Dining is one of the most memorable aspects of any cruise vacation, and Holland America Line (HAL) has built a reputation for offering exceptional culinary experiences at sea. From elegant multi-course dinners to casual buffets, the cruise line caters to every taste and preference. Among its various dining options, “My Time Dining” (officially called “As You Wish® Dining”) offers a flexible and personalized approach that appeals to modern travelers who prefer freedom over fixed schedules.
This detailed article explores everything you need to know about the rules, booking process, dress code, and insider tips for enjoying My Time Dining on Holland America Line ships. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a returning guest, understanding how this dining system works will help you make the most of your culinary journey at sea.
Holland America Line introduced its flexible dining system as part of its “As You Wish® Dining” concept. The idea was simple: to allow guests to dine on their own schedule instead of being tied to traditional fixed dining times.
Traditionally, cruise lines operated with two main seating options: early seating (around 5:30–6:00 PM) and late seating (around 8:00 PM). Guests were assigned a table, time, and dining companions for the entire voyage. While this worked for many travelers, others preferred more freedom. My Time Dining allows guests to decide when they want to dine each evening, offering the same fine dining experience without a fixed schedule.
On Holland America ships, My Time Dining takes place in a designated section of the main dining room, usually on the lower or upper level, depending on the ship. Guests with My Time Dining can either walk in when they wish or make reservations in advance for specific times.
The My Time Dining program is designed to balance flexibility with structure. Here’s how it typically works on Holland America Line:
Reservation-Based or Walk-In Dining:Guests can choose to make a reservation for a specific time each night, or simply walk in whenever they feel ready to dine. Reservations can be made through the Holland America Navigator App, online before the cruise, or by calling or visiting the dining room host once onboard.
Dining Room Sections:The main dining room is divided into two parts — one for traditional fixed-time diners and another for My Time Dining guests. The menus, quality, and service standards are identical; the only difference is the timing flexibility.
Seating Arrangements:You can request to sit alone, with your travel companions, or share a table with others. If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, you can ask for a shared table; if you prefer privacy, request a table for two.
Timings:The typical My Time Dining hours on Holland America ships are from 5:15 PM to 9:00 PM, although this can vary slightly depending on the itinerary and ship.
Dress Code Compliance:Even though you can dine at your preferred time, you must still adhere to the ship’s dress code for that evening. On Gala Nights (Holland America’s formal evenings), elegant attire is expected even in the My Time Dining section.
Same Service Quality:The menu in the My Time Dining section is identical to that of the fixed dining section. Guests enjoy multi-course meals, with appetizers, soups, main courses, and desserts crafted by Holland America’s world-class culinary team.
One of the most convenient aspects of Holland America’s My Time Dining is that it can be selected in advance. When booking your cruise, you’ll be asked to choose between:
Early Fixed Seating (around 5:30–6:00 PM)
Late Fixed Seating (around 8:00 PM)
As You Wish® / My Time Dining (flexible option)
If you select the flexible option, it will automatically be reflected in your cruise documents and onboard account. However, it’s wise to make advance dinner reservations for the first few nights, especially if you’re sailing on a popular itinerary or a full ship.
You can make these reservations through your Holland America Line account online or the Navigator App before embarkation. Once onboard, you can adjust or cancel reservations daily according to your plans.
If you didn’t pre-select My Time Dining, it may still be available once you’re onboard, but it’s subject to availability. You can visit the Dining Room Manager or Guest Services Desk soon after boarding to check if you can switch.
Once your dining preference is confirmed, you can book your desired dinner times daily through:
The Navigator App on your smartphone or tablet
The interactive TV system in your stateroom
The Dining Room Host Station near the entrance of the main dining room
Many guests like to make reservations for the same time each evening to ensure minimal waiting. However, walk-ins are always welcome — you may just have to wait a few minutes during peak hours (typically 6:30–7:30 PM).
While My Time Dining offers flexibility, there are still a few important rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth dining experience for all guests.
If you make a reservation, it’s important to arrive on time. The dining staff generally holds your table for about 15 minutes before offering it to walk-in guests. If you’re running late, you can always inform the host via the Navigator App or by calling the dining room.
Holland America Line maintains a refined atmosphere, and My Time Dining adheres to the same dress code as other dining venues.
Smart Casual Nights: Slacks, skirts, collared shirts, or blouses are appropriate.
Gala Nights: Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, dress shirts, or suits are expected.
Prohibited Attire: Beachwear, tank tops, baseball caps, and distressed jeans are not permitted in the main dining room.
If you’re traveling in a group, My Time Dining can accommodate you, but it’s best to make group reservations ahead of time. Large groups without reservations may need to split into smaller tables depending on dining room availability.
While you may not have the same waiter every night as with traditional dining, you can request the same section or server if you prefer. Mention this to the host when you check in for dinner, and they’ll try to accommodate your request.
If you have specific dietary needs — such as vegetarian, gluten-free, diabetic, or kosher meals — it’s important to inform the cruise line before sailing and remind your dining room staff once onboard. Holland America Line is known for being accommodating, but advance notice helps ensure seamless service.
Even if you’re using My Time Dining, Gala Nights still follow a more formal schedule. You may wish to reserve your dinner time in advance to enjoy the elegant atmosphere and special menus offered during these evenings.
Holland America Line automatically adds a daily service charge to your onboard account. This covers dining room staff gratuities, so there’s no need to tip separately unless you wish to reward exceptional service.
Families are welcome in My Time Dining. Children’s menus are available, and the dining team does an excellent job of accommodating young cruisers with faster service or simplified dishes when requested.
Choosing My Time Dining on Holland America Line offers numerous advantages:
Flexibility: You’re not bound to a strict schedule. Dine early before a show, or enjoy a late dinner after exploring ports of call.
Freedom of Choice: Decide nightly whether to eat alone or join others.
Less Rushed Experience: You can enjoy dinner at your own pace, rather than rushing to make a fixed seating time.
Perfect for Port-Intensive Cruises: When itineraries involve late departures or long shore excursions, flexible dining allows you to adjust easily.
Ideal for Couples or Families: You can dine as a couple one evening and invite friends or family the next without changing your entire dining schedule.
Although My Time Dining is appealing, it may not suit everyone. Here are some potential downsides:
Wait Times During Peak Hours: Without a reservation, you might wait 15–30 minutes during prime dinner times.
Different Wait Staff: Unlike traditional dining, where you have the same waiter each night, you might have different servers, which can affect the continuity of personalized service.
Limited Large Group Seating: For big families or friend groups, it can be harder to find a table together unless you book early.
Slightly Less Social: Guests who enjoy forming friendships with tablemates during the cruise may prefer fixed dining, where you dine with the same people each night.
Dress code enforcement on Holland America Line is taken seriously, even for flexible dining. The atmosphere is more refined than many contemporary cruise lines.
Casual Nights: Smart casual attire is required. Collared shirts, blouses, slacks, or dresses are ideal.
Gala Nights: Expect a more formal dress code, with elegant evening wear, cocktail dresses, or suits.
Prohibited Items: Flip-flops, shorts, torn jeans, tank tops, or swimwear are not allowed in the main dining room at any time.
Even though My Time Dining offers flexibility, the elegance of the evening remains an important part of the Holland America experience.
To make the most of My Time Dining, consider the following insider tips:
Reserve Early: Use the Navigator App or ship’s portal to book your preferred dinner times, especially for Gala Nights.
Avoid Peak Hours: If you don’t like waiting, aim to dine before 6:00 PM or after 8:00 PM.
Request Favorite Waiters: If you find a waiter or section you love, request to be seated there again — most hosts are happy to accommodate repeat guests.
Be Flexible: Sometimes, being open to a slightly earlier or later dining time can make your evening smoother.
Use the Navigator App Efficiently: The app lets you manage your reservations and even preview menus each day.
Communicate Dietary Needs Early: Speak to the maître d’ or your server about any allergies or dietary requirements early in the cruise.
Plan Around Activities: Check the ship’s daily schedule before reserving dinner times so you don’t miss shows or special events.
Holland America Line has long been associated with refined dining. My Time Dining guests enjoy the same menu as other diners, which includes:
Signature Appetizers such as shrimp cocktails, escargots, and soups of the day.
Main Courses that range from premium beef cuts and seafood to vegetarian and global-inspired dishes.
Desserts including classic favorites like chocolate soufflé, crème brûlée, and fruit tarts.
Additionally, guests can order from a “Always Available” section of the menu, featuring simple staples like Caesar salad, grilled chicken breast, or sirloin steak — perfect for those who prefer familiar options.
If you occasionally want a change from the main dining room, Holland America offers numerous specialty and casual venues:
Pinnacle Grill: A fine-dining steakhouse with premium cuts and seafood.
Canaletto: Italian cuisine with family-style servings.
Tamarind: Asian fusion with Thai, Japanese, and Chinese influences.
Rudi’s Sel de Mer: French seafood specialties.
Lido Market: Casual buffet open for all meals.
Dive-In and New York Pizza: Perfect for casual, poolside bites.
These venues can complement your My Time Dining schedule since reservations are separate and can easily fit into your flexible dining plan.
Q1. Can I switch between fixed dining and My Time Dining once onboard?
Yes, but it depends on availability. Visit the dining room manager soon after embarkation to request a change.
Q2. Do I pay extra for My Time Dining?
No, it’s included in your cruise fare. Specialty restaurants, however, may have an additional cover charge.
Q3. How long does dinner usually take?
A full-service dinner lasts about 75–90 minutes, depending on how many courses you order and whether you’re dining with others.
Q4. Can I request a table by the window or in a quieter area?
Absolutely. When checking in or making reservations, mention your seating preference, and the staff will try to honor it.
Q5. What if I miss my reservation?
If you’re late, your table may be given to another guest. Simply check in with the host when you arrive, and they’ll seat you at the next available table.
Holland America guests often praise My Time Dining for its flexibility and stress-free approach. Many travelers enjoy the ability to dine based on how their day unfolds — whether it’s after an evening show, a relaxing spa session, or a long port excursion.
Moreover, the consistent quality of food, presentation, and service — combined with the relaxed schedule — makes it a perfect option for those who want both elegance and freedom during their voyage.
My Time Dining on Holland America Line represents the perfect blend of freedom, flexibility, and fine dining. It caters to the modern traveler’s desire for a personalized cruise experience while maintaining the classic elegance the line is known for.
Whether you prefer early dinners, late-night meals, or spontaneous plans, the system adapts to your lifestyle. Understanding the rules — from reservations and dress codes to etiquette and timing — ensures a seamless dining experience.
So, the next time you book a Holland America cruise, consider opting for My Time Dining. You’ll enjoy the same exquisite menus, world-class service, and refined ambiance — all on your own schedule.
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