When do you wanna eat?

On cruise lines that still use the traditional model, there are two times for dinner in the main dining room: main seating and late seating. The doors to the dining room usually open around 6:00 for main seating and about 8:30 for late seating.

But which is better? Well, that depends upon you, of course.

Many people who prefer late seating say it gives them more time in port, and they don't feel rushed to get back to the ship to shower and dress for dinner. There's extra time to relax a bit -- maybe even take a cat nap -- and then shower, shave, dress, and still have a cocktail in the Rendezvous Lounge (or any lounge for that matter) before going to the dining room. Also, there tends to be fewer families with small children at late seating.

The down side of late seating is, well, it's later. If you are the type of person who gets grumpy and grouchy if it's five milliseconds past your usual six o'clock dinner time, it's perhaps best not to tax your system -- or your family and friends who have to put up with you.

Some folks can't go to bed too soon after eating, and it's not likely you'll be interested in the midnight buffet -- which could be a good thing!

Also, after a long day ashore walking around or taking in the surf and sun at the beach, it may be difficult to keep your eyes open at the show after dinner. (C'mon, admit it, it's happened to you!)

Some people say that they don't like late seating because many the lounges close shortly after the late show ends, and if you're not interested in the casino, there's less to do if you're not ready for bed. If you go to the early seating, and then to the first show, there's still plenty of evening left ahead of you after the show ends.

I'd love to hear your opinions on which seating you prefer.

-- CruiseCounselor