Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package Tips: How To Get The Most Out Of Your Cruise Dining Experience

by | Sep 22, 2023 | Cruise Travel Tips

As someone who has been on multiple Royal Caribbean cruises, I can confidently say that the unlimited dining package is a game-changer. For a flat fee, you can have access to multiple specialty restaurants on the ship, allowing you to indulge in a variety of cuisines without worrying about the cost. However, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you get the most out of this package.

First and foremost, it's important to make reservations for the specialty restaurants as soon as possible. Some of the more popular restaurants, such as Chops Grille and Giovanni's Table, can fill up quickly. By making reservations early, you can ensure that you get a table at the restaurant and time that you want. Additionally, be sure to check the dress code for each restaurant, as some may have specific requirements.

Another tip is to take advantage of the package during lunch and dinner. While it may be tempting to stick to the main dining room for these meals, the unlimited dining package allows you to try out different restaurants without any additional cost. This is especially beneficial if you have a picky eater in your group, as they can choose to dine at a restaurant that caters to their specific tastes.

Understanding the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package

As someone who loves to cruise, I'm always looking for ways to make the experience even better. One of the ways I've found to do that is by taking advantage of Royal Caribbean's Unlimited Dining Package. This package offers a lot of value, but it can also be a bit confusing to understand, so I wanted to share some tips to help you make the most of it.

First, let's talk about what the Unlimited Dining Package is. This package allows you to dine at any of the specialty restaurants on board your ship as many times as you want during your cruise. This includes popular restaurants like Chops Grille, Giovanni's Table, and Izumi. The package is priced per person, per day, and can be purchased either before your cruise or once you're on board.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Unlimited Dining Package does not include drinks, so you'll still need to pay for those separately. Additionally, some specialty restaurants may have an additional surcharge, which is not included in the package price. However, even with these additional costs, the package can still be a great value if you plan on dining at the specialty restaurants frequently.

When you purchase the Unlimited Dining Package, you'll receive a sticker on your SeaPass card indicating that you have the package. You can then make reservations at the specialty restaurants either online before your cruise or once you're on board. It's important to note that reservations are highly recommended, as the specialty restaurants can fill up quickly, especially on sea days.

Overall, the Unlimited Dining Package can be a great way to enhance your dining experience on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Just be sure to read the fine print and understand what's included (and what's not) before making your purchase. Happy cruising!

Booking and Reservations

When it comes to booking and making reservations for the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, it's important to note that the package can only be purchased before you board the ship. You can either purchase it online through the Cruise Planner website or by calling Royal Caribbean directly.

It's recommended to purchase the package as early as possible to ensure availability. The package is limited in quantity and can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel times.

When booking, be sure to have your cruise reservation information handy. You'll need to provide your ship name, sail date, and reservation number to purchase the package.

Once you've purchased the package, you can make reservations for specialty dining restaurants through the Cruise Planner website. It's recommended to make reservations as early as possible to ensure availability, especially for popular restaurants like Chops Grille and Giovanni's Table.

Overall, booking and making reservations for the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package is a straightforward process. Just be sure to purchase the package early and make reservations as soon as possible to ensure availability.

Cost and Value Analysis

When considering the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package, it is essential to analyze the cost and value of the package. The package's cost varies depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the cruise. However, the package's value is consistent across all ships and itineraries.

The package's cost ranges from $29 to $35 per person, per day, depending on the ship and itinerary. The package includes access to all specialty restaurants on the ship, unlimited meals, and a 40% discount on bottles of wine under $100. The package also includes an 18% gratuity on the package's total cost.

When analyzing the package's value, it is essential to consider the cost of dining without the package. Specialty restaurants on the ship can cost anywhere from $35 to $60 per person, per meal. If you plan on dining at specialty restaurants more than once during your cruise, purchasing the package can be an economical option.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean often offers sale pricing on the package, making it an even more attractive option. It is essential to keep an eye out for these sales and purchase the package during the sale to maximize its value.

In conclusion, the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package can be a valuable addition to your cruise experience. Analyzing the package's cost and value can help you determine if it is the right choice for you.

Inclusions in the Package

As someone who has enjoyed the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package, I can confidently say that it is an excellent value for those who love to indulge in delicious food while on vacation. Here are some of the inclusions you can expect with the package:

  • Lunch and dinner at the complimentary restaurants: The package includes meals at the main dining room, Windjammer buffet, and other complimentary restaurants on the ship.
  • Specialty restaurants: The package covers meals at specialty restaurants such as Chops Grille, Izumi, Playmakers, Johnny Rockets, Hooked Seafood, Giovanni’s Table, Sabor, Portside BBQ, and more.
  • Chef’s Table: If you're a foodie, you'll love the Chef's Table experience, which is also included in the package.
  • Izumi Hibachi: The package includes a meal at the Izumi Hibachi restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine cooked right in front of you.
  • Jamie’s Italian: Jamie's Italian is a must-visit for fans of Italian cuisine, and luckily, it's included in the package.
  • The Mason Jar Wonderland: This restaurant serves up classic American comfort food, and it's also included in the package.
  • 150 Central Park: This restaurant offers a fine dining experience, and it's included in the package.
  • Samba Grill: If you're a fan of Brazilian-style BBQ, you'll love Samba Grill, which is also covered by the package.
  • Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade: This restaurant is perfect for sports fans, and it's included in the package.
  • Fish & Ships: This restaurant serves up fish and chips, and it's included in the package.
  • Ben & Jerry's: If you have a sweet tooth, you'll love that the package includes Ben & Jerry's ice cream.
  • Complimentary restaurants: In addition to the specialty restaurants, the package also covers meals at the complimentary restaurants on the ship, such as the main dining room and the Windjammer buffet.

Overall, the Unlimited Dining Package is an excellent value for those who love to indulge in delicious food while on vacation. With so many inclusions, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.

Dining Experiences and Options

As someone who has experienced the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package, I can confidently say that the dining options on board are exceptional. From the main dining room to the specialty restaurants, there is something for everyone.

The main dining room offers a variety of delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu changes daily, so there is always something new to try. The à la carte options are also great, and the appetizers and main courses are always cooked to perfection.

For those who want a more intimate dining experience, the cover charge restaurants are a great option. These venues offer a more upscale atmosphere and a more extensive menu. The cover charge is well worth it, as the food and service are exceptional.

If you're looking for something more casual, there are also plenty of options for small bites and tapas. These are perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. The variety of options is impressive, and the quality of the food is exceptional.

Overall, the dining experiences on Royal Caribbean are top-notch. Whether you're in the main dining room or at a specialty restaurant, you can expect delicious food and excellent service. The Unlimited Dining Package is an excellent way to experience all the dining options on board without breaking the bank.

Tips and Additional Charges

As someone who has purchased the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package, I have learned a few tips and tricks to make the most out of it while avoiding any unnecessary additional charges.

Firstly, it is important to note that gratuities are not included in the package. While the service charge is automatically added to your bill, it is still customary to leave a tip for your waiter or server, especially if they provided exceptional service.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some specialty restaurants may have a cover charge. This charge is not included in the package and must be paid separately. However, it is important to note that the cover charge usually includes all of the food you order, so it may still be a good value.

It is also worth mentioning that the package only includes food and non-alcoholic beverages. If you plan on ordering alcoholic beverages, you will need to pay for them separately. Additionally, if you want to order room service, there may be a cash gratuity required.

Overall, the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package is a great value for those who plan on dining frequently on the ship. By keeping these tips and additional charges in mind, you can make the most out of your package while avoiding any unexpected fees.

Beverages and Add-Ons

When it comes to beverages, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your unlimited dining package:

  • Bottles of wine: If you're a wine lover, you'll be happy to know that Royal Caribbean offers an extensive wine list. You can purchase bottles of wine to enjoy with your meals, and the unlimited dining package allows you to save money on your wine purchases.
  • Beverage package: If you want to enjoy unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise, consider purchasing the beverage package. This package includes a variety of drinks, including cocktails, beer, wine, and soda.
  • Deluxe beverage package: For those who want to indulge in premium drinks, the deluxe beverage package is the way to go. This package includes all of the drinks offered in the standard beverage package, as well as premium cocktails, top-shelf spirits, and specialty coffee drinks.
  • Wine pairing dinners: If you want to take your wine experience to the next level, consider attending a wine pairing dinner. These dinners are held in specialty restaurants and feature a multi-course meal paired with a selection of wines.
  • Cocktails: Royal Caribbean has a variety of cocktails available, from classic favorites to signature drinks. The unlimited dining package allows you to try as many as you'd like without worrying about the cost.
  • Solarium: The Solarium is an adults-only area on select Royal Caribbean ships. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink in a peaceful setting.
  • Smoothies: If you're looking for a healthy drink option, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of smoothies made with fresh fruits and vegetables. These drinks are a great way to stay refreshed and energized throughout your cruise.

Overall, Royal Caribbean's unlimited dining package offers a wide range of beverage options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're a wine lover, a cocktail enthusiast, or a health-conscious traveler, there's something for everyone.

Specific Considerations

When considering the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package, there are some specific factors to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your dining experience:

Embarkation Day

On embarkation day, it's important to note that not all restaurants may be available. Some may be closed for lunch or may not be open until dinner time. It's also important to note that the Unlimited Dining Package does not cover room service or specialty dining options such as Johnny Rockets or Starbucks.

Sea Days

On sea days, it's a good idea to make reservations in advance for dinner, especially if you want to dine at one of the specialty restaurants. These restaurants tend to book up quickly, so planning ahead can save you time and frustration. Additionally, some restaurants may have limited hours on sea days, so be sure to check the daily schedule for availability.

Children and Kids

The Unlimited Dining Package is a great option for families with children, as it allows for flexibility in dining options. However, it's important to note that some restaurants may have age restrictions or may not offer kid-friendly options. Be sure to check the menus before making reservations to ensure there are options that everyone in your party will enjoy.

Limitations and Food Credit

While the Unlimited Dining Package offers a wide variety of dining options, there are some limitations to keep in mind. The package only covers food items, so drinks and gratuities will still need to be paid for separately. Additionally, the package only covers one entree per person, per meal. If you want to order additional entrees or appetizers, you will need to pay for them separately.

Mystery Dinner Theater

If you're interested in the Mystery Dinner Theater experience, be sure to book in advance as this is a popular option. The package covers the cost of the dinner portion of the experience, but not the show itself.

Desserts and Starters

While the Unlimited Dining Package covers one entree per person, per meal, it's important to note that it also includes unlimited desserts and starters. This is a great opportunity to try new dishes and indulge in some sweet treats.

Overall, the Unlimited Dining Package is a great option for those looking for flexibility and variety in their dining experience. By keeping these specific considerations in mind, you can ensure that you make the most out of your package and enjoy all that Royal Caribbean has to offer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Royal Caribbean Unlimited Dining Package is a great investment for those who want to enjoy a variety of dining options without worrying about the cost. With the package, you can dine at any of the specialty restaurants on board as many times as you want, without any additional charges.

To make the most of the package, I recommend planning your meals in advance and making reservations early. This will ensure that you get a table at your preferred restaurant and time. Additionally, try to dine at different restaurants each night to experience the full range of culinary offerings.

If you are traveling with a group, consider purchasing the package for everyone to save money and make dining together more convenient. And don't forget to take advantage of the package's discounts on wine and cocktails.

Overall, the Unlimited Dining Package is a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy the best dining experiences on board a Royal Caribbean cruise.