What are the rules for “My Time Dining” on Cunard Line?

Cunard Line is one of the most iconic cruise brands in the world, known for its traditions, refined service, and elegant dining experiences. For decades, the cruise line followed a traditional dining model, where guests were assigned to set dining times and tables. While this remains a hallmark of the Cunard experience, modern travelers increasingly seek flexibility.

To meet this demand, Cunard offers a version of “My Time Dining”, though it is structured differently than on many contemporary cruise lines. Cunard balances tradition with flexibility by providing open dining in specific restaurants for certain stateroom categories, along with alternative venues that allow guests to eat at more convenient times.

This guide explores the rules, policies, and details of Cunard’s “My Time Dining.” You’ll learn who is eligible, how it differs from fixed seating, the booking process, dress code expectations, and tips to get the most out of flexible dining on a Cunard voyage.

Understanding Cunard’s Dining Structure

Unlike some cruise lines that promote a fully open dining system, Cunard offers different dining formats based on stateroom class.

1. Traditional Assigned Dining (Britannia Restaurant)

Guests in most Britannia staterooms are assigned early (around 6:00 PM) or late (around 8:30 PM) seating.
Fixed tables and waitstaff provide a sense of continuity throughout the voyage.

2. Britannia Club “My Time Dining”

Guests in Britannia Club Balcony staterooms enjoy flexible dining.
They dine in the Britannia Club Restaurant, a private space offering open seating between 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM.
This is Cunard’s closest equivalent to “My Time Dining.”

3. Princess Grill and Queens Grill (Open Dining for Suite Guests)

Suite guests in Princess Grill and Queens Grill also benefit from open dining.
They may arrive at any time during dinner service, typically between 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM.

4. Alternative and Specialty Dining

Buffet options like Kings Court (Queen Mary 2) or Lido (Queen Victoria & Queen Elizabeth) provide full flexibility.
Specialty dining venues allow guests to make reservations at their preferred times.

Rules for “My Time Dining” on Cunard Line

While Cunard does not officially label it as “My Time Dining,” the Britannia Club, Princess Grill, and Queens Grill restaurants provide flexibility similar to that concept. Below are the key rules and guidelines.

Rule 1: Eligibility Depends on Stateroom Category

Only Britannia Club Balcony, Princess Grill, and Queens Grill guests receive flexible dining privileges.
Standard Britannia stateroom guests must follow assigned seating unless they dine in casual venues.

Rule 2: Reservations Are Not Always Required

In Britannia Club and Grills restaurants, guests may arrive when they please within dining hours.
However, during peak times, staff may request short waits or encourage advance requests for larger parties.

Rule 3: Dress Codes Still Apply

Cunard maintains a formal evening dress code in main dining rooms.
Flexible dining does not mean casual attire; guests must adhere to gala night and smart attire requirements.

Rule 4: Dining Hours Are Fixed

Flexible dining still operates within set windows (e.g., 6:30–9:00 PM).
Unlike some cruise lines offering 24/7 “anytime dining,” Cunard restricts flexible service to designated hours.

Rule 5: Group Dining Rules

Larger groups may need to reserve specific times, as walk-in seating flexibility works best for couples or small parties.

Rule 6: Waitlist May Apply for Club Balcony Staterooms

Availability in Britannia Club Balcony is limited. Booking early secures access to this dining option.

Rule 7: Buffet and Specialty Venues Provide Additional Flexibility

Guests who cannot secure Club or Grills dining can still enjoy casual and specialty options at chosen times.

Comparing Cunard “My Time Dining” With Traditional Dining

FeatureTraditional Britannia DiningBritannia Club / Grills (“My Time”)

Seating TimeFixed (early or late)Flexible within hours

TablematesSame table nightlyFlexible; varies

WaitstaffSame staffOften same, but can vary

Dress CodeStrictSame rules apply

FlexibilityLimitedHigh (within hours)

EligibilityMost Britannia guestsClub Balcony & Suite guests

Advantages of Cunard’s Flexible Dining

Personalized Schedule – Eat when it suits your plans.
Variety in Experience – Try different dining companions or dine solo.
Ideal for Shore Excursions – No stress if tours run late.
Better for Families and Couples – More control over mealtimes.
Luxury Ambiance Maintained – Flexibility does not compromise Cunard’s refined dining style.

Disadvantages and Considerations

Limited Access – Only higher stateroom categories enjoy true flexible dining.
Peak Time Waits – Arriving at popular times may involve short waits.
Dress Code Strictness – Guests must plan attire, unlike casual dining lines.
Booking Premium Staterooms – Access comes with higher fare categories.

Tips for Enjoying “My Time Dining” on Cunard

Book Early: If you want Britannia Club access, secure your balcony stateroom early.
Arrive Off-Peak: Dining earlier or later avoids queues.
Mix Venues: Balance flexible dining with specialty and buffet options.
Plan Gala Nights: Check schedules so your attire matches the dress code.
Communicate Preferences: Inform the staff if you prefer a consistent table or server.

FAQs About Cunard “My Time Dining”

Q1. Does Cunard offer “Anytime Dining” like other cruise lines?

Not exactly. Cunard offers flexible dining in Britannia Club and Grills, but standard Britannia dining remains traditional.

Q2. Can Britannia stateroom guests switch to flexible dining?

Only by upgrading to a Britannia Club Balcony stateroom (if available).

Q3. What happens if I arrive outside dining hours?

Dining service will be closed, though buffet and room service remain options.

Q4. Can I request the same waiter every night with flexible dining?

Yes, but you must coordinate with staff. Otherwise, you may be seated at different tables.

Q5. Is “My Time Dining” included in the fare?

Yes, for eligible staterooms. Specialty dining venues may involve extra charges.

Conclusion

Cunard Line’s approach to “My Time Dining” reflects its unique balance between tradition and modern flexibility. While most guests in Britannia staterooms follow fixed dining times, those in Britannia Club Balcony, Princess Grill, and Queens Grill enjoy flexible dining privileges akin to “My Time Dining” on other cruise lines.

The rules are straightforward: eligibility depends on stateroom type, dress codes still apply, and dining must occur within designated hours. Guests benefit from greater freedom without losing the elegance and sophistication Cunard is known for.

So, if you’re seeking flexibility in dining while sailing with Cunard, consider upgrading to Britannia Club or the Grills to unlock the freedom of “My Time Dining.” It’s the best of both worlds: flexibility with luxury.