The Coffee Experience on Cruise Ships
Much like lodging, dining, and entertainment, the coffee experience on cruise ships is a topic of interest for many travelers. As a frequent cruiser, I am no stranger to the varying levels of coffee quality offered across different cruise lines. In this article, I will explore the coffee experience on cruise ships, touching on the typical offerings, the taste, and the available alternatives.
Typical Offerings and Experience
During my recent cruise to the Mexican Riviera, I had the chance to sample the coffee available on board. It was my first time on a cruise, and I was looking forward to that morning coffee fix. The experience was not what I had anticipated. The coffee served in the mornings was anything but fresh; in fact, it tasted burnt and resembled the thick, burnt residue left at the bottom of a pot. No matter what I added to it, the taste was consistently terrible. This made me reconsider my choice for the next cruise and I decided to bring my own coffee, ensuring I had a reliable source.
While I do enjoy a good cup of coffee, I also appreciate a hot beverage that is not coffee. My preference leans towards a good English breakfast tea, which provides a pleasant alternative for non-caffeinated moments. However, the availability of a cozy coffee spot on board adds a nice touch to the experience, especially during the day when one can relax with a book or engage in some leisure activities.
High-End Alternatives
For those on higher-end cruises, such as Celebrity Cruises, the coffee options are generally better. The Main Dining Room coffee is of a higher quality compared to the one served in the buffet, which typically features a basic Americano-type coffee. The onboard cafes and specialty coffee shops, which are part of drink or coffee packages, offer more refined options, almost on par with what one might find in a high-street specialty coffee shop. These options are particularly impressive for the better dining venues on the ship.
Take, for instance, the Coffee Port on the Marella Cruises Explorer 2, where I enjoyed a delightful cafe experience. The atmosphere is welcoming and the coffee, coupled with games and a good book, make for a pleasant afternoon. One of the highlights was the Antica Cioccolata, a rich, thick hot chocolate infused with a shot of Baileys. This drink, along with other gourmet options, is a step above what is typically found in more mainstream settings.
Economic Considerations and Personal Tips
While it's possible to find acceptable coffee on most cruise ships, the experience can vary widely depending on the cruise line and the ship. For budget-conscious travelers, the onboard coffee may be more economical, but for those looking for a high-quality experience, more options are available through specialty coffee shops or by bringing your own coffee.
Here are a few tips to enhance your coffee experience on a cruise:
Bring Your Own Coffee: If you are a regular coffee drinker, bringing your own may be the best option. This ensures you have the taste and quality you are used to. Consider Drink Packages: Specialty coffee shops and drink packages offered on some cruises can offer a more luxurious and consistent coffee experience. Be sure to check if such options are available and fit within your budget. Explore the Buffet: While the coffee in the main dining room may be superior, the buffet often offers a wider variety of coffee options. This can be a good compromise for those who want to enjoy both the ambiance and the variety.Overall, while the coffee experience on cruise ships can be variable, there are always ways to find a cup that suits your taste. Whether you enjoy a hot cup of coffee or a soothing cup of tea, make sure to explore the options available to enhance your cruise experience.