sitting at the Captain's table

[sej67]

For those of you who have gotten to sit at the Captain's table for dinner, what did you have to do? Did you know someone who knew him/her? Did you strike up a conversation with them?

[Willem Ruys]

OK, you want to eat with the help! (We do all the time, they join our table on many nights and in the Lido for most lunches but that's because they're our friends, not because of their ranks). Cruise liner staff often invite a gay man traveling alone, or 2 gay men, whether or not a couple, to balance a table when there are otherwise too many single women to be invited, especially on longer cruises. Frequent repeaters can stand a good chance of an invitation. It is rare to have much of a conversation at table with the "Old Man" as he is usually flanked by women - Some captain's tables are great, others are duller than dishwater served in unrinsed glasses.

[johhnnyt]

Been fortunate the last 7 cruises they have asked me dine at the Captains or "Masters" table on the first formal night. I'm sure it varies from cruise line to cruise line, but probably all follow same guidelines they use on choosing guests.

Generally if you cruise a lot (20+ times) with them you'll get an invitation, or many times if you book a Penthouse or Royal suite, you'll get an invitation as well. Also if you know someone in the coporate office that will get you an in as well. I know with Celebrity they generally only do the Captains table thing once or twice a cruise, so total of maybe 16 guests invited.

They also though do sittings with Staff Captain, Engineer, Hotel Director as well. Best thing to do is to contact the Concierge, or Captains Club hostess and ask if you can be included.

It can be a pretty fun experience depending on the Captain, last one I did, in addition to the three types of wine, the Capatain also toasted us with shots of Ouzo, nice thing too is they always deliver a souvenier 8x10 photo to your room of your dinner with mon Capitan:D

[etoile]

I would love to do this with my wife! Maybe someday. :)

[Mermen]

Interesting comment from way up above...:confused:

 

Hmmm, I would check with your Cruise Director. If you sail on Celebrity by chance, speak with the Captains Club Officer and let them know you would like to dine at the Captain's Table.

 

We usually get an invitation stuck to our door the day before-hand, but I think it's only because of our sailings with =X=...hope you get the chance and have lots of fun!

[MarylandBob]

We've sailed quite a few times but it's only happened once and that was when we booked the Penthouse on Celebrity Equinox. The experience was great. Cocktails with your tablemates beforehand in a private lounge, escort into the dining room and flowing wine throughout the meal. We were lucky to have a very personable Captain and good company all around the table. As with everything, it's really what you make it!