Holidaymakers smuggle sausage on AIDA cruises – a taboo topic!

Holidaymakers smuggle sausage on AIDA cruises – a taboo topic!

The anticipation of cruises remains unbroken, and many travelers are enthusiastic about the experiences on board. The AIDA fleet in particular offers its guests a variety of restaurants and culinary options. Depending on the ship type, up to 17 different restaurants are available, including buffet restaurants with a varied selection of dishes. While food in the buffet restaurants is usually included in the price of the trip, drinks in other restaurants have to be paid for additionally. Pre-bookable beverage packages are also available, making enjoyment on the high seas easier. However, there are strict rules that passengers must adhere to, such as the ban on wearing short shoes in the restaurant and bringing fresh food with them.

A heated discussion is currently unfolding in an AIDA Facebook forum about a trick that some passengers have developed. It is typically not permitted to bring meat, poultry, dairy products, or fruits and vegetables on board cruises. Nevertheless, some holidaymakers try to smuggle selected meat in their jacket pockets after shopping and avoid the controls. This covert approach draws both approval and criticism, with the morality of smuggling food on cruises being heavily debated. Critics warn of the potential risks associated with this behavior and express concerns about compliance with food regulations.

Diverse culinary experiences

AIDA cruises are characterized not only by a wide range of restaurants, but also by the culinary diversity that they offer cruisers. Main meals include breakfast, lunch and dinner, complemented by a poolside brunch and free cake in the afternoon. Nine buffet restaurants on the smaller ships present changing theme evenings, while larger ships have a constant menu selection.

Special options are offered in the AIDA restaurants for special needs. Children's buffets and baby-friendly food are available, and vegetarians and vegans are not neglected either. On some ships there are special restaurants for vegan dishes. Allergy sufferers can express special culinary requests, while the light food bar in certain restaurants provides lactose-free and gluten-free alternatives. However, despite the high general quality of the food, the choice for specific diets is often limited.

Rules for food on board

Taking food with you is subject to strict regulations. Only packaged food, snacks and canned goods are allowed to be brought with you, while alcohol is permitted in certain quantities. Anyone disembarking should also find out about the regulations of the respective travel destination. To ensure passengers have a complete dining experience, table reservations for the à la carte restaurants are recommended, which can be made in advance or during the cruise.