Is the Food Good on Cruise Ships? Here’s Why That’s a Hard Question to Answer

As a travel advisor, one of the most common questions I get when helping clients plan their cruise is:

“Is the food good on board the ship?”  I wish the answer were simple. But the truth is—it’s complicated.

Everyone Tastes Travel Differently

What defines “good” food?

For some travelers, it means five-star cuisine worthy of a Michelin star. For others, it’s all about abundant options, familiar comfort foods, or quick grab-and-go meals between shore excursions.

I’ve had clients who raved about the gourmet steakhouse on board Celebrity Cruises, while others were more excited about the unlimited pizza station on a Royal Caribbean ship. Some cruisers dream of elegant afternoon teas on Cunard Line, while others can’t wait to hit the buffet in their flip-flops. It’s all personal—and that’s what makes cruise dining so subjective.

Cruise Lines Offer a Wide Range of Culinary Experiences

Here’s the good news:

Modern cruise ships cater to every kind of palate and preference.

From casual cafés to specialty dining and international menus, today’s cruise lines are investing heavily in culinary variety. Whether you’re cruising with Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Viking, or Celebrity, you’ll find:

• Buffets and casual dining for those who like flexibility

• Fine dining restaurants with curated wine lists

• Specialty dining options like sushi, Italian, French, and steakhouse cuisine

• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly menus on request

• Room service for when you want to dine in your robe

But again—whether that food tastes great to you? That’s a personal matter.

Why I Hesitate to Say “Yes” or “No”

When someone asks, “Is the food good on board the ship?” I’ve learned to respond with a few follow-up questions:

• Do you enjoy fine dining or casual meals?

• Are you open to new cuisines, or do you prefer the classics?

• Are you looking for luxury, or is convenience more important?

• Do you typically enjoy resort or hotel buffet food?

My goal isn’t to dodge the question—it’s to guide you to a cruise experience that best aligns with your taste preferences.

What I CanDo as Your Travel Advisor

While I may not be able to promise that you’ll love every bite, I can:

• Help match you with a cruise line known for the dining style you enjoy

• Explain the differences between included dining and specialty dining

• Make reservations for onboard restaurants and wine pairings

• Recommend cruise lines with top-rated culinary programs (like Oceania for foodies!)

I also encourage clients to check out menus in advance and read verified reviews—but take them with a grain of sea salt. What one traveler finds bland, another might call perfectly seasoned.

Final Thought: Food is Just One Flavor of the Journey

Cruise dining is part of the overall experience—but it’s not the only thing to consider. Incredible destinations, spa treatments, onboard entertainment, and relaxing sea days all add flavor to your voyage.

So, the next time you ask me, “Is the food good on this ship?”—just know I’m smiling, not because I don’t know the answer, but because I know the real answer lies in your taste buds.

Thinking about a cruise but unsure which ship matches your style?

I’d love to help! As a Cruise Planners travel advisor based in Houston, I offer completely personalized cruise planning at no cost to you. Whether you’re a foodie, adventurer, or first-time cruiser, I’ll help you find the right sailing.