Cruise: Special restaurants let cruisers dine with the stars – but is it worth the cost?

Though some may shudder at the thought of handing over more cash, Adam points out these dining experiences offer more than just specially designed menus and celebrity chef experiences.

“Unlike in the main dining room, you generally do not have to share a table with strangers in the smaller restaurants onboard.

“You simply make your reservation for the size of your party, and you’ll be seated accordingly,” says Adam.

Furthermore, cruise brands expand the detail of the menu and inject it into the entire event.

“The spaces of these dining venues can often be beautifully designed, and offer a more sophisticated ambience than other onboard dining areas,” Adam says.

“They also tend to offer a superlative service table service that can often be much better than some of the best restaurants you would normally splurge on for a special occasion, at home.”

So how can travellers determine if cruises are really worth the price?

“Speciality dining options come at a price, but if you’re an avid foodie, a couple looking for a romantic splurge, or you want to celebrate a special occasion in style, then the extra fees are often worth it,” explains Adam.

“These dining venues tend to offer the best food on the ship and the additional cost goes towards high-end ingredients, such as foie gras, that you are unlikely to find in the main dining rooms.

“If you haven’t tried certain high-end restaurants at home or the menus of certain world-renowned award-winning chefs, then these restaurants can often provide the best chance to do this, at a pretty reasonable price.”