What are the rules for “My Time Dining” on American Queen Voyages?

Dining is one of the highlights of any American Queen Voyages cruise, and “My Time Dining” offers passengers flexibility to enjoy meals on their own schedule. Unlike fixed dining, this option allows you to choose when you eat while still maintaining high-quality service and reserved seating.

Understanding the rules for “My Time Dining” is essential for planning your onboard experience, coordinating with travel companions, and ensuring a smooth dining schedule. This guide provides detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, and practical tips.

What is “My Time Dining”?

“My Time Dining” is a flexible dining program offered on select American Queen Voyages cruises. It allows passengers to:

• Choose meal times within designated service windows

• Dine with whomever they choose, rather than being restricted to assigned tables

• Accommodate personal schedules or excursions without losing their table reservation

Unlike traditional fixed seating, passengers enjoy freedom and flexibility while maintaining the convenience of pre-assigned tables.

Core Rules of “My Time Dining”

Understanding the rules ensures a seamless experience:

1. Designated Dining Windows

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner have specific service windows.

• Passengers can select any time within the window for their meal.

• Late arrivals may be accommodated if tables are available, but reservations outside the window are not guaranteed.

2. Reservation Requirements

• Reservations for “My Time Dining” must be made in advance or shortly after booking.

• Reservations can be adjusted by calling reservations or through the app/guest services.

3. Group Considerations

• Guests can dine with family or friends, but all must be included in the same reservation.

• Large groups may need to split tables depending on availability.

4. Table Assignment and Location

• Tables are generally assigned, but specific table locations may be requested subject to availability.

• Requests should be made early to increase the likelihood of being honored.

5. Meal Duration

• Passengers are encouraged to complete meals within a reasonable timeframe to accommodate all diners.

• Typical meal durations are 60–90 minutes, depending on course selection.

How to Make or Change “My Time Dining” Reservations

Step 1: Verify Your Cruise Offers “My Time Dining”

• Check your booking documents or American Queen Voyages website to confirm availability.

Step 2: Select Your Preferred Dining Window

• Identify the available times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

• Consider personal schedules, excursions, or onboard activities.

Step 3: Contact Reservations or Use the App

• Call 1-888-749-5280 or access the cruise app.

• Provide booking confirmation and passenger names for all diners.

Step 4: Confirm Table Assignment

• Request a preferred table location if desired.

• Ensure all group members are included in the reservation.

Step 5: Adjust Dining Times if Needed

• Changes can be made before embarkation or by speaking to guest services onboard.

• Availability is subject to table occupancy and service windows.

Rules for Special Situations

1. Large Groups

• Groups larger than 6–8 passengers may be split across tables.

• Notify reservations in advance to coordinate seating.

2. Dietary Restrictions

• Special meals must be requested in advance.

• “My Time Dining” accommodates allergies, vegetarian, gluten-free, or kosher preferences.

3. Excursions and Activities

• Passengers attending excursions may need to select alternative dining times.

• Notify guest services to avoid losing reserved seating.

4. Late Arrivals

• Late diners may be accommodated based on availability but are not guaranteed service outside the designated window.

5. Onboard Adjustments

• Guest services can help adjust reservations in real-time if conflicts arise.

Practical Tips for “My Time Dining”

1. Plan in Advance – Choose preferred dining windows as early as possible.

2. Coordinate with Travel Companions – Include all passengers in the same reservation.

3. Use the Cruise App – Some cruises allow modifications digitally.

4. Confirm Special Requests Early – Dietary restrictions or special occasions should be communicated in advance.

5. Arrive On Time – Tables are reserved for your chosen window; punctuality ensures the best experience.

6. Be Flexible – If your preferred time is full, have alternative times ready.

Case Studies

Case 1: Couple Scheduling Flexibility

• A couple selected different dinner times each night to accommodate spa and shore excursions.

• Guest services confirmed reservations, ensuring no conflicts with preferred tables.

Case 2: Large Family Party

• Family of ten requested a single table each evening.

• Reservations coordinated multiple tables next to each other to keep the group together.

Case 3: Dietary Considerations

• Passenger required a gluten-free menu.

• Early notification allowed the chef to prepare options while keeping their preferred dining time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I change my dining time during the cruise?

A: Yes, speak to guest services or dining staff; availability depends on table occupancy.

Q2: Are there fees to change “My Time Dining” reservations?

A: No fees typically apply, but specialty dining may have separate charges.

Q3: Can large groups dine together under “My Time Dining”?

A: Yes, but tables may be split based on size and availability.

Q4: Do children follow the same dining rules?

A: Yes, children are included in the same reservations as their guardians.

Q5: Are specialty or themed dinners included?

A: Some specialty venues require separate reservations or fees.

Q6: Can I request a specific table location?

A: Yes, but confirmation is subject to availability and should be requested early.

Q7: How far in advance can I make or change reservations?

A: Ideally, make selections at the time of booking or several weeks before sailing.

Benefits of “My Time Dining”

• Flexibility: Choose dining times that fit your schedule.

• Customization: Accommodate group sizes, dietary needs, and special requests.

• Convenience: Adjust times to coordinate with excursions or onboard activities.

• Enhanced Experience: Enjoy meals at your preferred pace without rigid schedules.

“My Time Dining” on American Queen Voyages provides passengers with flexible dining options while maintaining organized table assignments and high-quality service. Key rules include:

• Reservations within designated dining windows

• Coordination for group seating and dietary requirements

• Early booking and communication for special requests

• Flexibility for onboard adjustments while respecting service limitations

By understanding and following these rules, passengers can enjoy a personalized, stress-free dining experience that complements their overall cruise journey.