Cruise & Maritime Cruises Answers

You got it just about right. Second sitting it much the best. As Emmett said, time to get ready for dinner and a nice leisurely pre dinner drink. One tip, if you have not stated how many you would like to sit with at dinner I would recommend 6. If you request table for 4 and you don't have anything in common with the other 2, you are stuck with them for two weeks. Enjoy "Northern Lights". We might see you there!

We've just been on the Marco Polo and had the second sitting, which was at 8 (or twice at 8.15) - the first sitting was at 6 (or 6.15), which we didn't think gave much time to relax. However, we did miss the gameshow at 9.15 which we were told were entertaining. The evening shows were at 8 and 10, and many people on the second sitting watched them twice, meaning that there wasn't always too much room at the second show, but we would recommend the seats right at the back for the best view! If you ever felt that 8 was too late for eating, you can always go to the Bistro Buffet, although we much preferred to eat in the Waldorf Restaurant.

we sailed on this ship last summer second sitting isbetter plenty of time to get ready, have pre-dinner drinks if peckish before dinner buffet restaurant starts serving at 6pm so go and have a snack shows twice so you wont miss anything. have a great time

Looking at your itinerary it indicates that you will have evening departures (6pm & later) from most ports of call so excursions/sightseeing will be available until 5pm if wished. First sitting diners are called at about 6.30pm and, as Chris states, this could give you little time to relax, dress & have a drink before eating. Most entertainmemt programmes are devised such that both sittings can enjoy although I have no personal experience of Cruise & Maritime. We prefer second sitting but that does mean you normally are not actually served much before 9pm which can be late for some. If, after a couple of nights, you find your booked sitting is too late have a polite word with the Maitre d', if there is space earlier I am sure he will arrange a transfer. Enjoy your first experience, I envy your chance of seeing the night lights...Richard B

We opt for 2nd sitting for that very reason, and not being rushed, and IMHO more sociable folks on 2nd sitting (and avoiding kids, but that's not an issue on Marco Polo). But we've not been on Marco Polo or to that Cape any time of year. ................. On most ships, there are two shows per evening, to cater for both sittings - are you sure that's not the case with Marco Polo ? Worth checking that out on the review page? Use the search facility to bring up all the Marco Polo reviews. If you can't find the answer, post your question to a couple of recent reviewers, same arrangement as on this page ...... Chris

Hi There is no right or wrong answer to your question, it's a case of which fits in with your wishes best. There are pros and cons to both. It's true if you enjoy watching the shows first sitting is probably the best but the waiters will try hasten your departure from the dining venue. If you enjoy a pre-dinner drink and a more leisurely approach to dining and chatting with your dining companions then second sitting is better. I have never found it too much of problem quickly showering and changing for dinner but I accept others may do so.