When boarding my cruises, I prefer to avoid the masses that tend to swarm to the buffets on board. For Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, that would be the Windjammer venue. While the ship can hold over 6,000 passengers, for the most part the crowds are minimal as the ship itself is huge, and people are always spread about doing different things during their days at sea. There are a few exceptions to this, and one is during boarding day. During this approximate five hour period, all 6,000+ people are doing virtually the same thing; boarding the ship and heading to lunch. With limited dining venues open during boarding, the majority take the easiest route which leads them to the buffet, and allows them to begin their week of included (seen as free to many) food by indulging on all-you-can-eat grab and go options.
There are many like myself, that prefer to avoid the masses, and enjoy a quieter, slower paced meal. In the past I have chosen Park Cafe, but on this trip I decided to try something new. I went with a for-fee dining venue, Giovanni’s Table, which was open for lunch during boarding at a reduced rate of $15 per person. As with all fee based restaurants, this would include all the appetizers and desserts I wanted, and my choice of entrée. I could still feast, but the small fee would keep the area a little quieter than others on the ship. Continue reading Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas: Giovanni’s Table
