Cruise lines don’t give every aspect of the cruising experience the same attention. Choosing what to prioritize is how they differentiate themselves from the competition.
Vacationers with a passion for partying may be willing to compromise on dinner options for an itinerary packed with party ports. Foodies will consider three delicious meals a day a necessity while the size of the pool might be an afterthought. Regardless of what category a person falls into, everyone wants to know what’s coming before it arrives on their plate. Especially since some cruises are capable of falling below even the lowest of expectations.
Let’s take a look at some real photos of food on the most popular cruise lines to see what they’re actually offering.
10 The Plate Is Part Of The Price On Costa Cruises
One bite of pasta isn’t enough to satisfy any guest who enjoys eating. Though a couple of breadsticks might hold passengers over through the night. This particular dish was served on the Costa Diadema, but Cruise Critic photos of food on the cruise line’s other ships show much of the same.
9 Caribbean Princess Never Claimed The Food Was Fresh
It’s a challenge that most cruise lines face since there aren’t exactly any supermarkets attached to ocean buoys. River cruises known for their fine dining get away with doing shopping at ports of call to keep ships well equipped. Other cruise ship passengers just deal with what they’re given.
8 Seafood Is The Star On The Celebrity Silhouette
Getting good seafood is harder than you’d think when you’re surrounded by water. It’s a matter of proper storage and shopping. This photo from aboard the Celebrity Silhouette makes it seem like Celebrity Cruise's cooks are trying their hardest to give the people what they want.
7 Carnival Cruises Has Its Own Pizza Delivery
Pizza is pizza. On sea or on land, messing it up takes some skill. Chances are that guests who opt for onboard delivery will be satisfied with their purchase. Since Cruise Radio states that Carnival’s Pizza Anywhere delivery fee is only $5, it’s worth giving it a try.
6 Marella Cruises Doesn't Pretend To Be Fancy
The meal shown on the right is the kind of thing most people could make at home. That’s a positive point for anyone who depends on familiar food to make themselves feel more at home. Passengers who want to try something new and luxurious may be a bit disappointed.
5 Every Meal With Viking Cruises Is High-Quality Down To The Snacks
Viking cruise ships are already known for their delicious, included meals. Now their snacks deserve some attention. Fresh pretzels are put out for guests to enjoy along with the typical buns and regional cheeses. According to Viking Cruises, ships also enjoy an afternoon tea time with finger sandwiches and little pastries.
4 Norwegian Cruises Get Artsy With Its Appetizers
Points for creativity. Not every cruise line is as experimental with its plating. There’s no way something like this would be enough to make up for an entire meal, but it looks to be just an appetizer. Other Cruise Critic photos show entrees with all the fixings.
Related: 15 Surprisingly Flattering Facts About Norwegian Cruises
3 Royal Caribbean Neglects Most Food Groups
These two cuts of fish look flavorful enough, but a few extra ingredients would help flesh out the meal. It’s a complaint that some Cruise Critic reviewers have made. A week on a cruise ship without a couple of veggies will trigger some unusual cravings in passengers.
Related: Here’s What’s Included When You Book A Royal Caribbean Cruise
2 Holland America Gives Guests Their Fair Share
Now this is a healthy meal. This guest aboard the Amsterdam got a nice slab of meat drenched in sauce, potatoes, and a few vegetables for company. A bread basket can also be seen off to the side. That explains why Cruise Critic reviews rate the ship's cuisine so highly.
Related: Oprah Winfrey Has Been Named Godmother To Holland America’s Newest Cruise Ship
1 MSC Cruises Saves The Flavor For The Events
Squishy calamari that oozes oil doesn’t fit the elegant garb of the ladies seen off to the left. Since this photo was taken aboard the Lirica, it’s possible that dining is better on its sister ships. Cruise Critic reviews wouldn’t encourage anyone to get their hopes up though.
Next: You Can See The Most Stunning Beaches In The Caribbean Aboard These Cruises