What are the rules for “My Time Dining” on P&O Cruises?

Dining is one of the highlights of any cruise experience. P&O Cruises has built a reputation for offering delicious, varied dining options that cater to different preferences. Traditionally, cruise lines offered fixed dining times (early or late sitting), where passengers had to dine at the same time and table each night.

However, modern travelers often seek flexibility—especially those who don’t want to be tied to a rigid schedule. That’s where “My Time Dining” comes in.

If you’re wondering about the rules for My Time Dining on P&O Cruises, this guide covers everything you need to know—from how it works and booking requirements to etiquette, tips, and FAQs.

What Is “My Time Dining”?

“My Time Dining” is P&O Cruises’ flexible dining option offered in certain main dining rooms. Instead of being restricted to a set early or late seating, passengers can choose when they want to dine each evening—usually within a set timeframe.

Key Features:

• Flexibility: Arrive anytime during opening hours.

• Variety: Enjoy a different table each night or request the same table.

• Freedom: Dine alone, as a couple, or join other passengers if you prefer.

• Reservations: Pre-booking is recommended but walk-ins are often allowed.

How “My Time Dining” Works on P&O Cruises

1. Eligibility

   • Not all passengers automatically get My Time Dining. It depends on your fare type and availability at booking.

   • Guests with Select Price fares often have priority.

2. Dining Venues

   • Available in specific main dining rooms onboard selected ships.

   • Specialty restaurants and buffet venues operate separately with their own rules.

3. Booking System

   • You can book dining times via the Cruise Personaliser, P&O Cruises’ online portal, before your cruise.

   • Onboard, you can use the My Holiday app or speak directly to the restaurant staff.

4. Seating Options

   • Choose private dining or request to share with others.

   • Regular seating with friends or family can be arranged if requested in advance.

5. Opening Hours

   • Usually between 6:00 pm and 9:30 pm, though times may vary depending on the ship.

Rules and Guidelines for “My Time Dining”

To ensure smooth operations, P&O Cruises has set specific rules and etiquette for My Time Dining.

1. Reservations

• Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure your preferred times.

• Walk-ins are allowed, but waiting times may occur during peak hours.

2. Fare Restrictions

• Only available for passengers who booked a fare type that includes My Time Dining.

• Saver Fares usually assign fixed dining and may not include My Time flexibility.

3. Party Size

• Tables are available for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups.

• Large groups should make reservations in advance to avoid delays.

4. Dress Code

• Smart casual in the evenings unless it’s a formal night.

• No swimwear, gym clothes, or flip-flops.

5. Punctuality

• Guests should arrive at their reserved time.

• Late arrivals may lose their booking or face delays.

6. Specialty Dining vs My Time Dining

• Specialty restaurants are not included under My Time Dining rules.

• Charges apply for select venues like The Epicurean, Sindhu, or The Glass House.

7. Flexibility Limitations

• Although flexible, there are still dining hours. You cannot dine outside of posted times.

• Popular times (7–8 pm) often book quickly.

Benefits of Choosing My Time Dining

1. Flexibility

Eat when you want without being tied to a fixed schedule.

2. Social Options

Choose whether to dine privately or meet new people at shared tables.

3. Variety

Experience different wait staff and table locations each night.

4. Freedom Around Activities

Plan your meals around shore excursions, entertainment, and spa appointments.

Potential Drawbacks of My Time Dining

1. Waiting Times

Without reservations, you may wait during peak dining hours.

2. Limited Availability

Not available on every ship or for all fare types.

3. Lack of Consistency

Different wait staff each night may reduce the “personalized” dining experience.

4. Less Predictability for Large Groups

Harder for big families to guarantee seating together unless booked early.

Comparison: My Time Dining vs Traditional Dining

FeatureMy Time DiningTraditional Dining

Dining TimeFlexible within opening hoursFixed (early or late sitting)

ReservationsRecommended but not requiredAutomatically assigned

Social AspectFlexible—choose private or sharedSame table and companions nightly

Wait StaffMay change each nightSame servers every night

ConvenienceWorks around your scheduleStructured routine, no waiting

Tips for Making the Most of My Time Dining

1. Book Reservations Early

• Use Cruise Personaliser or the My Holiday app to secure prime dining slots.

2. Avoid Peak Times

• If possible, dine slightly earlier (6 pm) or later (8:30 pm) to avoid queues.

3. Communicate Preferences

• Let the staff know if you want the same table each night.

4. Mix It Up

• Combine My Time Dining with specialty restaurants and buffet meals for variety.

5. Arrive on Time

• Being punctual ensures smooth service and minimizes delays.

Real-Life Scenarios

Example 1: Family with Children

A family prefers early dining due to children’s schedules. With My Time Dining, they book 6 pm reservations daily to match kids’ routines.

Example 2: Couple on a Romantic Cruise

They enjoy flexibility, sometimes dining at 7:30 pm after a show or 9 pm after a spa session.

Example 3: Solo Traveler

A solo guest enjoys meeting new people and requests shared tables most evenings for a social experience.

FAQs About My Time Dining on P&O Cruises

1. Do all P&O Cruises ships offer My Time Dining?

Not all ships, but many newer and larger vessels provide the option. Check before booking.

2. Is there an extra cost for My Time Dining?

No, it’s included in your cruise fare for eligible bookings. Specialty restaurants cost extra.

3. Can I switch from traditional dining to My Time Dining onboard?

Sometimes, depending on availability. Speak with the maître d’ or Guest Services.

4. Do formal nights apply to My Time Dining?

Yes, formal dress codes apply in all main dining rooms regardless of dining style.

5. Can I guarantee the same table every night?

Yes, if you request it early and staff availability allows.

Pros and Cons of My Time Dining

ProsCons

Flexible schedulingPossible waiting times

Private or social diningLimited to certain ships/fare types

Freedom around excursionsNo guaranteed servers each night

Works with varied travel stylesGroups may face challenges

In short: it’s a flexible dining option that allows you to eat when you want within posted hours, provided you follow simple rules like reservations, dress code, and punctuality.

For travelers who value freedom and flexibility, My Time Dining is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer structure and consistency with the same table and wait staff each night, traditional dining may suit you better.