The Vegan Experience on Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean has been expanding its dining options to cater to various dietary needs, including vegan diets. While previously a separate vegan menu was provided in the main dining room (MDR), the cruise line now integrates vegan dishes directly into regular menus. This makes ordering easier for all guests, enhancing the plant-based dining experience.
Dining Options for Vegans Onboard
Main Dining Room (Complimentary)
The Main Dining Room is a highlight of vegan dining on Royal Caribbean. The dinner menu includes at least one vegan option for each course, appetizers, main courses, and desserts, clearly marked with a symbol. This offers a more curated experience compared to the buffet. Some examples of nightly vegan options include:
- Appetizers: Roasted Tomato Soup, Pan-Seared Asparagus, Tortilla Soup
- Entrees: Herb-Crusted Stuffed Portobello, Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese, Crunchy Chili-Crusted Tofu Tacos
- Desserts: Peanut-Caramel Bar, Vegan Fudge Brownie, Vegan Chocolate Cherry Tart
Windjammer Buffet (Complimentary)
The Windjammer Marketplace buffet provides casual dining. Staff members are available to answer questions, though items may not always be explicitly labeled vegan. The buffet features a salad bar, fresh fruits, vegetables, and staples like pasta with marinara sauce. The Indian-inspired vegetarian section often has naturally vegan curries and lentil dishes (dals). For breakfast, oatmeal and fresh fruit are available, and guests can request plant-based milks for coffee and cereals.
Specialty Restaurants (Additional Cost)
Many of Royal Caribbean's specialty dining venues can accommodate vegan diets, though modifications or advance notice may be needed. It is best to discuss options with the host or waiter to inform the chef when arriving.
- Johnny Rockets: Offers the Streamliner vegan Boca burger with fries. Confirm the bun is vegan and request no mayo.
- Sorrento's Pizza: Custom pizza with vegan dough, marinara sauce, and vegetable toppings can be requested. Vegan cheese is usually unavailable.
- Jamie's Italian: Some pasta dishes, such as penne pomodoro, are vegan or can be made vegan by omitting cheese.
- Izumi Sushi & Hibachi: Vegetable rolls are available, and hibachi chefs can prepare a vegetable or tofu-based dish.
- Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade: The Impossible Burger is available, but confirm the bun and toppings are vegan.
Other Casual Venues (Often Complimentary)
- Park Cafe/Cafe at Two70: These locations offer grab-and-go options such as oatmeal, bagels, fruit, and customizable salads.
- El Loco Fresh: Build-your-own tacos or bowls with rice, beans, salsa, guacamole, and other toppings.
- Vitality Cafe: This health-focused spot provides smoothies and juices with plant-based milk options.
Comparison of Vegan Dining Venues
| Feature | Main Dining Room (MDR) | Windjammer Buffet | Specialty Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Complimentary | Complimentary | Additional Cost |
| Variety | Daily rotating vegan menu (3 courses) | Build-your-own options and international dishes | Targeted dishes; requires modifications |
| Ease of Ordering | Easy with marked dishes | May require confirming with staff | Requires discussion with staff or chef |
| Atmosphere | Formal, sit-down | Casual, self-service | Varies by venue, often more upscale |
Pro Tips for a Smooth Vegan Cruise
- Communicate in Advance: Inform Royal Caribbean of your dietary needs when booking, or a few weeks before sailing. This allows the culinary team to prepare.
- Speak with the Maître D': Introduce yourself to the maître d' or waiter on the first day in the Main Dining Room. This helps ensure consistent meals.
- Explore the Buffet: The Windjammer offers a variety, especially for breakfast and lunch. Look for the Indian section and build meals from vegetables, rice, and pasta.
- Ask for Special Orders: Request modifications to dishes at both complimentary and specialty restaurants. Chefs are often accommodating.
- Utilize the App: Use the Royal Caribbean app to preview the nightly vegan options in the MDR.
Conclusion: A Pleasing Vegan Voyage
Cruising as a vegan on Royal Caribbean is accessible and enjoyable. The Main Dining Room has dedicated options, the Windjammer buffet offers choices, and specialty venues provide customizable dishes, making for a fulfilling culinary experience. Proactive communication with the dining staff is key. For more information on dining policies, refer to the official Royal Caribbean FAQ.
