15 Buffet Etiquette Tips Every Cruiser Needs To Know

Buffets at sea are legendary – piles of food, endless choice, and zero judgment when you go back for thirds.

But that freedom also means chaos if people forget their manners. And cruise buffets, as glorious as they are, aren’t a lawless land.

So here’s a refresher on how to enjoy the feast without being that person…

1. Wash Your Hands – Yes, Every Time

Before you even think about grabbing a plate, hit the sink or sanitizer station.

We get it – you’re excited for pancakes. But a cruise ship can become a petri dish if you’re not careful- and skipping the soap is the fastest way to spread nasties like norovirus.

Keep yourself and everyone else healthy by scrubbing up like you mean it. It’s not optional, it’s hygiene 101.

2. Follow the Flow – Don’t Go Against the Grain

Buffets are set up like a one-way street for a reason.

The layout is designed to keep people moving, not weaving around like it’s a bumper car ride.

Going backwards, darting sideways, or cutting across stations just slows things down and irritates everyone else. Take a lap, figure out what you want, and stick to the path. Simple.

The only time I’d say different is if you’re just nipping back in for one specific thing, and you can see a gap. That’s OK. But don’t be darting in and out at different sections, bobbing and weaving like some kind of hungry boxer.

3. Don’t Hog a Giant Table If You’re Flying Solo

We’ve all seen it – one person sipping coffee at a six-seater table like they own the place.

If it’s busy, and you’re a party of one or two, try not to claim the largest table in the venue just because it’s got a nice view.

Especially if your friends “might join later” but actually won’t show up for another hour. Buffets get crowded. Be fair. Share the space.

4. Keep a Close Eye on the Kiddos

Buffets are a sensory playground for kids – shiny trays, unlimited desserts and grab-friendly finger foods. But they need supervision.

That means helping them through the line, making sure they don’t grab food with their hands, and making sure they don’t get so excited that they atart running!

It keeps everyone safer and avoids dangerous collisions with people carrying hot soup.

5. Use the Serving Utensils – No Hands, Ever

This one should be obvious, but you’d be surprised.

Always use the provided tongs, spoons, or ladles. Don’t touch anything with your fingers, even if it’s “just a roll.”

It’s not your kitchen, it’s a shared space. Touching food with bare hands, even for a second, is a fast-track to spreading germs – and grossing everyone else out.

6. Don’t Mix Up the Tongs

Every set of tongs or utensils is there for a reason.

Using the same pair on multiple dishes might seem harmless, but it’s a nightmare for people with allergies, intolerances or dietary restrictions.

Think about the vegetarian behind you before you use the bacon tongs for the eggs. Just… don’t.

7. Be Sensible With Portions

Yes, you’re technically allowed to take 12 slices of French toast. But should you? Probably not.

Cruise buffets are generous, and food will be replenished. Take a little of what you want, try it, and come back if you love it.

Overloading your plate just to scrape half of it into the bin is wasteful – and honestly, a little rude.

8. Grab a New Plate Each Time

Going back for seconds (or thirds) is part of the buffet charm – just do it with a clean plate.

Reusing your dirty dish might seem like you’re saving effort or being eco-conscious, but it risks transferring germs to the buffet line.

Fresh plate, fresh start. The same goes for your glass.

9. No Sampling While You Wait

We know the temptation is real – especially if something smells amazing.

But snacking before you’ve even reached your table isn’t a good look.

For hygiene reasons (and basic manners), wait until you’re seated before digging in. You’re not at a supermarket tasting booth – you’re at a shared buffet.

10. Queue Like a Civilised Human

Patience is a virtue, especially in a buffet line.

If someone’s taking forever deciding between scrambled eggs or an omelette, just wait your turn.

Or if you really need to reach something quickly, ask politely – don’t just barge through. A little courtesy makes the whole experience smoother for everyone.

11. Don’t Hang Around After Closing Time

Cruise buffets tend to stay open a long time – most of the day, in fact. But if the food is being removed, and staff are wiping things down, that’s your sign: it’s over.

Hovering while the buffet is being packed up is awkward for everyone – especially the crew, who want to reset for the next meal. Respect their schedule. There will be another buffet. Always.

12. Skip the Buffet If You’re Feeling Unwell

If your stomach’s off, you’re coughing, or you’re just not feeling right, stay in your cabin – or at the very least, skip the communal dining.

Most ships have room service or alternate dining options that don’t involve touching the same serving spoons as 500 other people.

You’ll recover faster, and you’ll keep everyone else safe.

13. Speak Up About Dietary Needs

Most cruise buffets do a decent job labelling allergens and offering options for various diets, but they’re not mind-readers.

If you’re unsure whether something is gluten-free, low sodium, or nut-safe, just ask.

Staff are trained for this and will usually go out of their way to help – but only if you speak up.

14. Don’t Treat It Like a Game Show

This isn’t a timed challenge or an all-you-can-grab supermarket dash.

You’re allowed to go back. You’re encouraged to try new things. So slow down. Breathe.

You don’t need a bit of everything on your plate all at once. (And no, you don’t need three bread rolls – they’ll still be there in ten minutes.)

15. Don’t Rock Up In Swimwear or a Robe

Swimwear, your PJs or bathrobes don’t belong in the buffet.

I know it can be tempting to just pop in for a quick snack while you’re by the pool, or you just aren’t feeling that desire to get properly ready before breakfast. But that doesn’t mean you get to flaunt the rules on dress code.

You need to be dressed in actual clothes for a reason – it’s more hygienic than having your bits almost hanging out.

Plus, it’s basic respect for others to be a little bit presentable. Some cover-ups are fine, it doesn’t have to be your Sunday best. But you’re not in your own home – you’re in a restaurant, even if it’s a casual one. Dress like it.

Final Word

I know it’s a long list of ‘rules’ to follow but, really, are they any more than just common sense?

Unfortunately I know that a lot of cruisers don’t seem to follow all of these rules, and it can be quite frustrating for others.

So, make sure you stick to these. Be hygienic, be respectful, and you’ll have no trouble enjoying as much food as you want.

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