My Time Dining vs. Traditional Dining: Which Should You Choose?

For many cruisers, food and dinner play a significant role in their overall enjoyment of the trip and the cruise experience itself.

Royal Caribbean offers guests two options for enjoying dinner in the Main Dining Room. Those include My Time Dining or Traditional Dining.

Each cruiser has their own personal preference when it comes to what their ideal dining experience is. If you are wondering which dining experience is better for you, keep on scrolling, as we sort it all out.

Traditional Dining

Traditional Dining offers a more structured dining experience compared to My Time Dining.

Here is what you need to know about Traditional Dining:

1. Fixed Dining Time – With Traditional Dining, you are assigned a fixed time each night. This provides a predictable and consistent schedule. Times may vary depending on ship and itinerary. Early Seating is typically around 5:30pm and Late Seating is generally around 8:00pm. It should be noted that seating times for Traditional Dining are usually scheduled around the evening’s main entertainment.
2. Assigned Table and Waitstaff – You will be seated at the same table each night, allowing you to become familiar with your dining environment and seating arrangements. If you enjoy meeting the crew and getting to know them, Traditional Dining allows you to do so. With the same waitstaff each night, your servers can get to know your preferences, dietary restrictions, and even your favorite drinks or dishes, providing a more tailored dining experience.
3. Reservations – Upon booking your cruise, you can select the early or late seating. Your dining time and table are then assigned to you before you depart. If needed, you can request a change to your dining time or table by contacting Royal Caribbean or visiting the Dining Room once onboard. Though flexibility may be limited based on availability.
4. Social Interaction – If you’re open to meeting new people, Traditional Dining may be the right option for you, as you may be seated with other guests. This is particularly true if you are a smaller party. However, if you prefer privacy, you can request a table for just your party. Based on availability, your request may be granted.

My Time Dining

My Time Dining offers a more flexible dining experience and offers more freedom compared to the Traditional Dining option.

Here is an overview of how My Time Dining Works and what you can expect:

1. Flexible Dining Hours – As a cruiser, you can dine at any time during the designated My Time Dining hours. Those hours typically span from around 6:00pm to 9:00pm. This flexibility allows you to adjust your dining time based on what daily activities you may already have planned.
2. Table Options – You can request a table for just your party or depending on your preference on social interaction, you can request a table with other guests.
3. Reservation System –
   • Advanced Reservations – To avoid long wait times, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance. You may do this either online before your cruise or once you are onboard. This helps ensure you get a table at your preferred time.
   • Walk-Up Options – You can also choose to dine without a reservation by simply walking up to the dining room. Wait times may vary depending on the demand that evening.

Our Past Experiences

In our past experiences, we have found that we enjoy the Traditional Dining experience.

We are also cruisers who prefer to dine at a table with members of our party only. We enjoy getting to know other cruisers but prefer to eat dinner as a family.

It should be noted that we have left the Main Dining Room after dinner and often seen long lines for those waiting to be seated for My Time Dining.

To sum it up, we personally just enjoy a more structured dining experience.

Wrap Up: My Time Dining vs. Traditional Dining

When it comes down to My Time Dining vs. Traditional Dining, it really all comes down to personal preference and what the group you are traveling with prefer.

Traditional Dining is ideal for those who enjoy a set routine and the camaraderie of regular dining companions and staff. It is a great choice if you prefer a more traditional dining experience without the need to make a reservation each day.

My Time Dining is great for guests who value flexibility and want the freedom to adjust their dining schedule according to their preferences and daily schedule.

Regardless of what dining option you choose, you can be sure about the following:

1. Exceptional Service – Royal Caribbean prides itself on providing exceptional service. The Main Dining Room staff are highly trained and professional individuals and provide attentive service. They aim to enhance your dining experience with the personalized attention and recommendations. They go above and beyond what is needed to ensure you enjoy your meal.
2. Daily Menu – The Main Dining Room features a rotating menu with a range of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Each night typically features a themed menu offering up a mix of classic dishes, international flavors, and regional specialties.