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Can I request special meals on Princess Cruises?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 22 September 2026

Can I request special meals on Princess Cruises?

Planning what to eat on a cruise is usually part of the fun, but passengers with food allergies, intolerances, medical dietary needs, or specific lifestyle preferences may need to plan a little earlier. If you are sailing with Princess Cruises, you can request special meals and tell the cruise line about dietary restrictions before your voyage.

Princess Cruises provides options for several dietary requirements, including gluten-free, vegetarian, low-sodium, low-fat, low-cholesterol and kosher meals. Princess also allows guests to record food allergies and dietary requirements through its app and recommends communicating these needs in advance.

The key is to give Princess enough information before boarding and then confirm your requirements with the dining team once you are onboard. This is particularly important for serious food allergies, where knowing about the restriction ahead of time helps restaurant staff prepare appropriately.

1.Does Princess Cruises Offer Special Meals?

Yes. Princess Cruises offers accommodations for a variety of special dietary requirements.

According to Princess, guests can request dietary options such as:

  • Gluten-free meals
  • Vegetarian meals
  • Low-sodium meals
  • Low-fat meals
  • Low-cholesterol meals
  • Kosher meals
  • Diabetic-friendly options
  • Other medically or lifestyle-based dietary requirements

Availability can vary depending on the ship, restaurant and itinerary, so passengers should not assume that every specialty dish will be available at every venue.

Princess specifically recommends notifying the cruise line of dietary requirements before the cruise. Once onboard, guests should also speak with dining staff to confirm their needs.

2.How Do I Request a Special Meal on Princess Cruises?

The easiest approach is to communicate your requirements before your cruise.

Princess currently provides dietary information through the Princess Cruises app. Guests can use their profile to provide information about food allergies and dietary requirements. Princess also says dietary preferences can be shared through the booking process or with a Travel Advisor or Princess Reservations.

1.Add Your Dietary Requirements Before Sailing

Use the Princess Cruises app and look for the dietary requirements section in your profile.

Princess identifies the relevant area as “accessibility & dietary requirements.” You can use it to provide information about food allergies and dietary restrictions.

Depending on your booking and region, you may also be able to communicate the requirement through your booking or by contacting Princess or your Travel Advisor.

2.Be Specific About Your Requirement

Do not simply write that you need a “special meal” if you have a serious restriction.

For example, explain whether you need:

  • Gluten-free food
  • Vegetarian food
  • Vegan food
  • Lactose-free choices
  • Low-sodium food
  • A meal without a particular allergen
  • Kosher meals
  • A medically required diet

For allergies, clearly identify the ingredient or ingredients that must be avoided.

3.Confirm the Request After Boarding

Even after submitting your dietary information before departure, speak with the restaurant staff when you board.

This gives you an opportunity to explain your requirements directly and ask what options are available for that day's menu.

Princess recommends that guests with dietary restrictions speak with dining staff once onboard to confirm their preferences and make additional requests.

3.Can I Request a Gluten-Free Meal on Princess Cruises?

Yes. Princess Cruises says it offers gluten-free options for guests with special dietary requirements.

If you need gluten-free food, inform Princess before your cruise rather than waiting until the first meal.

Once onboard, tell your server or the appropriate dining staff that you require gluten-free food. It is also useful to ask which dishes on the day's menu can be prepared or served to meet your requirements.

Remember that a gluten-free requirement can be different from simply preferring foods that do not contain wheat. If you have a medically necessary gluten restriction, explain this clearly to the dining team.

4.Can I Request Vegetarian or Vegan Meals?

Yes. Vegetarian meals are among the dietary options identified by Princess Cruises.

Princess menus can also identify vegetarian dishes, and some current sample menus include vegan selections. For example, Princess sample dining material tells guests to ask their server about the daily Vegan Menu.

If you follow a vegan diet, tell the restaurant staff specifically that you need vegan food rather than assuming a vegetarian item is automatically vegan.

This distinction matters because vegetarian dishes can contain ingredients such as dairy or eggs.

5.Can I Request Kosher Meals on Princess Cruises?

Yes. Princess Cruises offers kosher meals through a certified vendor specializing in kosher food.

Princess states that kosher dishes are freshly prepared and supplied under Rabbinical supervision.

Because kosher meal arrangements can require advance preparation, passengers who need kosher food should communicate the requirement before sailing rather than waiting until embarkation.

It is also sensible to confirm the arrangement with the onboard dining team after boarding.

6.Can I Request Low-Sodium Meals?

Yes. Low-sodium meals are among the special dietary options Princess says it can accommodate.

Princess's accessibility guide specifically lists low-sodium, vegetarian, low-fat, low-cholesterol and kosher menus among its special dietary offerings.

If sodium restriction is medically important to you, explain the requirement when submitting your dietary information and discuss it with the dining team onboard.

Do not rely only on menu descriptions. Ask restaurant staff which dishes can be prepared appropriately for your needs.

7.Can I Request Low-Fat or Low-Cholesterol Meals?

Princess identifies both low-fat and low-cholesterol diets among its special dietary accommodations.

Passengers following these diets should notify Princess in advance and then discuss available choices with their dining team.

Menu ingredients and preparation methods can vary, so asking about individual dishes is often more useful than relying solely on general menu categories.

8.Does Princess Cruises Accommodate Diabetic Diets?

Princess says its dietary accommodations include diabetic-friendly options.

If you need to manage your carbohydrate, sugar or other dietary intake for medical reasons, tell Princess about your requirements before sailing.

When onboard, discuss your needs with the restaurant staff. They can help you identify suitable choices from the available menus.

Passengers with medically necessary diets should also carry any required medication and supplies for the entire voyage rather than depending on the ship to provide specific products.

9.Can I Request Meals Because of a Food Allergy?

Yes. Princess Cruises allows guests to provide information about food allergies before sailing.

Princess says dietary restrictions and food allergies can be entered through the MedallionClass app under the “accessibility & dietary requirements” section. It also states that these notifications can alert the ship's restaurants so appropriate accommodations can be made.

10.Why Should You Report an Allergy Early?

Food allergies require more planning than ordinary food preferences.

Providing the information before your cruise gives the dining team an opportunity to understand your requirements before you arrive.

You should still tell your server or restaurant manager about the allergy when ordering.

For a severe allergy, clearly explain the seriousness of the reaction and ask the dining team what precautions are available.

11.What Should You Do Onboard?

When you arrive at a restaurant:

  1. Tell the server about your allergy.
  2. Explain exactly which ingredient or ingredients must be avoided.
  3. Ask about ingredients in the dish.
  4. Ask whether the kitchen can prepare a suitable alternative.
  5. Confirm the meal before eating it.
  6. Repeat the information at different restaurants if necessary.

Do not assume that because your allergy is listed in your profile, every individual server will automatically know every detail.

12.Can I Request Lactose-Free Food?

Princess's current OceanReady information specifically allows guests to identify dietary requirements such as gluten-free, lactose-free and vegetarian.

If you cannot consume lactose, add the requirement to your dietary profile before the cruise.

When ordering onboard, confirm whether the dish contains milk, cream, butter or other dairy ingredients. If your restriction is severe, also discuss preparation concerns with the dining staff.

13.Can I Get Special Meals in the Main Dining Room?

The main dining rooms are among the most practical places to discuss dietary requirements because guests can speak directly with restaurant staff about the day's menu.

Princess says guests can request special dietary accommodations and advises passengers to notify the cruise line in advance.

The main dining room can therefore be a useful option if you need to discuss how a meal is prepared rather than simply selecting something from a buffet.

14.Are Special Meals Available at Specialty Restaurants?

Special dietary requirements can be communicated across the ship, but menu choices and preparation capabilities may differ between restaurants.

Princess sample menus instruct guests with food allergies or special dietary requirements to contact the Restaurant Manager or Director of Restaurant Operations.

If you have a serious allergy or strict medical diet and plan to eat at a specialty restaurant, tell the restaurant when making your plans and confirm the requirement before ordering.

Some specialty restaurants may have different ingredients, cooking methods or menus, so it is better to ask rather than assume.

15.Can I Get Special Food at the Buffet?

Princess's World Fresh Marketplace offers a variety of food, including regional specialties, salads, fruits, vegetables and other selections. Princess also provides special dietary requests, including kosher options, within its dining program.

However, passengers with serious food allergies should take extra care with buffet dining.

A buffet may contain many dishes placed close together, and shared serving utensils can create concerns for people with severe allergies.

If you have a serious allergy, ask the dining team which foods are appropriate and whether an alternative prepared meal is safer for your situation.

16.Can Children Request Special Meals on Princess Cruises?

Yes. Parents or guardians can add children's dietary restrictions and food allergies through the Princess app.

Princess specifically says dietary restrictions and food allergies for children can be entered through the app under the accessibility and dietary requirements section or communicated by email.

Princess also offers children's menus in the main dining rooms and, by request, at specialty restaurants. Jarred Stage 1 and Stage 2 baby food can be requested in advance, while fresh pureed fruits and vegetables can be requested in the main dining rooms.

Parents should explain children's dietary requirements clearly to restaurant and youth-program staff.

17.Can I Request Baby Food?

Princess provides some options for infants.

The cruise line says complimentary jarred Stage 1 and Stage 2 baby food is available when requested in advance through Manage Booking. Fresh pureed fruits and vegetables can also be requested in the main dining rooms.

Because availability can be limited, parents should arrange this before sailing and bring any essential baby food or supplies they cannot do without.

18.When Should I Submit a Special Meal Request?

The safest approach is to submit dietary information as soon as you know you need it.

Princess's accessibility guide says passengers can use the Princess app 90 days prior to the voyage to provide dietary requests or food allergies.

Do not wait until the last meal before departure.

For a complex requirement, earlier communication gives the cruise line more time to understand what you need and make appropriate arrangements.

19.What Information Should I Include in a Dietary Request?

A useful dietary request should be specific.

Include:

  • Your name and booking information
  • The type of dietary restriction
  • Specific food allergies
  • Whether the restriction is medical, religious or personal
  • Ingredients that must be avoided
  • Whether cross-contact is a concern
  • Any particularly important preparation requirements
  • Whether the requirement applies to a child or adult

For example, saying “I have a food allergy” is less useful than identifying the exact allergen.

20.What Happens If I Forget to Request a Special Meal Before My Cruise?

You should still tell the dining team after boarding.

Princess says guests can discuss dietary needs with dining staff onboard and make additional requests.

However, advance notice is preferable, particularly for specialized meals or serious allergies.

If you realize you forgot to submit your requirement, speak with the dining team as soon as possible rather than waiting until you are sitting down for dinner.

21.Are Special Meals Free on Princess Cruises?

Princess does not describe its standard dietary accommodations as a separate chargeable meal service.

Many dietary options are provided as part of the ship's regular dining experience, although individual specialty restaurants, premium food items or other dining experiences may have separate charges.

For example, Princess states that sit-down dining in its dining rooms is included with the cruise fare, while certain specialty dining experiences may carry additional charges.

If you need a specific specialty product or a particular premium dining experience, ask Princess about any applicable charge before ordering.

22.Do I Need to Order a Special Meal Every Day?

Not necessarily.

Your dietary requirement can be recorded in your profile, but you should continue to communicate with dining staff whenever you eat, particularly when dealing with a serious allergy.

Menus change throughout a cruise, and ingredients can vary by restaurant.

A good routine is to:

  • Check the menu.
  • Identify suitable dishes.
  • Tell the server about your restriction.
  • Ask questions about ingredients.
  • Confirm the final meal.

This makes it easier to manage your diet throughout the voyage.

23.Can I Request a Special Menu Instead of a Modified Dish?

In some cases, Princess provides specific special menus.

Its accessibility guide lists special menus including low-sodium, vegetarian, low-fat, low-cholesterol and kosher options.

The exact availability and format can vary by ship and itinerary.

For that reason, passengers should confirm what is available for their specific cruise rather than assuming every ship offers exactly the same menu.

24.What About Religious Dietary Requirements?

Religious dietary requirements should be communicated before sailing.

Kosher dining is specifically supported by Princess through a certified vendor and Rabbinical supervision.

If you have another religious dietary requirement, explain exactly what foods or preparation methods you need to avoid. Princess can then advise you about available choices and what arrangements may be possible.

25.Tips for Managing Special Dietary Needs on a Princess Cruise

A little preparation can make dining much easier.

1. Submit Your Request Early

Add dietary information to your Princess profile before your cruise.

2. Be Precise

State exactly what you cannot eat rather than using a broad description.

3. Mention Serious Allergies Clearly

Tell the restaurant staff about the allergy every time it is relevant.

4. Ask Questions

If you are unsure about ingredients or preparation, ask your server before ordering.

5. Confirm Specialty Dining Arrangements

If you plan to visit a specialty restaurant, contact the restaurant team about your requirements.

6. Be Careful With Buffets

Guests with severe allergies should discuss safe options with restaurant staff rather than selecting food without asking.

7. Bring Essential Personal Supplies

If you rely on specific medical foods or other essential dietary products, consider bringing enough for the full journey.

8. Reconfirm After Embarkation

Even when your request is already recorded, speaking directly with dining staff helps ensure everyone understands your requirements.

26.Special Meals vs. Dietary Preferences

It is useful to distinguish between a dietary preference and a dietary requirement.

1.A preference might be:

  • “I prefer vegetarian food.”
  • “I like low-fat meals.”
  • “I would rather avoid spicy food.”

2.A requirement may involve:

  • A diagnosed food allergy
  • Celiac disease
  • A medically required diet
  • A religious dietary restriction
  • Severe lactose intolerance

The more serious the consequence of eating the wrong ingredient, the more important it is to communicate the requirement clearly before and during the cruise.

27.What If the Menu Does Not Have Anything Suitable?

Do not assume you have no options.

Speak with your server or restaurant manager and explain your dietary restriction. Princess says its dining teams work to accommodate special dietary needs, although availability can vary by ship and itinerary.

A staff member may be able to explain which existing dishes are appropriate or discuss an alternative preparation.

28.A Simple Pre-Cruise Checklist

Before leaving home, check that you have:

  • Added your dietary requirements to your Princess profile.
  • Communicated serious allergies clearly.
  • Confirmed any specialized meal arrangements.
  • Checked whether your preferred restaurants can accommodate your needs.
  • Packed essential personal dietary or medical supplies.
  • Planned to speak with dining staff after boarding.
  • Saved the details of your dietary requirement on your phone for easy reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.Can I request special meals on Princess Cruises?

Yes. Princess Cruises accommodates various special dietary requirements, including gluten-free, vegetarian, low-sodium, low-fat, low-cholesterol, kosher and diabetic-friendly options.

Q2.How do I tell Princess about my food allergy?

You can add dietary restrictions and food allergies through the Princess Cruises app under the accessibility and dietary requirements section. Princess also provides other pre-cruise communication options.

Q3.Does Princess Cruises offer gluten-free food?

Yes. Princess lists gluten-free options among the dietary requirements it can accommodate. Guests should notify Princess in advance and confirm suitable choices with dining staff onboard.

Q4.Does Princess offer vegetarian meals?

Yes. Vegetarian meals are among the special dietary options supported by Princess. Some current Princess menus also identify vegetarian and vegan choices.

Q5.Can I request vegan meals on Princess?

Yes. Princess menus can include vegan choices, and its dining materials advise guests to ask their server about the daily Vegan Menu.

Q6.Does Princess Cruises provide kosher meals?

Yes. Princess works with a Kashrut-certified vendor for kosher specialty and traditional meals prepared under Rabbinical supervision.

Q7.Can I request low-sodium food?

Yes. Princess specifically lists low-sodium meals among its special dietary accommodations.

Q8.Can children with food allergies get special meals?

Yes. Parents can add children's dietary restrictions and food allergies through the Princess app, and the information can be communicated to onboard restaurants.

Q9.Should I tell the restaurant staff about my allergy even if I submitted it online?

Yes. It is sensible to confirm serious allergies directly with the dining team when ordering. This gives you an opportunity to discuss the ingredients and preparation of your meal.

Q10.Can I request special meals after boarding?

Yes. Princess advises guests to speak with dining staff onboard about dietary requirements and additional requests. However, advance notice is recommended, especially for specialized diets and allergies.

Q11.Are special dietary meals available at every restaurant?

Not necessarily. Options and preparation capabilities can vary between ships, restaurants and itineraries. Confirm with the specific restaurant before dining.

Q12.Can I get special meals at a specialty restaurant?

You can communicate your dietary requirements to specialty restaurants, but the available choices may vary. Princess's sample menus advise guests with allergies or special dietary requirements to contact restaurant management.

Q15.Can I request baby food on Princess Cruises?

Yes. Princess says complimentary jarred Stage 1 and Stage 2 baby food can be requested in advance through Manage Booking, while fresh pureed fruits and vegetables can be requested in the main dining rooms.

Q16.How early should I request a special meal?

It is best to provide the information before your cruise. Princess's accessibility guide says dietary requests and food allergies can be submitted through the app 90 days before the voyage.

Conclusion

Yes, you can request special meals on Princess Cruises. The cruise line accommodates a range of dietary requirements, including gluten-free, vegetarian, low-sodium, low-fat, low-cholesterol, kosher and diabetic-friendly diets. Food allergies and other dietary requirements can also be recorded through the Princess app.

The best approach is to communicate your needs before sailing, provide specific information about allergies or restrictions, and then confirm your requirements with the dining team after boarding. For serious allergies or medically necessary diets, do not rely only on a general menu label—ask about ingredients and preparation before eating.

With advance planning and clear communication, passengers with special dietary needs can better understand their dining choices and enjoy the Princess Cruises experience with greater confidence.

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