In celebration of National Tea Day, there’s no better time to explore one of Britain’s most cherished traditions, afternoon tea at sea. Combining elegant settings with time-honoured rituals, many cruise lines have made afternoon tea a highlight of the onboard experience, whether you’re sailing on a classic ocean liner or a contemporary luxury ship. But you might be wondering which cruise lines offer afternoon tea, and what can you expect when you step on board? From white-gloved service and tiered stands of freshly baked scones to more relaxed, modern interpretations served in stylish lounges, the experience can vary significantly depending on the cruise line you choose. In this guide, we explore the best cruise lines for afternoon tea, including what’s included, when it’s served, and how each experience differs, helping you find the perfect cruise to indulge in this much-loved tradition.
The best cruise lines for afternoon tea
Cunard
Afternoon tea is a time-honoured tradition that has become synonymous with Cunard. For many guests, it’s an essential part of the cruising experience when sailing aboard a Cunard ship. Served in the iconic Queens Room, it’s sure to be a memorable experience, with white-gloved waiters presenting elegant tiered stands laden with tasty treats, accompanied by live piano or harp music. For a more intimate experience, guests staying in the Grills suites can enjoy afternoon tea in the Princess Grill Restaurant. A more casual interpretation can also be found at buffet venues such as the Lido or King’s Court.
Is afternoon tea included on Cunard cruises?
Yes, it is complimentary and available to all guests as part of the daily onboard programme.
What time is afternoon tea on Cunard?
Afternoon tea is typically served daily between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm in the Queens Room.
Do you have to dress up for afternoon tea on Cunard?
While many guests choose to embrace the occasion with smart or elegant attire, there is no strict dress code, and a more relaxed style is also welcomed.
What makes afternoon tea on Cunard special?
Cunard’s afternoon tea stands out for its sense of occasion, from white-gloved service to live classical music, creating a truly traditional and memorable onboard experience.
P&O Cruises
Afternoon tea with P&O Cruises captures the essence of a quintessentially British tradition, offering both classic and elevated experiences depending on your mood. Guests can enjoy a complimentary, traditional afternoon tea served in the main dining restaurants, featuring a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of teas. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to unwind during the day at sea.
Is afternoon tea free on P&O Cruises?
Yes, a traditional afternoon tea is included and served in the main dining restaurants.
What time is afternoon tea on P&O Cruises?
Afternoon tea is usually served in the mid-afternoon on sea days, with exact timings listed in the daily onboard programme.
Is there a special afternoon tea on P&O Cruises?
Yes, guests can upgrade to a speciality afternoon tea experience in selected venues. The Epicurean offers a premium afternoon tea experience curated by Master Pâtissier Eric Lanlard, available for an additional charge.
What is included in afternoon tea on P&O Cruises?
The complimentary option includes sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and a selection of teas, while the premium version features more elaborate pâtisserie.
Oceania
Oceania Cruises offers a more contemporary take on afternoon tea, blending classic elements with a refined, international flair. Typically served in Horizons or similar elegant lounges, the experience is relaxed yet sophisticated. While less formal than traditional British-style service, Oceania’s approach focuses on quality ingredients and a calm, unhurried atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely afternoon at sea.
Is afternoon tea included on Oceania Cruises?
Yes, it is generally included as part of the cruise fare.
Do you need to book afternoon tea on Oceania Cruises?
Afternoon tea is usually available on a walk-in basis in the designated lounge areas.
What is afternoon tea like on Oceania Cruises?
Guests can enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and delicate pastries, all thoughtfully presented and served in an elegant and relaxed lounge setting.
What is the dress code for afternoon tea on Oceania Cruises?
The setting is elegant and polished, but the dress code remains relaxed, allowing guests to enjoy the experience comfortably.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers a classic take on afternoon tea, combining traditional elements with a relaxed and inviting onboard atmosphere. Served in the main dining rooms on select sea days, it’s a well-loved ritual that gives guests the chance to pause and enjoy a slower moment during their cruise, whether as a mid-afternoon treat or a social occasion.
Is afternoon tea included on Princess Cruises?
Yes, afternoon tea is complimentary and included as part of your cruise fare.
What time is afternoon tea on Princess Cruises?
It is typically served in the afternoon on sea days, with exact timings listed in the daily onboard programme.
Do you need to book afternoon tea on Princess Cruises?
No reservation is usually required, and guests can attend during the scheduled service.
Is afternoon tea a sit-down experience on Princess Cruises?
Yes, it is generally served as a seated experience in the main dining rooms.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
With its smaller ships and more intimate atmosphere, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines delivers a charming and understated afternoon tea experience. The focus here is on comfort and tradition, making it feel like a cosy, familiar ritual at sea. It’s an experience that perfectly complements the welcoming style of cruising that Fred. Olsen is best known for.
Is afternoon tea included on Fred. Olsen cruises?
Yes, afternoon tea is generally included as part of the onboard dining experience.
When is afternoon tea served on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines?
It is typically served in the afternoon, with exact timings shown in the ship’s daily programme.
Do you need to book afternoon tea on Fred. Olsen cruises?
In most cases, no reservation is needed, though this can vary depending on the venue and sailing.
What is served at afternoon tea on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines?
Guests can usually expect a traditional selection of sandwiches, freshly baked scones and cakes, served with tea in a relaxed setting.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
On Regent Seven Seas Cruises, afternoon tea is elevated into a refined, all-inclusive experience that reflects the line’s luxury credentials. Served in elegant lounges, the offering includes a curated selection of finger sandwiches, pastries and freshly baked scones, alongside premium teas. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet unhurried, allowing guests to savour the experience at their own pace. As with much of Regent’s onboard offering, afternoon tea is included, adding to the sense of effortless luxury throughout your voyage.
Is afternoon tea included on Regent Seven Seas Cruises?
Yes, it is fully included as part of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ all-inclusive luxury offering.
What time is afternoon tea on Regent Seven Seas Cruises voyages?
Afternoon tea is typically served in the afternoon, with exact times varying by ship and detailed in the daily programme.
Do you need to book afternoon tea on Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships?
No, it is usually available without reservation in the ship’s lounges.
Is afternoon tea served every day on Regent Seven Seas Cruises?
It is generally available on most days during the voyage, although this can vary depending on the ship and itinerary.
FAQs: Afternoon Tea on Cruises
Is afternoon tea included on cruises?
Afternoon tea is included on many cruise lines such as Cunard, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. However, some lines also offer premium versions for an additional charge, featuring upgraded menus and more refined settings.
Which cruise line has the best afternoon tea?
Many much-loved cruise lines offer afternoon tea, so the best one depends on personal preference. However, Cunard is widely considered to offer the most traditional and iconic afternoon tea experience at sea, thanks to its British heritage, white-gloved service and elegant Queens Room setting. For a more luxurious take, Regent Seven Seas Cruises also delivers a high-end, all-inclusive experience.
What is typically served at an afternoon tea on a cruise?
A classic cruise afternoon tea usually includes finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of cakes or pastries, all served with a variety of teas. Some premium experiences may also include Champagne or a speciality pâtisserie.
What time is afternoon tea on cruises?
Afternoon tea is typically served between 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm, although exact timings vary by cruise line and ship. Daily schedules are usually listed in the onboard programme.
Do you have to dress up for afternoon tea on a cruise?
This depends on the cruise line. On Cunard, many guests choose to dress smartly to match the elegant setting, while on lines like Oceania or Princess Cruises, the atmosphere is more relaxed and casual attire is perfectly acceptable.
Are there luxury afternoon tea experiences on cruises?
Yes, several cruise lines offer premium afternoon tea options. For example, P&O Cruises offers an upgraded experience in The Epicurean, while Regent Seven Seas Cruises includes a more refined, luxury version as part of its all-inclusive offering.
Is afternoon tea available every day on a cruise?
On some cruise lines, such as Cunard, afternoon tea is served daily. On others, such as Princess Cruises, it may only be available on sea days. It’s always best to check the daily onboard schedule.
