Are Meals Included in the Price on Norwegian Cruise Lines

Most meals are included in the base price on Norwegian Cruise Lines, covering dining at main restaurants, buffets, and select casual venues. Specialty dining and premium experiences cost extra, but the inclusive options provide plenty of variety and value for most travelers.

Key Takeaways

• Most meals are included: Enjoy complimentary dining at main restaurants and buffets.
• Specialty dining costs extra: Reserve premium venues for an added fee.
• Free snacks available: Grab quick bites at poolside cafes and lounges.
• Room service has fees: Most in-room deliveries incur a small charge.
• Kids eat free: Children under 5 dine at no extra cost.
• Check packages: Beverage and dining upgrades can save money.

The All-Inclusive Dining Dilemma: Are Meals Included in the Price on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most pressing questions travelers face is whether meals are included in the base price. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), renowned for its freestyle cruising concept, offers a unique and flexible approach to dining that sets it apart from traditional cruise lines. Unlike the rigid dining schedules of the past, NCL allows guests to dine when, where, and with whom they choose—without the constraints of assigned seating or fixed mealtimes. But does this freedom come with a catch? Are meals truly included, or do you need to budget extra for every bite? The answer is both nuanced and exciting, blending complimentary offerings with a la carte and specialty experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets.

NCL’s dining model is built around the idea of choice. From casual buffets to fine dining experiences, the cruise line provides a wide spectrum of culinary options. For many travelers, especially first-timers, the big question is whether the base fare covers meals—and if so, how many and of what quality. Understanding NCL’s dining inclusions can make a significant difference in your vacation planning and budgeting. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler, a foodie seeking gourmet experiences, or a family looking for kid-friendly options, knowing what’s included and what’s extra will help you maximize your onboard experience. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about dining inclusions on Norwegian Cruise Lines, ensuring you make informed decisions before and during your voyage.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Freestyle Dining” Philosophy

What Is Freestyle Dining?

At the heart of Norwegian Cruise Line’s dining experience is its Freestyle Dining concept—a revolutionary approach introduced in the early 2000s that redefined how passengers eat on cruises. Unlike traditional cruise lines that assign fixed dinner times and seating arrangements, NCL allows guests to dine whenever they want, with no reservations required in most complimentary restaurants. This flexibility means you can enjoy a late-night snack, a mid-afternoon lunch, or a romantic dinner under the stars without being tied to a schedule.

The Freestyle Dining model is designed to mimic the freedom of a land-based vacation. Whether you’re an early riser who wants breakfast at 6 a.m. or a night owl who prefers dinner at 9:30 p.m., NCL accommodates your rhythm. This system applies to all complimentary dining venues, which we’ll explore in detail later. The key takeaway: you are not locked into a dining timetable, and you can eat as much or as little as you like throughout the day.

How Freestyle Dining Impacts Meal Inclusions

Because of Freestyle Dining, meal inclusions on NCL are more expansive and flexible than on many other cruise lines. The base cruise fare includes access to a wide variety of dining venues, from 24-hour buffets to casual sit-down restaurants. This means you won’t need to pay extra for your daily meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all covered in your initial price, as long as you stick to the complimentary options.

However, it’s important to note that Freestyle Dining doesn’t mean all restaurants are free. NCL also operates a number of specialty restaurants that require reservations and additional fees. These range from steakhouses and Italian bistros to seafood and Asian fusion concepts. Think of it like a city with free public parks (complimentary dining) and high-end restaurants (specialty dining). The complimentary venues provide excellent quality and variety, while the specialty options are for those seeking elevated experiences or unique cuisines.

Pro Tip: To make the most of Freestyle Dining, plan your day around meal times. If you’re visiting ports of call, consider grabbing a quick lunch at the buffet before heading ashore, and reserve a specialty dinner for your return. This way, you enjoy both convenience and indulgence without overspending.

Complimentary Dining Venues: What’s Included in Your Cruise Fare?

Main Dining Rooms (MDRs)

Every Norwegian ship features multiple Main Dining Rooms (MDRs), each with a unique theme or ambiance. These are the backbone of NCL’s complimentary dining and are included in your base fare. Unlike traditional cruise lines with a single MDR, NCL often has three or more, offering different menus and atmospheres. For example, the Manhattan Room on the Norwegian Encore features Art Deco elegance, while the Indigo on the Norwegian Joy offers a modern, chic setting.

Menus in the MDRs change nightly and typically include appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. You’ll find a mix of American, continental, and international dishes, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options clearly marked. The quality is consistently high, and service is attentive. The best part? No reservations are needed—just walk in during operating hours (usually 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., though hours vary by ship and itinerary).

Example: On a 7-night Caribbean cruise, you could dine in a different MDR each night, sampling everything from New York strip steak to Thai curry to classic French onion soup—all included in your cruise price.

24-Hour Buffet and Casual Dining

NCL’s buffet restaurants, often called The Garden Café or O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, are open 24/7 on most ships and are fully included in your fare. These venues offer a wide variety of food stations, including:

• Breakfast: Eggs, pancakes, cereals, fresh fruit, pastries
• Lunch: Sandwiches, salads, hot entrees, soups
• Dinner: Carving stations, pasta bars, international cuisine
• Late-night: Pizza, burgers, nachos, ice cream

The buffet is ideal for families, early risers, or those who prefer quick, casual meals. It’s also a great option if you’re returning from a shore excursion and need a bite before heading to the pool or theater. The quality is surprisingly good, with many ships offering made-to-order stations (like omelet bars or stir-fry stations) that elevate the experience beyond typical cafeteria fare.

Complimentary Snacks and On-the-Go Options

In addition to full meals, NCL includes a range of complimentary snacks and light fare throughout the ship. These are perfect for quick bites between activities or when you don’t want a full meal:

• Poolside grills: Hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, and soft-serve ice cream
• Coffee bars: Free coffee, tea, and pastries at venues like Starbucks (on select ships)
• Room service: A limited menu of complimentary items, including continental breakfast, sandwiches, and desserts (available 24/7, though a $7.95 delivery fee applies on most ships)
• Ice cream stations: Free soft-serve ice cream at the pool deck

Tip: Save money by using the 24-hour buffet for late-night cravings instead of ordering room service. The buffet offers similar items (like pizza and sandwiches) at no extra cost.

Specialty Dining: When and Why You Might Pay Extra

Overview of Specialty Restaurants

While NCL’s complimentary dining is extensive, the cruise line also operates a robust lineup of specialty restaurants that require reservations and additional fees. These venues are designed to offer premium, restaurant-quality experiences, often with unique themes and cuisines. The cost varies by restaurant and menu, but expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per person, plus gratuities.

Popular specialty dining options include:

• Cagney’s Steakhouse: Premium cuts of beef, seafood, and wine pairings ($39–$49 per person)
• Teppanyaki: Japanese hibachi-style cooking with entertainment ($39–$49 per person)
• La Cucina: Italian cuisine with handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza ($25–$35 per person)
• Ocean Blue: Upscale seafood and steakhouse fare ($39–$49 per person)
• Food Republic: Pan-Asian fusion with small plates and cocktails ($25–$35 per person)

These restaurants are ideal for celebrating a special occasion, trying a new cuisine, or simply treating yourself to a more intimate, elevated dining experience. The food is often superior to the complimentary options, and the ambiance is more refined—think dim lighting, white tablecloths, and attentive service.

Specialty Dining Packages and Value Tips

To help offset the cost of specialty dining, NCL offers dining packages that provide discounts when you book multiple meals in advance. These packages are available for purchase before your cruise or during embarkation and can save you 20–30% compared to paying à la carte.

Common package options include:

• 3- or 5-night dining packages: Pre-book a set number of specialty meals at a fixed price
• Unlimited dining packages: Pay one flat fee for unlimited access to all specialty restaurants (best for foodies or large groups)
• Kids’ packages: Discounted rates for children under 12

Pro Tip: Book specialty dining packages before your cruise to lock in the best rates and secure reservations for popular restaurants. Some venues (like Teppanyaki) sell out weeks in advance.

Another way to save is to share entrees or order à la carte instead of a full three-course meal. For example, you might split an appetizer and entree at Cagney’s, or order a single sushi roll at Food Republic. This allows you to sample the cuisine without breaking the bank.

Special Dietary Needs and Allergy Accommodations

Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Options

Norwegian Cruise Line is highly accommodating when it comes to special dietary needs. All complimentary dining venues (MDRs, buffets, and casual restaurants) offer clearly labeled vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. You’ll find everything from plant-based burgers to gluten-free pasta to dairy-free desserts.

For the best experience, notify the cruise line in advance about your dietary restrictions. You can do this during the online check-in process or by contacting NCL’s guest services. Once onboard, inform your dining room server or buffet staff about your needs—they’ll guide you to the appropriate dishes and even offer to prepare custom meals if necessary.

Example: On the Norwegian Bliss, the MDRs have a dedicated “Dietary Menu” that changes daily and includes gluten-free soups, vegan entrees, and low-sodium options. The buffet also has a separate section for allergen-free foods.

Severe Allergies and Medical Conditions

NCL takes food allergies seriously. If you have a severe allergy (e.g., to nuts, shellfish, or soy), the cruise line can provide a personalized allergy card that you carry with you to every restaurant. This card lists your allergens and is shared with kitchen staff to prevent cross-contamination.

Additionally, NCL’s chefs are trained in allergen protocols, and many ships have dedicated allergen-free prep areas. For extreme cases, the cruise line may allow you to pre-order meals in advance or even bring your own food (with prior approval).

Important: While NCL makes every effort to accommodate allergies, it cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free environment. If you have a life-threatening allergy, consult your doctor before cruising and carry necessary medications (like epinephrine auto-injectors).

Tips and Strategies to Maximize Your Dining Experience (and Budget)

Pre-Cruise Planning: Book Early, Save Money

To get the most out of your NCL dining experience, plan ahead. This includes:

• Booking specialty dining packages before your cruise (best prices and availability)
• Reserving specialty restaurants for special occasions or peak times (like sunset dining)
• Notifying NCL of dietary needs during online check-in
• Downloading the NCL mobile app to view daily menus and make reservations

Booking early not only saves money but also ensures you get your preferred dining times and venues. For example, Teppanyaki and Cagney’s often fill up within hours of embarkation.

Onboard Strategies: Eat Smart, Enjoy More

Once you’re on the ship, use these strategies to maximize value:

• Use the buffet for breakfast and lunch: Save your specialty dining credits for dinner.
• Take advantage of 24-hour snacks: Grab a sandwich or salad from the buffet instead of ordering room service.
• Share specialty meals: Order one entree and two appetizers to sample more dishes.
• Ask about promotions: Some specialty restaurants offer “early bird” or “happy hour” discounts.
• Try the MDRs first: If you’re unsure about a specialty restaurant, test the waters with a complimentary meal before upgrading.

Data Table: Dining Inclusions and Costs on Norwegian Cruise Lines

Dining Venue	Included in Base Fare?	Typical Cost (if not included)	Best For
Main Dining Rooms (MDRs)	Yes	$0	Full-course meals, themed dining
The Garden Café (Buffet)	Yes	$0	Breakfast, lunch, casual dining
O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill	Yes	$0	24-hour snacks, burgers, wings
Poolside Grill	Yes	$0	Quick bites, ice cream
Room Service (limited menu)	Yes (food only)	$7.95 delivery fee	Late-night snacks, breakfast in bed
Cagney’s Steakhouse	No	$39–$49 per person	Premium steaks, special occasions
Teppanyaki	No	$39–$49 per person	Entertainment, Japanese cuisine
La Cucina	No	$25–$35 per person	Italian classics, romantic dinners
Unlimited Dining Package	No (add-on)	$99–$199 per person	Foodies, large groups, frequent diners

Conclusion: Yes, Meals Are Included—But the Experience Is Yours to Customize

So, are meals included in the price on Norwegian Cruise Lines? The short answer is a resounding yes—for the vast majority of dining experiences. Your base cruise fare covers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks at all complimentary venues, including main dining rooms, buffets, casual restaurants, and even 24-hour room service (with a small delivery fee). This is a significant value compared to land-based vacations, where you’d pay for every meal out of pocket.

However, NCL’s dining model is designed for choice. While you can enjoy a fantastic, all-inclusive culinary journey without paying extra, the cruise line also offers a tempting array of specialty restaurants for those who want to splurge. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, craving a gourmet steak, or simply want to try something new, these premium options add depth and variety to your onboard experience.

The key to maximizing your NCL dining adventure is planning and flexibility. Book specialty packages in advance, use complimentary venues for everyday meals, and save the paid options for special moments. With its Freestyle Dining philosophy, diverse menus, and accommodations for dietary needs, Norwegian Cruise Line delivers a dining experience that’s as flexible and enjoyable as your vacation itself. Bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are meals included in the price on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Yes, most meals are included in the base fare on Norwegian Cruise Lines. This covers dining at the main restaurants, buffet, and select casual eateries onboard.

Do I have to pay extra for food on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

While breakfast, lunch, and dinner at complimentary venues are included, specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse or Le Bistro require an additional fee. These offer premium dining experiences beyond the standard fare.

Are drinks included with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Non-alcoholic drinks like water, coffee, and tea are included with meals, but soda, alcohol, and specialty beverages cost extra unless you purchase a drink package. Always check the terms of your package for details.

Is room service included in Norwegian Cruise Lines’ pricing?

Room service is available but incurs a small delivery fee (around $7.95 per order), though continental breakfast delivery is free. The menu items themselves are part of your included dining options.

Does Norwegian Cruise Lines offer all-inclusive meal packages?

Norwegian doesn’t offer all-inclusive meal packages, but you can purchase the “Specialty Dining Package” to prepay for multiple specialty restaurant meals at a discounted rate. This helps manage costs for premium dining.

Are kids’ meals included in the price on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Yes, kids’ meals are included at all complimentary dining venues, including kid-friendly options at the buffet and main restaurants. Specialty restaurants also offer kids’ menus for an additional charge.