I have dined on Royal Caribbean ships with My Time Dining, and I must say, it does offer flexibility.
My Time Dining is a flexible dining option available on Royal Caribbean cruises. Unlike traditional dining, where guests are assigned a specific dining time and table, My Time Dining allows guests to dine in the Main Dining Room anytime they like during dinner hours, according to availability.
The most common My Time Dining hours are from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., although the exact times may vary depending on the ship and itinerary. The daily Cruise Compass news bulletin, the Royal Caribbean app, and the interactive TV in guests' cabins all contain information about My Time Dining. This information can be accessed to provide details about the dining room.
With My Time Dining, guests have the freedom to decide when they want to eat and who they want to sit with, making it an ideal option for those who prefer flexibility in their dining experience. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean, including how to book it and what guests can expect from this dining option.
Understanding My Time Dining
Royal Caribbean offers a flexible dining option, My Time Dining, which allows guests to have dinner in the Main Dining Room whenever they wish during dining hours - providing it is available. Unlike traditional dining, where guests are assigned a specific dining time, My Time Dining offers greater flexibility and convenience.
Guests can choose to make a reservation for My Time Dining or simply walk in and request a table. The most common My Time Dining hours are from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm, although the exact times may vary depending on the ship and itinerary. Guests can check the exact times for My Time Dining each evening through the Royal Caribbean app, the dining room information on their cabin's interactive TV, or the daily Cruise Compass news bulletin.
One of the advantages of My Time Dining is the ability to schedule dining times around shore excursion plans or other activities. It is also a great option for guests who prefer to dine alone or with their own group, as they are less likely to be seated with other guests.
It is important to note that while My Time Dining offers more flexibility, it does not guarantee immediate seating. Guests may have to wait for a table during peak dining hours, especially if they have not made a reservation in advance.
Overall, My Time Dining is a convenient and flexible option for guests who prefer to dine on their own schedule. Whether guests choose to make a reservation or walk in, they can enjoy the same quality dining experience in the Main Dining Room.
Reservation Process
Making reservations for My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean is a straightforward process that can be done through various channels. Guests can reserve their dining times during the booking process, through the Cruise Planner, or by calling Royal Caribbean's reservation hotline.
When booking a cruise, guests will be given the option to choose between Traditional Dining and My Time Dining. If they opt for My Time Dining, they can make reservations for specific dining times through the Cruise Planner or by calling the reservation hotline.
Guests who have already booked their cruise and want to switch to My Time Dining can do so through the Cruise Planner or by calling the reservation hotline. It's important to note that My Time Dining reservations are subject to availability, so guests are encouraged to make their reservations as early as possible to secure their preferred dining times.
For guests who prefer to work with a travel agent, they can also make My Time Dining reservations through their travel agent. The travel agent will handle the reservation process and ensure that the guest's dining preferences are noted on their reservation.
Overall, the reservation process for My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean is simple and flexible, allowing guests to choose the dining times that work best for their schedule. Whether booking online, over the phone, or through a travel agent, guests can easily reserve their preferred dining times and enjoy the flexibility and convenience of My Time Dining.
Dining Times and Seating
Early and Late Seating
Royal Caribbean offers two traditional dining options: Early Seating and Late Seating. Early Seating typically starts around 6:00 pm and Late Seating around 8:30 pm. Guests are assigned a table and dining time for the duration of their cruise.
Early Seating is ideal for families with children or guests who prefer to eat earlier in the evening. Late Seating is a great option for guests who like to take their time getting ready for dinner or prefer to dine later in the evening.
Table Assignment
Guests who choose My Time Dining have the flexibility to dine whenever they like during dinner hours, according to availability. Reservations are strongly recommended. My Time Dining uses the same menu as traditional seating.
Table assignment depends on the size of the group. Smaller groups are less likely to be seated with other guests. Larger groups may be seated together at a larger table. Guests can also request a specific table location, such as near a window or in a quieter area of the dining room.
Overall, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of dining options to suit the needs of all guests. Whether you prefer traditional seating or My Time Dining, there is something for everyone.
Food and Beverages
My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean offers a range of dining options for guests, including complimentary meals and specialty restaurants. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Main Dining Room or choose from a variety of quick bites and snacks available throughout the ship.
Menus
The Main Dining Room features a rotating menu that changes daily, offering a variety of dishes to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. Guests can choose from a range of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available upon request.
In addition to the Main Dining Room, guests can also enjoy complimentary meals at a variety of other venues onboard, including the Windjammer Marketplace and Cafe Promenade. These venues offer a range of international cuisine, from Italian to Asian, as well as classic American favorites.
Specialty Restaurants
For guests looking for a more upscale dining experience, Royal Caribbean offers a range of specialty restaurants that require an additional fee. These restaurants offer a unique and intimate atmosphere, with menus crafted by expert chefs and featuring premium ingredients.
Some of the specialty restaurants available on Royal Caribbean include Chops Grille, a classic steakhouse; Izumi, serving Japanese cuisine; and Giovanni's Table, offering Italian favorites. Guests can make reservations for these restaurants in advance or during their cruise.
Overall, Royal Caribbean's My Time Dining offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences. From complimentary meals at the Main Dining Room to specialty restaurants for a more upscale experience, guests can enjoy a variety of delicious cuisine throughout their cruise.
Service and Gratuities
My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean provides flexible dining options for passengers, allowing them to eat at their own pace and schedule. Passengers who choose My Time Dining can enjoy the same menu and service as traditional dining, but with the added convenience of choosing when and where they want to eat.
Wait staff, including waiters and head waiters, are dedicated to providing excellent service to passengers in the My Time Dining program. They are trained to be attentive and responsive to the needs of guests, ensuring that they have an enjoyable dining experience. Wait times for My Time Dining can vary depending on the ship and time of day, but Royal Caribbean strives to minimize wait times as much as possible.
Gratuities, or tips, for wait staff are automatically added to the bill for passengers who choose My Time Dining on all European sailings. This is because passengers may be served by different members of the team each night, and gratuities ensure that all wait staff receive fair compensation for their service. Guests can also choose to prepay gratuities before their cruise or pay them on the first day onboard.
Overall, the My Time Dining program on Royal Caribbean provides excellent service and flexibility for passengers who want to enjoy their dining experience on their own terms. With attentive wait staff and the option to prepay gratuities, passengers can focus on enjoying their meal and the company of their fellow passengers.
Dress Code and Formal Nights
Royal Caribbean's My Time Dining is a flexible dining option that allows guests to dine whenever they want during dinner hours. With My Time Dining, guests can make reservations ahead of time or simply show up at the restaurant when they are ready to eat.
When it comes to dress code and formal nights, Royal Caribbean has a few guidelines that guests should follow. While the dress code is generally casual during the day, there are certain dress codes that apply during dinner hours.
For formal nights, guests are encouraged to dress up in their best black-tie attire. Suits and ties, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, and evening gowns are all acceptable options. Formal nights typically occur 1-3 times during a sailing, and the number of formal nights is at the ship's discretion.
It is important to note that the formal night dress code only applies to the main dining room and specialty restaurants. Guests are free to wear shorts, flip flops, and tank tops in other areas of the ship. The Windjammer and other quick-service venues will be open without any formal wear required.
Overall, Royal Caribbean's dress code and formal nights are designed to create an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere for guests to enjoy. While it is not required to dress up for formal nights, guests are encouraged to do so to fully experience the glamour and luxury of a Royal Caribbean cruise.
Benefits of My Time Dining
My Time Dining is a flexible dining option offered by Royal Caribbean that allows guests to dine at their convenience during dinner hours. Here are some of the benefits of choosing My Time Dining:
- Flexibility: With My Time Dining, guests have the freedom to dine whenever they want during dinner hours, which is typically between 6:00 and 9:30 p.m. This is particularly helpful for those who have busy schedules or want to plan their dining around other activities.
- No assigned seating: Unlike traditional dining, My Time Dining does not assign guests to a specific table or time. This means that guests can dine alone or with their own group, without the pressure of having to socialize with strangers.
- Ease of booking: Booking a table for My Time Dining is simple and can be done online or through the Royal Caribbean app. Guests can also make reservations onboard the ship or through the dining room staff.
- Same menu as traditional dining: Guests who choose My Time Dining have access to the same menu as those who choose traditional dining. This means that they can enjoy the same delicious meals and dining experience, but with added flexibility.
Overall, My Time Dining is a great option for those who want more flexibility and control over their dining experience. With no assigned seating and the ability to dine at any time during dinner hours, guests can enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable dining experience.
Guest Services and Support
Guest services and support are available to assist guests with any questions or concerns related to My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean. Guests may contact the cruise line through various channels, including phone, email, or chat.
The Royal Caribbean website provides a comprehensive FAQ section that covers many common questions related to My Time Dining. Guests can find information on topics such as making reservations, changing dining times, and requesting seating preferences. The website also provides contact information for guest services and support, making it easy for guests to get in touch with the cruise line.
In addition to the website, guests can also contact Royal Caribbean through the phone or email. The cruise line's customer service representatives are available to answer questions and provide support related to My Time Dining. Guests can also use the chat feature on the website to get quick answers to their questions.
If guests have any issues or concerns related to My Time Dining during their cruise, they can speak with the dining room manager or guest services representative onboard the ship. These individuals are trained to handle any issues that may arise and will work to ensure that guests have an enjoyable dining experience.
Overall, Royal Caribbean provides a variety of resources to help guests with My Time Dining. Whether guests have questions before their cruise or need assistance onboard the ship, the cruise line's guest services and support teams are available to provide assistance and ensure that guests have a memorable dining experience.
Additional Information
My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean is a flexible dining option that allows guests to enjoy dinner in the Main Dining Room at any time during dinner hours, based on availability. Reservations are strongly recommended, and guests can choose to dine alone or with their party. Here are some additional details to keep in mind:
- Dining times for My Time Dining usually begin around 6:00 pm and last until 9:30 pm, but the exact times may vary by sailing. Guests can check the dining room information in their cabin's interactive TV or the daily Cruise Compass news bulletin for specific details.
- Guests who purchase a dining package can use it for My Time Dining, but they will need to make reservations in advance to ensure availability. The dining package includes several specialty restaurants, and reservations can be made online or onboard the ship.
- My Time Dining is part of Royal Caribbean's program to offer more flexibility and choice to guests. Traditional dining, where a dining time is assigned, is still available for those who prefer it.
- Dining attire for My Time Dining is the same as for traditional dining, with casual attire during the day and more formal attire in the evenings. Guests should check the dress code for their specific sailing to ensure they pack appropriately.
- In addition to dining, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of activities and entertainment options onboard their cruise ships. Guests can enjoy live shows, movies, parties, and more. The Cruise Compass news bulletin lists all of the activities available each day.
Overall, My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean offers guests the flexibility to enjoy dinner when and with whom they choose. Reservations are recommended to ensure availability, and guests can use their dining package to enjoy specialty restaurants as well. With a variety of activities and entertainment options available, guests can enjoy a memorable vacation experience.
I have enjoyed My Time Dining, and I will do it again on future cruises.

Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.
Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.
Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.
Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.
Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.