How do I make dining reservations on Princess Cruises?

One of the most exciting parts of going on a cruise is indulging in world-class dining experiences while sailing to breathtaking destinations. Princess Cruises, known for its exceptional service and diverse dining options, offers guests a variety of ways to enjoy delicious meals on board. From elegant main dining rooms to specialty restaurants and casual eateries, there is something for every taste. However, to make the most of your culinary journey, it is essential to know how dining reservations work on Princess Cruises.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of making dining reservations on Princess Cruises. We will cover how to book in advance, how to use the OceanMedallion technology, the difference between traditional dining and flexible dining, specialty dining reservations, tips for securing popular slots, and how to adjust your plans once on board.

By the end of this article, you will have all the knowledge you need to enjoy a seamless dining experience on your Princess cruise.

Dining Options on Princess Cruises

Before diving into the reservation process, it is important to understand the types of dining available. Princess Cruises provides a range of dining experiences, and knowing which ones require reservations will help you plan more effectively.

1. Traditional Dining

Traditional dining is the classic cruise dining style where you are assigned a set dining time each evening. Guests can choose either an early or late seating, and they dine at the same table with the same servers for the duration of the voyage. Reservations for traditional dining are usually made when booking the cruise, as space is limited.

2. Anytime Dining

Anytime Dining allows flexibility, giving you the freedom to dine at different times instead of sticking to a fixed schedule. With this option, you can choose to make reservations in advance for specific times or simply walk in when you are ready. However, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3. Specialty Dining

Princess Cruises features several specialty restaurants, offering premium menus such as Italian, French, steakhouse, seafood, and sushi experiences. These venues almost always require reservations, and there may be an additional cover charge. Because seating is limited, it is best to book specialty dining well in advance.

4. Casual Dining

Casual venues such as buffets, cafés, and poolside grills usually do not require reservations. These are first-come, first-served options, giving you more freedom during your cruise.

How to Make Dining Reservations Before Your Cruise

Planning ahead ensures that you get your preferred dining times and access to specialty restaurants. Princess Cruises makes it easy to secure reservations before you even set foot on the ship.

Using the Cruise Personalizer

The Cruise Personalizer is an online portal available to all guests once they book their voyage. After logging in, you can view your reservation details and select your dining preferences.

• Choose traditional or Anytime Dining

• Request early or late seating (if selecting traditional dining)

• Book specialty restaurants in advance

Making these choices early increases your chances of securing your desired dining times, especially on popular itineraries.

Using the Princess App

Princess Cruises offers a user-friendly app called the MedallionClass app, which is linked to the innovative OceanMedallion technology. Before your cruise, you can use the app to:

• View dining options and menus

• Reserve specialty dining times

• Select main dining reservations

• Manage or update your bookings

The app also syncs with your onboard schedule, making it easier to plan meals around shows, shore excursions, and onboard activities.

Making Dining Reservations Onboard

Once you board the ship, you still have plenty of opportunities to make or adjust dining reservations.

Via the Princess App and OceanMedallion

The MedallionClass app continues to be your best friend once you are onboard. You can use it to:

• Confirm existing reservations

• Modify dining times if your plans change

• Join a virtual waitlist for Anytime Dining

• Reserve specialty restaurants on specific evenings

This digital option eliminates the need to stand in line at the dining desk.

Through Guest Services

For travelers who prefer personal assistance, the Guest Services desk can help with dining reservations. The staff can check availability, assist with special requests, and accommodate dietary needs.

At the Restaurants Directly

Specialty dining venues often allow guests to make reservations directly at the entrance. If you are flexible, you may even get lucky with last-minute openings.

Specialty Dining Reservations in Detail

Specialty restaurants on Princess Cruises are some of the most sought-after experiences. Because of their popularity, it is important to understand the best ways to book them.

Types of Specialty Restaurants

Depending on your ship, you may find:

• Crown Grill – A steakhouse known for premium cuts and seafood

• Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria – A favorite for Italian dishes

• Bistro Sur La Mer – French cuisine with ocean views

• Kai Sushi – Fresh sushi and Japanese delights

• Chef’s Table Experience – An exclusive dining event hosted by the Executive Chef

How to Book

• Use the Cruise Personalizer before sailing

• Reserve via the Princess app

• Book on embarkation day at the restaurant or guest services

Since these venues charge a fee, reservations are easier to manage compared to complimentary dining rooms, but they do fill up quickly during peak nights.

Tips for Getting the Best Dining Reservations

Securing your ideal dining times is all about strategy. Here are some insider tips to maximize your experience:

1. Book Early – The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting prime times.

2. Be Flexible – Consider dining slightly earlier or later than peak times to avoid waitlists.

3. Reserve Popular Nights in Advance – Formal nights and sea days often have higher demand.

4. Use the App Frequently – Availability can change quickly, so checking the app often can help you snag last-minute spots.

5. Consider Lunch at Specialty Venues – Some restaurants open for lunch with shorter wait times.

6. Split Reservations for Large Groups – If traveling with a big party, split into smaller groups for easier booking.

Changing or Canceling Reservations

Plans often change during a cruise, and Princess Cruises provides flexibility when it comes to dining reservations.

• Via the App: Modify or cancel reservations instantly.

• At Guest Services: Request help with adjustments.

• At the Venue: Speak directly to the host for same-day changes.

Keep in mind that some exclusive dining events, like the Chef’s Table, may have stricter cancellation policies.

Dietary Preferences and Special Requests

Princess Cruises caters to a variety of dietary needs. When making reservations, be sure to note any special requirements such as vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, kosher, or allergy-friendly options.

• Mention dietary needs when booking in the Cruise Personalizer

• Inform staff at specialty restaurants in advance

• Confirm requests onboard with restaurant hosts

This ensures your meals are prepared according to your preferences without last-minute stress.

Dining Reservations for Large Groups

Traveling with family or friends often requires careful planning. Princess Cruises allows group reservations, but it is best to arrange them early.

• Book specialty dining venues in advance for groups

• Contact Princess Cruises’ Group Services if booking multiple cabins

• Use the app to manage group dining times

• Consider private dining experiences for celebrations

Final Thoughts

Dining on Princess Cruises is more than just eating—it is an experience that enhances your journey. With so many options available, planning ahead is the key to enjoying stress-free meals throughout your voyage. Whether you prefer traditional dining, flexible Anytime Dining, or indulging in specialty restaurants, knowing how to make reservations will ensure you have access to the best culinary delights at sea.

By using the Cruise Personalizer before departure, leveraging the Princess MedallionClass app onboard, and staying flexible with your plans, you can secure the dining experiences that fit your style. From intimate dinners to group celebrations, Princess Cruises offers something for every guest.

So, when preparing for your next cruise, take the time to make dining reservations early. Doing so guarantees that you will not only enjoy your meals but also create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.