One of the two most popular questions asked of people after they've been on a cruise, is “How was the food?” which should tell you just how much attention this feature of cruising has gotten in recent years.

Cruise food has become one of the main shipboard attractions for many people, and for true gourmets, it's even possible to find cruises which are designed entirely around the gourmet palate, from the meals served onboard, to the destinations where the ship calls, and the tours of restaurants and wineries.

Not only do cruise passengers enjoy the labors of chefs who have worked in the finest restaurants all over the world, they'll enjoy cuisine from around the globe as well, all of it presented in true fine dining tradition.

The grand buffets of many cruise lines are legendary, and the subject of thousands of photos on every trip. Not only is it the quality, variety and presentation of food that stands out, but the accompanying panache of the waiters, chefs, and food sculptors, who work in mediums other than ice, including potato salad.

Because cruise food carries a reputation for richness and calories, many people do worry about dietary availability. For medical diets, you may want to mention specific needs in booking your ticket. Other diet requirements can generally be handled with no trouble, because of the extensive range of foods available on board, and the knowledgeable kitchen staff, who are prepared to meet almost any requirement. You may even find whole dining rooms or cruises that are centered around specific diets like low carb eating.

Your last worry will be whether there is the right food, or enough food. And the biggest concern may be whether what you packed in your suitcase, will all fit at the end of the cruise!