired Jacques restaurant.

Beyond the delights of Jacques, Oceania’s culinary repertoire extends to other specialty restaurants like the Polo Grill, embodying the essence of a classic American steakhouse, and Toscana, where guests can savor authentic Italian dishes.

The onboard cooking school, a unique feature of Oceania Cruises, offers hands-on culinary classes under the guidance of expert chefs.

This immersive experience allows guests not only to taste world-class cuisine but also to learn the secrets behind it, enriching their culinary knowledge and skills.

Seabourn Cruise Line

With Seabourn Cruise Line, you’ll savor multicourse meals that rival those of Michelin-starred restaurants.

Imagine dinners where truffles and caviar are no rarity but a standard expectation.

The Restaurant, the main dining venue on Seabourn ships, offers a variety of gourmet options in an open-seating arrangement, allowing guests to dine whenever they wish.

For a more intimate experience, guests can opt for The Grill by Thomas Keller, a unique collaboration with the renowned American chef, where classic American cuisine is reimagined with contemporary flair.

Seabourn’s commitment to personalized service elevates the dining experience further.

A dedicated staff ensures that each guest’s preferences and dietary needs are meticulously attended to, making every dining experience feel exclusive and tailored.

Your dining experience is elevated with a side of personalized service that ensures your culinary desires are met with impeccable attention.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises takes ‘all-inclusive’ to a new level. Here, you can dive into a world of flavors at no additional cost.

Relish in an extensive selection of fine wines and gourmet dishes in sophisticated venues like Prime 7 and Chartreuse.

These specialty restaurants, along with others like the Italian-inspired Sette Mari at La Veranda and the Asian fusion Pacific Rim, boast menus crafted with precision and flair, highlighting the finest ingredients from around the world.

The Compass Rose, the ship’s main dining room, offers a diverse menu that changes daily, ensuring that every meal is a new discovery.

Additionally, your journey includes culinary-focused shore excursions that tempt your senses with local cuisines.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises excels in providing you a taste of your destinations.

The Kitchen Table experience focuses on regional recipes and the importance of locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to connect with the culture through its cuisine.

Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant offers a hearty taste of Italy, while The Chef’s Table provides a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings that change every few days, reflecting the cuisine of the ship’s current region.

Mamsen’s, inspired by Norwegian heritage, serves Scandinavian delights, and the World Café features global cuisine with live cooking and open kitchens.

Their destination-focused dining will have you savoring the essence of each region you visit.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers you a modern luxury dining experience where menus are as inventive as they are diverse.

With venues like the Tuscan Grille and partnerships with wine producers, you can enjoy perfectly paired sips and bites.

Beyond these exquisite dining options, Celebrity Cruises also offers unique experiences like the Chef’s Market Discoveries, where guests can accompany the chef on a market tour, followed by a special dinner on board featuring the day’s freshest finds.

Blu, another exclusive restaurant for AquaClass guests, focuses on healthy and clean eating, offering a menu that features light and flavorful dishes.

Their focus on fresh, globally-inspired dishes will leave you eagerly anticipating your next meal.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises provides an intimate setting to enjoy your meals, often highlighting the authentic flavors of the itinerary’s regions.

Whether dining al fresco under the stars or in the coziness of The Restaurant, you’ll find dishes infused with local ingredients and traditions, making every bite a journey unto itself.

The culinary experience aboard Silversea extends to specialty restaurants like La Dame, featuring fine French cuisine, and the Grill, which offers an interactive dining experience where guests can cook their prime cuts on heated lava stones.

For a more casual setting, the Pool Grill serves up lighter fare in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

With Silversea Cruises, dining is not just a part of the day; it’s an integral aspect of the travel experience.

Each meal is a celebration of the local culture and a testament to the cruise line’s commitment to delivering an exquisite and authentic dining experience.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers a culinary odyssey that is as diverse and exciting as its destinations.

Dining options range from Wonderland , where dishes are crafted through molecular gastronomy, to the authentic Italian flavors at Jamie’s

Italian by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Each meal is an exploration, with options like sushi-making classes and wine tastings adding to the immersive experience. Casual yet diverse, the Windjammer Café presents a world of flavors, from lavish breakfast buffets to satisfying midnight snacks.

Quality is at the heart of Royal Caribbean’s culinary journey. Their focus is on using the finest ingredients to create exceptional dishes, whether it’s a classic gourmet burger at Johnny Rockets or an innovative Asian fusion meal at Izumi.

You truly can eat your way through Royal caribbean and never get bored…

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line redefines the dining experience at sea with its “Freestyle Dining” concept, offering a relaxed, resort-style atmosphere.

This approach allows guests the freedom to dine when and where they wish, choosing from an array of over 25 unique dining experiences.

Standouts include Onda by Scarpetta, known for its modern Italian fare, and Teppanyaki, where skilled chefs entertain as they cook.

The culinary journey on Norwegian extends to the indulgent desserts at Dolce Gelato and the sizzling steaks at Cagney’s Steakhouse.

Every restaurant on board aims to provide a distinct and memorable dining experience, ensuring that every palate is catered to. With Norwegian Cruise Line, the journey is as much about the diverse and delicious cuisine as it is about the destinations .

Unique Dining Experiences Onboard

Specialty restaurants and themed dinners.

Every cruise line boasts a signature style that extends to their dining options. Specialty restaurants offer you a chance to indulge in culinary delights that are often the brainchild of celebrity chefs.

Consider the specialty dining on Norwegian Cruise Line, where you can savor the flavors of a high-end Italian restaurant inspired by New York City’s Scarpetta.

Imagine feasting on barbecue with live country music as your backdrop, or delighting in Caribbean lobster risotto aboard an Ocean Blue venue.

Themed dinners, on the other hand, transform your meal into an event. Royal Caribbean International doesn’t just transport you around the world; it brings global flavors to your table with Mediterranean nights or a taste of Asia.

Your dinner could be a festive luau, complete with Hawaiian fare and traditional entertainment. These experiences redefine dining, making each meal an adventure in itself.

Chef-Led Cooking Demonstrations and Classes

Have you ever wanted to learn the secrets behind your favorite dishes? Cruise ships offer you the chance to put on an apron and learn from the masters in chef-led cooking classes.

Celebrity Cruises, known for their exquisite culinary standards, may allow you to witness the artful preparation of gourmet dishes right before your eyes, and perhaps even try your hand under the guidance of skilled chefs.

Such immersive experiences are not just about eating; they’re about learning, engaging, and taking a bit of the journey home with you.

As chefs share their personal tips and tricks, you’ll be able to add new recipes to your repertoire and dazzle your family and friends long after your voyage has ended. It’s a delicious education you won’t easily forget.

Dining Plans and Packages

Cruise lines offer a variety of dining plans and packages to cater to your culinary preferences, whether you’re in the mood for an all-encompassing gourmet experience or prefer to pick and choose specific eateries as you go.

All-Inclusive vs. A La Carte Options

All-Inclusive Dining : On certain lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, your fare includes a wide range of dining options, meaning you can indulge in a variety of cuisines at no additional cost.

You’ll have the freedom to savor gourmet meals across multiple venues without worrying about the bill. This often includes main dining rooms, buffets, and sometimes even specialty restaurants.

A La Carte Options : Alternatively, some cruise lines operate on an a la carte basis. You pay for each meal outside of the included buffet or main dining room options.

This allows you to sample specialties from critically acclaimed chefs at your own pace, creating a custom dining experience that aligns with your cravings and budget.

Beverage and Specialty Dining Packages

Beverage Packages : If your sea days are incomplete without a refreshing drink in hand, beverage packages can be a convenient and cost-saving option.

Depending on the cruise line, packages can range from non-alcoholic drinks to premium spirits and fine wines. You’ll find options like Carnival’s Cheers package or Royal Caribbeans Deluxe Package , which covers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your voyage.

Specialty Dining Packages : For a more elevated dining experience, specialty dining packages allow you to dine at exclusive restaurants for a set fee.

These packages may offer a selection of fine dining establishments that are not included in the standard fare, such as Celebrity’s Tuscan Grille or Norwegian’s steakhouses.

These dining experiences usually require reservations, so it’s wise to book in advance to secure your spot.

How to Choose the Right Cruise for Your Palate

Culinary Themes and Itineraries

When you’re looking at cruise options, pay close attention to the culinary themes. Some cruises are explicitly designed around gastronomic experiences, offering itineraries that include stops at ports known for their food culture.

A cruise stopping in St. Barts may delight with its French-inspired dining options, akin to what you might find in the French Riviera.

Research the line’s specialty restaurants as well, like the Tuscan Grille on Celebrity Cruises, which is renowned for its dish quality and variety.

Certain cruise lines may feature on-board food and wine festivals, culinary workshops, and chef-hosted dinners that could greatly enhance your journey.

Always check the cruise’s schedule to see if these align with the dates of your travel for an enriched culinary voyage.

Personal Dietary Needs and Preferences

If you have specific preferences or restrictions—be it vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, or any other—verify in advance that the cruise line can accommodate you.

Don’t hesitate to contact them directly to discuss your requirements; customer service can provide detailed information about on-board dining options and menu flexibility.

For a smooth dining experience, it’s also helpful to look at the availability of various dining venues on the cruise.

Larger ships typically offer an impressive array of dining options without additional fees, as seen with lines like Carnival.

This variety means you’re more likely to find eateries that suit your palate and dietary preferences, providing a stress-free cruise where you can enjoy the food just as much as the voyage itself.

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