The food is one thing that even new passengers and even experienced cruisers look forward to. Cruise ships are more than just floating hotels that have to feed X number of people for X number of meals. They are as flexible and hospitable as any top of the line hotel on shore, and will produce menus that range from children's favorites, to exotic multi-course meals by some of the world's finest chefs.

Whether you are traveling as couple, with a friend, or as a family, you'll want to check into the dining options before booking your cruise, to make sure that for the length of time you'll be on the ship, you'll have access to the kinds of foods you're accustomed to eating, as well as the specialties of the “house”.

For children, this can be everything from peanut butter and banana sandwiches to hamburgers and fries. Even adults may prefer lighter eating during the day, in anticipation of the fabulous evening buffets that a cruise line is known for, or a five course dinner for two.

Your ship's information package, if not the agent or travel site that you booked through, should have a list of the dining facilities aboard your ship, as well as pertinent details such as types of food served, hours they are open, dress required, and most importantly- their location.

For the most part, you'll find snack bars, cafés, and lunch venues throughout the ship, with particular attention paid to locations near activity centers. Formal dining rooms may be strategically positioned on particular decks, for equal access by all passengers.