Cruise Ship Buffet Method of Saving a Table Divides Passengers

Photo byRobin_Hayles / Reddit | Cruise Fever

Most avid cruisers are familiar with the annoying practice of passengers using beach towels to "save" loungers around the pool.

And even with cruise lines cracking down on this practice it's still an issue.

But a social media post showed how at least one passenger tried to save a table at the buffet on a cruise ship.

A recent Reddit post ignited a lively debate among cruise passengers about the age-old question of how to secure a coveted table at the ship's buffet.

The post was titled "Is this is how you save a buffet table on a cruise?"

The photo of a chair tilted on two legs sparked a flurry of comments, each offering a colorful "2 cents" on the method.

Some Redditors, like AlbinoAlex, swear by this unconventional method, claiming it signals to the crew that the table is occupied.

"I'm told this is a good way to let the crew know you're not done eating," they wrote.

Others, however, expressed frustration with the buffet staff's eagerness to clear tables.

"I set down a fresh plate untouched, silverware still wrapped in the napkin, went to get coffee, and they had taken everything and cleared the table when I got back," said lda28.

While some passengers advocate for more traditional methods, such as leaving personal belongings on the table or placing a napkin on the chair, others have resorted to more creative tactics.

"I take a life size cardboard cutout of Mr Blobby with me and use that to hold the table," joked hyperskeletor.

Amidst the humorous anecdotes, a common theme emerged: the challenges of dining solo at the buffet.

"You are basically at risk of losing a table at busy times if you go to the buffet on your own," warned regreening.

As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that the buffet experience can vary widely depending on the cruise line and the passenger's individual dining habits.

Ultimately, the best strategy for securing a table may depend on a combination of factors, including the time of day, the ship's crowd levels, and personal preferences.

The main rule at the buffet? Don't get in the way of someone hungrier than you. it sounds tongue-in-cheek, but the buffet area on a cruise ship can be as cut-throat as it gets.

For those preferring a more serene and calm atmosphere I recommend sticking to the main dining room or a specialty restaurant on board.