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What are the rules for “My Time Dining” on Avalon Waterways?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 10 October 2025
  • 7 min read

What are the rules for “My Time Dining” on Avalon Waterways?

Dining is a cornerstone of the Avalon Waterways experience, and passengers often seek flexibility to match their schedules and preferences. This is where “My Time Dining” comes into play. Avalon Waterways’ My Time Dining system allows travelers to enjoy meals at convenient times rather than adhering to fixed seating schedules.Many passengers, however, are curious about the specific rules governing this dining option: How flexible is it. Are there restrictions? Can groups dine together? This comprehensive guide explores every detail, ensuring guests fully understand and enjoy their dining experience aboard Avalon Waterways cruises.

1. Understanding “My Time Dining”

My Time Dining is a system that prioritizes passenger convenience by offering flexible meal times. Unlike traditional fixed seating:

  • Guests are not bound to a single dining time each day.

  • Meals are available during extended service hours.

  • Passengers can choose when to dine based on excursions, personal schedules, or preferences.

Avalon designed this system to enhance comfort and social flexibility, making the cruise experience more enjoyable.

2. Key Features of My Time Dining

a. Flexible Scheduling

  • Guests can dine at any time during the main dining room service hours.

  • Typically, meals are offered breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with multiple seating slots.

b. Open Seating

  • No pre-assigned table or time is necessary.

  • Allows for spontaneous dining, especially useful when schedules change due to excursions or onboard activities.

c. Dining with Companions

  • Guests can request to be seated with friends or family.

  • Special arrangements are possible but should be confirmed early, especially for large groups.

d. Custom Requests

  • Dietary needs, medical requirements, or celebrations can be accommodated.

  • Guests should inform staff or note preferences in advance.

3. Rules and Guidelines for My Time Dining

a. Reservation Requirements

  • While flexible, Avalon may recommend reservations for dinner, especially during peak times.

  • Early or late dinner slots can fill quickly, particularly for specialty cruises or large ships.

b. Group Seating

  • Large groups (more than six passengers) should notify Avalon in advance.

  • Staff may assign a table or adjust seating times to accommodate groups.

c. Excursion Scheduling

  • Meal times may need to be coordinated around excursions.

  • Passengers on early tours may request early breakfast or boxed meals.

  • Late arrivals from shore excursions may still dine, but availability may be limited at peak hours.

d. Dietary Restrictions

  • Guests must notify Avalon of any dietary needs prior to sailing.

  • Special meals may require 24–48 hours advance notice.

e. Specialty Dining

  • Certain cruises offer themed or specialty meals with limited seating.

  • My Time Dining rules may not apply to these events; reservations are strongly recommended.

4.  Using My Time Dining

Step 1: Review Dining Hours

  • Check your cruise itinerary for meal service hours.

  • Identify preferred times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Step 2: Communicate Preferences

  • Inform Avalon staff of seating preferences, group requests, or dietary requirements.

  • For larger groups, confirm arrangements prior to departure.

Step 3: Make Reservations if Needed

  • Some cruises allow online reservations through the MyAvalon app.

  • Specialty dinners may require advance booking.

Step 4: Arrive at Preferred Time

  • Simply arrive during your chosen dining slot.

  • Staff will accommodate based on table availability.

Step 5: Confirm Any Changes

  • Inform staff if your preferred time changes due to excursions or special events.

  • Avalon allows day-by-day flexibility for most dining periods.

5. Common Scenarios and Solutions

Scenario 1: Traveling with Friends

  • Request to be seated together via guest services.

  • Staff will try to accommodate within available times.

Scenario 2: Shore Excursion Conflicts

  • Request early or late meals.

  • Boxed or in-room dining may be offered if timing conflicts are unavoidable.

Scenario 3: Celebrations or Special Occasions

  • Notify staff of birthdays, anniversaries, or other events.

  • Special arrangements like cakes, wine pairings, or private seating may be accommodated.

Scenario 4: Dietary Restrictions

  • Provide dietary details at least 48 hours before sailing.

  • Staff may adjust menu options or prepare special meals.

6. Advantages of My Time Dining

  1. Flexibility: Guests can choose meal times daily, accommodating excursions and schedules.

  2. Social Freedom: Dine with different companions each day.

  3. Reduced Stress: No need to adhere to strict seating assignments.

  4. Personalized Experience: Special requests and dietary needs can be accommodated.

  5. Maximized Enjoyment: Align dining with scenic views, entertainment, and onboard activities.

7. Tips for Maximizing My Time Dining

  • Check the schedule daily: Meals may be offered at slightly different times on port or sea days.

  • Use the MyAvalon app: View dining times and make reservations if supported.

  • Coordinate with companions: Confirm plans daily for group dining.

  • Communicate dietary or medical needs: Ensure staff is aware to avoid delays.

  • Arrive early or late during peak hours: Helps avoid long waits.

  • Consider specialty dining for unique experiences: Book in advance to secure a table.

8. Specialty or Themed Dining Exceptions

While My Time Dining allows flexibility, certain situations are exceptions:

  • Wine or culinary cruises: Specialty pairing dinners may have fixed schedules.

  • Cultural events: Themed dinners may require specific timing for entertainment or activities.

  • Private events or celebrations: Tables may be blocked for group events.

Passengers should confirm any exceptions prior to boarding.

9. Multi-Day Cruise Considerations

For longer itineraries:

  • My Time Dining allows daily flexibility, accommodating changing schedules.

  • Some cruises offer rotating themes or excursions that affect meal times.

  • Guests can enjoy consistent flexibility while exploring ports and onboard activities.

10. Group Dining Rules

  • Groups larger than six passengers should notify Avalon before departure.

  • Tables may be reserved to ensure everyone can dine together.

  • Staff will coordinate alternative seating if your preferred time is unavailable.

  • Groups can request special accommodations, including dietary adjustments or celebratory arrangements.

11. Dietary and Special Needs

  • Avalon encourages guests to submit dietary restrictions early.

  • Meals can be modified for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, low-sodium, or medically required diets.

  • Staff may also coordinate meal times to coincide with medications or health schedules.

Tip: Include dietary requests in the MyAvalon app or during booking to ensure seamless service.

12. Using the MyAvalon App for Dining

  • Log in to view dining hours and available seating.

  • Request preferred dining times or specialty meals if supported.

  • Adjust seating preferences day-by-day.

  • Communicate group or dietary needs digitally for faster processing.

The app streamlines communication with staff and enhances the flexibility of My Time Dining.

13. Onboard Dining Management

Avalon employs dedicated headwaiters and dining managers:

  • Ensure guests’ preferences are accommodated.

  • Manage large groups and peak-time seating.

  • Handle specialty or themed dining arrangements.

  • Assist with dietary needs or special requests.

Passengers should engage with dining managers early for the best experience.

14. Common Questions About My Time Dining

Q1: Are there limits on how often I can change my dining time?

  • No strict limit; changes can usually be made daily, subject to availability.

Q2: Can I dine with different companions each day?

  • Yes, the system supports flexible seating arrangements.

Q3: Are there any fees for using My Time Dining?

  • No, it is included in the cruise fare. Specialty meals may have additional charges.

Q4: Can children or minors select their own dining times?

  • Yes, with parental or guardian supervision.

Q5: What happens if my preferred dining time is unavailable?

  • Staff will suggest alternative times or in-room dining options.

15. Benefits Recap

  • Flexibility and convenience.

  • Personalized dining experience.

  • Accommodation for groups, dietary needs, and special occasions.

  • Integration with excursions and daily activities.

  • Seamless experience via MyAvalon app and onboard coordination.

16. Contact Information for Assistance

17.  My Time Dining

Avalon Waterways’ My Time Dining is designed to provide passengers with a flexible, personalized, and enjoyable dining experience. By understanding the rules, utilizing the MyAvalon app, communicating with onboard staff, and planning ahead for groups or dietary requirements, travelers can maximize comfort and convenience.

The system balances flexibility with efficiency, ensuring guests can enjoy gourmet meals without the constraints of fixed seating times, making dining aboard Avalon Waterways a highlight of every cruise.

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