Princess Premier dining reservations

[sandancer]

If you book the new premium package you can make dining reservations months ahead. I have booked for both June and August next year. I know that many people would not want to book so far out but it’s easy to cancel and release the table for someone else to book if your plans change. If you find you cannot get the reservations you want then you can cancel the premium and book the plus package instead. You cannot however revert to the “old” premium package as this will no longer be available. I assume of course that that would only  be before final payment. 

[Hlitner]

I think Princess is digging a deep hole with the unlimited Premium dining.  When we were on the Enchanted, before they even had unlimited, it was very difficult to get a reservation in Rudi's and slightly less difficult in the Crown Grill.  We had an upscale large group aboard, Porsche Club, who liked to enjoy the better dining in Rudi's and the Crown Grill.  We were able to get a couple of reservations because we are OK with late dining (about 8:30).  Those looking for reservations for the prime times (6:30 - 8:00) were out of luck.  On one evening the Crown Grill manager managed to squeeze us in about 8:50 (we did not finish dinner until nearly 10:30).

 

So now, they are offering Unlimited and we can see the future which is not good.  What happens when dozens (or more) who have unlimited packages are unable to get reservations at any of the premium venues?  And how about all those who simply want to dine in those venues, but do not have the unlimited package?  The alternate venues are simply not large enough to handle a huge demand (this is especially true in Rudi's).  

 

In theory, Princess should severely limit the number of Premium packages on each cruise.  But greed is alive and well, and limiting packages means giving up revenue.   We predict some troubled days ahead.

 

Hank

[canadarocks]

Just to offer a different viewpoint,,,,, pre-reserve. Easy breezy. Yes I know that those of us who want to use OBC for Specialty Dining are currently out of luck. Hopefully that will change. This new unlimited Specialty Dining perk is brand new, and there are definitely "kinks" that can be improved. But for now..... we don't sail until February and all of our dinners are set. 😀

[dog]

My dining reservations randomly changed tonight -  all except for the Specialty dining I booked with my credit card!

[gerig]

17 minutes ago, dog said:

My dining reservations randomly changed tonight -  all except for the Specialty dining I booked with my credit card!

I don't follow what your message.  Your dining times changed?

[dog]

12 minutes ago, gerig said:

I don't follow what your message.  Your dining times changed?

Do not worry.

 

the app changed the reservations I had made.

Edited October 10 by dog

[lx200gps]

42 minutes ago, dog said:

My dining reservations randomly changed tonight -  all except for the Specialty dining I booked with my credit card!

Exactly how did they change? I just checked the App for our four bookings on the Sun, Oct 19, 21, 23 and 24. Three of the four (The Catch x 2 and CG x 1) did show a strange change that wasn't there a few days ago, in that the listing on the App went from showing each restaurant's  name to now only showing "Deck 7", while the listing for our one Sabatini's booking stayed the same. But when I open each individual reservation, they still show the correct restaurant, and time. I will definitely be checking very regularly from now until sailing to make sure they don't pull a fast one, though I very much doubt I could do anything about before we board.

 

Looks like Princess have finally figured out how they are going to manage this new "Unlimited" Specialty Dining. We can eat as much as we want but THEY tell us when and where ;o)

[dog]

56 minutes ago, lx200gps said:

Exactly how did they change? I just checked the App for our four bookings on the Sun, Oct 19, 21, 23 and 24. Three of the four (The Catch x 2 and CG x 1) did show a strange change that wasn't there a few days ago, in that the listing on the App went from showing each restaurant's  name to now only showing "Deck 7", while the listing for our one Sabatini's booking stayed the same. But when I open each individual reservation, they still show the correct restaurant, and time. I will definitely be checking very regularly from now until sailing to make sure they don't pull a fast one, though I very much doubt I could do anything about before we board.

 

Looks like Princess have finally figured out how they are going to manage this new "Unlimited" Specialty Dining. We can eat as much as we want but THEY tell us when and where ;o)

They were all switched to Horuzon 7, except for ones I used credit card to pay for.

 

also, Sabatinis , butchers block are not an option on any nights October  19 th Sun. Cruise.

Edited October 10 by dog

[IndyKid]

1 hour ago, lx200gps said:

Exactly how did they change? I just checked the App for our four bookings on the Sun, Oct 19, 21, 23 and 24. Three of the four (The Catch x 2 and CG x 1) did show a strange change that wasn't there a few days ago, in that the listing on the App went from showing each restaurant's  name to now only showing "Deck 7", while the listing for our one Sabatini's booking stayed the same. But when I open each individual reservation, they still show the correct restaurant, and time. I will definitely be checking very regularly from now until sailing to make sure they don't pull a fast one, though I very much doubt I could do anything about before we board.

 

Looks like Princess have finally figured out how they are going to manage this new "Unlimited" Specialty Dining. We can eat as much as we want but THEY tell us when and where ;o)

My app did the same thing recently for our May trip aboard the Sun Princess. But when I go in using the web-based app on my desktop PC, they all show up normally. So probably another bug with the app.

[lx200gps]

9 hours ago, IndyKid said:

My app did the same thing recently for our May trip aboard the Sun Princess. But when I go in using the web-based app on my desktop PC, they all show up normally. So probably another bug with the app.

I just checked the Web version and, like you, all our reservations are showing perfectly fine but the phone app is still showing wonky results. The problem does appear to be with the phone app. Still, we'll be calling the DINE line as soon as we board to confirm all these bookings.

[Abercrombie2019]

My app is showing the following selections for Sun (I'm not on until 2025):

• The Butcher's Block By Dario (Closed From Oct. 11)
• New Butcher's block by Dario (Open From Oct. 14) 
• Crown Grill (Closed From Oct. 11)
• New Crown Grill (Open From Oct. 14)
• The Catch by Rudi (Closed From Oct. 11)
• New The Catch by Rudi (Open From Oct. 14)

 

All of the reservations that I had made weeks ago have been switched to the "New" version of the SD venue at the time that we had originally booked them.

[dog]

3 hours ago, Abercrombie2019 said:

My app is showing the following selections for Sun (I'm not on until 2025):

• The Butcher's Block By Dario (Closed From Oct. 11)
• New Butcher's block by Dario (Open From Oct. 14) 
• Crown Grill (Closed From Oct. 11)
• New Crown Grill (Open From Oct. 14)
• The Catch by Rudi (Closed From Oct. 11)
• New The Catch by Rudi (Open From Oct. 14)

 

All of the reservations that I had made weeks ago have been switched to the "New" version of the SD venue at the time that we had originally booked them.

Mine shows that too, but most are not bookable- no times left.  Must be my app acting up again.

[Avalon35]

Sailing in November - impossible to find available bookings. Even called Princess for help. All they tell me is to wait til I get on board and then run around first day and ask for reservations. Where do I do thar?

[Hlitner]

17 hours ago, canadarocks said:

Just to offer a different viewpoint,,,,, pre-reserve. Easy breezy. Yes I know that those of us who want to use OBC for Specialty Dining are currently out of luck. Hopefully that will change. This new unlimited Specialty Dining perk is brand new, and there are definitely "kinks" that can be improved. But for now..... we don't sail until February and all of our dinners are set. 😀

The issue with pre-reserving is that sometimes the Princess software is an issue.  The last time we were on the Enchantment, we had the Premium Package (this was before there was unlimited dining).  When we tried to book, pre-cruise, reservations in Rudo's, the software would only let us book if we paid for the meal (immediately charged to our credit card).  This happened even though we did have free meals as part of our package.  I telephoned (twice) Princess and their rep tried to book for us and had the same problem.  They explained that "it sometimes happens" and they are not sure why.  The suggestion was to book, pay, and later seek to get the cost credited back (which can be tried onboard at Guest Relations).  If credited back, it would likely be put back as refundable onboard credit, but that does become a hassle because one needs to deal with Guest Relations, hope that it gets done properly, and that the refundable OBC is later refunded.  Ironically, we did have about $400 of OBC left on that Enchanted cruise and it only took 9 months to get that money (the first refund check apparently got lost in the mail).

 

Hank

[grimace95120]

46 minutes ago, Avalon35 said:

Sailing in November - impossible to find available bookings. Even called Princess for help. All they tell me is to wait til I get on board and then run around first day and ask for reservations. Where do I do thar?

Hello, when i was on board the enchanted a couple weeks ago, many folks we going strait to the restaurant ( Maître D desk) and reserving via their hard copy reservation book. I've also heard you can call the Dine Line, or if in a suite the concierge desk . There were reservations to be had on board, even when the app said there wasn't. Hope you get what you are looking for !

[lx200gps]

57 minutes ago, grimace95120 said:

Hello, when i was on board the enchanted a couple weeks ago, many folks we going strait to the restaurant ( Maître D desk) and reserving via their hard copy reservation book. I've also heard you can call the Dine Line, or if in a suite the concierge desk . There were reservations to be had on board, even when the app said there wasn't. Hope you get what you are looking for !

This is exactly how we have always done it. ^^^ Board as early as possible to maximize your chances of getting your preferred dates and times, then either call the dine LINE or head to any one of the restaurants to book in person. A staff member will be manning each restaurant by about 11 or 11:30AM, and they are able to book any restaurant, not just theirs as they are all tied into the same system. We make 5 or 6 reservations each trip and have done it this way for years.

[arizonaperson]

Yes if you are on The Sun Princess in October, there is changes to location of venues.

 

As Sun Princess gears up for her arrival into North America ahead of her much-anticipated inaugural Caribbean season and to complement the debut of our elegant new Sanctuary Collection, Princess Cruises is unveiling a series of location changes that will enhance the dining experience on board. The changes below take effect October 14, 2024.

 

New Locations
– The new Sanctuary Restaurant, exclusive for all Sanctuary Collection guests, will be found on Deck 8 aft (prior location of the Americana Diner). With a custom chef’s menu, dedicated waitstaff and stunning ocean views, this exclusive space takes luxury to a new level.
– The Catch by Rudi is moving to deck 7, adjacent to the Piazza (former location of the Signature Restaurant). This venue offers a fresh take on seafood with Chef Rudi Sodamin’s contemporary interpretations of classic dishes, international fusion influences, highly creative presentations and an engaging dining experience.
– The Butcher’s Block by Dario is moving to deck 7 forward (in former location of Crown Grill). In partnership with the world’s most famous butcher, Dario Cecchini, this specialty experience features a shared, family-style table serving up a carnivore’s paradise.
– Crown Grill will be found on deck 7 aft (former location of the Reserve Collection Restaurant). This iconic specialty restaurant offers an intimate dining experience in a classically-elegant setting, with top-quality cuts of beef, chops and seafood.
– The Americana Diner will be located on deck 9 aft. Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites all day long, this eatery is an excellent option for those looking to sit down for a casual meal at any time of day.

New Names
– Horizons Dining Room (deck 6 aft) has been renamed the Soleil Dining Room- Traditional at 5 pm or 7:30 pm
– Horizons Dining Room (deck 7 aft) has been renamed the Eclipse Dining Room- for reservable & walk in
– Park19 has been renamed the SkyDeck Sports Court & Track

 

The Sanctuary Collection, debuting October 14, elevates the art of relaxation and serenity, offering guests exclusive access the ship’s top-deck retreat area, along with a host of high-end amenities designed to enhance the overall cruise experience. These indulgences include exclusive private dining in The Sanctuary Restaurant, relaxation areas, a luxurious stateroom experience in all Suites (80) and designated Mini Suites (123) and Premium Deluxe Balconies (12), as well as the Princess Premier bundle with unlimited all-inclusive offerings.

[gerig]

2 hours ago, Hlitner said:

The issue with pre-reserving is that sometimes the Princess software is an issue.  The last time we were on the Enchantment, we had the Premium Package (this was before there was unlimited dining).  When we tried to book, pre-cruise, reservations in Rudo's, the software would only let us book if we paid for the meal (immediately charged to our credit card).  This happened even though we did have free meals as part of our package.  I telephoned (twice) Princess and their rep tried to book for us and had the same problem.  They explained that "it sometimes happens" and they are not sure why.  The suggestion was to book, pay, and later seek to get the cost credited back (which can be tried onboard at Guest Relations).  If credited back, it would likely be put back as refundable onboard credit, but that does become a hassle because one needs to deal with Guest Relations, hope that it gets done properly, and that the refundable OBC is later refunded.  Ironically, we did have about $400 of OBC left on that Enchanted cruise and it only took 9 months to get that money (the first refund check apparently got lost in the mail).

 

Hank

If you want it immediately.  Download it in the casino and pull the slots a couple of times and then cash out.

[Hlitner]

5 minutes ago, gerig said:

If you want it immediately.  Download it in the casino and pull the slots a couple of times and then cash out.

Once did something similar on MSC.  On the last evening, we realized we had just over $200 in remaining OBC, and the YC Concierge told me it was not refundable.  There was nothing we wanted in the shops.  So, I went to the casino and decided to play some Blackjack (I am pretty competent at BJ and Craps).  The pit boss got me chips, using our OBC, and in about 3 minutes I doubled the money to just over $400.  At that point I cashed out :).  The irony is that I really dislike gambling (I find it totally boring) and would rather just sit with a decent book.  

 

Hank

[IndyKid]

2 hours ago, Hlitner said:

Once did something similar on MSC.  On the last evening, we realized we had just over $200 in remaining OBC, and the YC Concierge told me it was not refundable.  There was nothing we wanted in the shops.  So, I went to the casino and decided to play some Blackjack (I am pretty competent at BJ and Craps).  The pit boss got me chips, using our OBC, and in about 3 minutes I doubled the money to just over $400.  At that point I cashed out :).  The irony is that I really dislike gambling (I find it totally boring) and would rather just sit with a decent book.  

 

Hank

Any time you can beat the house and come out with more money than you entered with is a big win in my book!

[Hlitner]

22 minutes ago, IndyKid said:

Any time you can beat the house and come out with more money than you entered with is a big win in my book!

I am too math oriented to be a big time gambler.  The odds are against the gamer, and in the long run it is very difficult to impossible to beat the odds.   Many gamblers understand that Craps and Blackjack offer the best odds (for the gambler) but the house always has an edge.  I sometimes enjoy craps or blackjack because they are social games (as is poker) and can be lots of fun when you have a decent table.  Casinos love the slots since they generate the highest income, with the lowest expenses since they do not need dealers, and for players they require zero skill.  It is no accident that some cruise lines are expanding the number of slots (Princess has replaced lounge with more slots) because more slots mean more money for the cruise lines.   Poker machines are similar in that they are guaranteed income (for the casino) with very little overhead.

 

As to beating the house, that is a lot of luck and the smarts to quit when ahead.  But very few beat the house over a long period of time, and part of the addiction of gambling involves letting gamblers win...sometimes!  

 

Modern slots do make me laugh.  In the old days, you had the fun of pulling down that large lever.  Now, it is just a matter of hitting a button.  I imagine eventually there will be an option to just let the button run automatically so the gamer has to do nothing but put in money and watch it disappear.  As long as the machines are working properly,  random number generators make all that "system" stuff a lot of baloney.  On the other hand, we were once on a ship that had a defective slot (it is rare, but happens) and one family did very well (they worked that slot in shifts until the casino manager caught on).

 

Hank

[Abercrombie2019]

With recent app update, The Catch by Rudi is no longer listed as a SD restaurant on Sun Princess when you select. “Book Dining”.  Our reservations for The Catch have disappeared from the app.

[Abercrombie2019]

19 hours ago, dog said:

Mine shows that too, but most are not bookable- no times left.  Must be my app acting up again.

Latest app update has wiped out two of our reservations (both at The Catch).  The list of dining venues has changed and The Catch is no longer listed as an option.  It still shows on the deck plan in the app.

Edited October 11 by Abercrombie2019

[lx200gps]

23 minutes ago, Abercrombie2019 said:

Latest app update has wiped out two of our reservations (both at The Catch).  The list of dining venues has changed and The Catch is no longer listed as an option.  It still shows on the deck plan in the app.

Exactly the same here. Did the App upgrade this AM and the two Catch bookings on our Sun trip on the 19th are gone. However, when I log on to the Web App all our bookings, including the two Catch bookings, are untouched. It seems clear it's yet another "issue" with their phone app

[dog]

1 hour ago, Abercrombie2019 said:

With recent app update, The Catch by Rudi is no longer listed as a SD restaurant on Sun Princess when you select. “Book Dining”.  Our reservations for The Catch have disappeared from the app.

Right this minute

 

my app is changing the names and locations of the rest.

 

give it some time and don’t cancel anything yet.