Anyone successful changing dining time once on board?

[Peggy Sue]

When we booked our 11/6 Volendam cruise (Oh, I just love writing that!!) the only dining time available was main seating 8:30 ... And that's what is confirmed in our cruise documents.

We asked our travel agent at the time of booking to place us on a waiting list for the 8 PM upper dining room - T/A confirmed with HAL we are on the 8 PM "wait list".

Prior cruises we've always been lucky and received the dining time/location we desired. This is a first for us. So..how easy is it to change dining times?

Any factors play into who receives their preferences, or is it first come, first served? Will the conceriege be able to help us out once we are onboard, or do we have to go directly to the dining room and speak with ??? The dining room captain???

We loved our table for 2 on the Zuiderdam -- upper level, on the rail overlooking the musicians. We've had a stressful year (DH just lost his mom to cancer after a 10 month battle) and we were really looking forward to repeat of our dining room experience.

Of course, we will go with the flow and be happy where ever the place us...but sincerely appreciate any suggestions you may have on how to succeed in obtaining our dining preferences.

Thank you from one who is very excited to be able to say...we're cruising next month!!

Peggy Sue

[iluvcruzin]

I'm sure others will HAL experience will be helpful with this answer. I can say from my experience on other lines I've had no problem changing once onboard. Go see the Matre'D as soon as you board.

[garydm]

On embarkation day, they will have the Assistant Restaurant Manager or the like at a little table in the game room or thereabout. Get there before they open so you are first in line to put in your request. We have always been successful in getting whatever changes are needed.

Gary

[RuthC]

From all I've read the 8:00 P.M. time is quite popular, (and is on the level accommodating fewer passengers).
It would help you immensely if you can be flexible about table size.

I wouldn't trust that the concierge can take care of this better than claiming your own place in line. I would take the advice others have given and be there when the maitre d' sets up shop. You might not be changed the first night, but be switched after the dust settles.
If you're not switched you might find your 8:30 tablemates the best part of the cruise! If not, you can always excuse yourselves to the Lido or Pinnacle some times.

Good luck. And whatever happens enjoy your cruise!

[Acrusa]

Years ago it was alot easier to change your dinning time.A handshake with a crisp 50 in your palm used to do it.