Eat lots of crackers and apples. When you make your reservations, you may request first or second seating. Your seating time will be noted on your cruise ticket, and your table assignment will most likely be on a card in your cabin. Table for two are usually limited. You may request a table for four, six, or eight.
Many cruisers feel that a large table is a good way to get to know fellow passengers.
If you have not requested a table before boarding, the maitre d' is usually available on the pier, in the dining room, or in an assigned location to take your reservation after you board. If you are not happy with your table after the first day, either because of its location or your table companions, it's important to speak to the maitre d' immediately, and if he can, he will move you to another table. Don't spoil your cruise by spending a week or more with fellow passengers that you don't enjoy. The majority of cruise lines today have designated smoking and non-smoking areas in the dining room and the show lounges. Pipe and cigar smoking is restricted to special aras or on the outer decks.