Navigator of the Seas dining was one of the things I was most excited about before our seven-night Mexican Riviera cruise. I had spent hours reading Cruise Critic forums, watching YouTube videos, and researching restaurant reviews, so I thought I knew exactly what to expect.
But once I stepped onboard, I realized some of the best dining tips weren’t in the cruise planner or even on the menus. They came from friendly crew members, veteran Royal Caribbean cruisers, and a little curiosity of my own.
These 11 dining secrets helped us enjoy better meals, get more value from our beverage package, and discover experiences we might have otherwise missed.
Your Beverage Package Includes Johnny Rockets Milkshakes
This might be the best value tip I learned all week. If you purchased Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package or Refreshment Package, the hand-spun milkshakes at Johnny Rockets are included. I saw several guests paying separately because they didn’t realize this perk existed. If you’re trying to get the most value from Navigator of the Seas dining, don’t leave the ship without ordering at least one. The Deluxe Package also includes smoothies and power shakes from Vitality Cafe or similar spots, Red Bull, bottled water, and freshly-squeezed juices.
The Main Dining Room Can Sometimes Prepare Off-Menu Favorites
One afternoon I was craving grilled salmon, even though it wasn’t listed on the lunch menu. I decided to ask anyway, and to my surprise, our server said the kitchen could prepare it. It turned out to be one of my favorite meals of the cruise. One thing I discovered about Navigator of the Seas dining is that politely asking can sometimes uncover options you didn’t know were available.
Don't Settle if You Have Dietary Restrictions
One of the service crew’s actions that impressed me immensely happened at Windjammer. My wife spotted a fish dish she’d love to try, but it had been cooked with butter. We mentioned her dietary preference to a crew member, and about 15 minutes later, the chef personally delivered a freshly prepared version made with olive oil. That level of service made our Navigator of the Seas dining experience even more memorable.
The Cocktail Menu Isn't the Whole Story
My favorite frozen drink wasn’t listed anywhere. During our first afternoon by the pool, I asked if the bartender could make a Mango Daiquiri. He smiled, said he had everything needed, and a few minutes later I had one of my favorite cocktails. One of the best Navigator of the Seas dining secrets is remembering that the menu is only a starting point. If they have the ingredients, many bartenders are happy to make classic cocktails upon request.
You're Not Limited to One Entrée in the Main Dining Room
When two entrées caught my eye one evening, I assumed I’d have to choose between them. I later learned that the Main Dining Room generally allows you to order more than one included entrée if you’d like to sample both. It’s a great way to experience more of Navigator of the Seas dining, especially when you’re only on board for a week.
Skip the Starbucks Line
I’ll admit it. I expected Starbucks to have the best coffee on board. Instead, I found myself returning to Café Promenade every morning, where I got consistently excellent lattes included in our Deluxe Beverage Package. Unlike Starbucks purchases, Café Promenade specialty coffees are covered by the package, making this one of my best Navigator of the Seas Dining discoveries.
Windjammer's Indian Dishes Are a Hidden Gem
Before our cruise, I kept seeing experienced Royal Caribbean cruisers rave about the Indian dishes at Windjammer. Naturally, I had to see what all the fuss was about. They were right. The curries were flavorful, the rice was perfectly cooked, and the fresh naan disappeared quickly. If you’re exploring Navigator of the Seas dining, don’t overlook this section of the buffet.
Almost Any Cocktail Can Become a Mocktail
Even if you aren’t drinking alcohol, you don’t have to settle for soda all week. Throughout the cruise, I watched bartenders happily prepare alcohol-free versions of many of their signature drinks. Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol or simply want something refreshing by the pool, this is one of those Navigator of the Seas dining tips that’s easy to overlook.
Ask Your Server What They Would Order
With dozens of menu items rotating throughout the cruise, choosing can be surprisingly difficult. One evening, I asked our waiter which entrée he recommended. It was one I would ordinarily not have chosen. And it was delicious. The servers see hundreds of meals every day, so make them one of your best resources during your Navigator of the Seas dining experience.
You Can Ask for Freshly Made Eggs Instead of Buffet Eggs
I watched many guests grab the scrambled eggs on the buffet without realizing a nearby cook was making omelets and fresh eggs to order. If you’re particular about breakfast, ask. Freshly prepared eggs made a noticeable difference and became one of my favorite Navigator of the Seas dining discoveries. It only takes a few extra minutes and is well worth the wait.
Ask the Bartender to Surprise You
One afternoon I told the bartender, “I like tropical drinks but not too sweet.” A few minutes later, I had a cocktail I’d never have ordered from the menu. During our Navigator of the Seas dining experience, I learned that the bartenders enjoy creating drinks based on your preferences when they have the ingredients. It’s a fun way to discover a new favorite while giving the bartender a chance to show off their creativity.
