Cruise menus are packed with choice… but what if I told you there’s even more? A whole world of off-menu goodies you can get – if you know what to ask for.
These aren’t shady hacks or awkward requests. They’re totally normal items that just don’t get advertised. And the best bit? Most crew members will be happy to help if you ask nicely!
Here are the secret items cruisers in-the-know are already enjoying…
(I’ve included photos of these items on certain ships, but they’re actually available on most cruises, if you ask.)
1. Proper Indian Curry
Many of the chefs onboard are from India – and they know how to cook. They also have a LOT of curry that they make for themselves that they’re happy to let you try.
Even if you don’t see curry on the menu in the main dining room, just ask. You’ll often get something far tastier than the standard fare. Steamed rice and naan bread too, if you’re lucky.
Many of the Indian crew members are vegetarian, so if you are too, be sure to try this secret menu item on your next cruise – you won’t rerget it.
2. Veggie Burgers at the Pool Bar
Scan the menu at the burger station and you’ll probably see beef, chicken, maybe fish. But what you won’t see? The veggie burger they’re hiding in the back!
I find it so weird that cruise ships often don’t have them on the menu, but they have them in the fridge. My theory is that they’re more expensive than meat burgers so they don’t want to have to make too many of them.
The burgers are cooked fresh so they’ll probably take ten minutes, but totally worth the wait!
3. Veggie Sausages and Bacon at Breakfast
The buffet’s hotplate will be loaded with meat. But if you’re vegan or vegetarian, don’t settle for cereal!
Ask a server or chef for plant-based breakfast items. Many cruises stock veggie sausages and even vegan bacon – you just have to ask. Sometimes, there’ll be a sign at the buffet letting you know they’re available, but not always.
Just like the burgers, I think the cruise lines don’t want to spend the extra money on faux meat – I imagine it can be even more expensive to get outside of the UK. But, these items are almost always avaiable, so be sure to ask.
4. Chocolate Spread
There’s no Nutella jar on the buffet. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have chocolate on your pancakes! Ask in the buffet or main dining room and they’ll often bring you a portion.
It might not be Nutella, but they’ll do what they can. It might be chocolate sauce, or I’ve even had crew members on a Royal Caribbean ship go away and microwave some chocolate for us!
If you have chocoholic kids, it’s all the same. They’re just happy to be allowed a sweet breakfast as once they’re home they’ll be back to Weetabix and fruit.
5. The Children’s Menu (Even for Adults!)
Don’t be shy – if you’re craving mac and cheese, chicken nuggets or even a peanut butter and jelly sandich, just ask for the kids’ menu!
It’s always available. And honestly? Sometimes that’s exactly what hits the spot.
I’ve ordered off the kids menu for myself before and nobody batted an eyelid. I actually ordered two mains to make sure I had enough food – no problem!
Even if you just want to get a side of fries or garlic bread and order your main of the regular menu – go for it!
6. Plain Food (For Picky Eaters or Delicate Stomachs)
Not everyone wants rich sauces and fancy names. Whether you’ve got a sensitive stomach or a fussy eater in the group, you can always ask for simple meals like plain grilled chicken, white rice, baked potatoes or buttered pasta.
My kids are both fussy eaters and when we cruise with Fred. Olsen they asked for buttered pasta every day. I didn’t take a photo of it though, because why would you?
7. Iced Coffee (Even If It’s Not on the Menu)
Your caffeine fix doesn’t need to be hot. If the coffee shop menu only shows lattes and cappuccinos, just ask for an iced version. Most cruise coffee bars can make one in seconds – even if it’s not advertised.
All they need to do is pour a shot of espresso over ice and add cold milk, right? Want it sweet? Ask for a shot of syrup too.
8. Surprise Cocktails
Seen the menu? Bored already? Don’t be afraid to go off-script. Bartenders love a challenge. Ask for your favourite cocktail – even if it’s not listed. Or better yet, ask them to surprise you.
They’ll usually whip up something fun, colourful and strong enough to make you forget what day it is.
When I cruised with SeaDream Yacht Club I discovered that they don’t even have a drinks menu. They just make whatever you want. Kinda cool!
9. Cheese Plate To Go
Love cheese and crackers but too full after your meal? Take them with you!
Most cruise ship restaurants will happily wrap up a cheese plate in cling film if you ask. Pop it in your cabin fridge and you can enjoy a private snack later on your balcony with a glass of wine. Fancy.
10. Vegan Menus
Most cruise lines now offer a full vegan menu – but they don’t hand it out unless you ask.
So ask.
This gives you more options beyond the regular menu – and many of them are incredible. They’re also usually pretty healthy, which is great if you’re watching your figure.
Want more cruise secrets like this? Keep this list handy for your next sailing – and never settle for what’s “just on the menu” again.
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I learned very quick that you can ask when we were on Britannia in May. I don’t think anyone said No. My main one was asking for cappuccino at breakfast in MDR. Not as good as Java but better than coffee out of the pot.
Although its not on display I have no problem (on British ships) in getting a portion of Marmite