Mom and Daughter on lookout Cay
  • On Feb 19, 2026
    Alex from SC Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi! We just booked a 3 night cruise on the Disney Dream for March. My young kids are used to eating at 5 pm, but we got booked on the later seating. We got on the waiting list for the earlier time, but any other suggestions? Thanks!

    Bon Voyage, Alex, and welcome to planDisney! Your cruise is right there on the line where the sky meets the sea, and you and your family must be getting so excited! Thanks for bringing your dining question to us. Let's explore your options.

    I know it can be nerve-wracking to think about your young kids having to wait hours past their normal dinnertime to eat. Allow me to put your mind at ease by assuring you there will be plenty of food for them to eat when they're hungry. First of all, there is a chance your waitlist will come through. My family also prefers the earlier dining time, and we've had great success with the wait list. If not, there will be a place on board to go in person with your dining requests. Once you're onboard, look in your Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for the location and time. I recommend going as soon as you can since this is a priority for you. This is where you'll ask if they can move you to the earlier time slot.

    If all else fails, room service is complimentary (a tip for the person who delivers is customary and at your discretion) and available 24 hours a day. There will also be quick-service food on the pool deck available all day. And keep in mind, you're on a cruise. No one will stop you from having first dinner on the pool deck or room service and then second dinner in the main dining rooms.

    Here's another idea to consider. Because you have late dining, this means you'll be able to go to the earlier show. This is a great time to snack on popcorn purchased at Preludes while watching the show, which could help take the edge off until dinner. 

    Alex, I hope your waitlist comes through, but if not, I'm sure you'll find plenty of delicious food to eat whenever you want. If you have any other planning questions, please bring them back to us here at planDisney.

    Have a magical cruise!
    Melanie
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Meet the Panelist: Melanie, Tennessee

Hiya pals!  I’m Melanie, a Walt Disney World Resort specialist from Tennessee where I’m a dog mom to my very own little Country Bear, Trixie Claire.  Need restaurant recommendations, EPCOT festival tips or tricks for traveling with older adults?  I’m your girl!  I’m ready to help you with all this and much more.  Learn More About Melanie

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