Embarking on a cruise means unwinding, exploring, and indulging in a variety of foods. Yet with an abundance of buffet choices and tempting treats everywhere you turn, making smart dining decisions can get confusing. This insider’s guide reveals which dishes to relish and which ones to steer clear of to keep your cruise meals both enjoyable and safe.
1. Set Sail with Smart Food Choices
A cruise getaway is all about relaxation, adventure, and sampling delicious dishes. However, the wide variety of buffet spreads and enticing snack stations can sometimes make it tough to know what to eat. This guide shares key tips on which meals to embrace and which to avoid, helping you enjoy every bite while keeping any food worries at bay.
2. Skip the Buffet Sushi
Buffet-style sushi on a cruise is often a risky option. Raw fish that has been sitting out for too long or not kept at the right temperature can be a breeding ground for foodborne illnesses. It’s safer to avoid sushi served this way if you want to steer clear of unpleasant stomach troubles during your trip.
3. Think Twice Before Grabbing Buffet Pizza
Pizza might seem like a comforting choice, but when left out on a cruise buffet, it can become problematic. Cheese that’s been sitting for a while tends to harden and may upset your digestion. If you’re craving pizza, it’s best to order it freshly made at a restaurant onboard rather than from the buffet line.
4. Savor a Classic Cruise Burger
Burgers make for a reliable and satisfying meal aboard most cruise ships. A juicy, well-prepared burger is hard to beat when you want something straightforward yet delicious. While not every ship offers gourmet versions, many cruises pride themselves on delivering mouthwatering burger options that are sure to please.
5. Hold Off on Daytime Desserts
That tempting chocolate lava cake by the pool may look irresistible, but it’s wise to enjoy desserts after dinner instead. Daytime treats often linger out too long, losing freshness, and indulging too early can spoil your appetite for the more gourmet meals served later in the day.
6. Be Mindful of Alcohol Consumption
Cruises are famous for their unlimited drink packages, but overdoing it on sugary cocktails can backfire. Excessive alcohol intake can cause dehydration and upset your stomach. It’s better to pace yourself, sipping moderately throughout the day to stay refreshed and feeling your best.
7. Think Twice Before Reaching for Communal Bread
Warm bread baskets at the table are undeniably tempting, but they can be a hotspot for germs, especially if guests use their hands instead of utensils. To avoid any unwanted germs, either wait for freshly served bread or skip the shared baskets altogether.
8. Enjoy the Refreshing Boost of Fresh Fruit
Don’t overlook fresh fruit while cruising! Juicy berries, melons, and other vibrant fruits provide a healthy, cooling option amid richer dishes. They’re perfect for a light, refreshing snack by the pool that also helps balance out your meals with natural sweetness and nutrients.
9. Avoid Shared Condiment Jars
Condiment containers passed around the table can be a breeding ground for germs. Whenever possible, opt for individual packets provided by the cruise. These single-serve options help keep things hygienic during your meals.
10. Steer Clear of Soft Serve Machines
Self-serve soft-serve ice cream stations may seem like a fun treat, but they’re often touched by many hands-especially kids-making them a hotspot for bacteria. For a cleaner alternative, choose ice cream served at a shop or sit-down restaurant on the ship instead.
11. Don’t Overlook Gourmet Sandwiches
Sandwiches often fly under the radar but can be a delicious and convenient choice on board. Cruise chefs take this classic comfort food to the next level with inventive ingredients and fresh flavors. Whether enjoyed by the pool or from the buffet, a well-made sandwich is a tasty energy boost for your day’s adventures.
12. Avoid Salad Bars for Health Reasons
Self-serve salad stations can be a haven for germs and cross-contamination, with multiple people handling the same containers and utensils. Plus, salads left out too long tend to wilt and lose appeal. If a salad sounds good, it’s safer to ask a server for a freshly prepared portion or grab pre-packaged options.
13. Delight in Freshly Prepared Pasta
No cruise dining experience is complete without savoring freshly made pasta. Unlike the overcooked versions you might expect, cruise kitchens deliver perfectly al dente pasta with a variety of sauces like creamy Alfredo, rich pesto, or seafood toppings-ensuring there’s a pasta dish to suit every taste.
14. Sip on Timeless Cocktails
Classic cocktails add an extra splash of vacation vibes to your cruise. Expert bartenders craft drinks like chilled daiquiris and refreshing mojitos that transport you to the golden age of cruising. These flavorful beverages offer a sophisticated break from casual beers, perfect for toasting your time at sea.
15. Keep Pre-Packaged Snacks Handy
Bringing along pre-packaged snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit is a smart move on a cruise. They’re perfect for quick, portion-controlled energy boosts poolside or while exploring ports. Plus, having your own snacks saves you time and money during your trip.
16. Pass on Sliced Deli Meats
Though deli meats might sound like a light option, they often sit out too long on cruises, increasing the risk of bacteria growth. Since it’s hard to know how fresh they truly are, it’s safer to avoid these and opt for freshly prepared dishes that won’t upset your stomach.
17. Avoid Powdered or Sitting Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs are typically a breakfast favorite, but on cruises, the version served at buffets can be a gamble. Often made from powdered eggs and left sitting out, they’re not the freshest choice. To keep things tasty and safe, it’s best to skip scrambled eggs from the buffet line.
18. Indulge in Evening Desserts
Nighttime on a cruise brings a parade of decadent desserts that are hard to resist. From exquisite pastries and layered cakes to flaming soufflés and silky chocolates, the dessert selections are crafted to delight every sweet craving. Sampling these treats after dinner ensures freshness and lets you savor a new delight each night.
19. Relish Fresh Seafood from the Kitchen
Being surrounded by the ocean means seafood should be a highlight during your cruise. Just be sure to enjoy it from the ship’s chefs rather than the buffet, where quality can be questionable. Sit-down restaurants onboard offer fresher, expertly prepared fish and shellfish that truly celebrate the sea.
20. Treat Yourself to a Perfectly Cooked Steak
Cruise ships take pride in their main dishes, and steak is often front and center. Expect tender, high-quality cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, cooked precisely to your liking. Combined with elegant plating and attentive service, a steak dinner at sea can be a luxurious and memorable dining experience.
21. Start Your Day with Warm, Fluffy Waffles
Shake up your breakfast routine with a visit to the waffle station on your cruise. Whether you prefer waffles crispy on the outside or thick and pillowy, these freshly made delights offer a customizable and satisfying way to fuel your morning adventures at sea.
Now, you’re armed with insider knowledge to navigate the culinary landscape of your next cruise! Remember, balance is key. Indulge in the delicious treats while being aware of some of the more unsanitary food options. Most importantly, savor every bite and create unforgettable memories - one delicious meal at a time! More from Travel Reveal:
This article was written by Hunter and edited with AI assistance. The Daily Dive travel desk uses AI-assisted visuals and content that were reviewed and approved by our editors prior to publication.