Dining is one of the most memorable parts of any cruise vacation, and Celebrity Cruises takes it to a whole new level with its award-winning culinary experiences. Known for its sophisticated ambiance, gourmet cuisine, and impeccable service, Celebrity Cruises offers guests multiple dining options tailored to their preferences. Among these, the concept of “My Time Dining” — officially known as Celebrity Select Dining — stands out as one of the most flexible and personalized ways to enjoy dinner on board.
Many first-time cruisers often wonder what the rules are for “My Time Dining” on Celebrity Cruises and how it differs from traditional fixed dining schedules. In this in-depth article, we will explore every aspect of Celebrity’s flexible dining system, including its rules, booking process, dress code expectations, reservation tips, and insider advice to make the most of your dining experience at sea.
Celebrity Cruises introduced Celebrity Select Dining (commonly referred to as “My Time Dining”) to give guests more flexibility and control over their evening meals. Unlike the traditional cruise model, where passengers dine at fixed times with the same group and waiter every night, “My Time Dining” allows you to dine when you want — between specific evening hours — and with whomever you choose.
It’s ideal for guests who prefer spontaneity or have busy evenings planned around shore excursions, entertainment, or spa treatments. This dining option is available in the ship’s main restaurant, which serves multi-course meals in an elegant setting without the need to commit to a fixed dining schedule.
While the concept offers freedom, there are still certain rules and guidelines that guests must follow to ensure smooth operations and a pleasant experience for everyone. Below are the primary rules and expectations associated with “My Time Dining” on Celebrity Cruises:
Before your cruise, you’ll need to select your preferred dining style — either Traditional Dining (early or late seating) or Celebrity Select Dining (My Time Dining). This selection is made through your Cruise Planner or Celebrity Cruises account.
Once you select “My Time Dining,” you’ll be assigned to a specific main dining room section that accommodates flexible dining guests. Switching between traditional and flexible dining after boarding is possible but depends on availability.
Although you can dine at your preferred time, it’s important to know that My Time Dining operates within certain hours. Typically, the flexible dining period runs between 6:00 PM and 9:30 PM, though times can vary by ship and itinerary.
You may arrive anytime within these hours, but making a reservation (even on the same day) is highly recommended to minimize waiting times. Walk-ins are accepted but subject to table availability.
To enjoy a seamless dining experience, Celebrity Cruises encourages guests to make nightly reservations for their preferred time. You can do this before the cruise using the Celebrity Cruises app or online portal. Once onboard, reservations can be adjusted daily through the app or by visiting the dining desk.
Without reservations, you may have to wait for a table, especially during peak dining hours between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Guests opting for “My Time Dining” enjoy the same menu and culinary standards as traditional dining guests. The menu typically includes nightly rotating appetizers, soups, main courses, vegetarian and vegan options, and desserts.
You’ll have access to Celebrity’s renowned culinary creations prepared under the guidance of top chefs, including signature dishes and regional specialties inspired by the ship’s itinerary.
While dining times are flexible, you can still request preferences such as a table for two, shared table, or specific wait staff. These requests are not guaranteed but are accommodated whenever possible.
If you prefer the same waiter or dining area throughout your cruise, inform the maître d’ or dining manager on the first night.
Celebrity Cruises maintains a smart casual dress code for its main dining rooms. For “My Time Dining,” the same rules apply as traditional dining:
Smart casual includes slacks, skirts, dresses, or smart jeans with collared shirts or blouses.
Formal nights (called Evening Chic on Celebrity Cruises) encourage guests to dress up — cocktail dresses, dress shirts, or even suits for men.
No swimsuits, flip-flops, or ripped clothing are allowed in the dining venues during dinner service.
The number of Evening Chic nights depends on the cruise length, typically one or two per sailing.
“My Time Dining” guests are seated in a specific section of the main dining room separate from traditional diners. This arrangement helps the staff efficiently manage reservations and service flow.
The ambiance, menu, and decor are identical; the only difference is the seating flexibility.
One important rule for Celebrity Select Dining is prepaid gratuities. To ensure smooth service and consistency across flexible dining times, Celebrity Cruises requires My Time Dining guests to prepay their service gratuities before boarding.
This policy compensates the dining and service staff fairly, regardless of when or how often you dine in the main restaurant.
Some larger Celebrity ships, such as those in the Edge or Solstice class, feature multiple main restaurants. If you select “My Time Dining,” you’ll be assigned to a particular one that supports flexible dining — for instance, Cosmopolitan Restaurant or Normandie Restaurant, depending on the ship.
You can’t switch between traditional and flexible restaurants each night unless availability allows.
If traveling with a group or family where some prefer fixed dining and others prefer flexible dining, it’s best to choose one system for everyone. Mixing styles can complicate seating arrangements.
If the group is large, Celebrity recommends making early reservations for each evening to ensure everyone can dine together at a suitable time.
The popularity of flexible dining lies in the freedom it offers guests. Here are the top advantages of choosing Celebrity Select Dining:
Total Flexibility – You’re not tied to a strict schedule. Dine before the evening show, after sunset on the deck, or whenever you feel hungry.
Perfect for Excursion Days – If your shore excursions run late, you won’t have to rush back to meet a fixed dining time.
Personal Choice of Ambiance – You can choose quieter times for intimate dinners or dine during busy hours for a lively social atmosphere.
Option to Dine Alone or with Others – Whether you prefer a private table or enjoy meeting fellow cruisers, My Time Dining allows that choice.
Same Culinary Experience – Enjoy all the same gourmet options, themed menus, and exceptional service as traditional dining guests.
Making reservations for Celebrity Select Dining is simple and can be done in several ways:
Before the Cruise: Use the Celebrity Cruises website or mobile app to select your preferred dining time for each evening.
During the Cruise: Modify or book times via the Celebrity app, or speak to the maître d’ in the dining room.
Daily Adjustments: You can change your dining times each day, depending on your plans or shore activities.
Celebrity recommends reserving in advance, especially for peak times between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, to avoid waiting.
Here’s what to expect when you arrive for “My Time Dining”:
Arrive at the main dining room during your reserved time or as a walk-in.
Check in with the host; they’ll confirm your table or give you an estimated wait time.
You’ll be seated either at a shared table or private one based on your preference.
The same menu as the traditional diners will be offered, featuring multiple courses.
Attentive waiters will serve each course, and you can linger or finish quickly depending on your evening plans.
Even though reservations are recommended, sometimes guests still experience short waits during the busiest hours. Here’s how to minimize or avoid them:
Book dinner times before 7:00 PM or after 8:30 PM.
Use the Celebrity Cruises app to confirm or modify times.
Inform the staff if you prefer the same table or waiter each night — this often shortens the check-in process.
If there’s a brief wait, most dining rooms provide a bar area where guests can relax with a drink until their table is ready.
Celebrity Cruises is known for its elegant yet modern dining culture. While you can choose your time, maintaining the right attire and manners enhances the overall experience for everyone.
Smart Casual Guidelines:
Men: Trousers or smart jeans with a collared shirt.
Women: Dresses, skirts, or dressy pants with a blouse or top.
Evening Chic Nights:
Men can wear a sport coat, button-down shirt, or even a suit.
Women may wear cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, or elegant evening attire.
Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the venue, especially since the main dining room is a central part of the cruise’s fine dining experience.
To help you decide which dining style fits your preferences, here’s a quick comparison:
FeatureMy Time Dining (Celebrity Select)Traditional Dining
Dining TimeFlexible between 6:00–9:30 PMFixed (early or late)
SeatingDifferent table each night (optional repeat)Same table, same wait staff
ReservationsRecommended dailyFixed for entire cruise
Dress CodeSame for bothSame for both
GratuitiesPrepaid requiredAdded daily or prepaid
Best ForGuests who like flexibilityGuests who prefer routine
Reserve in Advance: Especially on the first night and formal evenings, tables fill up fast.
Use the Celebrity App: Manage your daily dining times without visiting guest services.
Arrive Early for Formal Nights: More guests dine around the same time on Evening Chic nights.
Request Favorite Servers: If you find a waiter you like, ask to be seated in their section for future nights.
Be Punctual: If you’ve made a reservation, arriving on time helps staff manage service smoothly.
Try Different Times: Experiment with dining early one night and late the next to see which suits your schedule.
Pair with Entertainment Schedule: Coordinate your dinner time around onboard shows, movies, or live performances.
1. You can dine at any time without restrictions.While flexible, dining hours are fixed between certain times (usually 6 PM to 9:30 PM).
2. It’s casual dining.Although flexible in timing, the experience remains elegant and formal, similar to traditional dining.
3. No need for reservations.You can walk in, but reservations ensure a smoother experience.
4. It’s in a separate restaurant.My Time Dining takes place in a designated section of the main dining room — not a different venue.
Guests staying in AquaClass or The Retreat Suites have access to exclusive restaurants such as Blu or Luminae. These venues offer open seating similar to My Time Dining, but with enhanced menus and personalized service.
However, if AquaClass or Suite guests wish to experience the main dining room with My Time Dining, they can request it through guest services or during booking.
Celebrity Cruises offers a mix of complimentary and specialty dining venues. My Time Dining is part of the complimentary main dining experience, which means no additional charge is applied.
Other dining venues include:
Oceanview Café – casual buffet
Mast Grill – poolside burgers and snacks
Café al Bacio – coffee and pastries
Specialty Restaurants like Murano, Tuscan Grille, or Le Petit Chef, which require reservations and carry a surcharge
My Time Dining complements these options by offering a structured yet flexible dinner experience.
“My Time Dining” is designed for flexibility, but it doesn’t mean complete spontaneity without limits. You’ll enjoy more control than traditional dining guests, yet peak times can still get busy. Patience, planning, and communication with the dining team go a long way toward a satisfying experience.
Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its service culture, so staff members strive to accommodate requests as best they can — from special diets to seating preferences.
The rules for “My Time Dining” on Celebrity Cruises are crafted to balance freedom with organization, ensuring that every guest can enjoy a premium dining experience without sacrificing flexibility. By understanding how it works — including making reservations, following dress codes, and prepaying gratuities — you’ll be able to dine on your terms and make the most of your evenings at sea.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two, an unhurried meal after exploring a port, or a lively evening with friends, My Time Dining gives you the freedom to enjoy Celebrity’s world-class cuisine whenever it suits you best.
It’s not just about eating when you want; it’s about enjoying a dining experience that flows with your cruise lifestyle — elegant, flexible, and perfectly timed for unforgettable memories on the ocean.
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