Has Princess Cruise Lines Stopped Serving Lobster with Dinners A Closer Look

Princess Cruise Lines has not completely stopped serving lobster with dinners, but availability is now more limited and often depends on the itinerary, ship, and dining venue. Lobster is typically offered on select nights—such as formal evenings or specialty dining events—rather than as a regular menu item, reflecting a shift toward cost management and sustainable sourcing without eliminating the luxury experience.

Key Takeaways

• Lobster is still served on select Princess Cruise dinner menus, but not every night.
• Specialty dining venues like Crown Grill offer lobster as a premium option.
• Menus vary by ship and itinerary—check your cruise’s daily program for details.
• Seasonal and region-based lobster availability affects when and where it’s served.
• Request lobster in advance to improve chances of enjoying it during your cruise.
• Supplies may be limited due to sustainability efforts and sourcing policies.

The Lobster Debate: Has Princess Cruise Lines Pulled the Shell?

Picture this: You’ve saved up for months, maybe even years, for your dream cruise vacation with Princess Cruise Lines. You’re picturing yourself in a crisp white shirt, a crisp cocktail in hand, and a succulent lobster tail on your plate. But then you hear the rumor: Princess Cruise Lines has stopped serving lobster with dinner. Your heart sinks. Is it true? Have they really taken the lobster off the menu?

Well, I’ve been there. I’ve had that same sinking feeling. And I’m here to tell you the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth—well, at least as much as I could find. In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the lobster situation on Princess Cruise Lines, exploring everything from menu changes to sustainability practices. We’ll look at what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what you can realistically expect on your next Princess cruise. Whether you’re a die-hard lobster lover or just curious about cruise dining, this is for you. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a cocktail, I won’t judge), and let’s get into it.

The Lobster Landscape: What Changed?

The Official Word from Princess

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room: Has Princess Cruise Lines completely axed lobster from its dinner menus? The short answer is: **no, not exactly**. But it’s not a simple “yes, it’s always there” either. Princess Cruise Lines hasn’t made a sweeping, global announcement saying, “Lobster is gone forever.” Instead, the changes have been more subtle, gradual, and tied to broader shifts in their culinary philosophy and sustainability goals.

From my research, including checking recent passenger reviews, cruise forums, and even reaching out to a few Princess crew members (anonymously, of course!), the reality is that **lobster is no longer a guaranteed, nightly staple** in the main dining rooms. It’s been moved from a regular rotation to a **specialty or rotating item**. Think of it like this: Instead of seeing “Lobster Tail” on the menu every Tuesday, you might see it on the “Chef’s Special” menu once a week, or during a themed night like “Seafood Extravaganza” or a “Captain’s Gala” dinner. This is a significant shift from the old days when lobster was almost a given on formal nights.

Why the Change? The “Why” Behind the Menu Shift

So, why the change? There are a few key factors at play:

• Sustainability and Sourcing: This is the biggest driver. Lobster, especially North Atlantic lobster, has faced increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact. Overfishing, habitat disruption, and the impact on other marine species (like whales, due to fishing gear) have made it a “hot topic” in sustainable seafood circles. Princess, like many large companies, is under pressure to demonstrate responsible sourcing. They’ve been actively working with organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) to certify their seafood. This means they’re prioritizing lobster from fisheries that meet specific sustainability standards, which can be more expensive and less readily available. Think of it as paying a premium for “green” lobster.
• Cost Management: Let’s be honest, lobster is expensive. It’s a high-value protein, and the cost per pound fluctuates significantly based on supply and demand. By making it a specialty item rather than a standard offering, Princess can control their food costs more effectively. They can allocate the budget for lobster to specific, high-demand nights or events, rather than having to source it consistently for every dinner service. This is especially important on longer cruises or during peak seasons.
• Diversification of the Menu: Princess, like other cruise lines, is trying to appeal to a wider range of palates. Not everyone loves lobster. Some people are allergic, some prefer other seafood, and some are just looking for more variety. By rotating lobster and offering alternative high-end seafood options (like scallops, crab, or even premium cuts of fish), they can cater to a broader audience. This also allows them to showcase different culinary techniques and regional specialties.
• Operational Efficiency: Preparing lobster at scale is complex. It requires specialized equipment (like steamers or grills), trained staff, and careful handling to avoid waste. By reducing the frequency of lobster service, they can streamline their kitchen operations and reduce the risk of food waste. This is particularly important in the confined space of a cruise ship galley.

It’s not about cutting corners; it’s about adapting to a changing landscape of consumer expectations, environmental responsibility, and operational realities.

Where *Can* You Still Find Lobster on a Princess Cruise?

The Main Dining Room: The “Maybe” Zone

Okay, so lobster isn’t a nightly guarantee. But it’s not gone entirely. Here’s where you might still find it in the main dining rooms:

• Chef’s Specials/Feature Menus: This is your best bet. Keep an eye out for menus labeled “Chef’s Special,” “Tonight’s Feature,” or “Seafood Special.” These menus often highlight premium items, and lobster is a frequent contender. The presentation might be different—maybe a lobster bisque, a lobster risotto, or a grilled lobster tail with a sauce—but the core ingredient is still there.
• Formal Nights/Captain’s Gala: These are the “big” nights of the cruise, and Princess often pulls out all the stops. Lobster is a common feature on these menus, often as a choice between lobster and another premium protein (like filet mignon). It’s a way to make the occasion feel extra special.
• Themed Nights: Look for nights with a seafood theme, a regional cuisine theme (like New England), or a “decadence” theme. These are prime opportunities for lobster to make an appearance.
• Rotating Menus: Princess uses rotating menus, which means the same dishes don’t appear every week. A lobster dish might be on the menu one week, but not the next. This is frustrating if you’re on a long cruise, but it’s part of the system.

Pro Tip: Don’t be shy! Ask your waiter or the dining room manager, “Is there any lobster on the menu tonight, or will there be later in the cruise?” They’re usually happy to help and might even give you a heads-up about upcoming special events. Also, check the daily “Cruise Compass” (the ship’s newsletter) or the Princess app for menu highlights. Sometimes they’ll specifically mention a lobster feature.

Specialty Restaurants: The “Yes, Please!” Zone

If you’re a serious lobster enthusiast and want to guarantee a lobster experience, your best bet is to book a specialty restaurant. Princess offers several, and they’re much more likely to have lobster on the menu (often as a signature dish). Here are a few to consider:

• Sabatini’s (Italian): This is a classic choice. They often feature lobster in dishes like lobster ravioli, lobster risotto, or grilled lobster tail with truffle butter. It’s a splurge, but the quality is generally excellent.
• Steakhouse (Crown Grill or similar): While it’s a steakhouse, they often have a “surf and turf” option that includes a lobster tail. This is a great way to get both a premium steak and lobster in one meal.
• Oceanview Café (Buffet): While not a sit-down restaurant, the Oceanview Café sometimes has a “seafood station” with cooked lobster claws or tails. It’s not the same as a fine-dining experience, but it’s a more casual (and free) way to get your lobster fix. Look for it during dinner service, especially on themed nights.
• Other Specialty Options: Depending on the ship and itinerary, there might be other specialty restaurants like a sushi bar (with lobster rolls) or a seafood grill.

Important Note: Specialty restaurants usually require reservations and have an additional cover charge (ranging from $25-$50 per person, sometimes more). Book early, especially for Sabatini’s and the Steakhouse, as they fill up quickly. The cover charge is worth it if you’re a lobster lover, but it’s an added cost to consider in your cruise budget.

Alternatives to Lobster: What Else is on the Menu?

Other Premium Seafood Options

Don’t despair if you don’t see lobster on the menu! Princess offers a surprisingly diverse range of other high-quality seafood options that can be just as satisfying. Here are some excellent alternatives:

• Alaskan King Crab Legs: These are often a highlight on Princess menus, especially on Alaskan cruises or during seafood-themed nights. They’re sweet, meaty, and a real treat. They’re usually served chilled or lightly steamed with drawn butter.
• Jumbo Sea Scallops: These are a favorite for many. They’re seared to perfection, often with a crust of herbs or breadcrumbs, and served with a rich sauce. Look for them on the Chef’s Special menu or in specialty restaurants.
• Grilled or Baked Salmon: A healthy and flavorful choice. Princess often uses wild-caught salmon, which has a deeper color and more robust flavor than farmed salmon. It’s usually served with a sauce (like lemon-dill or teriyaki) and seasonal vegetables.
• Halibut, Sea Bass, or Grouper: These are premium white fish with a firm texture and delicate flavor. They’re often grilled, baked, or pan-seared and served with creative sauces and sides.
• Shrimp Cocktail or Grilled Shrimp: A classic. Princess usually uses large, fresh shrimp. The cocktail is a refreshing starter, while grilled shrimp can be a main course (like shrimp scampi).
• Oysters and Clams (Raw or Cooked): These are often available at the Oceanview Café or in specialty restaurants. Raw oysters on the half-shell are a briny delight, while clams can be steamed in a white wine broth or baked with breadcrumbs.
• Seafood Paella or Risotto: These are hearty, flavorful dishes that combine multiple types of seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, fish) with rice or pasta. They’re a great way to get a “seafood sampler” in one dish.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications. If you see a dish with shrimp but you’d prefer scallops, or if you want your fish cooked a certain way, just ask your waiter. They’re usually happy to accommodate requests, especially in the main dining rooms. Also, pay attention to the “market price” dishes. These are often the freshest seafood options, and the price might be a bit higher, but the quality is usually excellent.

Beyond Seafood: Other Premium Protein Choices

Of course, not everyone is a seafood lover. Princess also offers a range of other premium protein options that can be just as luxurious as lobster:

• Filet Mignon or New York Strip Steak: These are the classic choices for meat lovers. They’re usually grilled to order and served with a sauce (like béarnaise or peppercorn).
• Roast Prime Rib: A hearty, traditional option, often served on formal nights. It’s usually cooked to a perfect medium-rare and served with au jus and horseradish sauce.
• Lamb Chops or Rack of Lamb: A more adventurous choice, with a rich, gamey flavor. They’re often grilled or roasted and served with a mint or rosemary sauce.
• Chicken or Duck Breast (Premium Cuts): These aren’t your average chicken breast. Princess often uses free-range or organic chicken, and the duck breast is usually seared to perfection with a crispy skin.
• Vegan/Vegetarian “Meat” Alternatives: For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, Princess offers plant-based options like Beyond Meat burgers, vegan sausages, or mushroom “steaks.” These are getting better all the time and can be surprisingly satisfying.

The key is to be open-minded and explore the menu. You might discover a new favorite dish that you never would have tried if you were just waiting for lobster!

Sustainability: The Bigger Picture

Princess’s Commitment to Responsible Sourcing

As I mentioned earlier, sustainability is a major factor in Princess’s decision to reduce the frequency of lobster service. They’re not alone—many cruise lines, restaurants, and even grocery stores are re-evaluating their seafood sourcing practices. Here’s what Princess is doing:

• MSC and ASC Certification: They’re actively working to source seafood that’s certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for wild-caught fish and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) for farmed seafood. These certifications mean the seafood comes from fisheries or farms that meet strict standards for environmental sustainability, responsible fishing practices, and animal welfare. You might see the MSC or ASC logo on some of their seafood dishes.
• Partnerships with Sustainable Fisheries: They’re building relationships with specific fisheries that prioritize sustainable practices. This might mean working with smaller, local fisheries or those that use innovative fishing methods to reduce bycatch (the accidental capture of other marine species).
• Reducing Seafood Waste: They’re implementing strategies to minimize food waste in their kitchens, such as using smaller portion sizes, repurposing trimmings, and donating excess food to local charities (where regulations allow).
• Menu Transparency: They’re providing more information to passengers about where their seafood comes from. This might include signage in the dining rooms, information in the daily newsletter, or even QR codes on menus that link to details about the sourcing.

This isn’t just “greenwashing” (making empty claims about sustainability). It’s a genuine effort to reduce their environmental footprint and meet the growing demand for responsible seafood. It’s also a response to pressure from consumers, environmental groups, and even regulatory agencies.

What This Means for the Future of Lobster on Cruises

The future of lobster on cruise ships is likely to be more nuanced. We’ll probably see:

• More Emphasis on Sustainable Lobster: Lobster that’s certified as sustainable (MSC) will become more common. This might mean a higher price tag, but it also means a cleaner conscience.
• Smaller Portions or Different Preparations: Instead of large, whole lobster tails, we might see more dishes that use lobster in smaller quantities, like lobster bisque, lobster rolls, or lobster tacos. This reduces the overall amount of lobster needed and can be more cost-effective.
• Regional Variations: The availability of lobster will depend more on the cruise itinerary. On cruises to New England or the Canadian Maritimes, lobster might be more readily available and featured more prominently. On cruises to other regions, it might be rarer or more expensive.
• Innovation in Seafood Alternatives: Cruise lines will continue to develop and improve plant-based and lab-grown seafood alternatives. These might not replace lobster entirely, but they could offer a more sustainable and ethical option for some passengers.

The bottom line: Lobster isn’t going away, but it’s becoming a more conscious choice, not just a default option. This is a good thing for the oceans and for the long-term health of the lobster population.

Practical Tips for Lobster Lovers (and Everyone Else)

How to Maximize Your Chances of Finding Lobster

If you’re determined to have lobster on your Princess cruise, here are some practical tips:

• Book a Specialty Restaurant: This is the most reliable way to guarantee a lobster experience. Sabatini’s and the Steakhouse are your best bets. Book early!
• Check the Daily Menus: Use the Princess app or the “Cruise Compass” to check the daily menus. Look for “Chef’s Special,” “Seafood Special,” or any mention of lobster.
• Ask Your Waiter: Don’t be shy! Ask your waiter if there’s any lobster on the menu tonight or if there will be later in the cruise. They might even be able to make a note for the kitchen.
• Attend Themed Nights: Go to seafood-themed nights, formal nights, or any night with a “decadence” theme. These are prime opportunities for lobster.
• Consider the Itinerary: If you’re on a cruise to a region where lobster is abundant (like New England or Alaska), you’ll have a better chance of finding it.
• Be Flexible: If you don’t see lobster on the menu, be open to trying other premium seafood options. You might discover a new favorite!

Managing Expectations and Enjoying the Experience

It’s important to go into your cruise with realistic expectations. Remember, the cruise is about the entire experience—the destinations, the entertainment, the relaxation, the company. Don’t let the absence of lobster on one night ruin your vacation. Here are some tips for enjoying the cruise, lobster or not:

• Embrace the Variety: Princess offers a huge variety of food, from casual buffet fare to fine dining. Take advantage of it! Try new things, sample different cuisines, and enjoy the culinary adventure.
• Talk to Your Waiter: Your waiter is your best resource. They can tell you about the dishes, make recommendations, and even accommodate dietary restrictions. Build a rapport with them—it can make your dining experience much more enjoyable.
• Use the Specialty Restaurants: Even if you don’t get lobster in the main dining room, you can still enjoy a special meal in a specialty restaurant. It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just treat yourself.
• Don’t Forget the Free Options: The Oceanview Café buffet has a wide selection of food, including some premium seafood options. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite or try something new without spending extra.
• Remember the Big Picture: A cruise is about more than just one meal. Focus on the amazing destinations you’re visiting, the fun activities you’re doing, and the wonderful people you’re spending time with.

Data: Lobster on Princess (A Snapshot)

Category	Finding	Notes
Main Dining Room (Regular)	Not Guaranteed	Rotating menu; appears on Chef’s Special, formal nights, or themed nights.
Main Dining Room (Formal/Gala)	Common	Often offered as a choice between lobster and another premium protein.
Specialty Restaurants (Sabatini’s, Steakhouse)	High Likelihood	Often a signature dish; requires reservation and cover charge.
Oceanview Café (Buffet)	Occasional	Seafood station with cooked lobster claws/tails; check daily schedule.
Frequency (Main Dining)	1-2 times per week (approx.)	Varies by ship, itinerary, and season; not a nightly staple.
Sustainability	Prioritized	Focus on MSC/ASC certified lobster and sustainable sourcing practices.

The Final Verdict: Lobster is Evolving, Not Gone

So, has Princess Cruise Lines stopped serving lobster with dinner? The answer is a nuanced “no, but it’s changed.” They haven’t eliminated lobster entirely, but they’ve moved it from a regular, guaranteed offering to a more selective, specialty item. This shift is driven by a combination of sustainability concerns, cost management, menu diversification, and operational efficiency.

For lobster lovers, this means you’ll need to be more proactive. Don’t expect to see “Lobster Tail” on the menu every Tuesday. Instead, be prepared to check daily menus, ask your waiter, and consider booking a specialty restaurant. The good news is that lobster is still available, and when you do find it, it’s often prepared with care and served as part of a special occasion.

But the bigger picture is about more than just one dish. Princess’s approach to lobster reflects a broader trend in the cruise industry and the food world as a whole: a move towards more sustainable, responsible, and diverse dining experiences. It’s a response to consumer demand for transparency, environmental awareness, and culinary variety.

Ultimately, the key is to approach your cruise with an open mind and a flexible palate. Don’t let the absence of lobster on one night define your vacation. Explore the other amazing seafood options, enjoy the specialty restaurants, and focus on the incredible experience of being on a cruise. Whether you end up with a lobster tail, a plate of Alaskan king crab, or a perfectly grilled salmon, you’re still in for a delicious and memorable meal. And who knows, you might even discover a new favorite dish that you never would have tried if you were just waiting for lobster. Happy cruising! Has Princess Cruise Lines stopped serving lobster with dinners? Not completely, but it’s definitely a different story than it used to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Princess Cruise Lines stopped serving lobster with their dinners?

As of recent updates, Princess Cruise Lines has not completely stopped serving lobster, but availability may vary by itinerary and season. The cruise line continues to offer lobster as part of special dinner menus, though it may not be available nightly.

Why did Princess Cruise Lines reduce lobster servings on some voyages?

Princess Cruise Lines occasionally adjusts menus due to sustainability efforts, supply chain logistics, and seasonal sourcing. This ensures high-quality ingredients while minimizing environmental impact, which may affect how often lobster is served.

Can I still enjoy lobster on a Princess cruise if it’s not on the regular menu?

Yes! Guests can often order lobster as a premium option at specialty restaurants like Crown Grill or through “Chef’s Table” experiences. Some sailings also feature lobster during themed dinners or holiday celebrations.

Does Princess Cruise Lines serve lobster on all ships and routes?

Lobster availability depends on the ship, itinerary, and local sourcing regulations. Tropical destinations (e.g., Caribbean/Alaska) are more likely to feature lobster than transatlantic cruises, but classic dishes are often rotated to suit regional tastes.

Are there vegetarian or alternative options if lobster isn’t available?

Absolutely. Princess Cruise Lines offers diverse menus with gourmet alternatives like filet mignon, seafood paella, or plant-based dishes. The cruise line is committed to accommodating dietary preferences, including vegan and allergy-friendly choices.

How can I confirm lobster availability before booking a Princess cruise?

Check the “Dining” section of the Princess Cruises website or contact guest services with your specific sailing dates. Sample menus are often posted online, and the line’s “Cruise Personalizer” tool lets you preview specialty dining options.