No Key, can I eat in MDR on embarkation day?

[Barbara60]

We usually like to enjoy a lunch in MDR on embarkation day to avoid crowds in Windjammer. Do I have to have the Key?

[Ourusualbeach]

2 hours ago, Barbara60 said:

We usually like to enjoy a lunch in MDR on embarkation day to avoid crowds in Windjammer. Do I have to have the Key?

Mdr is only open for the key and consecutive cruisers. 

[PWP-001]

While the MDR won't open for you until dinner, there are lunch alternatives to Windjammer Food Trough.  Depending upon the ship, one of the specialty restaurants may be open, Sorrento's for pizza, snacks in Cafe Promenade, maybe Johnny Rockets or Playmakers.

[cruisegirl1]

Mariner.
 

For the past several cruises on MARINER  (starting in April-or maybe earlier) the main dining room is open for lunch. It is a limited menu, but a nice alternative to the Windjammer.

 

We were told about it as Pinnacle/back-to-back,  but apparently it is available to anyone on board. In April it was quite crowded with lots of general passengers. Last week, mostly just Pinnacle/back to back. Today, a  nice size general passenger crowd.  It was announced as a lunch option by the cruise Director. Limited menu, limited hours. 

Edited May 8, 2023 by cruisegirl1

[TeRriii]

Some ships may open their MDR for embarkation day lite lunch to spread the crowd. 

[Saturngrl]

On Independence last week, they were firm about turning away anyone without The Key or B2B for embarkation luncheon in the MDR.   They were directed to go to Windjammer or Sorrento's.