Royal Caribbean to Charge Passengers for Missed Dinner Reservations

Royal Caribbean has announced a new policy that will charge passengers for missed dinner reservations in an effort to manage demand at its specialty dining venues. Starting in March 2024, guests who do not show up for their reserved dining times will incur a fee, aiming to improve the dining experience on board its popular cruise ships.

The cruise line, known for operating a fleet of nearly 30 vessels, has seen a significant increase in dining options available to its passengers. With an array of entertainment choices available onboard, including shows and recreational activities, guests often find themselves distracted from their dining commitments. The new policy targets this issue directly.

Passengers will face a charge of $25 per person for any missed reservation or for cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance. For more exclusive experiences, such as those at the Chef’s Table, Omakase, Empire Supper Club, Izumi Hibachi/Teppanyaki, Lincoln Supper Club, and Royal Railway, the fee doubles to $50. Additionally, for bookings at the Celebration Table, the charge will be half of the overall experience cost.

Royal Caribbean has specified that this new policy will not apply to Star Class and Dining Package bookings. In a statement, the company emphasized that “a 24-hour cancellation period will be enforced for all speciality dining reservations and culinary experiences, excluding Star Class and Dining Package reservations.” They noted that this approach aims to ensure that all guests have the opportunity to enjoy its sought-after dining experiences, particularly those with limited availability.

The cruise line operates 28 ships, including the highly anticipated Legend of the Seas, which launched in February 2024. This new ship boasts a weight of 250,000 tonnes and surpasses the Titanic in size, featuring an impressive 21 bars and 23 restaurants designed to cater to a variety of culinary tastes.

As the cruise industry continues to recover from the challenges posed by the pandemic, Royal Caribbean’s policy reflects an effort to enhance guest satisfaction while managing resources effectively. Dining experiences are a significant part of the cruise experience, and this new initiative is aimed at ensuring that all passengers can enjoy their meals without overcrowding or disappointment.

The Daily Express has reached out to Royal Caribbean for further comments on this policy and its implementation details.