The Complete Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line's Specialty Dining Package
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Norwegian Cruise Line's Specialty Dining Package! If you're considering a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line and wondering whether the Specialty Dining Package is worth it for you, you've come to the right place.
The Specialty Dining Package provides an opportunity to enjoy multiple for-fee restaurants for a set price. In this article, we will explore the basics of the Specialty Dining Package, its benefits, how to use it effectively, and whether it offers good value for your cruise experience. So let's dive in and discover if this package is the perfect fit for your next Norwegian Cruise Line adventure!
Norwegian Cruise Line's Specialty Dining Package:
The Specialty Dining Package allows guests to dine at various for-fee restaurants on any NCL ship for a fixed price.
If you booked your cruise during one of NCL's Free at Sea promotions, you might have received the Specialty Dining Package for free, but it's worth noting that a 20% service charge is still applicable. Additionally, recent changes to the promotion now offer two specialty dining meals for 6-8 night cruises and one free meal for 3-5 night cruises, limited to the first two guests on the reservation.
Enjoy French cuisine in Le Bistro found on most Norwegian Cruise Line ships
Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package Basics:
You can purchase the Specialty Dining Package in advance through your My NCL account or onboard the ship within the first two days of your sailing. However, it's always best to buy in advance as purchasing the package onboard can be more expensive.
The cost of the Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package varies depending on the length of your cruise and the number of meals included. Prices typically range from around $99 to $129 per person for a multi-day package.
Example Prices as of 2023:
2 Meal Pacakge: $99.00 USD
3 Meal Pacakge: $139.00 USD
4 Meal Pacakge: $169.00 USD
5 Meal Pacakge: $199.00 USD
6 Meal Pacakge: $229.00 USD
7 Meal Pacakge: $259.00 USD
8 Meal Pacakge: $289.00 USD
9 Meal Pacakge: $319.00 USD
10 Meal Pacakge: $349.00 USD
11 Meal Pacakge: $379.00 USD
12 Meal Pacakge: $409.00 USD
13 Meal Pacakge: $439.00 USD
14 Meal Pacakge: $469.00 USD
If you received the package for free but wish to have more specialty dining meals, you can purchase an additional package to supplement the complimentary one. It's important to think about the number of meals you want to purchase carefully, as no refunds are given for unused meals.
Packages can not be shared or transferred to other guests and is linked to your cruise card. You can not, for example, pay for two people's dinner with one package.
The package does not include beverages, but you can use your Norwegian Cruise Line drinks package in any Specialty Restaurant. Also, certain premium menu items may have additional charges. Additionally, there are no discounted prices for children's specialty dining packages; the same pricing applies to guests aged 2 and older. A 20% gratuity will be added to all Specialty Dining Packages purchases, even if the package was obtained for free, which will be charged when your purchase the package or cruise.
Onda by Scarpetta servesdelicious Italian cuisine in a contemporary setting.
Using the Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package:
Using the Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package is a easy process that allows you to make the most of your dining experiences on board. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use the package:
Make reservations: While reservations are not required at specialty restaurants, it is highly recommended to secure your preferred dining times as soon as you have purchased the package. You can make reservations online up to 120 days before your cruise. However, if you prefer to decide once you're onboard, reservations will be limited. Keep in mind that popular venues and prime dining times tend to fill up quickly, so planning ahead is advisable.
Present your dining package: When you arrive at the specialty restaurant, present your cruise card or key card to the hostess. They will scan your card to verify if you have a dining package. At this point, you'll be asked if you want to use a meal credit from your package for that particular dining experience. If they do not ask, re-confirm that you will be using a dining package credit for this meal. This will make settling the bill easier and inform your waiter you are on a dining package.
Enjoy your meal: Depending on the restaurant's policy, you may have specific guidelines for ordering. For example, at some venues, you can choose multiple starters, sides, and desserts, but only one entrée per person. Also, some items are an additional cost if you are on a dining package. If your waiter does not explain this to you, just ask and confirm what is included in your meal.
Settle the bill: After your meal, you'll be presented with a receipt to sign. This receipt will reflect the prices of the items ordered, but if you've used a meal credit from your Specialty Dining Package, your balance should be zero. Keep in mind that additional charges may apply for premium menu items or extra entrees that are not covered by the package.
Enjoy steaks at Cagney’s knowing the bill is already paid.
Where Can You Use the Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package?
The Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package offers a wide selection of restaurants where you can use your package credits. Remember, restaurants vary by ship. Read our guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships.
Here are the venues where you can enjoy your dining package:
American Diner: Found on Norwegian Encore, Joy, Bliss, Escape, Breakaway, and Getaway, this casual eatery serves up classic American favorites.
Bayamo: Located on Norwegian Escape, Bayamo is the signature seafood restaurant, offering fresh catches and breathtaking views.
Cagney's Steakhouse: NCL's signature steakhouse can be found on all ships in the fleet. Indulge in tender cuts of beef and a refined dining experience.
Food Republic: Available on Norwegian Bliss, Escape, Encore, and Joy, Food Republic is a popular tapas-style restaurant with a global fusion of flavors.
La Cucina: NCL's Italian restaurant is present on all ships except Norwegian Encore and Spirit. Experience classic Italian dishes in a rustic ambiance.
Le Bistro: Another staple in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, Le Bistro is an upscale French restaurant found on all ships except Pride of America.
Los Lobos: Enjoy Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist at Los Lobos. This specialty restaurant can be found on Norwegian Encore, Bliss, Dawn, Prima, Viva, and Sun.
Moderno Churrascaria: Offering an all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse experience, Moderno Churrascaria boasts a variety of slow-roasted meats. It can be found on several ships, including Breakaway, Dawn, Epic, Escape, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, Star, Sun, and Pride of America.
Nama Sushi & Sashimi: Offering innovative Sushi and & Sashimi selections. Found on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.
Ocean Blue: Located on Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Encore, Getaway, and Joy, Ocean Blue is an upscale seafood restaurant with a focus on quality and freshness.
Onda by Scarpetta: This Italian restaurant replaces La Cucina on Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Spirit. Indulge in delicious Italian cuisine in a contemporary setting.
Pincho Tapas Bar: Inspired by Spanish culture and cuisine, Pincho Tapas Bar offers a menu of shareable small plates. Please note that this venue is only available on Norwegian Escape.
Q Texas Smokehouse: If you're a fan of BBQ and country music, Q Texas Smokehouse is the place to be. Enjoy mouthwatering BBQ dishes on Norwegian Bliss, Encore, and Joy.
Sushi Bar: Contemporary sushi bar found on most Norwegian Cruise Line ships.
The Raw Bar: Adjacent to Ocean Blue on Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway, The Raw Bar is a casual spot to enjoy drinks and seafood small plates.
Teppanyaki: Experience a dinner and show hibachi-style at Teppanyaki, available on all Norwegian Cruise Line ships except Norwegian Sky.
Wasabi: For contemporary Japanese cuisine, Wasabi offers sushi and yakitori bar options. It can be found on Norwegian Breakaway, Epic, and Getaway. Additionally, Sushi Bar is available on other ships in the fleet.
It's important to note that certain venues and dining options, such as Room Service, Starbucks, District Brewhouse, The Bake Shop, Coco's, Dolce Gelato, and dinner shows are not included in the Specialty Dining Package. Additionally, the package does not apply to Harvest Caye restaurants.
Watch our review of Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Spirit:
Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package a Good Value?
The value of the SDP depends on your restaurant preferences and menu choices. The package can provide significant savings compared to paying a la carte prices which are normally on the higher side. Also you have the convenience of pre-paying for your dining experiences and not having to worry about a large bill at the end of the meal! However, it's important to consider your dining habits and appetite before purchasing the package, as it may not be the most cost-effective option for those who prefer more casual dining or have limited interest in specialty cuisines.
For more advice on your next NCL cruise read our Ultimate Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line.
The Norwegian Cruise Line Specialty Dining Package can be a great value for those who enjoy trying out different restaurants and cuisines. With the convenience of pre-paying for your meals, you don't have to worry about getting stuck with an expensive bill at the end of your cruise. However, it's important to consider whether or not this package is right for you depending on your dining habits and appetite before making any purchasing decisions.