What are the rules for “My Time Dining” on MSC Cruises?

One of the most anticipated experiences on a cruise is dining. MSC Cruises is renowned for offering passengers a mix of elegant dining rooms, themed restaurants, and global cuisines that cater to every taste. However, many travelers wonder:The answer is yes, but with important conditions and considerations. Your dining schedule is a key part of your onboard experience, and MSC Cruises has specific policies on how dining times are allocated and how they can be changed after booking.

• How MSC Cruises dining schedules work

• Different types of dining options (traditional vs. flexible)

• Policies for changing your dining time

• Step-by-step instructions to request changes

• Costs, availability, and practical tips

• Alternatives if you don’t get your preferred time

• Real passenger experiences and scenarios

• Expert advice for ensuring your dining experience matches your preferences

Understanding Dining Options on MSC Cruises

Traditional Dining (Assigned Times)

• Early Seating: Usually around 6:00 PM – suitable for families with children or those who prefer to dine earlier.

• Late Seating: Usually around 8:30 PM – ideal for adults or those who enjoy evening shows before dining.

• Guests are assigned a table and dining time for the entire cruise.

Flexi Dining

MSC Cruises also offers “My Choice” or Flexi Dining on some ships and itineraries. This allows you to choose when you dine within a broader window, often via the MSC for Me app or onboard reservations.

Specialty Dining

Beyond the main dining room, MSC ships offer specialty restaurants (steakhouses, sushi bars, teppanyaki, Mediterranean cuisine). These require reservations and often an additional fee, but give you full control over dining times.

Can You Change Dining Time After Booking?

Yes, you can request a dining time change after booking, but availability is not guaranteed. Dining assignments depend on:

• The ship’s capacity

• The number of passengers requesting the same seating

• Your booking class (Yacht Club and Aurea passengers often get priority)

When Can You Request a Change?

1. Before Departure

• Contact MSC Cruises directly or your travel agent.

• Requests are more likely to be accommodated early.

2. During Online Check-In

• The MSC app or website may allow you to indicate preferences.

3. After Boarding

• Visit the Maitre d’ desk on embarkation day.

• This is the best way to make final adjustments.

Guide to Changing Dining Time

Step 1: Check Current Assignment

• Review your booking confirmation or the MSC for Me app.

Step 2: Contact MSC or Travel Agent

• Call customer service or ask your travel agent to submit a request.

Step 3: Reconfirm at Online Check-In

• Use the online portal to verify or adjust your dining preference.

Step 4: Visit the Maitre d’

• Once onboard, head to the dining room desk.

• Be polite, explain your preference, and ask about availability.

Step 5: Confirm Final Assignment

• Your cruise card or app will be updated with your final dining time.

Costs and Fees

• No extra fee to change traditional dining times, but availability is limited.

• Specialty dining comes with additional charges but guarantees flexibility.

• Yacht Club passengers enjoy priority dining arrangements without fees.

Alternatives if Your Preferred Time Is Not Available

1. Use Flexi Dining (if available): More flexibility for meal times.

2. Book Specialty Restaurants: Pay a fee but gain control over your schedule.

3. Buffet Option: MSC buffets are open longer and allow casual dining at any time.

4. Room Service: For private dining, available 24/7 (some charges may apply).

Real-Life Scenarios

• Family Example: A family originally assigned late seating switched to early dining after boarding by speaking with the Maitre d’.

• Couple Example: A couple wanted early seating but couldn’t get it. They used specialty dining for a few nights instead.

• Solo Traveler Example: A solo traveler found Flexi Dining more convenient and switched onboard without issue.

Tips for Success

• Book Early: Early booking increases chances of securing your preferred time.

• Yacht Club Advantage: Guests in Yacht Club enjoy flexible, priority dining.

• Check Daily Menus: The MSC app lists menus, helping you plan your meals.

• Be Flexible: If your first choice isn’t available, explore alternatives.

FAQs

Q1: Can I guarantee early dining when booking?

A: Requests can be made but are subject to availability. Early booking helps.

Q2: Do Aurea or Yacht Club passengers get priority?

A: Yes, they have more dining flexibility and access to exclusive venues.

Q3: Can I switch daily between early and late dining?

A: Traditional dining requires consistency, but Flexi Dining allows variation.

Q4: Can large groups be seated together?

A: Yes, but requests should be made early and confirmed with the Maitre d’.

Q5: What happens if I miss my assigned time?

A: You may need to wait or use alternative dining options.