You finally made it to the buffet with plates stacked high and the soft-serve machine calling your name. But before diving in face first, there are a few unwritten rules that could save you from awkward stares or an onboard reputation you definitely don’t want.

Skipping Made-to-Order Stations

While pre-made items offer speed, the made-to-order station usually delivers better freshness and flavor. These stations also let you customize your meal with freshly cooked ingredients, unlike food that's been under heat lamps. Expect shorter waits outside peak times and more satisfying results.

Buffet Right After Boarding

Credit: flickr

On departure day, the buffet is often overcrowded, with newly boarded passengers hunting for lunch. It can be noisy and hectic. Instead, try quieter venues like a cafe or smaller eatery on board. You’ll likely find better seating, shorter lines, and a calmer atmosphere for your first onboard meal.

Ignoring Food Allergies

Credit: Getty Images

Cruise lines take food allergies seriously, but communication is key. If you have dietary restrictions, alert the dining staff early, preferably before the trip. Royal Caribbean, for instance, recommends notifying them 45 to 90 days in advance. Always carry your EpiPen or medication in case of accidental exposure.

Not Wearing Proper Attire

Credit: pexels

The buffet may be casual, but swimwear and bare feet are off-limits. Health codes require guests to wear shoes, and it’s common courtesy to dry off and wear a cover-up if coming from the pool.

Not Using Fresh Plate for Every Round

Credit: Canva

Even if you're just returning for a slice of cake, always grab a fresh plate. Reusing your plate increases the risk of cross-contamination, especially in self-serve areas. Crew members routinely clear tables, so leave your used dish behind and keep things clean and sanitary for everyone else.

Using Hands to Grab Food

Credit: pexels

Touching shared food, no matter how clean your hands feel, is a health hazard. Always use tongs, ladles, or the utensils provided at each station. This rule also applies to finger foods like cookies or fries. The only exceptions are individually wrapped or prepackaged items like sealed yogurts.

Cutting in Line

Credit: Instagram

Buffet traffic may not be perfectly organized, but skipping ahead of someone already waiting isn’t acceptable. Look for body language cues and ask politely if you're unsure someone’s in line. Skipping causes frustration and slows everything down for others trying to enjoy their meal, too.

Not Washing Your Hands First

Credit: Canva

Handwashing stations aren’t optional. Buffets involve dozens of people sharing the same utensils, so it’s vital to scrub up or use sanitizer before grabbing food. Illnesses like norovirus spread fast in close quarters.

Loading Your Plate Without Looking Around

Credit: pexels

Buffets are designed for variety. It’s easy to scoop the first item you see, but doing a quick lap can save you from missing something better. Many buffets rotate offerings daily, and if you overfill your plate too soon, you may waste food or miss your real favorites.

Wasting Food

Credit: baseimage

Piling your plate high with everything that looks good usually leads to wasted food. Cruise lines encourage guests to start small and return if they’re still hungry. Smaller portions help you sample multiple dishes, reduce waste, and avoid overwhelming your stomach—or the trash bin.

Not Claiming a Table Before Getting Food

Credit: flickr

Finding a seat during busy times can be a struggle. It’s smart to scout a table first and leave a hat, water bottle, or book to reserve it. Just be quick—the crew might clear your stuff if left too long, assuming someone abandoned the table after eating.

Not Sticking to the Buffet’s Flow

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Cruise buffets are laid out for efficiency, and jumping into the middle of the line creates traffic jams. Look for the entrance and follow the layout in order. It keeps the crowd moving and ensures you don’t block people trying to get to their next bite.

Not Watching the Kids at the Buffet

Credit: Photo Images

Young children should never roam the buffet unsupervised. Accidental messes, burns from hot trays, or improper utensil use can all happen quickly. Help them serve food and encourage hand hygiene. Most ships provide kid-friendly foods, but parents need to guide their kids through the line responsibly.

Lingering After You Finish Eating

Credit: cascoly

Buffets get crowded, especially during breakfast and lunch rushes. If you’ve finished eating, consider giving up your table to others. Socialize elsewhere—lounges and poolside areas are perfect for lingering. Helping with turnover keeps seating available and shows respect for fellow travelers waiting their turn.

Treating It Like a Grocery Store

Credit: pexels

Taking food out of the buffet area for later isn’t allowed on most cruise ships, even if it seems harmless. Stockpiling rolls, packing sandwiches, or hoarding fruit for your cabin can lead to sanitation concerns and food waste issues. Cruise lines often post signs discouraging this, and some staff may intervene if they spot it.