Continued..Special Diet Requirements…

After my blog last week, regarding passengers special diets and meal requirements. I was very intrigued, so I thought I would have a nosy and see how 5*/ 6* Star cruise liners compared against 4*Star cruise liners for accommodating client’s with special needs whilst on board there voyage. On my findings I was surprised to see that Oceania Cruises wasn’t the most accommodating when it comes down to requesting special diets, and I was quite surprised at them charging for this facility.  
                                                                                           

Oceania Cruises :
They will try and meet clients requirements but they will not “guarantee” any special diet requirements or special requests that you may have. Any meal requirements should be advised at the time of booking and detailed in writing to Oceania Cruises. “Strict” Kosher meals must be requested at least 3 months prior to departure. Some requests may incur extra charges.
                    
Crystal Cruises :

Can also accommodate a gluten free diet for Coeliacs. They are able to make quite a lot of menu items gluten free, such as roasts, fish and seafood, sauces, salads, appetizers, and desserts. There executive chef can daily recommend a wide variety of gluten free dishes from our featured menu. Furthermore they are also able to make gluten free bread and muffins as they use gluten free flour on-board if specially requested.Here are some standard items they carry on-board which are gluten free:  Gluten free Spaghetti – Gluten free flour – Gluten free Pancake/Waffle mix.
If the guest has any special items required, they can submit a special order form to their Purchasing Department. Seems like Crystal Cruises have it all under control, whether you have an intolerance, allergy or special dietary needs.
                                                                                                                                        
Holland America :
They offer gluten-free breads, pastas and desserts for special order. You’ll typically need to request these items 30 days prior to sailing. If you book at the last minute, the cruise line may be able to accommodate your dietary needs with what it has on-board, but if you can book early, you’ll have more choices.

Travelling with a special diet can sometimes be a challenge but not on a cruise. Meals are tailor made to your own requirements, whatever your allergy or intolerance, and on some cruises it is even possible to get Kosher and Halal meals.