Best Cruise Ship for Dining (2024) - USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards (2024)

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

No. 10: Norwegian Bliss - Norwegian Cruise Line

Guests have no shortage of dining options aboard Norwegian Bliss, thanks to three main dining rooms, a buffet, and a range of laid-back cafes — all complimentary. The dozen or so specialty dining options range from seafood at Ocean Blue or steakhouse favorites at Cagney’s Steakhouse to global fusion at Food Republic or smoked BBQ at Q Texas Smokehouse.

Photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises

No. 9: Oceania Marina - Oceania Cruises

The Oceania Marina culinary staff prides itself on offering innovative dining experiences throughout the ship. For instance, guests can partake in a wine and food pairing known as La Cuisine Bourgeoise at La Reserve by Wine Spectator. Or they can try some new blends during afternoon tea in the Horizons lounge.

Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises

No. 8: Royal Princess - Princess Cruises

Passengers aboard Royal Princess enjoy dining flexibility with Dine My Way, which allows you to choose the time of your reservations at the ship's numerous restaurants. The ship's six specialty restaurants serve cuisines that range from Italian and steaks to sushi and seafood, while casual eateries include Horizon Court, Alfredo's Pizzeria, and Trident Grill.

Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises

No. 7: Regal Princess - Princess Cruises

Dining on the Regal Princess starts with five complimentary venues ranging from the buffet at Horizon Court to your favorite pizza at Alfredo's Pizzeria to burgers at Trident Grill. Guests can broaden their culinary horizons with the ship's specialty experiences, which include a multi-course dinner at Chef's Table Lumiere, sushi at Ocean Terrace seafood bar, and a private breakfast served on your own balcony.

Photo courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

No. 6: Scenic Eclipse - Scenic

While the Scenic Eclipse may be small in size, its culinary offerings come across in a big way. From Italian, steaks, and seafood at Elements to contemporary French dining at Lumière to sushi and Asian fare at three different restaurants, you're sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds. And regardless of which you choose, each one is included in your fare, so you can indulge wherever you like.

Photo courtesy of Viking Ocean Cruises

No. 5: Viking Star - Viking Ocean Cruises

Cruisers aboard Viking Star have plenty of options come mealtime, including the spacious main dining venue, The Restaurant. Manfredi's (Italian), The Chef's Table (global), The World Cafe (buffet), Mamsen's (Norwegian deli) and Wintergarden (afternoon tea) provide variety. The Kitchen Table takes passengers on an excursion into a local market at port before returning to the ship for a multi-course feast.

Photo courtesy of Holland America Line

No. 4: Rotterdam - Holland America Line

Holland America Line's Rotterdam offers a culinary mix of included and specialty dining venues that serve up mouthwatering entrees, snacks, and sweet treats. Think classic French dishes at Rudi's Sel de Mer, premium steaks at Pinnacle Grill, and regionally inspired cuisine in The Dining Room. Don't feel like venturing out of your stateroom? No problem. Dial up the complimentary 24-hour room service.

Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

No. 3: Carnival Horizon - Carnival Cruise Line

Dining options abound aboard Carnival Horizon — feast on BBQ at the world’s first Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse and Brewhouse, sink your teeth into a juicy burger at popular Guy’s Burger Joint, enjoy some culinary theater at Bonsai Teppanyaki, or tuck into seafood with ocean views at the Seafood Shack. Both included and specialty dining shine, offering something for everyone.

Photo courtesy of Viking Ocean Cruises

No. 2: Viking Jupiter - Viking Ocean Cruises

On Deck 1 of the Viking Jupiter, embark on a culinary adventure witha five-course tasting menu at The Chef's Table, savorItalian cuisine at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, or cook up your own dishes at The Kitchen Table. The ship's main dining room is found on Deck 2, where guests can choose from regional fare. Deck 7 offers even more choices, including the al fresco Aquavit Terrace.

Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

No. 1: Carnival Celebration - Carnival Cruise Line

The Carnival Celebration features many of Carnival Cruise Line's favorite eateries such as Guy's Burger Joint and Cucina del Capitano, but it also includes Emeril's Bistro 1397, serving up international dishes finished with the famed chef's unique flair. The ship also includes Street Eats, which emulates food truck fare with such dishes as cheesesteak fries, pot stickers, and kebabs.

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