Though sushi and other raw foods are supposed to be kept at cold temperatures that make them safe to eat (40 degrees or lower), even when they're chilled on a buffet table, ensuring they're all kept at a bacteria-inhibiting temp can be tricky. Just to be safe, skip the raw noms.

Eating sushi on a cruise is generally safe, but you should avoid sushi from the open buffet and opt for the "made-to-order" specialty restaurants instead. While cruise lines follow strict food safety protocols, sushi on a buffet line can sit under heat lamps or in humid air for unknown periods, increasing the risk of bacterial growth or the fish becoming "wilted" and unappetizing. At a dedicated sushi bar (like Izumi on Royal Caribbean), the fish is prepared right in front of you, ensuring it is fresh and handled with the highest standards. Experts recommend skipping the "endless spicy tuna rolls" at the buffet if the rice looks congealed or dry. If you are "feeling lucky," take your chances at the casino rather than with raw seafood that has been sitting out. Always look for a chef actively rolling the sushi to ensure you are getting a fresh batch rather than one that has been sitting since the start of the lunch rush.

Whether or not you should eat sushi on a cruise depends on several factors. Here’s a balanced breakdown to help you decide:

Reasons TO Eat Sushi on a Cruise:

1. High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients: Major cruise lines (like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity) often source high-quality fish that is flash-frozen at sea, which is both a safety requirement and a method to preserve freshness and kill parasites. Sushi made onboard is typically prepared daily.
2. Expert Preparation: Many ships have dedicated sushi restaurants (like Izumi on Royal Caribbean or Wasabi on Cunard) with trained chefs. The presentation and skill can be excellent.
3. Convenience and Variety: It’s a great way to enjoy a different cuisine without leaving the ship. Sushi bars often offer a wide selection beyond just raw fish, including cooked options, tempura, and noodle dishes.
4. Part of the Experience: For many, trying diverse foods is a key part of cruising. It can be a fun and delicious adventure.

Reasons to be CAUTIOUS or Avoid It:

1. Buffet Sushi: This is the biggest red flag. Sushi sitting on a buffet line for an unknown period is risky. Temperature control is critical for raw fish, and buffets can be a breeding ground for bacteria. It’s generally advised to avoid raw seafood from the buffet.
2. Your Personal Health: If you have a compromised immune system, are pregnant, or are simply not accustomed to raw seafood, the potential risk (however small) may not be worth it.
3. Location and Itinerary: On the first day of a cruise, the sushi may have been loaded in a distant port days earlier. Some believe it’s better later in the cruise when the galley has had more time to receive and process fresh provisions at port calls.
4. Cost: Sushi is often an extra-charge item at a specialty restaurant, so consider if it fits your budget.

Best Practices for Eating Sushi on a Cruise:

• Choose a Dedicated Restaurant: Opt for the ship’s specialty sushi venue or the main dining room where it’s made to order. This is far safer than the buffet.
• Observe Hygiene: Take note of the restaurant’s cleanliness. A well-maintained galley and serving area