Unpacking the Norwegian Cruise Line 'Free at Sea' Concept
When considering a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) vacation, a common question arises: what exactly is included in the fare? NCL's signature 'Free at Sea' program aims to simplify the booking and onboard experience by bundling many popular amenities and services into a single cruise cost. This approach differs from some cruise lines that offer a more a la carte pricing structure. Understanding what is covered can significantly impact your budget and your expectations for the voyage, allowing you to make informed decisions about your onboard spending and what to anticipate from the moment you step aboard.
The core idea behind 'Free at Sea' is to provide guests with a more predictable vacation cost while offering flexibility and choice. While the term 'all-inclusive' might come to mind, it's important to distinguish NCL's offering. It's not a traditional all-inclusive resort where every single drink and meal is automatically covered without question. Instead, NCL includes a selection of popular cruise experiences that often come as add-ons with other lines, such as specialty dining, beverage packages, shore excursion credits, and Wi-Fi. This means that a substantial portion of your potential onboard expenses is already accounted for before you even set sail, making it easier to budget for your holiday.
Navigating these inclusions requires a clear understanding of the program's components and any associated terms or limitations. For instance, while a beverage package is often included, it typically covers standard drinks, and premium spirits or specific bottles of wine may still incur extra charges. Similarly, specialty dining offers a credit towards a premium restaurant, but it doesn't automatically grant you a free meal at any of them without potential supplement fees. By detailing these nuances, this article aims to provide a clear picture of the value guests receive with Norwegian Cruise Line's 'Free at Sea' program.
- Base fare covers many popular amenities and services.
- 'Free at Sea' program bundles key inclusions for value.
- Understanding specific limitations is key to budgeting.
- Not all drinks or dining are fully covered without supplements.
What 'Free at Sea' Typically Includes
Norwegian Cruise Line's 'Free at Sea' promotion is a dynamic offer that can vary slightly depending on booking dates and specific promotions, but its core components remain consistent. When you book a cruise that qualifies for 'Free at Sea', you generally receive a package of valuable amenities. The most sought-after inclusions often are: a specialty dining credit, a beverage package, a shore excursion credit, and Wi-Fi access. The exact number of specialty dining meals or the value of the shore excursion credit can depend on the length of your cruise, with longer voyages typically offering more of each.
The beverage package, often referred to as the 'Unlimited Open Bar' package, is a significant draw, covering a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This can include spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, draft beers, sodas, and juices at all bars, lounges, and restaurants. However, it's crucial to note that bottles of wine, premium spirits, and certain high-end drinks are usually excluded and will incur an additional charge. Furthermore, the gratuity on the beverage package itself is typically added to your onboard account, even if the package is included as part of 'Free at Sea'.
Similarly, the specialty dining credit allows you to experience some of NCL's signature restaurants, which usually carry an extra charge. The credit might cover the base price of an entree at restaurants like Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro, or Teppanyaki. If your chosen meal or the restaurant itself has a higher price point, you would be responsible for the difference, known as an entree fee surcharge or a supplemental charge. The number of specialty dining credits provided is usually tied to the cruise duration; for example, a 7-day cruise might offer two specialty dining meals, while a 10-day or longer cruise could provide three or more.
Shore excursion credits offer a fantastic way to explore destinations, providing a set amount of credit per port to use towards guided tours or independent adventures booked through NCL. Like specialty dining, the value of this credit is often scaled with the length of your itinerary. Finally, the inclusion of Wi-Fi access, typically for a certain number of devices and days, helps you stay connected. The exact duration and number of devices covered can vary, but it's a welcome amenity for those who need to share their experiences or stay in touch with home. These bundled offers are designed to enhance your cruise experience significantly by pre-paying for many popular extras.
Dining Inclusions: What You Can Eat for Free
When it comes to dining on Norwegian Cruise Line, the base fare offers a robust selection of complimentary options that cater to various tastes and preferences. The main dining rooms, usually named 'Seven Seas' or similar, provide multi-course meals with rotating menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These venues are elegant and offer a traditional cruise dining experience. Additionally, the 'Garden Cafe' serves as the ship's buffet, available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring a wide array of stations with international cuisine, fresh salads, carving stations, and desserts. It's a casual and convenient spot for any meal.
Beyond the main dining rooms and buffet, NCL offers other complimentary eateries. 'O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill' is a popular 24-hour pub-style restaurant serving comfort food like burgers, fish and chips, and wings. 'Salsa Cantina' offers Mexican street food, and 'The Local Bar & Grill' provides classic American pub fare. These venues add variety to the complimentary dining landscape, ensuring guests always have appealing choices without needing to spend extra. For those seeking a lighter bite, cafes and dessert stations often provide complimentary pastries, coffee, and ice cream throughout the day.
While these venues cover a broad spectrum of culinary desires, the 'Free at Sea' program often throws in a valuable perk: specialty dining credits. These credits allow guests to dine at one or more of NCL's signature specialty restaurants, which normally carry an additional charge. Restaurants like Cagney's Steakhouse (known for premium cuts of beef), Teppanyaki (interactive Japanese grill), Le Bistro (French cuisine), and Los Lobos (upscale Mexican) are examples of venues where these credits can be applied. The number of credits typically varies based on the length of the cruise; shorter cruises might offer one or two credits, while longer itineraries can include three or more. It's important to understand that these credits usually cover the base price of an entree. If you select a dish with a higher price or if the restaurant has a supplemental charge, you will be responsible for paying the difference, often referred to as an entree fee surcharge. Reservations are highly recommended for specialty dining, as these popular venues fill up quickly.
The base cruise fare covers a substantial array of dining venues, ensuring you can enjoy diverse meals without additional cost.
Understanding Specialty Dining Credits
The specialty dining credit included in NCL's 'Free at Sea' package is a gateway to some of the cruise line's most acclaimed culinary experiences. These credits are designed to let you sample the premium dining options that would otherwise be an added expense. For example, on a typical 7-day cruise, you might receive two specialty dining credits. This could mean enjoying a gourmet steak dinner at Cagney's one night and an authentic French meal at Le Bistro on another. The value of the credit is usually applied towards the cost of your main course.
It is crucial to be aware of potential additional charges. Not all items on the specialty dining menus are fully covered by the credit. Dishes marked with a supplement or a specific surcharge will require you to pay the difference. For instance, if a steak is priced at $45 and your credit covers $30 of that, you'll pay the remaining $15 plus any applicable service charges or taxes. Similarly, if a restaurant has a flat cover charge for all guests, that charge will be in addition to the value of your credit. NCL's website and the menus within the specialty restaurants will clearly indicate any supplemental fees. Making reservations in advance is strongly advised, especially for popular restaurants and during peak sailing times, to secure your preferred dining times.
Beverage Inclusions: What Drinks Are Covered?
Norwegian Cruise Line's 'Unlimited Open Bar' package, frequently included with 'Free at Sea', is one of the most appealing aspects for many cruisers. This package typically covers a wide range of beverages served by the glass in all bars, lounges, and dining venues across the ship. This includes a selection of spirits, liqueurs, cocktails, wines by the glass, draft beers, fountain sodas, and juices. It's designed to allow guests to enjoy their favorite drinks throughout their vacation without constantly worrying about individual purchase prices.
However, the term 'unlimited' comes with nuances. The package generally excludes certain premium brands of spirits, vintage wines, bottled wines, and premium bottled water. Any drinks that fall outside the standard selection will incur an additional charge. For example, if you order a top-shelf whiskey or a specific bottle of champagne, that cost will be added to your onboard account. Similarly, drinks from mini-bars and stateroom service are not part of this package. The focus is on standard bar selections, allowing for a vast array of enjoyable drinks but requiring awareness for premium choices.
A key point often overlooked is the gratuity. Even when the beverage package is included as part of 'Free at Sea,' NCL typically adds a daily gratuity charge to your onboard account for the service provided with the package. This charge is applied per person, per day, for the duration of the cruise, and it is mandatory. While the drinks themselves are covered, this service fee is an additional, unavoidable cost. It's important to factor this into your budgeting, as it can add a significant sum to your final bill. If you were to purchase the beverage package separately, this gratuity would also apply.
The included beverage package covers a wide range of popular drinks, but premium selections and mandatory gratuities require attention.
Navigating the 'Unlimited Open Bar' Package
To maximize the value of the 'Unlimited Open Bar' package, it's helpful to understand its scope and limitations. The package allows you to order drinks up to a certain price point per serving, usually around $15. If a drink exceeds this price, you will be charged the difference. This covers most standard cocktails, mixed drinks, and popular beers and wines. The package is for the individual guest and cannot be shared. If a guest is found to be sharing their package, it can be revoked without refund.
It's also worth noting that the package is valid at all onboard bars, lounges, and during your dining experiences in the included restaurants. However, it typically does not apply to specialty coffee drinks from cafes, drinks purchased at the casino, or items ordered via room service. While the package is indeed extensive, a quick glance at the daily cruise newsletter or the NCL app can remind you of the specific brands and types of beverages included and excluded, helping you make informed choices and avoid unexpected charges.
Entertainment and Activities: What's Free to Enjoy?
Norwegian Cruise Line ensures that there are plenty of entertainment and activity options available to all guests, regardless of whether they've opted into specific 'Free at Sea' packages. The base fare includes access to a variety of engaging experiences designed to keep you entertained throughout your voyage. This includes access to the ship's main theater, where nightly Broadway-style productions, live music, and comedy shows are performed. These are often elaborate productions and are a significant part of the onboard entertainment offered without any additional charge.
Beyond the main shows, the ship's public spaces are alive with activity. You can enjoy live music in various lounges and bars, from piano players to jazz trios. The ship's casino is open for those who wish to try their luck, and the dance clubs offer opportunities to enjoy music and socialize late into the night. Many decks feature swimming pools, hot tubs, and sun loungers, providing ample space for relaxation and enjoyment of the sea. Sports courts for basketball or volleyball, as well as fitness centers equipped with modern equipment, are also generally included for your use.
The core cruise fare grants you access to a wide array of onboard entertainment, including live shows and recreational facilities.
Included Activities and Enrichment
NCL also provides a schedule of daily activities that are free to participate in. These can range from trivia contests and bingo (though bingo cards usually cost extra) to dance classes and art auctions. Lectures on destinations, cooking demonstrations, and behind-the-scenes tours of the ship's operations are sometimes offered, providing enrichment and insight into the cruising experience. Throughout the day, you can find various events happening, such as pool deck parties, deck-side games, and themed events, all designed to enhance your vacation atmosphere. Simply pick up a 'Daily Cruise Schedule' (often found in your stateroom or via the NCL app) to see what's happening each day.
Even some of the more specialized areas on the ship have complimentary access. For instance, while spa treatments and salon services come with a fee, you can often use the thermal suite (sauna, steam room) with a day pass or if you book a spa treatment. The ship's library and card rooms are quiet spaces for relaxation or games. For younger travelers, kids' clubs and teen centers offer supervised activities and dedicated spaces, typically included in the fare, providing age-appropriate entertainment and opportunities for social interaction.
Shore Excursion Credits and Wi-Fi
Two of the most significant inclusions within the 'Free at Sea' package are the shore excursion credits and Wi-Fi access. The shore excursion credit provides a set amount of money that can be applied towards any tour booked through Norwegian Cruise Line in ports of call. The value of this credit is usually determined by the length of your cruise; for example, a 6-day cruise might offer one 50 USD credit per port, while a 10-day or longer cruise could provide two 100 USD credits per port. This credit is applied per person and per port, making it a substantial incentive to explore your destinations with NCL's curated excursions.
It's important to note that these credits are typically only applicable to excursions booked directly through NCL. If you choose to book an independent tour or explore on your own, the credit cannot be used. The credit value is applied to the base price of the excursion. If the chosen excursion costs more than the credit amount, you will be responsible for the difference. Likewise, if you book an excursion that costs less than the credit, the remaining value is generally forfeited, as the credit is typically not transferable or redeemable for cash. Always check the specific terms when booking to understand how the credit applies to your chosen activity.
Shore excursion credits offer a valuable way to experience destinations, but they are tied to NCL-booked tours and can have specific application rules.
Understanding Wi-Fi Inclusions
The inclusion of Wi-Fi is another key component of the 'Free at Sea' offer. Depending on the cruise length and the specific promotion, guests might receive a certain number of minutes or a daily data allowance for internet access. For instance, a shorter cruise might include a package for one device for the entire cruise, while a longer sailing could offer multiple devices or a more generous daily data limit. This Wi-Fi access is typically for web browsing and email, and while it can be helpful for staying in touch or sharing updates, it may not be sufficient for heavy streaming or large file uploads.
The Wi-Fi service is provided by a third-party provider, and its speed and reliability can vary depending on the ship's location and satellite connection. If you require more extensive internet access than what is included, you can purchase additional packages at prevailing rates. It's advisable to check the current Wi-Fi offerings and limitations upon booking or shortly before your cruise, as these details can be subject to change. Often, purchasing a higher-tier package can provide faster speeds and more data, but the included basic package is a great starting point for casual connectivity.
What's NOT Included? Potential Additional Costs
While Norwegian Cruise Line's 'Free at Sea' program covers a significant portion of potential onboard expenses, it's crucial to understand what costs are typically *not* included. This awareness allows for better budgeting and prevents surprises. One of the most common areas for additional spending is premium beverages. Although the 'Unlimited Open Bar' package covers many drinks, it excludes top-shelf liquors, premium wines (especially by the bottle), and specialty coffees or teas not typically found at a standard bar. If your preferred drink is a rare single malt scotch or a rare vintage wine, expect to pay extra for it.
Specialty dining, while offering credits, doesn't always mean a completely free meal at every premium restaurant. As mentioned, if your chosen entree or the restaurant itself incurs a supplemental charge, that will be added to your onboard account. This is particularly true for high-end steakhouses or unique culinary experiences where certain cuts of meat or signature dishes have an associated entree fee surcharge. The credits are a discount, not a blanket waiver for all menu items. Furthermore, room service, while available, is often not included in the base fare and may incur a delivery fee, especially for orders placed outside of specific hours or from certain menu sections.
Be aware that premium beverages, certain specialty dining items, and room service often incur additional charges.
Gratuities and Service Charges
Norwegian Cruise Line implements a daily service charge, commonly referred to as gratuities, for all guests. This charge is applied per person, per day, and covers the service provided by dining staff, stateroom attendants, and other hotel operations personnel. The daily rate varies based on stateroom category, with standard staterooms having one rate and suites having a slightly higher rate. This fee is automatically added to your onboard account and is paid for the duration of your cruise. Even if you receive excellent service from a particular crew member, this daily charge is a standard practice across the line and is not discretionary based on individual service experiences.
As noted earlier, the gratuity on the included beverage package is also automatically added to your onboard account. This means that even though the drinks are 'free' under the 'Free at Sea' promotion, the service provided by the bartenders and servers for those drinks is subject to a mandatory gratuity. This is a separate charge from the daily hotel service charge. Guests who wish to pre-pay their daily service charges and beverage gratuities can do so before their cruise, but the amounts are fixed and apply to everyone in the stateroom. Tipping for exceptional individual service beyond the standard gratuity is always at the guest's discretion, but the included charges are mandatory.
Other Potential Expenses
Beyond dining and beverages, several other onboard activities and services typically carry an extra cost. These include spa and salon treatments, which can be quite expensive. Shore excursions, while benefiting from the credit, may require additional payment if the chosen tour exceeds the credit value. Bingo games, casino play, art auctions, and any purchases made in the ship's retail shops will also add to your onboard bill. Additionally, medical services onboard are charged separately. If you plan to use the thermal suite or hydro-therapy pool in the spa, these often require a day pass or are included with specific spa packages, not with the base fare.
Understanding NCL's Gratuity and Tipping Policy
Norwegian Cruise Line's gratuity policy is a fundamental aspect of budgeting for your cruise, as it represents a significant, mandatory charge for most guests. The line applies a daily service charge (gratuity) to every guest's onboard account. This charge is designed to acknowledge the hard work of the ship's crew members, including stateroom attendants, dining room staff, and various hotel operations personnel who contribute to your experience. The daily rate is tiered based on the type of accommodation you book; standard staterooms have a lower daily rate compared to guests staying in suites or The Haven, which have a higher rate.
These daily service charges are automatically added to your onboard account, typically on a per-person, per-day basis. For example, a standard stateroom guest might incur a charge of around $20 per person, per day, while a suite guest might be charged around $25 per person, per day. These figures are approximate and subject to change by NCL, so it's always best to check the most current rates on their official website or your booking confirmation. While these charges are automatically applied, they are not discretionary. If you feel a particular crew member went above and beyond, additional tipping is always welcome, but the base service charge is a mandatory part of the cruise cost.
The daily service charge is a mandatory gratuity applied per person, per day, covering essential crew services.
Prepaid Gratuities and Service Charges
Guests have the option to prepay these daily service charges before their cruise departure. This can be done through the cruise line's website or by contacting their travel agent or NCL directly. Prepaying gratuities can help with upfront budgeting, allowing you to settle this cost before you even board the ship. However, it's important to understand that prepaying the service charge does not exempt you from paying the gratuity on included packages like the 'Unlimited Open Bar.' That gratuity is calculated separately and added to your account, even if the beverage package itself was part of a 'Free at Sea' offer. If you choose not to prepay, the charges will be posted to your onboard account, and you can settle your final bill at the end of the cruise.
It's also worth noting that the service charges are applied to all guests, including infants and children, regardless of whether they consume the services that the gratuity covers. While some passengers may try to adjust or remove the daily gratuity, NCL's policy generally states that these charges are non-negotiable unless there is a documented issue with the service provided. If you encounter a significant problem with a specific service, you can address it with guest services to see if an adjustment is possible, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis and is not guaranteed. The prepaid gratuities are applied to your cruise fare, and any additional gratuities for exceptional service are at your discretion.
Is Norwegian Cruise Line All-Inclusive?
The term 'all-inclusive' can be interpreted differently, and while Norwegian Cruise Line offers significant value with its 'Free at Sea' program, it's not typically classified as a fully all-inclusive cruise line in the traditional sense. A truly all-inclusive vacation usually means that almost everything – all meals, all drinks (including premium alcohol), all activities, and all gratuities – are covered in the initial price. NCL's 'Free at Sea' program bundles many popular items like specialty dining credits, a beverage package, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits, which are often add-ons with other cruise lines. This significantly reduces the number of items you need to pay for onboard.
However, there are still several key components that are generally not included and will incur additional costs. These often include premium alcoholic beverages that exceed the price limit of the included package, specialty coffees, bottled water, and any drinks purchased in the casino or from room service. While specialty dining credits reduce the cost of premium restaurants, supplemental charges for certain entrees or specific restaurant fees may still apply. Furthermore, NCL charges a mandatory daily service charge (gratuity) for stateroom attendants, dining staff, and other crew members. This daily fee is applied to all guests and is separate from any included packages. Therefore, while NCL provides substantial value by including many popular amenities, guests should still expect to have additional expenses for certain dining, drinking, and service-related items.
NCL's 'Free at Sea' offers great value by including many popular amenities, but it is not fully all-inclusive due to separate charges for premium items and mandatory gratuities.
Comparing NCL's Value Proposition
When comparing Norwegian Cruise Line to other cruise lines, it's essential to look beyond just the base fare. If another line offers a lower base price but charges extra for a beverage package, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi, NCL's 'Free at Sea' offer can represent better overall value, especially if you plan to take advantage of these inclusions. For example, if a 7-day cruise on NCL includes two specialty dining meals, a beverage package, Wi-Fi, and a shore excursion credit, and you would have paid separately for all of these on another line, the NCL fare can be more economical for you.
Conversely, if you are a light drinker, don't plan on dining at specialty restaurants, and don't need Wi-Fi, the 'Free at Sea' add-ons might not offer you much direct financial benefit. However, the included shore excursion credit can still be valuable, and the convenience of having these potential costs bundled can simplify vacation planning. The key is to assess your personal cruising style and preferences. NCL's 'Free at Sea' is best understood as a 'value-added' program rather than a strictly 'all-inclusive' model. It provides a robust foundation of included amenities that significantly enhance the cruise experience and reduce your onboard spend.
Tips for Maximizing Your NCL Inclusions
To make the most of what's included on your Norwegian Cruise Line voyage, strategic planning is key. Start by understanding the exact inclusions for your specific booking. Since 'Free at Sea' promotions can vary slightly in their offerings (e.g., number of specialty dining meals or Wi-Fi duration based on cruise length), review your booking confirmation carefully or contact NCL to clarify what you've received. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of each included item, such as the price limit for drinks in the 'Unlimited Open Bar' package or the specific restaurants where specialty dining credits can be applied. This foresight will prevent any confusion or unexpected charges onboard.
When it comes to dining, plan your specialty dining reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants and during peak times. This ensures you secure a table at your desired venue and time, and you can confirm any potential supplemental charges for specific menu items when booking. For the shore excursion credits, research the ports of call beforehand. Decide which excursions are most appealing and check their prices against your credit value. If a tour is slightly more expensive, you can decide if it's worth paying the difference, or opt for a less expensive option that is fully covered by the credit. Remember these credits are typically per person, per port, adding significant value to your exploration.
Plan your reservations and excursions in advance to fully leverage the value of your included amenities.
Smart Spending Strategies Onboard
For beverages, keep the 'Unlimited Open Bar' package in mind. Order drinks within the package's scope to maximize its value. If you desire a premium spirit or a bottle of wine not covered, be aware of the additional cost before ordering. The mandatory daily service charge and the gratuity on the beverage package are fixed costs, so factor them into your overall budget. You can choose to prepay these before your cruise for easier financial management. For Wi-Fi, utilize the included allowance efficiently. If you need more data or speed, consider purchasing an upgrade, but assess if your needs truly warrant the extra expense.
Don't forget to check the daily schedule for free entertainment and activities. NCL offers a wide range of shows, live music, and daily events that are included in your fare. Engaging with these complimentary offerings can significantly enhance your cruise experience without adding to your onboard bill. If you're considering spa treatments, look for onboard promotions or packages that might offer a better value than standard pricing, or see if a day pass to the thermal suite is included or available for a reasonable fee.
Frequently Asked Questions About NCL Inclusions
When planning a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation, many guests have specific questions about what is covered in their fare. The 'Free at Sea' program aims to simplify this, but details can still be confusing. This section addresses some of the most common queries to provide clarity on your cruise inclusions.
What is included on Norwegian Cruise Line?
The base fare on Norwegian Cruise Line typically includes your stateroom accommodation, main dining rooms, buffet dining, various casual eateries, select entertainment like Broadway-style shows, live music, pool access, fitness center use, and supervised kids' clubs. The 'Free at Sea' promotion often adds a beverage package, specialty dining credit, shore excursion credit, and Wi-Fi access, significantly enhancing the value.
Is Norwegian Cruise Line considered all-inclusive?
Norwegian Cruise Line is not fully all-inclusive in the traditional sense. While its 'Free at Sea' program includes many popular amenities like a beverage package and specialty dining credits, it does not cover all drinks, premium menu items, or mandatory daily service charges (gratuities). Guests can expect additional costs for certain premium beverages, supplemental dining charges, and the daily gratuity.
What is the service charge on Norwegian Cruise Line?
The service charge on Norwegian Cruise Line is a mandatory daily gratuity applied per person, per day, to your onboard account. This covers stateroom attendants, dining staff, and other hotel service personnel. The rate varies based on your stateroom category, with standard rooms having a lower daily charge than suites. This fee is in addition to any included packages and can be prepaid.
What does the Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package include?
The 'Unlimited Open Bar' package, often included with 'Free at Sea,' typically covers a wide selection of spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, draft beers, sodas, and juices up to a certain price per serving. It excludes premium brands, bottled wines, mini-bar items, and room service. A mandatory gratuity is also applied daily to this package.
What is the Norwegian Cruise Line gratuity policy?
NCL's gratuity policy mandates a daily service charge added to each guest's onboard account. This covers standard service. While this charge is automatic, additional tipping for exceptional service is at the guest's discretion. The daily rate differs for standard staterooms versus suites. Prepaying these charges is an option for guests.
Are prepaid gratuities on NCL refundable?
Prepaid gratuities on Norwegian Cruise Line are typically non-refundable once applied to your cruise fare. However, if you cancel your cruise according to the line's cancellation policy, you may be eligible for a refund of prepaid amounts. It is advisable to confirm the specific terms and conditions related to prepaid gratuities with NCL directly at the time of booking.
What happens if I don't use my specialty dining credits?
If you do not use your specialty dining credits, they are generally forfeited. The credits are tied to specific bookings and are non-transferable. It is recommended to make reservations for specialty dining even if you are unsure about using them, as you can always cancel them if your plans change. Unused credits cannot be redeemed for cash or applied to other onboard expenses.