Dining on a Disney Cruise Line is one of the best parts of a cruise. The food is great, the service is amazing, and meals are meant to be fun and relaxing.
But unless you ask, you may be seated with other guests.
Sometimes this works out perfectly. Other times, it does not.
I have experienced both.
On one cruise, my husband and I were seated with another couple who were wonderful. We talked, laughed, and truly enjoyed every dinner together.
On another cruise, we were seated with two other couples who talked nonstop. The dinner felt loud and tiring. We just wanted a quiet meal together.
That is when we decided to ask for a private table.
Here is how to do it, both before your cruise and after you board the ship.
How to Request a Private Table Before Your Cruise
If you already know you do not want to sit with other couples or families, the best time to ask is before your cruise.
Disney makes this easy.
- Log in to your Disney Cruise Line account.
- Go to your Cruise Planner.
- Scroll to Special Requests.
- Select Table Requests.
- Choose Private Table.
This is a request, not a guarantee. Disney will try their best, but it depends on ship space and how full the cruise is.
If you booked with a travel agent, you will need to ask them to submit the request for you.
In my experience, when I requested a private table ahead of time, Disney honored the request.
Should You Always Request a Private Table?
You should request a private table if you do not want to sit with other couples or families.
It is okay to want quiet meals.
If you relax better without conversation, a private table may be the best choice for you.
But if you enjoy meeting new people and chatting during dinner, you may want to keep shared seating.
There is no wrong answer.
What to Do If You Are Already Onboard
If you did not request a private table ahead of time, or you find that your table is not a good fit, you still have options.
This happened to us.
After our first dinner, we knew it was not working. We went to Guest Services and asked politely if it was possible to change tables.
We were kind, calm, and respectful.
Disney accommodated us.
They moved us to a different table, and our dining experience was much better.
If this happens to you, try to ask early in the cruise. The sooner you speak up, the more likely Disney can help.
You can also speak with your Head Server, who is there to help with dining concerns.
Is It Rude to Ask for a Private Table?
No, it is not rude.
Disney understands that guests have different comfort levels. Some guests love meeting new people. Others prefer quiet meals with their own family.
Asking politely is always okay.
Disney wants you to enjoy your cruise, including dinner.
Final Thoughts
Disney cruise dining should be enjoyable.
Sometimes that means sharing a table and making new friends. Other times, it means sitting quietly with your own travel group.
Both choices are completely fine.
If you know what you want, ask ahead of time. If something is not working once you are onboard, speak up politely.
Disney will do their best to help.
The right table can make your cruise even more magical.
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