Cruise ship dining can feel like an endless buffet of temptation, but not everything on board is worth the splurge or the stomachache. While chefs do their best to deliver fresh, tasty options at sea, certain dishes are risky, disappointing, or just plain unnecessary. Whether it’s due to freshness, preparation, or food safety, some menu items are better left untouched until you’re back on land. Smart cruisers know what to avoid so they can enjoy their trip without regret or an upset stomach.
Buffet Sushi
Sushi can be hit-or-miss even on land, but buffet sushi on a cruise is often premade, dry, or handled too often. The raw fish may not be stored at ideal temperatures, increasing your risk of foodborne illness while out at sea. If you want sushi, wait for a sit-down specialty night where freshness is guaranteed.
Scrambled Eggs from the Buffet
Those fluffy eggs may look fine, but they’re often made from powdered or liquid egg mix to serve the crowd. They sit out for long stretches under heat lamps, becoming rubbery, bland, or a breeding ground for bacteria. You’re better off ordering fresh eggs made to order at the omelet station.
Room Temperature Shellfish
Shrimp cocktails and mussels that have been sitting out too long can quickly become a food safety nightmare. Shellfish are highly perishable and need to stay ice-cold from the kitchen to the plate to avoid contamination. Skip any that aren’t served chilled and fresh from a reliable source.
Rare Burgers
While medium-rare burgers might be delicious on land, cruise kitchens often discourage undercooked ground beef for safety. The meat is usually pre-formed and cooked in bulk, meaning it’s not handled with the same care as at a specialty grill. Opt for a fully cooked burger with toppings you love instead.
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Ice Cream from Self-Serve Machines
Those soft-serve machines are fun but not always the cleanest, especially with hundreds of people touching the same handles. If maintenance isn’t frequent, bacteria and cross-contamination risks go up significantly. Choose prepackaged treats or staff-served scoops when possible.
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Tap Water in Port Cities
When docked, always be cautious about drinking water that isn’t filtered or bottled, especially off the ship. Tap water in some ports may not meet the health standards your system is used to and could make you sick. Stick to sealed bottles or refill onboard where water is filtered properly.
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Mass-Produced Desserts
Cruise dessert tables are eye-catching, but many of the cakes and pastries are made in bulk and lack real flavor. They often look better than they taste, with frozen textures, sugary glazes, and artificial fillings. Save your sweet tooth for the ship’s specialty café or fresh-made options.
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Steak from the Buffet Line
That buffet sirloin might look juicy under the lights, but it’s usually overcooked and has been sitting for a while. Buffet steaks are rarely cooked to order and often turn out dry, chewy, or bland by the time you get them. Book a steakhouse night instead if you’re craving a real cut of meat.
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Fresh Salad with Questionable Greens
Salads might seem like a healthy choice, but wilted greens, pre-cut veggies, and open-air bars can carry bacteria. When greens are stored improperly or left out too long, they can lose their crispness and freshness. Choose whole fruits or simple dishes made to order instead.
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Fish on the Last Day
Seafood that’s been onboard all week is less likely to be at peak freshness toward the end of your cruise. Unless the ship re-stocked at port recently, you might be eating fish that’s been frozen or stored for too long. Stick to safer options like grilled chicken or vegetarian fare as the trip wraps up.
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Undercooked Eggs (Like Poached or Sunny Side Up)
Runny eggs are delicious but can be a risk if not cooked at the right temperature, especially in large kitchens. Cruise ships prioritize volume and speed, which can make egg safety harder to monitor closely. Go with scrambled, hard-boiled, or omelets to stay safe while still enjoying eggs.
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Anything You’re Unsure How to Pronounce or Digest
Cruises are a fun place to try new foods, but don’t experiment with dishes your stomach isn’t used to when you’re far from home. Unfamiliar spices, rich sauces, or mystery meats might not sit well in the middle of the ocean. Stick to food you recognize and enjoy, especially before excursions or long days.
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Cruise food can be incredible, if you know what to skip. Choosing fresh dishes, made to order, and stored safely will help you avoid unwanted surprises while you’re trying to relax. So grab that plate, trust your instincts, and steer clear of these common pitfalls. Bon voyage and bon appétit (carefully)!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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