“Casual Dining” on Princess Cruises can be a bit confusing at first because the name makes it sound like it is included, but it is actually a paid dining category. These venues sit between the free dining options and the more expensive specialty restaurants, offering a slightly upgraded experience without the higher price tag.
On most ships, Casual Dining restaurants cost around $15 per person if you pay out of pocket. They are more elevated than the buffet or main dining room, but not as premium as specialty restaurants, which are typically around $55 per person. Some ships also feature experiential dining options that go even further with unique menus or themed experiences.
Princess Plus Package
If you purchase the Princess Plus package, it includes a set number of Casual Dining meals, usually four per guest. This can be a nice way to try a few different venues without paying extra each time. Just keep in mind that not everything is bundled anymore. For example, gelato is no longer included in the Plus or Premier packages.
Included Dining
It is also important to remember how much food is already included in your cruise fare. You have access to the main dining rooms for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with the buffet, International Cafe, poolside burgers and hot dogs, and pizza by the slice. You can easily go the entire cruise without paying extra for food if you choose.
If you do want to try something different, you can always pay the cover charge for Casual Dining or specialty restaurants without buying a package. It is a flexible system, so you can decide what feels worth it once you are onboard. Since options vary by ship, it is a good idea to check your specific ship on the Princess website ahead of time to see which restaurants fall into each category.
