On-Line Dining Reservations. Mariner.

[OrpingtonT]

I ought to know, but don't, the mechanism for booking a table for more than the two people on the on-line booking form. Does Regent ask for the names and/or suite numbers of the other guests? For example, if I asked for a table for 6, do they have a space to put in the other guests' names? If not, is there anything to stop the other guests making a booking for 6 for another time, thus makning a nonsense of the "one booking only" rule.

[lkakers]

You have it exactly right, that you can book a table for 6 (and yes, there is just a blank field for you to name your guests) and the other people can book their own dinner for 6, etc.

 

We and another couple did this on our cruise last May, and it worked fine.

 

I know there are some who would think that was "cheating," and I think I might feel a teensy bit guilty if I knew my cruise were full and people were not getting any reservations (our cruise was only 1/2 full, and there was PLENTY of availability)... but then, it's also set up as a first-come, first-served system, and if your conscience can handle it, go for it. Plus, I don't think NOT using a table for 6 actually frees up a table for 2 or 4, as I think they still would save the 6-topper for a party for 6 regardless. Just a guess.

[piri]

On the Mariner, Auckland to LA last December we had the opposite experience to that of Ikakers. Travelling with my brother we made reservations at Prime and Signatures for a table for four to have him join us. We were asked the name and suite number of person/s joining us.

Sometime later my brother tried to also make seperate reservations but the site said that he already had a reservation and only one per person was permitted etc.

Twas no problem however as once on board we were pretty much able to eat at the speciality restaurants whenever we wanted as long as we were flexible with times.

Our cruise was 19 days so would be surprised if one was able to get around the " double booking " rule on a shorter voyage if it was not permitted on ours. Enjoy !

[OrpingtonT]

Thank you both. On a short cruise it makes sense to ensure everyone gets a chance to dine in the speciality venues and once on board it is often possible to get another booking. They try their best to accommodate everyone's wishes.