Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced a new charge for guests ordering multiple entrees in its main dining rooms. The cruise line now applies a $5 fee for any second, third, or subsequent entree ordered in these complimentary venues. This change appears on menus in small print and has prompted varied reactions from passengers.
This policy aims to address concerns such as food waste and dining service efficiency. However, some guests view it as an additional charge that diminishes the value of the main dining experience.
Key Takeaways
- Norwegian Cruise Line now charges $5 for each additional entree after the first one in main dining rooms.
- The fee is printed in small text on menus.
- Possible reasons for the fee include reducing food waste and improving service speed.
- Some guests perceive the fee as an unwelcome extra cost.
New Dining Room Policy Details
The new $5 fee applies to any entree beyond the first one ordered by a guest in Norwegian Cruise Line's main dining rooms. This policy differs from standard practices where specialty restaurants typically incur extra charges. The change is noted on the bottom of daily menus, often in small print, which may cause some guests to overlook it initially.
The specific wording on the menu states:
“One entree per guest. Additional entrees will incur a $5 charge.”This clear statement outlines the new rule for diners.
Fact Check
- Fee Amount: $5 per additional entree.
- Applicability: Second entree and beyond in main dining rooms.
- Visibility: Printed at the bottom of daily menus.
Comparison with Other Cruise Lines
Norwegian Cruise Line is not the first major cruise operator to introduce fees for extra entrees in main dining areas. However, its policy of charging for a second entree is notable. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, also has a $5 fee for additional dinner entrees.
According to reports, Carnival's fee applies only to the third, fourth, or higher entree, allowing guests to order their first two selections without charge. Carnival implemented this fee in late 2022. Other cruise lines often charge for premium items, such as steakhouse or seafood selections, when ordered in a main dining room.
Reasons Behind the New Charge
The $5 fee is relatively small, but it could serve multiple purposes for Norwegian Cruise Line. One primary reason could be to discourage excessive food waste. Ordering multiple entrees, even if not fully consumed, contributes to significant waste.
Another potential reason involves improving the efficiency of dining service. When guests order many dishes, it can slow down kitchen operations and table turnover. This is particularly relevant for Norwegian Cruise Line, which operates on a freestyle dining model without fixed dining times. Delays at one table can affect the dining plans of many other guests.
Industry Context
The cruise industry continuously seeks ways to optimize operations and manage costs. Food waste is a significant concern both environmentally and financially. Strategies like charging for additional items can help manage consumption and streamline service in busy dining venues.
Addressing Influencer Behavior
Some industry observers suggest the fee might also target the behavior of certain content creators or influencers. These individuals sometimes order numerous dishes to film and review for their online platforms, often tasting only a small portion before moving to the next dish. This practice can lead to substantial food waste and further slow down dining service.
Guest Reactions and Concerns
The introduction of this fee has generated mixed reactions among cruise guests. Many passengers view the ability to order multiple entrees as a key benefit of main dining rooms, allowing them to try various dishes without extra cost. This flexibility is often seen as part of the inclusive cruise experience.
"I thought that was one of the appeals of the MDR, you can order everything in the menu if you wanted and not get charged," one guest commented. "If you get an entree that you don’t like and you order a different one, you’ll be charged?"
The question of what happens if a guest dislikes their first entree or if it is prepared incorrectly remains somewhat unclear. While the menu states a charge for 'additional' entrees, specific guidelines for re-orders due to dissatisfaction or errors are not explicitly detailed. It is likely that such situations may be handled on a case-by-case basis by onboard staff.
Impact on Dining Preferences
Some guests prefer to order multiple entrees to compensate for not eating appetizers or desserts. For these individuals, the new fee could feel like a penalty for their dining preferences. This approach allows them to customize their meal more freely.
It is important to note that there are no apparent limits on ordering multiple appetizers or desserts. Furthermore, guests can still visit the Garden Cafe, an all-you-can-eat buffet, without any additional charge. This offers an alternative for those who wish to consume more food without incurring the $5 entree fee.
Recent Fee Implementations
This new entree fee follows another recent policy change by Norwegian Cruise Line. The company previously introduced a $10 per person charge for no-shows or late cancellations for specialty dining reservations. In that instance, guest reactions were generally positive. Many cruisers felt that this fee would help ensure more people could access specialty dining opportunities, reducing wasted reservations.
However, the fee for a second entree in a complimentary venue presents a different perception. Guests often expect main dining rooms to be fully inclusive, viewing the ability to order multiple dishes as a standard perk of their cruise fare. The distinction between a no-show fee for a specialty restaurant and an extra charge for a second entree in a main dining room highlights differing guest expectations regarding included amenities.
Previous Policy Change
- Specialty Dining No-Show Fee: $10 per person for late cancellations or no-shows.
- Guest Reception: Generally positive, seen as improving access to specialty dining.
Looking Ahead
The long-term impact of this new entree fee on guest satisfaction and dining habits on Norwegian Cruise Line ships will become clearer over time. Cruise lines continually adjust their policies to balance operational efficiency, cost management, and guest experience. Such changes are part of an evolving industry landscape.
Passengers planning a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation should be aware of this new dining policy. Reading menus carefully and understanding the charges can help avoid unexpected costs during their trip.
