The Compass Rose Restaurant is reasonably large and attractive, with warm decor and ample space. Breakfast, lunch and dinner (6pm–10.30pm) are served in an open-seating arrangement (so you may get a different table and different waiters for each meal). Although there are a few tables for two, most are for four, six or eight. Dinners typically include a choice of four entrées; a vegetarian entrée is also available daily. Children have their own menu, with “home-from-home” dishes and small portions.

Dessert and pastry items will typically be of good quality, and made specifically for British tastes, although there is much use of canned fruits and jellies.

Sirocco’s A La Carte Restaurant is the ship’s alternative dining spot (reservations are required and a per-person cover charge applies). It seats only 45 and has superior food and service as well as a more refined, quieter atmosphere. It is located adjacent to the Compass Rose Restaurant, but is best entered from the aft stairway.

Instead of the more formal dining room, there is a more casual Lido Restaurant. This is open 24 hours a day, with open-seating. Tables are set with crisp linens, flatware and stemware for dinner, when the set menu includes a choice of four entrées. Each week a themed buffet (Chinese, Indian or Mexican, depending on the cruise itinerary) may be featured for dinner. On Lido Deck, the outdoor Terrace Grill provides fast-food grilled items and pizza during the day. All dining venues are non-smoking (except outdoor areas).

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008