12 Cruise Dining Etiquette MISTAKES You're Probably Making

[@LifeWellCruised]

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[@cookielocurto7075]

I love mine. I want to laminate a bunch of the pages.

[@ST52655]

One humble suggestion regarding perfume: Please consider refraining from using perfume in consideration of people are allergic to fragrances. Thanks

[@bettywillis9218]

Was disappointed on my last Cruise waiters did not service tables on the Lido deck. Norwegian Sky. Is this a new trend?

[@wendyflemons1311]

I once worked with a fellow and his luggage was lost. His clothes consisted of what he had in his carryons and some people were incredibly unkind and he was very embarrassed. I think compassion should be something we all practice because we don’t know everyone’s story.

[@chriswright7621]

How terrible they judged him.

[@CCB249]

Wow! That is so sad! How can people ridicule people for how they look on a cruise.

[@paulaschreiner4201]

When cruising consisted of being placed with a group at a table we were placed with a young couple -first cruise and he didn't pack anything but a bathing suit and his tux. Dinner every night was his tux pants-until one night he got those dirty and couldn't wear them anymore. She came without him and asked the waiter to fix him a plate to go. It also was their honeymoon. She was really upset with him but we all found it pretty humorous!

[@genitagray6126]

It’s not the job of fellow cruisers to judge others attire. No one likes having a clothes police!

[@scottchace780]

Yes. Judging by the responces to this post, many people are much more concerned with monitoring other people's manners than they are with being kind.

[@krickenthekraken8844]

Not sure where I learned this, but on recent cruises, I have been taking pictures of the name tags of the best staff to mention them. Then I have the right spelling and remember who they are. They are extremely appreciative of this and it costs nothing.

[@lindamoeller9017]

Dome of the cruise lines have the writers name on the table

[@Okterp407]

Do this each time

[@billcook4768]

If you are eating with other people, put your damn phone down.

[@LifeWellCruised]

True

[@johnburns9634]

@@LifeWellCruised Or turn it off.

[@ashleyboss5544]

Our waiter this last time was amazing. His name was Vincent on the Carnival Valor. They asked to give a round of applause for the waiters and waitresses. Our section loved him so much we chanted “Vincent, Vincent, Vincent” and he loved it. We also gave him a $100 tip. If you have someone who goes above and beyond they should know you are thankful.

[@jenbrooks5872]

Love it!! Clearly Vincent deserved it!

[@PamelaThiede]

When wearing perfume or cologne, please keep it light. If I can smell it at the next table (and my sense of smell is my weakest sense), I will end up with a miserable sinus infection as I am allergic to many scents.

[@helenr461]

I also am allergic. If I go to the cosmetic section in a dept store, my nose is running and my eyes are tearing. I do still like to wear a light scent though. So, instead of wearing a cologne or perfume, I will get the lightly scented lotion of the same scent and use it sparingly.

[@anns1921]

For some people it can be deadly. I am highly allergic and most fragrances make me sick, dizzy and feeling like I'm going to pass out.

[@jackee0128]

I agree. Strong perfume is offensive to me

[@shannongiancola8110]

What is this unfinished wine you speak of?

[@JudyNunes]

If you order a bottle of wine, and do not finish the whole bottle, the waitstaff will recork it and hold it for you until until you are ready to finish the bottle

[@ElePranaityte]

I always finish my bottle 😅😅😅

[@carolynpeters3337]

lol

[@cheryldonofrio4780]

On a recent cruise we were seated at a table for two, right next to a large family. They were all happy and obviously enjoying every minute of the cruise, which added to the atmosphere. They actually added to our enjoyment of the cruise. One of the last evenings, we sent them over a bottle of wine to thank them.

[@rickrich7325]

My wife is under control diabetic and doesn’t need to be super careful but on our recent Cruise on Majestic Princess our Dining rm manager ( who was Great) brought the next evenings menus for her to look at and preselect with any alterations needed, was a great help to her to know there wouldn’t be surprises in selections!

[@dhoward5941]

Congratulation on your "Life Well Cruised" ranking! #6 is very good considering all the others that try to do what you do! You're very informative and we still listen to what you have to say because things change and you keep us all up to date! Thank you and well done!

[@leighsweet6846]

As a chef, I have a nemonic device for the plates: B-E-D ( bread, entree, drink) left to right. Utensils: start on the outside and work your way in. Forks and spoons at the top are for desserts. If you need a special utensil-- they will provide one. Another hint for salt at pepper shakers if not clearly marked: white (salt) goes on right. And if you want a light meal in a main dining room, order from the kids section. You can even mix and match: 'adult salad' and 'kids' entree.

[@michellevincent8338]

This is helpful and good to know info..thank you!

[@33piolin]

I love your B-E-D reference - so many people are totally oblivious to dining etiquette‼️🥰

[@carolynsteele9929]

I wish , when you mention ordering multiple appetizers or entrees, that you would also request that people only order these extras if they are going to eat them. Wasting food drives me crazy.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I think that’s a given, but you’re right

[@scottchace780]

If you don't like wastiing food, don't waste it. But don't go around putting your personal proclilvites on other people. What, we are all supposed to behave according to your perosnal wishes?

[@jenbrooks5872]

@@scottchace780 troll. She was making a point. Dont order a huge amount of food if you know you aren't going to eat it. Your a troll.

[@OkieTLB]

If we want to try something new, we always tell the waiter to just bring a very small portion so if we don’t care for it then we aren’t wasting an entire full portion.

[@carolynsteele9929]

@@OkieTLB that’s an excellent recommendation. And then if you like it, order away!

[@karenturnbo6870]

My husband and I were on a Carnival cruise in 2021. We got chatting with the Waitstaff who were mostly from the Philippines. They found out that my husband is a minister and began asking for prayer for their families who were under a hurricane warning at the time. We were more than happy to pray with them and it felt like we had a special connection with them.

[@AlienFrequency]

I love that.. not that their families were in danger or course. But yeah, getting to know a few crew members is one of my favorite parts of a cruise. I have several crew members on my Facebook from past cruises and still chat with some from time to time.

[@debwright4655]

How precious

[@laurabrancato]

😅​@@debwright4655

[@rdred8693]

Lovely people.

[@DBlake864]

We developed a great relationship with our waitstaff. They treated us like royalty. When we skipped the main dining room, the young lady told us she missed us. She was such a sweetheart. I loved them❤

[@michelecastor6227]

Recently we were on a carnival cruise. I was surprised that they don't have physical menus at the table. There is a QR code. You have to ask for a physical menu. Having to pull out your phone to see the menu really degraded the experience .

[@limabima77]

I asked for ginger tea one night to settle my stomach and the waiter had tea on the table every night from then on. It was soooo nice that he remember one night we didn't go to dinner and he said the next day "I had your tea and you weren't here" so sweet I loved him.

[@pierrefireball2505]

My brother and I always travel together. Yes, you must tip everyone who is looking after you. We never had these problems; exceptions were made once. we were leaving the ship, and my brother realized when looking for his wallet the envelope for the cabin attendee was still in his wallet. We promptly stop just before getting out, we spoke to an officer and gave him the envelope telling him the name of our attendee, and we indeed received a photo of him with many thank you from him.

[@scottchace780]

No, you don't have to tip everyone who looks after you. They are just doing their job. Nobody tips me for doing my job, and I do it as well as I am able. I do so out of the satisfaction of a job well done, not out of hoping for more money

[@pennyrichardson9700]

I added a soy allergy to my personalizer and after I ordered, my waiter warned me that they used soy bean oil for deep frying. I was surprised they were so attentive!

[@melissabailey2780]

As someone with a soy sensitivity, this is good to know. I recently became aware of my sensitivity so last year I told our wait staff and she would have me order for the next day for accommodations. I didn’t have any symptoms the whole cruise. 🙂

[@StacyLawlerThomas]

A genuine smile is your best accessory in any situation.

[@erinhuff2701]

Just got off a Princess cruise last week. My husband is diabetic. We told the waiters, and they brought out sugar-free ice cream for him every night that was not listed on the menus, which he said tasted great. It is worth asking for dietary alternatives if needed. Thanks for the video!

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad to hear! I appreciate you sharing this

[@arbonneladyTN]

@@LifeWellCruisedOn our last cruise (mid 2023) Our Daughter & her hubby were with us and they are both Vegan. Our waiter was beyond WONDERFUL! He asked the ‘kids’ if they liked Indian food. They told him they had just spent a month in India and LOVED Indian food!! Turns out the ‘kids’ got what the Indian Staff were making & eating everyday!!! Our ‘kids’ really really enjoyed the cruise in great part due to the kindness & care of our waiter ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@AlienFrequency]

Here's my dining tip: You can certainly ask for the same wait team every night, if you get one you really like. We do this every cruise. You 'may' have to wait longer for a table, but it's worth it to us. Many/most of these are common sense and good advice for life, not just on a cruise. Do some cruises still have shared tables? I'd honestly hate that. My wife and I are quite introverted... unless maybe we've had a few adult beverages, but yeah it's definitely not our thing. Also, to one of your points: we LOVE talking to the crew. They're what makes a cruise great IMO. They're always SO nice and have something interesting, kind or funny to say! I highly recommend getting to know them.

[@lorimasterson8427]

I am generally not that outgoing. I usually prefer to sit on my balcony for part of the day to enjoy some peace and quiet and get away from other people. But, I do enjoy the "traditional" cruise style with a set seating with the same waitstaff, and a shared table. 🤔

[@AlienFrequency]

I remember my grandparents taking a cruise when I was a kid, and they were talking about a shared table. Maybe that’s all that was available at the time? They loved it though. But I didn’t know it was a thing still. I’d most likely clam up, & my wife would clam up even worse.

[@CL-mp4vn]

@@lorimasterson8427 I think we can get some food from buffet and go to our own room, but with the restaurant food, can we order "to go" like on land ?

[@thomascarroll9556]

@@CL-mp4vnask for room service.

[@RaymondMullen-t9j]

Please and Thank You are CHEAP words try them .. Just Be Human and act SAME ....

[@LifeWellCruised]

👏

[@jenbrooks5872]

This is the best advice I have seen today!

[@rinderchocolate5304]

Thank you for mentioning perfumes! Perfumes make me very nauseous, so sitting near someone with perfume on while eating is awful!

[@LiamRichie825]

Always include the things that seem common sense! I’m on the autism spectrum and a lot of t8mrs I make social faux pas because what NTs consider common sense aren’t common to me.

[@kenbrown2808]

that makes good sense even for those of us who are "NTs." most people don't get any formal occasion instruction any more.

[@Sandi-ee1dj]

People should be having fun and not worrying about what others think you can't please everyone

[@mhtammi]

I like to travel light. I had a black and a beige top and a black and a beige skirt. They were very plain. I wore combinations with different accessories and I never looked out of place. It was a relatively casual MSC cruise so mileage may vary.

[@DeeDeesNotebook]

@@mhtammiGreat Idea 🎉

[@mike4jewel]

My wife is allergic to perfume and we have had to leave or move tables.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’m sorry to hear. We sit on our own, but I understand some people have a very hard time with perfume, smell of smoke or other scents

[@juliecampbell1410]

I am deathly allergic to many scented products. I carry an EPI pen to protect having anaphylaxis. People should wear just enough that If their sweetheart nuzzles their neck they catch a little whiff.

[@BetterOffWith]

Our last cruise we had a family at the table next to us who face timed 10 out of 16 nights. Using their outdoor voices also. Unreal.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Oh no

[@tduck828]

Yea now that is very uber rude!

[@Lovesapuzzle]

OMG, people do not realize, understand &/or care how offensive their fragrance is to others. Any fragrance you wear should only be detectable by someone in your close, personal space. If I can smell you from across the table, you've way over done it. Think about it. There is a reason restaurants don't put scented candles on dining tables. Cologne/perfume are unwelcome to some and migraine inducing to other, including me. I would ask to be moved to another table and be open about the reason why. I won't suffer in silence.

[@jema2609]

I've found that one courtesy I try to give all of the crew is to learn how to say thank you in their language. It gives them a little surprise and they usually appreciate the gesture.

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

It depends - to be honest I speak most European languages. An American tourist trying to "act like a local" and ordering coffee for himself and his wife by sticking 2 fingers in the air and stumbling "KKKaffee" - earns him a few smiles. But not those you describe.

[@tceller08]

NCL now has a separate allergy kitchen. (We were on the Star, I assume the other ships are the same) They want you to order the night before. It was impressive. RCCL also wants allergies/ special needs to order the day before. It’s so much easier than it used to be to accommodate allergies

[@Mariazellerbahn]

I never ask for recommendations as I think they will steer you towards something that isn't getting ordered (saving waste). Most of the things you mention are common courtesy but I would add .... Don't slurp your soup. Don't break wind at the table. Don't talk with your mouth full. Have a shower before going down to sit with others. Don't brag.

[@hildatgutierrez2233]

Ilana...I just want to Thank You Very Much for Every single Cruise tips that You have shared with so very many of us. I went on my very first cruise this summer. I watched several of your videos and each had very valuable information. My Cruise was only 5 days but because of You I really felt prepared and ready for Fun, fun and more fun. I Truly appreciate All Your efforts and I'll continue to like, comment and maybe if I'm lucky we might just run into You on one of the many cruises that are available most of the year. You are very Lovely and helpful with All Your Great Advice. God Bless You and Your Family.

[@dianampratt]

If you wear perfume or cologne, PLEASE do not wear so much so I can smell you if I’m sitting next you. I have asthma, and I will have to leave the table, as it will set it off, and I will cough so much, that, trust me, you will want me to leave! And it causes me to eventually become anaphylaxic. Same for anywhere I go, not just cruises. I hate that it happens…but it is what it is…and I have to remove myself from the situation.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

I feel your pain. Perfume/cologne gives me migraines. If it touches my skin, an ugly rash appears.

[@vickyburton2434]

My pet peeve is going to the main dining room and having unruly children next to me. There are family friendly options for families who can not control their children. I actually got up and left one of our formal dining evenings when a table of screaming kids was next to us. I did (and I think others did too) brought this to the attention of the main waiter. It just eludes me how people just don’t think of how rude this is!

[@FlatFeeDjs]

That absolutely pisses me off. Parents that don't give a crap and expect everyone to put up with their kids running around making a racket

[@arribaficationwineho32]

You have sent a plate of desserts to that table just for the children. Coffee based desserts would be great

[@vickyburton2434]

@@arribaficationwineho32 lol

[@genitagray6126]

That’s why I try to book cruises while children are in school. Parents think nothing about letting their children cry or be loud during the whole meal. They’ve learned to tune it out, I haven’t!

[@vickyburton2434]

@@genitagray6126 that is why we booked when we did, but there were a lot of Chinese and Indian children aboard. Maybe a foreign holiday?

[@ap4374]

Don’t use your phone while dining.

[@karenfrance1194]

Thanks for this! Your videos are always right on point and no nonsense which I appreciate. I like the points about conversation at a shared table. I like to sit with positive people who enhance the journey rather than complain. I like your response to that of ‘save it for the post cruise survey.’ Also good to share that if one is unhappy with a dish to politely send it back. It’s never a problem and instead of griping about it on social media see if it can be corrected right then as there. Thanks Ilana.

[@patrickking9284]

We were on a cruise in March. The table we were at had 6 other people. We and 4 others were always on time. Two ALWAYS came late. Like when everyone else was finished and thought it was time for the next seatng, they would show up. VERY RUDE! Poor wait staff just took care of them. Kudos to the wait staff for taking care of ignorant rude guests.

[@CarolPratt]

We shared a table of 8. After 10 minutes of arriving and ordering at the table, the doors to the main dining room were ceremoniously closed, and it was made obvious that latecomers would not be admitted.

[@eliasthienpont6330]

When ever I sailed, I never left a tip. Perhaps that was just not the custom on board an aircraft carrier.

[@reginamurch7750]

I appreciate the humor.

[@HansvanLandschoot]

Just recently sailed on the Enchanted Princess. There's no longer a dress code. Even on formal nights people entered the restaurant in shorts. It wasn't even casual. I have the impression that some people don't care at all. Wish it was as before😇

[@kikid4093]

I enjoy seeing others dressed up formally, and enjoy doing so myself on occasion. But, I’ve seen young women wearing fancy, glittery dresses that barely covered their butt, and I'd almost prefer to see jeans or shorts. Clearly I'm in that older, stodgy generation 😂😂

[@SpanglishSpider]

How sad.This is terrible. I take pride in how I present myself in public

[@sct4040]

I am sailing on that ship in September, good to know. I just bought a couple of dresses, and a pair of silver sandals. 😊

[@lindapark8467]

I have allergies to perfume, so a shared table with someone wearing perfume could be a problem.

[@cammingthrough]

A great way I learned where items should go on the table (8:00), think BMW. From left to right, Bread, Meal, Water/Wine. So, when questioning which bread plate is yours, it should always be the one on the left, and your water should be the one on the right of your entree plate.

[@dstreeter1095]

If you must blow your nose, excuse yourself from the table. Do not do it at the table.

[@carolstewart4088]

Well I have never blown my nose, during dinner, my nose ALWAYs runs while I eat. Hence I never chew gum. I carry tissue and dab my nose (and try to do it discreetly), instead of using the cloth napkin. Should I dine alone, in my cabin every night. Thank you,

[@dstreeter1095]

Dabbing discreetly is totally acceptable, but a full on blow while others are eating is unacceptable and rude. I would definitely share a table with you!

[@JayCaesar]

Discreet dabbing is one thing. Trumpeting like a parade trombonist is quite another.

[@joechan3388]

Tipping is a corrupt idea, the one gives the tip and one receives tip are perpetrators creating a corrupted environment. The cruising companies already charge tips mandatory, encouraging to give tips in addition to mandatory tips is simply stupid, toxic, sucker and Parvenu.

[@genevieve730]

I wish I knew about the placement of bread plate. I sailed 4 days back in 1997, and used the bread plate to my right. The gentleman next to me didn’t mention this faux pa until the last dinner. I appreciated his tact, and remember this to this day.

[@christymonk66]

If you are on fixed time dining but decide to eat somewhere else that evening, do you need to let the MDR know so the people at your shared table don't wait for you to order?

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes, it’s best to let the waiter & people know the evening prior (if you know), or pass the mdr (or call) & let the maître d know the day of

[@Paradise-on-Earth]

regarding the rules of the cutlery, this was shown wrong in the clip: The sharp side of the knife blade always turns inward. So, it will be set with the sharp side facing towards the plate in the beginning, you hold it downwards to the plate (never facing up) and you lay it down on the plate in the end, facing towards the fork, not towards outside of the plate. It's just a small finishing touch, but I think it's nice to know! I love all your content- thanks for your channel!

[@vonpfrentsch]

This is something you learn at the age 6, at least in Europe, or you never learn it. I was irritated by the picture with the knife pointing into the wrong direction.

[@Mickeyliera]

Agree that's proper etiquette in the Netherlands for sure and I believe that's pretty universal. Also makes sense from a practical standpoint that the server would hurt themselves with a sharp knife.

[@HollyPlake]

I think that’s common sense that the knife blade goes inward.

[@vonpfrentsch]

@@HollyPlake My boss used to sa "Why is it called common sense, if it´s not common to all?".

[@HollyPlake]

@@vonpfrentsch that makes sense lol 😂

[@tonyamonroe-leach3487]

Please do an updated version of what not to wear and what to wear on a cruise especially for dining thank you

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

Use your common sense. Walking into any meeting where others are dressed in shorts is about as disrespectfulness as it comes. You might as well wear a baseball cap - the other way around,

[@malcolmr3]

We’ve always had exceptional wait staff on our cruises. On one cruise while dining in the main restaurant the ladies were all struggling to decide on desert. The waiters were so great and brought them ALL the deserts and did that at every meal for the entire cruise. They did this without asking and with a huge smile. It became a laughing point for the entire cruise and even for several years after.

[@jimklemens5018]

dessert

[@tonydavidson5195]

I really enjoyed this video. One thing that I think is missing is one of my pet peeves, but it is actually in every etiquette book I’ve ever read. Please, please, please do not eat with your mouth open. Thank you in advance for this courtesy.

[@kerrymotton1819]

We left a separate tip for our dinner time waitstaff. They were incredibly kind and remembered our names! We asked for recommendations all the time and were not disappointed

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

Those you are seasoned travelers learned that "the upfront tip" at the beginning of the trip or in a hotel are very effective for services to come.

[@kerrymotton1819]

@@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp we always opt in for prepaid gratuities when we cruise. However, we tip out our waitstaff, room stewards, etc separately at the end of our trip. We haven’t been disappointed yet. We also take some extra cash to give to our favourite bar server. We had one in particular that went above and beyond the entire trip, even when we were off the ship. He was beyond grateful to receive some extra cash at the end of our trip.

[@maryalice578]

The waitstaff recommendations are really helpful. I’ve ordered an item on a cruise and our waiter would tell me if they thought it was a good choice or if not, make an alternative suggestion. They have never steered me wrong.

[@maries7058]

Just a little trick to remember which side is bread/drink...make an "ok" sign👌with each hand...the left looks like a "b" (bread) and the right looks like a "d" (drink).

[@suzanneentwistle6980]

Great idea for teaching kids

[@daleniehaus4309]

Always love your advice! We love getting to know the crew and staff, especially if they aren't busy and have moments to chat. On our last Oceania cruise we met the most adorable young lady serving in Martini's. She got to know all our likes. On the last night we gave her an envelope with note and tip. She gasped when we handed it to her, and gave all of us a very big, sincere hug and thank you. On a recent HAL cruise we got to know our cabana attendants, they were amazing! The crews have never disappointed, and we definitely try to show them all some extra appreciation.

[@sherylpolster5309]

Perfume/cologne is an allergy trigger for many people. Cruises are full of activities where people are close together. Please don't wear perfume to dinner or the theater where you will be close to others. We had someone near us in the theater on our last cruise that had us choking because the perfume was unpleasant and too strong.

[@elliejellie22]

We just got off the NCL Escape, before we ordered they always asked if there were any allergies. I also do not like mushrooms, I was able to ask for an entree without mushrooms. So if you have questions or would like it without an ingredient, just ask politely and they may be able to accommodate you. BTW, the food was outstanding.

[@michellemehaffey6934]

I preordered my meals because of a dairy allergy, and they always took longer. So a few times we shared a table and it took soooo long 1.5 hours because they put 2 appetizers on my order and everyone had to wait for me. I felt so bad.

[@jerilynjlee]

I was always taught that if you're sharing a table with others, wait until everyone is served before you begin eating. Most waitstaffs are very conscious of getting all (or the majority) of the food to the table at the same time.

[@crazy4dariver]

My last NCL I asked permission of my staff to take a photo of their name tag. No faces, but i tagged with locations. "You treat me with kindness, professionalism and compassion. The line needs to know this" Most demanded I get the face too.

[@susanpitre1185]

Ball caps in the dining room is a NO NO NO NO!

[@33piolin]

Ball caps should be a No-No everywhere . . . I don’t understand why men wear them, unless bald and protecting their coco🥥

[@robertbrost7777]

@@33piolin Oh I don't know, maybe sun protection, bald or not.

[@33piolin]

@@robertbrost7777 🌞In the dining room⁉️

[@annking8633]

Big fan of manners. Great tips right here. Thank you. ❤🎉😊

[@TripReviews]

Sorry, perfume should be outlawed. Many people have issues with it and sharing a table or an elevator with a woman or a guy who has had a bath in it is terrible and can really cause respiratory problems for more people than you can imagine.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

I agree 100%. Less is more people, less is more.

[@jbreathet5139]

100% agree. I am asthmatic and this can cause an asthma attack. I don’t see the necessity to bath yourself in perfume as it won’t cause harm to the wearer but you never know who you are harming around you.

[@TripReviews]

@@jbreathet5139 yes! My wife too has issues with perfume wearers. A little bit of a light smell can be tolerable but some of them! Wow! My nose tightens right up instantly and can’t breathe, chest gets tight and my wife much the same and she starts into a cough. One time her bosses wife walked in and off to emergency she went not being able to breathe.

[@devonpool542]

Perfumes and colognes can be very problematic for those of us that are allergic. It can cause breathing problems especially if people drown themselves in it.

[@HollyPlake]

On a Viking cruise I went on last year, I kept having to take my inhaler and I just thought it was some perfume that was bothering me then I found out it was mine that was making me have asthma attacks. 😂

[@perfesser944]

For any TRUE gentleman or lady, a video like this would be superfluous. For the common cruise passenger you see nowadays, it is a MUST.

[@janhillman8240]

Wowser

[@mchapman1928]

We just got home from a lovely Celebrity cruise. Everyone was so nice….well except one woman. My husband was having a diabetic crash in our cabin and needed to get his sugar up fast. Room service was going to take too long. I went to the buffet and got him a dessert and a glass of juice. When the elevator arrived I got in and asked the other passenger, a woman, to please press floor 9 for me since both my hands were full. She went off on me like a crazed animal saying she wasn’t a maid. She didn’t press the button and I missed my floor. No matter where you go, you may run into rude weirdos.

[@ruicoelho803]

I agree.

[@tobywinter1]

I was taught that you put your knife and fork side by side like at 4 o’clock on a clock face to indicate you are done. Especially useful when you are leaving food on your plate but don’t plan to eat anymore of it.

[@jacquimg2469]

Thank you Ilana. As always, you’re very gracious presenting this information. I appreciate the reminders - I still have memory lapses on which bread plate or drinking glass is mine. My table mates are always good natured and probably do this occasionally as well.

[@truepeacenik]

My mom cued me at a dinner when I was quite small. “Watch (tapping her left wrist and watch) your bread.” I have t worn a watch in decades, and I still hear this in my head.

[@plentypeas]

I’d love to see a “what not to wear” video!

[@vanceb1]

Just go to the local Walmart and video some of their customers. Nearly everything you see there will show up in the buffet.

[@funcatvideos3732]

Please create a what to wear or not to wear video for cruise dining. I love your fashion sense!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha thanks! Things have definitely changed over the last couple of years so it’s probably due

[@buttonsparrillo3833]

That's a great idea! Also, cocktail dresses can be of various short lengths. I'm curious if there is such a thing as too short for the main dining room or specialty dinner areas?? (My cocktail dresses are at mid-high thigh as I am very short.)

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

Should she pick the colors of your pants that match the color of your hair? If so,, let her have your "specifics".

[@HollyPlake]

@@buttonsparrillo3833 I would say remember to sit like a lady and I think you will be fine.

[@lisaleone2296]

For table etiquette, I see this mistake a lot: once your silverware is dirty, meaning once you have touched it to your food, it should never be placed back down on the tablecloth. Instead, keep the utensils on the plate on opposite sides pointed away from you while you are still eating, and together at a diagonal (as you showed) when finished.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

People do not no basic rules of dining at a table wirh actual utensils

[@paulcarr5918]

@@arribaficationwineho32 And some people don't know how to spell the words know or with (see your comment). Some people didn't graduate from the Emily Post Institute, and some didn't pass the first grade. Yet neither of those things actually hurts anyone, but when you throw stones sometimes you get them thrown back.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

@@paulcarr5918 ever hear of auto correct? Maybe you should look it up. Table manners are basic.

[@paulcarr5918]

@@arribaficationwineho32 spelling is even more basic. If you can look at what you're typing and not realize it was autocorrected wrong before you post it, then you didn't know you were wrong in the first place. Nice try though, Billy Madison.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

@@paulcarr5918 auto correct happens. Not everyone proofreads posts but thank you for being so conscientious, elementary school teacher. SO glad you are here to correct us! Lucky us!

[@pamelalimache]

Someone who blow their nose while others are eating! That is so gross when others can hear them blowing their nose. Yuk!!!!!

[@Valentina-Steinway]

After a cruise where unruly children screamed through the entire meal, AND staff would not do anything about it, I have switched to Viking cruises that doesn’t allow children.

[@uaremymuse1]

I’m frankly shocked that you need to explain all of these common sense ideas about life and public behavior.

[@frankw7091]

It's shocking that it's needed. By some people at least, not everyone.

[@ledbeat]

No foul language while at a shared dining table (or at all).

[@markwisner3972]

Great video. We have done 13+ cruises. Once we were seated with 4 other couples in the MDR the last time we did Set Time Dining. One couple was always late, like a 1/2 hr. Dinner became a 2hr affair. Another couple wanted to talk politics. We dreaded going to dinner. It was so bad, we ate at the buffet the last couple of nights. It was a shame. We always liked being seated with strangers at Set Time Dining. We now do "Anytime / Pick Your Time Dining". Maybe I missed in the video. You should tell the wait staff if you are not coming the next night, for example you will be eating at a specialty restaurant.

[@svetlanashubina4745]

You could ask for another table - we did it at the cruise year ago. Had strange couple with really rude behavior.

[@traceymacdonald8713]

I really like that you mentioned perfume, I have allergies to perfumes and instantly get a headache.

[@RadzPrower]

Yeah, I can't so much as wear a strongly scented deodorant. Smells of all kinds absolutely wreck me.

[@arbonneladyTN]

It is the CHEMICALS being put into perfumes/deodorants etc! Fake cheap scents like that truly kill me. I sing with a women’s barbershop 💈chorus and we now have a rule “NO PERFUMES”! Also… dryer sheets & detergents as well! Some people’s clothes are awful. Now I find I also have to be careful regarding buying TRASH BAGS🤯

[@katherinkeegan8601]

​@@arbonneladyTNI have horrible allergies and sensitivities to a lot of things. I get so frustrated when shopping trying to find items that have no scent. I don't do well with floral scents and hate lavender. And the odor of the scented garbage bags makes me ill. Fortunately I am okay with orange and lemon scents. The one called fresh linen or ocean breeze is also something I can tolerate.

[@bruceblunderfield5431]

Proper etiquette when you have finished your meal in even amongst family is, yes fork on the left facing up, and knife blade ( sharper side) facing the fork so as not to cut the maid or servants! A lot of etiquette is based on common sense though no so common these days! 😢

[@jackieheidorn5875]

I was told on a cruise to Not "impede" the servers by "chatting" as it took them away from their duties. So now I'm confused.

[@visaman]

On one cruise, I sent a positive note to the front desk about how nice my cabin steward was. The next night, the waiters were so excited to see me, as the cabin steward was their friend! They were chatting away to me, it was a magical time.

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

Depends - on a lot of things. This is not any different just because it is a cruise, I sometimes have a nice discussion with a waiter, a bank teller, or a cashier - but most certainly not if people are queuing up behind me or other customers are waiting.

[@johnathankain8033]

I'm going on my first ever cruise next year. I think its honestly a bit of a shame that overall we are relaxing standards (on land too). Dressing up nicely isn't about just yourself, it sets a tone and is almost part of the decoration and ambiance for everyone. Everyone showing up to dinner in t-shirt and jeans is never going to have the same special feeling as if everyone made an effort.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s true. However I’ve found that most of the time people like to still “dress up” a bit for dinner in one of the restaurants (even if not formally). There are always exceptions of course

[@JohnHoganN8]

Totally agree with you John, trying to expand their audience is why cruising is not as elite as it once was and why these videos are necessary. Being English the food etiquette is more second nature.

[@ornotgortwormiii8731]

Relaxed and diminished standards have been going on for a while. My grandfather, 1910 - 1983, did not leave the house without a coat, tie and hat (unless he was going to work in the yard).

[@TheMadame2023]

That is why I like Princess As I am of the generation where how you present yourself in public or at any event well put together matters And dressing up nicely makes an imprints and impressive high to your daily routine

[@tommyarmstrong731]

@@TheMadame2023 Princess and their formal nights....UGH!!!! I'm sure they will discontinue formal nights sometime in the future. It's a vacation for heaven's sake...

[@lukejohnson1274]

Small correction. When finished with your meal the fork and knife go in the five o' clock position with the tines and blade facing away from you like this \\ If you get up from the table and are not done the fork goes on the left and the knife on the right making a teepee shape / \ like that.

[@bradschwamberger1217]

From my experience the wait staff is most often great! The issue is often the greeters and seating staff. On our last cruise we found two waiters we loved! They knew our wine, what we hated or could not have. We ate normally late. For what ever reason the greeters on Carnival fought with us over having these two waiters to wait on us. They always had open tables and told us we were always welcome to ask for them. One night they tried seating us elsewhere in the dining room, only to have us refuse the table and tell them where we wanted to sit.

[@marktierney2986]

We always do traditional dinning with a set time for dinner each night, that way we have the same table and wait staff each night. That way we work with the cruise line and achieve good service and the Waiters learn your personal likes.

[@annejarvis4525]

Dont place your used serviette on your finished plate, fold and place on side (off plate) . When finished meal, YES place knife and fork “straight” on plate. Don’t think you are helping waiter by placing/piling finished plates on each other.

[@JayCaesar]

I've been a fine dining server: For the love of all manners and my clothes which I desire to keep clean, Please. Don't. Stack. Plates!!!

[@OkieTLB]

Ilana, you have a fraudster on here using your profile pic, but it’s not you. They keep posting the same message and they only joined just 2 hrs ago (around 8-9pm central time).

[@QuinnAstarza]

Hi and thanx for a great video! I thought it was great tips. I just wanted to add about wearing perfume/cologne. A little to one is ALOT to another. I'm very sensitive to chemicals and would hope that others sharing my table would think twice about how much they are wearing. I've had to request table changes due to the "I only sprayed once" was more like they sprayed or dabbed 5 times. LoL I'm thankful that it is becoming more mainstream to be scent considerate. Scents can make folks like me very sick and I would like to enjoy myself too. Thanx again!

[@JayCaesar]

With you all the way! One out of ten people are sensitive or straight up allergic to many perfumes/colognes/scented lotions, etc. I wish more people realized how much even a little cologne can ruin someone's evening. I have asthma and can have severe symptoms as a result of perfumes. Also, no one needs the scent of perfume obscuring the delicious aroma of their wine and food.

[@DancEncounters]

Well said! I think a lot of people don't realize how awful the reaction can be - anything from throat closing and breathing troubles to awful migraine headaches. And the sad thing is that the more expensive the perfume the worse the reaction for many. If people really want to change their smell, what about essential oils? Lavender or rose extract doesn't usually cause problems, for example.

[@Diana-007]

Can I ask why the majority of Americans I know and have witnessed don’t use a knife and fork only a fork, is this some kind of tradition? Maybe not the relevant topic but my goodness people are definitely getting more selfish when they are in the dining areas, I really don’t want to hear their very loud conversations and shouting, worse in groups small and large, I really don’t want to take part in their photographs or video whilst they stand right next to my table. I think it’s truly awful that you require to do a video advising people how to have decent manners to thank their waiters, order or react to conversation. Even table etiquette is a pretty basic thing, we didn’t have formal dinners all the time either at home but we knew how to behave and use our basic cutlery and chinaware. Don’t talk with your mouth full - good gracious were people dragged up. Sorry found this video a bit patronising.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

IMO, Americans typically use a fork alone for expediency. The European way of using both knife and fork creates smaller bites and takes more time. Personally, I (an American) prefer the knife and fork method, especially on a cruise where the table is often crowded. It contains my motion in a smaller space. I agree 100% about photographing and videoing with no regard for the privacy of others. Enough people display bad manners for this video to be relevant. Sadly, the people that should be watching it probably aren't.

[@Diana-007]

@@Lovesapuzzle that’s an interesting explanation, thank you.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

@@Diana-007 You are most welcome.

[@sweetypatnett6123]

Thanks for sharing this video. It was very informative and helpful. I can't wait to go on a cruise. I will definitely make a mental note, llana! You're the best!!!❤

[@susananquist8357]

Perfume. If you have asthma or other respiratory issues you will appreciate when those who love perfume, and will refrain for the sake of others.

[@Kerryjotx]

I made up a saying when I taught my Girl Scout troop etiquete: “Drink RIGHT up and don’t be LEFT without your bread”. My 28 year-old still says this.

[@flouisbailey]

Don’t miss lobster night!

[@ashleys4652]

We were on an NCL cruise. We had a suite in the Haven area. It annoyed me when other Haven guests were calling fellow passengers who were not in a Haven suite " general population " or "gen pop". Very poor etiquette.

[@Cha-y412]

We are regular NCL Haven guests and we just did a Transatlantic on the Prima. The Prima class has seperate elevators for just Haven guests and we experianced what we called jokingly " Haven Haters bias " Coming out of the Haven elevators several rude comments were made , for example " look its those people " 🤪. Other places we experianced Haven Haters was at the priority boarding and disembarking lines, and at the reserved show seating My Wife is a sensitive person and this behavior bothered her. Me on the other hand was met onnce by a rude comment and quickly replied - If you werent so cheap you could join us. So I think its safe to say the poor etiquette goes both ways.

[@judithstrachan9399]

Undoubtedly. Probably sour grapes in that case.

[@queenswillrule]

One would add another topic not to be discussed and that is money. It is considered quite rude to inquire about someone's financial situations. Keep it light, polite, and pleasant.

[@StlDave1]

Easy way to remember which bread plate and glass is yours. Just remember BED - Bread Entree Drink

[@SoloCruising]

Thanks! Another option is enjoying a private meal using Room Service; no dress code there😂 I wish the dietary information made it to the staff. They do not know unless you tell them, but are very good at accommodating. What do you think about the ‘baked potato question’? Can you get a baked potato with butter and sour cream upon request? I tip $5 per meal for exceptional wait staff. Super Tip-Tipping does get you better service. 😊

[@billybenson3834]

Dress as we want others to see us. Adulting is tough

[@visaman]

On my Princess Cruise, butter was on the table. Well, not on the table, but on a dish, the dish was on the table, but sometimes, well, not always sometimes, I would drop the butter on the table.

[@stephenstevenson1900]

My wife and I were on a Princess cruise and the table next to us had a family of five with the three kids between 5 and 10 years. The kids ran all over the dining room yelling and were swinging on the drapes and the parents were totally oblivious. After the second night our whole table asked the maitre d' to move us or them to another table. Eventually the parents were asked to leave the dining room and not return. On the other side of the coin we met a gentlemen and his wife from Pittsburgh. We are from Vancouver and we became best friends.

[@harborspringsgirl]

I loved this video today. I think when you’ve cruised many times you see it all and it’s not all necessary negative.. but I’m with you in the main dining room make an effort if you can. I always bring dresses for the main dining room. They’re not all fancy at all, but it makes me feel like I’ve made an effort I like to tip the waiters, assistant, waiters and mat during the cruise because they work so hard as well as my room steward, and the bartenders even though they are already tipped, but a special bartender gets a few extra dollars. I really appreciate the crew and I want them to know it, because so many really don’t understand how hard they work. Get to know them they will appreciate it.

[@rickcudmore8156]

Just off a Celebrity cruise and in the MDR for breakfast if you don't want water just turn the glass upside down and if you want tea and not coffee, turn the mug on it's side.

[@mimihoffy]

Love your channel! I always learn something :) My husband and I have MAJOR pet peeve on this topic. We just returned from a 10 day cruise in europe and we were horrified to see so many people coughing, sneezing, and even loudly blowing their noses in the dining areas. It is completely disgusting. There are ways to be discreet while coughing and sneezing when it cannot be avoided (we’ve all been there) but if you’ve got to blow your nose - sorry, but just get up and leave! And after all we’ve been through with the pandemic. We actually had to get up and move because a guy was going on and on with the blowing. And then many go handle the serving utensils at the buffet after this behavior. Wow. Just wow. 😱 Not sure how effective the little purse sized hand sanitizers are, but at least it makes me feel better……

[@davidbach7003]

Once in the buffet line, a woman sneezed on the food. Yuk

[@HollyPlake]

@@davidbach7003 I hope she told the waitstaff that she did that. 🤢

[@nursynikki]

They have whats called a "Sneze Guard", its the astic plexyglass that protects the food. However, if the person sneezing is short, it may not prevent the dropplet nuclei from hitting the food. ​@@davidbach7003

[@jenbrooks5872]

We were on the NCL Jewel. They had a small buffet area with fruit, but it looked kinda picked over. We were at O'Sheehans, and I asked if there was a way I could order a side of fruit, not from the small self serve area. It was like 10:30 am, so of course now, there wasn't much self-serve left! This was not a menu item. I was brought a huge platter of fruit, with a small bowl of Cottage cheese and small bowl of yougart! I was amazed! I honestly expected to be told I'm sorry we don't serve that here. Instead I was provided an amazing array of fruit!!! So, just ask. Be polite, say please, don't demand, inquire! The waiter was happy to accommodate me! We made sure he was mentioned on hero cards (I make my own hero cards now lol) and on our survey. We tipped him a bit too. It was our choice. He went above and beyond. Just be nice!

[@joanstuckart1158]

O ok

[@rgoonewardene380]

I was shocked to learn that adults need to be told what to do with their cutlery.

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

That should shock you less than that they need to be educated on what to do - respectively not to do with their hands. Licking fingers and picking food from common containers with their fingers are just a few. I have watched families with kids that are eating in a way I would not let my dog behave like that and all that between yelling and screaming. And mom licking their spoons first - bon appetite.

[@LRad-st9le]

Help, what are your thoughts on people blowing their noses at the dinner table? I was taught to leave the table but I’ve noticed some blowing their nose at the dinner table.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yuck. I agree with you

[@jenbrooks5872]

I leave the table. I know times have changed but we were brought up to not blow or even touch our faces or hair at the table! (Except with a napkin of course. You know what I mean) It is just gross!

[@pinky818smith-christian8]

I'm with you on this one!

[@carolstewart4088]

Well I have never blown my nose, during dinner, my nose ALWAYs runs while I eat. Hence I never chew gum. I carry tissue and dab my nose (and try to do it discreetly), instead of using the cloth napkin. Should I dine alone, in my cabin every night. Thank you,

[@nikifeniak5333]

I understand the yuck factor. Imagine the person who has snot running down their face that won't stop until they blow. Would you rather they blow or would you rather see snot running down their face?

[@JudyNunes]

I have fragrance allergies, so I always mention this the first night, so everyone has a heads up. If they CAN NOT LIVE without fragrance, I will have the waiter move me to another table. The most often response I get is that it is very expansive. Regardless of price, it will give me a migraine.

[@anns1921]

I'm highly allergic as well. Makes me feel very dizzy and like I'm going to pass out. I'm always amazed at how people respond sometimes when you tell them and even act insulted. No one chooses to have this issue and I wish more people would understand how truly bad it can be. For some people it can be deadly.

[@VickiDean-md4ku]

I always ask my wait staff how to say “thank you” in their language and from that night on I always say thank you in their language!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Love that idea!

[@SoloCruising]

Love this! I ask them how to say “I love you”❤

[@sunseekermama]

What a great and fun idea!

[@chrysvest4746]

I do this as well, then, if you see another worker with the same country on their name tag , I say it to them also. They are always surprised and delighted.

[@DancEncounters]

I do the same, Teremah Kasih in Indonesian, Salamat in Tagalog, Shukriya, in Hindi, and so on. They always break out in a huge smile.

[@patpowell862]

Hahaha, dress codes?! Haha! I'm Diamond and Never seen a dress code ever enforced, not on Carnival, RC, NCL , QM2 never. So scratch that etiquette. Holland, Yes, Virgin depends on how much booty shows.