Loading Page...

What happens to leftover food on cruise ships?

The food is blended with water until it's a smooth mixture and then either disposed of in port, incinerated, or pumped out to sea when the ship is deep water and away from the coastlines. Simple as that.



People Also Ask

Since its inception 30 years ago, through our Save the Waves program, we process our waste through a rigorous waste management program. All of our ships are equipped to be landfill-free, with processes in place to keep every waste stream we produce out of local landfills.

MORE DETAILS

Shelf-stable snacks like chips, pretzels, protein bars or any other items packaged in sealed wrappers are permitted on every major cruise line. Just stick with store-bought goodies including candy, savory snacks, cookies or granola bars instead of whipping up a batch of homemade muffins or sandwiches to bring with you.

MORE DETAILS

If you wonder whether cruise ships have jails, the answer is yes. Jails are called brigs on a cruise ship and tend only to be used in serious circumstances when no other options are available. Cabin arrest is typically used before the brig is needed.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, all Royal Caribbean ships have a procedure in place to ensure that the swimming pools are drained, cleaned and sanitized. Where are the onboard swim vests located? Swim vests are located on the pool deck. Lifeguards and Pool Attendants can assist all guests to the nearest location.

MORE DETAILS

Like the two other brands, Royal Caribbean has instructed room attendants to only clean most cabins once a day instead of the twice-a-day cleaning that has been a hallmark of the cruise experience going back decades. For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

MORE DETAILS

No cruise line is going to endanger guests (or invite legal action or bad press) by putting anything like a laxative in their food or drinks. Next time your on the ship remember: Washy Washy, and use hand sanitizer.

MORE DETAILS

U.S. law requires cruise ships to treat waste within about 3.5 miles of shore—but beyond that, there are no restrictions on dumping polluted sewage and graywater. Researchers have estimated that over a billion gallons of sludge made from excrement and food scraps are released into the ocean every year by cruise lines.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, there are morgues on most of the world's largest cruise ships. The larger the ship, the larger the morgue's capacity. Vessels are also required to carry body bags.

MORE DETAILS

So, yes, cruise ships offer food around the clock, though the options at off hours can be limited. Most ships have a 24-hour dining option, typically pizza or a cafe with premade items like cookies and mini sandwiches.

MORE DETAILS

If you take fresh food off your cruise ship, it will be confiscated.

MORE DETAILS

The cruise buffet is one of the complimentary dining venues onboard. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and you will never have to pay extra to eat there. If you opt to eat at a specialty restaurant, you may find yourself paying $30+ per person.

MORE DETAILS

In addition to cleaning and sanitizing your room and bathroom before you embark, your cabin steward is also responsible for tidying and cleaning your cabin during your cruise. Many cruise lines offer twice-a-day service in each cabin.

MORE DETAILS

Most cruise lines have port agents stationed in the port area to assist if your ship has left without you. In cases when cruisers are late returning to the vessel, the ship's crew will often remove the passengers' essential items -- passports, cell phones and medication -- from the ship to leave with the port agents.

MORE DETAILS