Cruising with Dietary Restrictions on Princess Cruises: What You Need to Know

Dining is a highlight of any cruise, but if you have dietary restrictions, you may be wondering: Will there be anything I can eat?

The good news is, Princess Cruises is well-equipped to accommodate a wide range of dietary needs—as long as you take the right steps before you board.

Here’s everything you need to know to cruise confidently and eat well.

🥗 What Dietary Needs Are Accommodated?

Princess Cruises offers special menus and meal options for guests with the following dietary needs:

• Low sodium

• Low fat

• Low sugar / diabetic-friendly

• Vegetarian

• Kosher

• Gluten-free (on request)

• Lactose-free / non-dairy (on request)

  
  

Their goal is to provide a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable dining experience for all guests. But here’s the key: you must notify them in advance.

⏳ When to Submit Your Request

Princess Cruises requires written notice before your sailing in order to prepare your special meals. The deadline depends on your cruise destination:

✅ Submit Your Request At Least 35 Days in Advance for:

• Alaska

• Canada & New England

• Caribbean

• Hawaii

• Mexico

• Panama Canal

• Coastal Getaways

• California Coast

  
  

✅ Submit Your Request At Least 65 Days in Advance for:

• Europe

• Asia

• Australia & New Zealand

• Japan

• South America

• World Cruises

  
  

Tip: These timelines are strict—late submissions may not be honored, especially for kosher or medically necessary diets. If in doubt, submit earlier than required.

✉️ How to Submit Your Special Meal Request

To make your dietary needs known, follow these steps:

1. Contact Princess Cruises or your travel advisor (like Destination Earth).

2. Submit a written request that clearly outlines your dietary restriction or allergy.

3. Double-check that your request has been confirmed in your reservation.

4. Once on board, speak with the head waiter or maître d’ on Day 1 to ensure your meals are properly arranged.

   
   

🍴 What to Expect Onboard

Princess makes a real effort to provide quality dining experiences for all guests—even those with restrictions. Here’s what’s typically available:

• Specially prepared meals in the main dining rooms (often prepared separately)

• Gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts

• Vegetarian options clearly marked on menus

• Kosher meals (usually pre-packaged and flown in—must be requested well in advance)

• Diabetic-friendly desserts and low-sugar meal choices

• Buffet guidance—staff can point out safe selections or offer alternatives

  
  

Keep in mind: Buffet areas may not be allergy-safe zones. Always speak to staff about cross-contamination risks.

💡 Tips for a Smooth Dining Experience

• Talk to your travel advisor. They can help communicate with Princess and ensure your request is properly recorded.

• Bring backup snacks if your diet is highly specific or medically necessary.

• Pack documentation. If you have a medical condition (like celiac or a life-threatening allergy), bring a doctor’s note or food allergy card in multiple languages.

• Be proactive on board. Ask questions. Introduce yourself to dining staff. Check in daily if needed.

  
  

🌍 Why Plan Ahead?

At Destination Earth, we always advise clients with dietary needs to plan early and communicate clearly. Princess Cruises wants to meet your needs—but without proper notice, even the best ships can’t work miracles mid-voyage.

We help our travelers:

• Submit dietary forms and requests properly

• Choose the right cruise line or itinerary for their specific restrictions

• Handle all logistics so your only focus is relaxing and enjoying your vacation

  
  

Final Word

Yes, you can cruise with dietary restrictions—and still eat well!

Princess Cruises is one of the more accommodating lines when it comes to special diets, but it’s up to you to notify them early.

Need help navigating your cruise options?👉 Contact Destination Earth and let us handle the planning, paperwork, and peace of mind—so you can focus on the fun.