Afternoon tea on a cruise ship is more than just a quick cuppa – it’s a lovely maritime custom that’s as much a part of sailing as the sea itself. Whether you’re about to go on your first cruise or you’re a regular sailor, knowing a bit about this charming tradition can make your teatime extra special. Afternoon tea on P&O Britannia is pretty special.
From choosing which cruise line does the best spread to getting comfortable with the proper way to pour and sip, there’s quite a bit to this delightful break at sea. Let’s look at how to get the most out of this brilliant cruising tradition.
Key Takeaways
- Tea time aboard cruise ships runs from 3:00-4:30 PM in dining areas and lounges, where you’ll find a lovely spread of teas, sandwiches, scones and sweet treats.
- Whilst some ships keep it rather posh, most are quite relaxed about what you wear – just look tidy and mind your manners. It’s best to keep your mobile tucked away during tea.
- The traditional way goes like this: start with the dainty sandwiches, move on to warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and finish with puddings and cakes.
- Ships such as Cunard and Silversea put on a rather grand affair with staff in white gloves, musicians playing, and the choice to have tea brought to your cabin.
- It’s worth booking ahead and getting there early – the tea sessions tend to fill up fast, and the nicest spots go quickly.
Best Cruise Lines for Tea
Afternoon tea aboard cruise ships takes tea time to new levels, with several cruise lines doing a brilliant job at this beloved ritual.
Cunard stands out with its posh Queens Room tea, where staff in white gloves bring lovely teas and dainty nibbles.
Princess Cruises and Holland America both serve up a smashing tea time, with top-notch brews and spot-on service in rather swish surroundings.
For something different, try Virgin Voyages‘ hip-hop tea or Crystal Cruises’ Mozart-themed affair.
If you fancy going utterly posh, Silversea‘s in-suite butlers bring caviar and foie gras to your room, whilst MSC’s Yacht Club guests sip champagne in the Top Sail Lounge.
For splendid views with your cuppa, nip to Viking Cruises’ Scandinavian-styled Wintergarden or Oceania’s Horizons lounge, where sea views make tea time even lovelier.
What to Expect During Service
Tea service on cruise ships happens between 3:00 and 4:30 in the afternoon. You’ll find it in a dining room or lounge, usually with lovely sea views. Posh cruise lines often have musicians playing whilst you eat.
You can choose from different teas, and they’ll bring you little sandwiches, scones and sweet treats. If you need special food, just ask for gluten-free or vegetarian bits. Some ships serve champagne or Prosecco with your tea if you fancy it, Curnad’s Queen Elizabeth offers this.
Have a look at your daily programme for the exact times – some ships only do tea when you’re at sea.
Dress Codes and Etiquette
Tea time aboard ship is quite laid-back, but it’s still nice to dress neatly.
Men can wear trousers or decent jeans with a collared shirt and proper shoes. Best to skip the sportswear and trainers, though ladies might fancy wearing sundresses and hats in summer.
Keep the chat friendly and put your mobile away during tea. When stirring your cuppa, try not to clank the spoon – just move it quietly from top to bottom.
If you’re sitting down, pop your saucer on the table. When up and about, hold your cup in your right hand and saucer in your left.
As for the food, there’s a traditional order: start with the finger sandwiches, then tuck into scones with clotted cream and jam, and finish with the sweet bits.
Making the Most of Tea
To make the most of your afternoon tea at sea, it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
Have a look at your daily schedule for tea times and get there early to find a nice spot to sit. Take a moment to read through what’s available – many cruise ships serve quality tea brands, and some even have tea experts who can help you choose.
Feel free to ask for more tea or food – the staff are there to help.
You might want to try booking special themed teas or private sessions in quieter areas. If you fancy something a bit posher, keep an eye out for adult-only teas or ones with champagne.
It’s worth booking these special tea sessions in advance, as they tend to get booked up rather quickly.
Special Tea Experiences
Afternoon tea aboard cruise ships goes well beyond your typical cuppa, with lovely settings that make teatime rather special.
On Cunard ships, you can listen to piano or harp music whilst white-gloved waiters bring tea in fine china. For something different, Crystal Cruises puts on a Mozart Tea where staff dress in period costume, while Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 serves a lovely Godiva chocolate tea.
You’ll spot brilliant tea spots like MSC Cruises’ Top Sail Lounge, where butlers look after Yacht Club guests.
Sailing with Silversea? You can have your full tea service right in your suite.
Though some special teas come with extra costs, like Princess Cruises’ Royal Tea or P&O’s Epicurean Restaurant service, many lines include splendid tea choices in your fare – Viking’s daily tea in their beautiful Wintergarden is a prime example.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Guests Bring Their Own Specialty Tea Bags to Afternoon Tea Service?
Most ships have lots of different teas to choose from, but each cruise line has its own rules. If you fancy bringing your favourite tea bags along, it’s worth getting in touch with your cruise line before you sail to see if that’s alright.
Are Afternoon Tea Services Canceled on Port Days or During Rough Weather?
Tea services generally don’t run on port days, though it depends which cruise line you’re sailing with. When the weather’s rough, indoor tea sessions tend to go ahead as normal since they take place in areas protected from the elements.
Do Cruise Lines Offer Takeaway Boxes for Leftover Pastries and Sandwiches?
Most cruise lines don’t provide takeaway boxes for your afternoon tea bits and bobs. Though posh ships might say yes if you ask nicely, it’s not something they normally do. Best to tuck in whilst you’re at the table.
Are There Age Restrictions for Children at Regular Afternoon Tea Services?
Most afternoon tea spots welcome children, though rules vary by venue. Posh hotels might suggest older kids only, whilst casual cafes and tea rooms are usually relaxed about youngsters. Best to ring ahead and ask about their policy – some places provide special children’s menus with smaller portions and kid-friendly treats.
Can Guests Request Specific Tea Times Outside the Standard Afternoon Service Hours?
Tea times are generally set between 3:00-5:00 PM on cruise ships, and it’s not possible to ask for different hours. The ships stick to these standard times to keep things running smoothly in the kitchen and dining areas.
