Cruise guests warned to stop common buffet behaviour

Bad buffet ettiquette could upset the other guests (Image: Getty) A cruise ship’s buffet is usually one of the most popular restaurants onboard the ship and it’s usually included in the price of the holiday. However, it’s also often the site of disagreements between passengers as guests fight to get the best dishes. James Cole, founder and managing director at Panache Cruises , has shared his top advice for cruise guests. He said: ‘When you booked your cruise you promised to adhere to a set of rules governing your conduct and behaviour when on-board your ship. ‘Disruptive passengers can be charged a fine or forcibly removed from the ship if they disobey the captain’s and crew members’ instructions, smoke in prohibited areas or throw things overboard.’ The cruise ship buffet is usually one of the most popular restaurants (Image: Getty) James said: ‘Although you may be hungry and eager to head to the buffet, remember that your fellow passengers are likely feeling the same way, and your wants and needs don’t supersede theirs. ‘Be patient and wait for your turn and if you really can’t wait to tuck into your food then make sure to have a snack in-between meal times.’ Buffet queues can sometimes be complicated but guests should ask the crew if they’re not sure where to wait for their dishes. Cruise guests shouldn’t reuse dirty plates (Image: Getty) James warned: ‘Don’t worry about dishes at the buffet and get a new plate, glass or mug every time you wish to top up on your food or drinks. ‘You may think you’re doing them a favour by reducing the number of dirty dishes but it’s actually frowned upon due to sanitary purposes.’ Cruise guests can usually pick up a new plate at one of the buffet’s counters or they could ask the crew. Guests could also annoy the crew if they take a huge plate of food but leave most of it behind. Passengers can usually return to the buffet as many times as they want, so there’s no need to pile a plate high. Recently a cruise guest explained how they manage to go on a cruise without spending a ‘penny extra’ .