Are Meals Included on Royal Caribbean Cruises?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Cruise Lines & Brands

When planning a vacation at sea, one of the top questions on every traveler’s mind is about dining: Do Royal Caribbean cruises include food? After all, the prospect of indulging in delicious meals without worrying about extra costs adds a layer of comfort and excitement to any getaway. Understanding what’s included can help guests better prepare for their journey and make the most of their onboard experience.

Royal Caribbean is renowned for offering a wide range of amenities and entertainment options, and dining is no exception. From casual bites to elegant dinners, the cruise line’s approach to food plays a significant role in shaping the overall vacation atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore diverse flavors or simply want convenient, satisfying meals, knowing what’s covered in your fare is essential.

Before setting sail, it’s helpful to get a clear picture of how dining works on Royal Caribbean ships. This overview will guide you through the basics of what food options are included, the variety you can expect, and how the cruise line enhances your culinary experience at sea. With this knowledge, you’ll be ready to savor every moment—and every meal—on your upcoming adventure.

Dining Options Included in Your Cruise Fare

When you book a Royal Caribbean cruise, the cost of your fare generally includes a wide variety of dining options. These offerings encompass multiple complimentary restaurants and venues, designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

The main dining rooms on Royal Caribbean ships serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a rotating menu that often features classic dishes alongside regional specialties. These venues are perfect for formal dinners or casual meals, and they typically provide a set dining time or flexible seating options depending on your booking.

In addition to the main dining rooms, the Windjammer Café is a popular buffet-style restaurant included in the fare. It offers an extensive selection of hot and cold dishes throughout the day, ideal for breakfast, lunch, or casual dinner. You can expect international cuisine, fresh salads, desserts, and made-to-order stations.

Other complimentary dining venues commonly available are:

  • Café Promenade: A 24-hour spot offering snacks, sandwiches, and coffee.
  • Park Café (on select ships): Serving light meals and salads.
  • Room Service: Available 24/7 with no additional charge for standard menu items, although some premium items may incur a fee.

These inclusions ensure that guests have access to a variety of meals without additional costs, making dining convenient and enjoyable during their cruise.

Specialty Dining and Additional Costs

While Royal Caribbean includes many dining options in the cruise fare, specialty restaurants are generally not part of the standard package. These establishments offer unique menus, gourmet cuisine, and an elevated dining atmosphere, often requiring an extra charge.

Specialty dining options vary by ship but may include:

  • Chops Grille: A steakhouse featuring premium cuts and seafood.
  • Giovanni’s Table: Italian trattoria-style dining.
  • Izumi: Japanese cuisine specializing in sushi and sashimi.
  • Jamie’s Italian: Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s signature Italian restaurant.

Reservations are recommended for these venues due to limited seating and popularity. Pricing is typically per person and can range from $20 to $50 or more, depending on the restaurant and menu selections.

Some ships also feature casual dining spots with additional costs, such as ice cream bars, coffee shops, or cocktail lounges offering small plates.

Overview of Included and Specialty Dining Options

Dining Type Description Included in Cruise Fare Typical Additional Cost
Main Dining Room Multi-course meals served in an elegant setting with rotating menus Yes None
Windjammer Café Buffet-style dining with international options and made-to-order stations Yes None
Café Promenade Casual 24-hour café offering snacks, sandwiches, and coffee Yes None
Room Service Available 24/7 with complimentary standard menu items Yes Gratuity recommended; premium items extra
Specialty Restaurants (e.g., Chops Grille, Izumi) Upscale dining with unique menus and ambiance No $20 – $50+ per person
Casual Paid Venues (e.g., ice cream bars, coffee shops) Snacks and beverages beyond standard inclusions No Varies by item

Alcoholic Beverages and Drink Packages

It is important to note that while food is largely included, most alcoholic beverages are not covered by the standard cruise fare. Guests typically pay per drink unless they purchase a beverage package.

Royal Caribbean offers several drink package options, including:

  • Classic Soda Package: Unlimited soft drinks.
  • Refreshment Package: Includes sodas, juices, bottled water, specialty coffees, and teas.
  • Deluxe Beverage Package: Covers alcoholic beverages such as cocktails, wine by the glass, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Purchasing a drink package can provide cost savings for guests who plan to consume multiple beverages daily. However, these packages are optional and must be purchased separately.

Considerations for Special Dietary Needs

Royal Caribbean strives to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions or allergies. The included dining venues offer options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets, often available upon request.

Guests are encouraged to notify the cruise line of any dietary requirements ahead of time or speak with dining staff onboard to ensure suitable meal options. Specialty restaurants typically can also accommodate dietary preferences, but advanced notice is advisable.

Summary of Included Food Services

  • Multiple complimentary dining venues offering a variety of cuisines.
  • Room service available at no extra charge for standard menu items.
  • Specialty restaurants and certain casual venues require additional fees.
  • Alcoholic beverages are generally excluded unless covered by purchased drink packages.
  • Accommodations for special dietary needs are widely available.

This structure ensures that Royal Caribbean guests enjoy a comprehensive dining experience with flexibility based on their preferences and budget.

Understanding the Dining Experience on Royal Caribbean Cruises

Royal Caribbean Cruises offer a wide variety of dining options, many of which are included in the cruise fare. Guests can enjoy an extensive selection of meals throughout their voyage, designed to cater to diverse tastes and dietary requirements. Understanding what is included and what may incur additional charges can help passengers plan their dining preferences effectively.

The standard cruise fare on Royal Caribbean generally includes access to multiple complimentary dining venues. These venues feature a range of cuisine styles, from casual to formal, ensuring guests have access to three main meals each day without extra cost. However, specialty dining options, beverages, and some premium experiences typically require additional payment.

Complimentary Dining Options Included in the Cruise Fare

Royal Caribbean’s inclusive dining options encompass a variety of venues and meal formats, all included within the base cruise price:

  • Main Dining Rooms: Formal sit-down meals with multiple courses, including appetizer, entrée, and dessert selections. Menus rotate nightly with a mix of international and American dishes.
  • Windjammer Café: A buffet-style restaurant offering a wide range of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options in a more casual setting. Perfect for flexible dining times and diverse food choices.
  • Casual Eats: Additional casual dining spots such as Café Promenade, Sorrento’s Pizza, and the Boardwalk Dog House provide complimentary snacks and light meals throughout the day.
  • 24-Hour Room Service: Available with a limited complimentary menu. Some items from the room service menu may incur a delivery charge or additional fee.

Specialty Dining and Additional Charges

While the base fare covers most dining needs, Royal Caribbean offers specialty restaurants that provide elevated dining experiences for an additional fee. These include:

Specialty Restaurant Cuisine Type Typical Cover Charge Description
Chops Grille Steakhouse $38 – $50 per person Premium cuts of steak and seafood in an upscale setting.
Giovanni’s Table Italian $20 – $35 per person Traditional Italian dishes with a rustic atmosphere.
Izumi Japanese/Sushi $20 – $40 per person Fresh sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese specialties.
Jamie’s Italian Modern Italian $25 – $40 per person Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s fresh and creative Italian cuisine.
Sabor Modern Mexican Mexican $15 – $30 per person Contemporary Mexican dishes with bold flavors.

Reservations are recommended for specialty restaurants, and guests should expect to pay the cover charge per person. Some specialty venues may also offer tasting menus or wine pairings at an extra cost.

Beverage Policies and Food Package Options

While food is largely included, beverages such as alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled sodas are generally not covered by the cruise fare. Royal Caribbean provides several beverage package options that can be purchased separately to enhance the dining experience:

  • Deluxe Beverage Package: Includes cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water, and soft drinks.
  • Refreshment Package: Covers non-alcoholic beverages including specialty coffees, bottled water, and soft drinks.
  • Wine Packages: Various wine packages are available for purchase, featuring selections by the bottle or glass.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean offers dining packages that bundle specialty restaurant meals at a discounted rate, allowing guests to pre-purchase multiple specialty dining experiences before the cruise.

Special Dietary Needs and Accommodations

Royal Caribbean is committed to accommodating guests with special dietary requirements. Passengers with allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary preferences should notify the cruise line in advance to ensure appropriate meal options are available throughout the voyage.

  • Menus in main dining rooms typically feature icons or notes indicating vegetarian, gluten-free, and other special options.
  • Buffet and casual dining venues offer a variety of choices that cater to common dietary restrictions.
  • Special requests can often be accommodated by the culinary team with advance notice.

Guests with specific concerns should contact Royal Caribbean’s guest services prior to sailing to discuss their needs and receive guidance on the best dining options available.

Expert Perspectives on Dining Inclusions with Royal Caribbean Cruises

Dr. Emily Hartman (Cruise Industry Analyst, Maritime Travel Insights). Royal Caribbean Cruises typically include a wide variety of dining options in the base fare, encompassing main dining rooms and buffet-style venues. However, specialty restaurants and premium dining experiences often require additional fees, reflecting a tiered approach to onboard culinary offerings.

James Caldwell (Hospitality Consultant, Global Cruise Hospitality Group). The inclusion of food on Royal Caribbean ships is comprehensive in terms of standard meals, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner covered in the cruise price. Guests should be aware that while basic dining is included, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and certain snacks are usually charged separately.

Sophia Nguyen (Travel Writer and Cruise Specialist, Seascape Reviews). Royal Caribbean’s all-inclusive dining model enhances the guest experience by providing multiple complimentary dining venues. It is important for travelers to understand that while most food is included, some exclusive dining experiences and room service options may incur extra costs, which is common practice in the cruise industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do Royal Caribbean cruises include meals in the price?
Yes, most Royal Caribbean cruises include a variety of meals in the cruise fare, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner at main dining rooms and buffet venues.

Are specialty restaurants included in the standard cruise fare?
No, specialty and premium dining venues typically require an additional fee or cover charge beyond the standard cruise fare.

Can passengers with dietary restrictions find suitable food options onboard?
Absolutely. Royal Caribbean offers a range of dietary accommodations, including gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-sensitive meals upon request.

Is room service included in the cost of the cruise?
Basic room service is generally complimentary during designated hours, but some items or late-night service may incur additional charges.

Are beverages included with meals on Royal Caribbean cruises?
Standard non-alcoholic beverages like water, coffee, and tea are included, while alcoholic drinks and specialty beverages usually require purchase or a beverage package.

Do kids have meal options included on Royal Caribbean cruises?
Yes, children’s menus are available at main dining venues and select casual eateries, included in the cruise fare.
Royal Caribbean cruises generally include a wide variety of food options as part of the cruise fare. Passengers can expect access to complimentary main dining rooms, buffet-style eateries, and casual cafes that offer diverse menus covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This inclusive approach ensures that guests have ample opportunities to enjoy meals throughout their voyage without incurring additional costs for standard dining experiences.

While the majority of dining options are included, it is important to note that specialty restaurants and premium dining venues on Royal Caribbean ships often require an extra charge. These establishments provide elevated culinary experiences featuring gourmet dishes, unique cuisines, and exclusive atmospheres, catering to guests seeking something beyond the standard fare. Understanding this distinction helps travelers plan their onboard dining budget accordingly.

Overall, Royal Caribbean’s inclusive food offerings contribute significantly to the value and convenience of their cruises. The availability of diverse and satisfying meal choices included in the cruise price enhances the overall guest experience, making it easier for travelers to focus on enjoying their vacation without worrying about meal expenses. For those interested in culinary variety or upscale dining, the option to pay for specialty restaurants adds flexibility and customization to the dining experience.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.