We LOVE to travel by cruise ship, and are always thinking about food! We don't eat meat or dairy ... So, no cheese, no milk, no ice cream... that kind of thing. As you may or may not know, cruiseships are usually known for their rich foods loaded in cheese or cream, the rich desserts, the steaks, the specialty nights with the catch of the day, etc. We want to show you how to eat without gaining crazy extra pounds, and to maintain a vegan lifestyle.
We sold our home in and now travel and live on a cruise ship while maintaining our vegan lifestyle. This is definitely a unique and exciting experience. We have some basic tips on how to travel on a cruise ship as a vegan, should you want to travel on a cruise ship too!
Research cruise lines: Not all cruise lines offer extensive vegan options, so it's essential to research and choose a cruise line that caters well to vegan passengers. Some cruise lines, such as Princess, Virgin Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, have specific vegan menus or options available upon request. Quite frankly, we have not had any problem with finding food to eat. We will show you exactly how we travel and eat!
Notify the cruise line in advance: When booking your cruise, inform the cruise line about your dietary requirements, including being vegan. This allows them to prepare and accommodate your needs ahead of time.
Speak with the dining staff: Once onboard, communicate with the dining staff and inform them about your vegan diet. They can guide you through the available options and suggest suitable vegan meals. They may also be able to prepare custom dishes for you.
Buffet options: Cruise ship buffets often offer a wide variety of food choices. While not all items may be vegan, you can typically find salads, fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and other vegan-friendly options. Additionally, you can ask the staff if they can prepare vegan dishes specifically for you. We really like the buffet, and usually make friends with the sous chef, who is always happy to help!
Specialty restaurants: Many cruise ships have specialty restaurants that cater to different dietary preferences. These restaurants often offer more diverse and customizable options, making it easier to find vegan meals. Check with the cruise line about their specialty restaurants and vegan offerings. Virgin Cruiselines is actually known for their vegan food on their ships. We have also been on vegan cruises with MSC, on the Davina.
Plan excursions wisely: When the ship stops at various ports, you might have the opportunity to explore local cuisine. Research vegan-friendly restaurants or inform your excursion guides in advance about your dietary preferences, so they can arrange suitable meals for you. If you are going on a ship excursion, make sure that you tell the excursion staff to contact the organizer. We have had some really great options provided to us on these excursions!
Pack vegan snacks: While most cruise ships offer meals throughout the day, it's a good idea to have some vegan snacks with you in case you need something between meals or if vegan options are limited. Packing items like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits can be helpful. We usually bring a box or two of specific bars, so that if all else fails, we at least won't go hungry.
Remember to be patient and flexible during your cruise journey. Sometimes misunderstandings may occur, and it may take some time for the staff to fully understand your dietary requirements. However, with proper communication and planning, you can enjoy a vegan lifestyle while traveling on a cruise ship.
I hope you have a fantastic time on your cruise ship adventures and create unforgettable memories. Feel free to share your experiences or ask any more questions you may have!
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