Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods: Gluten-Free Dining on the Disney Wish, Treasure & Destiny
Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods - Disney’s Quick Service
One of my favorite quick-service dining spots on the Disney Wish is Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. This casual dining venue offers something for everyone, making it a great choice for families with different tastes and dietary needs.
Which Disney Cruise Line Ships Have Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods?
You'll find Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods on three ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet:
Disney Wish
Disney Treasure
Disney Destiny
Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Options
As someone with celiac disease, I was happy to find several gluten-free dining options available throughout the venue. Like other quick-service locations onboard, allergy-friendly meals are prepared separately to avoid cross-contamination. Simply let a Cast Member know about your dietary needs and allergies, and they'll guide you through the ordering process.
5 Themed Food Stations
Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods features five themed food stations, including:
Mickey's Smokestack Barbecue
If you're in the mood for classic barbecue, Mickey's Smokestack Barbecue is a great option. This quick-service location offers smoked meats and hearty sides that can be adapted for gluten-free guests. The portions are generous, the flavors are rich and smoky, and it's a satisfying meal when you're looking for something filling. Best of all, the staff is knowledgeable about food allergies, making it easy to dine with confidence while enjoying a classic barbecue experience.
Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue
Donald's Cantina
Donald's Cantina serves fresh Mexican-inspired favorites, including customizable tacos and burrito bowls. It's often one of the easiest spots for gluten-free guests to find safe and satisfying options since many of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. During my sailing, I enjoyed the tacos; they were absolutely delicious—fresh, flavorful, and a great quick-service meal. As always, be sure to speak with a Cast Member so your meal can be prepared safely and in accordance with Disney's allergy protocols.
Donald’s Cantina
Daisy's Pizza Pies
Finding gluten-free pizza on a cruise is always a welcome option, and Daisy's Pizza Pies makes it easy to enjoy this family favorite. Gluten-free pizza is available upon request and is prepared separately by Disney's culinary team. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a snack between activities, it's a convenient and satisfying choice for gluten-free guests.
Daisy’s Pizza Pies
Gluten-free pizza
Goofy's Grill
Goofy's Grill quickly became one of my favorite spots onboard. Here you'll find American classics such as burgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and chicken tenders.
One of my favorite gluten-free meals on the Disney Wish was the cheeseburger and fries from Goofy's Grill. It was one of those simple vacation meals that just hit the spot, and honestly, it tasted even better knowing I could enjoy it safely.
Goofy’s Grill
Gluten-free cheeseburger and fries
Gluten-free chicken tenders and fries
Sweet Minnie's Ice Cream
No visit to Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods is complete without stopping at Sweet Minnie's Ice Cream.
The soft-serve ice cream is included with your cruise fare and features rotating flavors throughout the voyage. During my sailing, the ice cream was gluten-free, making it the perfect treat after a day by the pool or exploring the ship. The best part they even have gluten-free cones on board!
Ice cream with gluten-free cones!!
My Take as a Gluten-Free Traveler
One thing I appreciated most about Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods was how easy Disney made the dining experience. With a variety of options available, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy—including even the pickiest kids. Whether your family is craving barbecue, tacos, pizza, burgers, or lighter fare, the food court offers plenty of choices in one convenient location.
While allergy-friendly meals may take a little longer to prepare, the extra care and attention gave me confidence that my food was being handled safely. Instead of worrying about what I could eat, I was able to focus on enjoying my vacation. That's one of the reasons I continue to recommend Disney Cruise Line to clients with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. The combination of variety, communication, and allergy awareness helps create a dining experience that feels both safe and enjoyable for the whole family.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
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Is Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island Worth the Cost?
If you're wondering whether Royal Caribbean's Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island is worth it when you cruise to Nassau, the short answer is yes, and that includes if you're traveling with celiac disease. I visited during my most recent sailing on Wonder of the Seas, and as a travel advisor, I was genuinely impressed by how accommodating the beach club was for gluten-free guests.
This beach club is designed to offer a little bit of everything, making it easy for almost any type of cruiser to have a great day ashore.
From lively, social spaces to quiet, relaxing areas overlooking the ocean, the experience is built to be flexible. Guests will find complimentary loungers, umbrellas, towels, and life vests for children, so there's no need to worry about bringing extra gear. Food is also included in the admission price, with a variety of options available throughout the day, including gluten-free choices. Dedicated fryers help reduce cross-contact concerns, which is a big deal if you're managing celiac disease and constantly on alert for hidden gluten. Alcoholic beverages are available for an additional cost or can be included with your day pass.
How much does Royal Beach Club cost?
Admission to Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is not included in your cruise fare, and pricing works on a dynamic model, so the cost changes based on your sail date, ship, and how far in advance you book.
As a general guide, the non-alcoholic day pass typically starts around $109 to $130 per person, while the all-inclusive pass with unlimited alcohol starts closer to $170 and can climb higher during peak sailings. Kids ages 4 to 12 usually pay a reduced rate, and children 3 and under get in free.
If you want more privacy, day beds and cabanas are available for an additional cost, with prices climbing well beyond that for premium options like the multi-level Ultimate Family Cabana. Because pricing shifts so much depending on demand, booking early through the Royal Caribbean app is usually your best bet for locking in a lower rate.
Getting There
The beach club is located on Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas, just a short ferry from the cruise port. Royal Caribbean coordinates transportation as part of the experience, so guests can expect a smooth transfer without needing to arrange their own transportation. Make sure you have your cruise card and ID when getting off the ship.
The Beach Club is directly next to the cruise port. It took longer to board the ferry than to actually get there! :-)
Overview of the Areas
Chill Beach - Chill Beach is designed for pure relaxation. Expect soft white sand, a calm atmosphere, and a swim-up bar where you can enjoy a drink without leaving the water. It's the ideal spot for guests who want a slower-paced beach day.
Family Beach - Family Beach brings a more active, kid-friendly environment with interactive games, zero-entry pools, and the Ultimate Family Cabana. This private cabana includes a slide and whirlpool, making it a standout option for families who want both comfort and fun in one space.
Party Cove - Party Cove is the destination for high energy, featuring The Floating Flamingo, the world's largest swim-up bar, plus live DJ entertainment and a vibrant party scene.
Gluten-Free Dining Options
For guests managing gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island makes it easy to enjoy the included food without extra stress. At Paradise Grill gluten-free options include burgers served on gluten-free buns, French fries, salad, and ice cream. Dedicated fryers help minimize cross-contact for fries. While it's always wise to confirm current offerings with staff upon arrival, the range of gluten-free choices means dietary needs don't have to get in the way of enjoying the full experience.
We went with gluten-free cheeseburgers and fries. The burgers came individually wrapped, and the buns looked identical to the ones served both onboard and on CocoCay Island, which made me think they're all coming from the same supplier.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Get there early if you want the best spot. Loungers go fast, especially in popular areas like Chill Beach, so arriving early gives you first pick.
Pack a few extras. The included amenities cover the basics, but I'd still bring reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit cover-up, and a reusable water bottle to make the day more comfortable.
Give yourself buffer time between zones. If you're planning to hop between different beach areas, know that walking between them can take a few minutes. Building that into your schedule helps the day feel relaxed instead of rushed.
Who Will Enjoy This Beach Club Most
Because of its layout, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island works well for mixed groups. Couples or solo travelers looking for a calmer vibe can post up at Chill Beach, families with young kids have a dedicated space designed with them in mind; and groups looking to celebrate or socialize can head to Party Cove. This separation of spaces helps reduce the common tension of trying to please everyone on a single beach day.
Let’s Get You There
Royal Caribbean's Royal Beach Club Paradise Island delivers strong value for cruisers looking for a hassle-free beach day with plenty of included amenities. Whether you want to relax in the sun, keep the kids entertained, or mix in a bit of both, the variety of spaces makes it easy to tailor the experience to your style. For many travelers, that convenience and range of options make it well worth the cost.
As an experienced travel advisor specializing in cruises, I'd love to get you there. Reach out and let's start planning your next beach day at sea.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
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How to Eat Safely on a Cruise When You Have Celiac Disease
Enjoying gluten-free pizza at Royal Caribbean’s Sorrento’s
Dining gluten-free on a cruise is very manageable, especially when you communicate clearly and know what to expect. A few simple habits can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Speak up early
Let your server know right away that you are gluten-free. Most cruise lines have allergy menus, but many times there are additional options available when you ask. Clear communication from the start helps the kitchen better accommodate your needs.
2. Ask for a chef if needed
If your server isn’t fully confident about ingredients or preparation methods, don’t hesitate to ask to speak with a chef. Chefs are usually very knowledgeable about allergens and can guide you safely through menu choices or even offer modifications.
Our head waiter on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas
3. Pre-order when it helps
Pre-ordering isn’t always necessary, but some like to do it for peace of mind. It can be reassuring to know your options ahead of time, especially if you prefer to plan meals or avoid making decisions on the spot. Your server can also let you know if pre-ordering is available or helpful for that specific cruise line.
4. Show appreciation for great service
Cruise dining teams work hard to accommodate food allergies and make sure your meals are safe and enjoyable. While gratuities are often included in your cruise fare, an additional tip is always appreciated when a crew member goes above and beyond to take care of you. You can also make a big impact by mentioning your server by name on the post-cruise survey positive feedback like that is highly valued onboard and directly supports crew recognition and future opportunities.
With good communication and a little preparation, gluten-free dining at sea can be both safe and stress-free.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
Ready to book your next European vacation? Let our travel agents make the process easy!
Our travel agents specialize in:
Caribbean & Mexico
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Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth the Money?
If you've ever priced out a cruise, you've hit that moment at checkout: "Add the Deluxe Beverage Package for $89 a day?" It's tempting to click yes and stop thinking about it. But is it actually a good deal, or just an easy way to overspend?
Short answer: it depends entirely on how you drink. Below is how to figure out which camp you're in.
Non-Alcoholic Drink Packages
Most cruise lines include basic beverages like:
Water
Tea
Lemonade
Coffee
Juices
However, most cruise lines do not include soda, specialty coffee, energy drinks, bottled water, or mocktails. If you drink a lot of soda or enjoy specialty coffee throughout the day, a non-alcoholic drink package may absolutely be worth it.
Alcoholic Drink Packages
Most alcoholic beverage packages follow a similar formula, even though pricing and specific brands vary by cruise line. You typically get
Unlimited cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass up to a certain per-drink price cap (often somewhere between $12 and $20)
Bottled and fountain soda
Specialty coffees and teas
Smoothies
Bottled water
Premium juices
Do the Math Before You Buy
At the end of the day, this really comes down to simple math.
Mixed drinks on many cruise lines are often around $15–$18 each after gratuities. To break even on a package priced around $80–$90/day, you typically need to be drinking somewhere in the 5–7 drink per day range, and that includes specialty coffee, soda, and bottled water if those aren't otherwise free on your ship.
How to Run the Numbers:
Estimate your daily drink count. Morning latte, poolside drink, one at lunch, two at dinner, a nightcap: does that actually sound like your trip? Multiply that estimate by the average drink price, then compare the total to the package's daily cost.
Look at your itinerary. Port-heavy cruises mean fewer hours actually onboard to drink, while sea-day-heavy cruises tip the math in the package's favor. Keep in mind that private islands are usually covered, but regular ports of call are not.
Check the price cap. Most packages set a per-drink ceiling (often $12 to $20). Order something above that price, and you'll pay the difference out of pocket.
For some travelers, the package saves money. For others, especially light or occasional drinkers, paying individually makes much more sense.
There’s no right or wrong answer - it simply depends on your travel style and budget.
How to Purchase
The purchase process isn't identical across cruise lines, and a couple of these lines don't even sell what you'd expect. Here's how it works on four popular ones:
Royal Caribbean
Buy through the Cruise Planner (online or in the app) before sailing, which is also where the best discounts show up. You can also call Royal Caribbean directly to order over the phone, or wait and buy onboard at any bar or a promo table set up near the gangway on embarkation day. Pre-cruise orders can be canceled for a full refund up to 2 days before sailing.
Celebrity Cruises
Same idea as Royal Caribbean, different portal. Purchase through Celebrity's Cruise Planner online or via the Celebrity app before departure, or buy onboard on day one. Celebrity also sells an "All Included" fare that bundles a Classic Drink Package with Wi-Fi right into your cabin price, so check whether that's cheaper than adding the package separately.
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages skips the traditional package model. Instead, you pre-purchase a "Bar Tab," a chunk of onboard drink credit, in set amounts ($200, $300, $500, $750, or $1,000), and Virgin adds a bonus on top (for example, a $300 Bar Tab becomes $350 to spend). You can buy it through the Virgin Voyages app, your online Sailor account, or through us as your travel agent before sailing.
Disney Cruise Line
There's no unlimited drink package to purchase at all. Disney sells discounted beer and wine bundles (like a "buy 5, get 1 free" beer package) and lets you pay per drink at the bar, which works out fine for most families since Disney includes more free non-alcoholic drinks (soda, coffee, juice) in the fare than most lines. If you want a beer or wine bundle, those can be ordered online in advance or set up at the bar once onboard.
Enjoying some wine and gluten-free pasta on Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas
Our Favorite Drink Strategy
Here's the approach we tell people about all the time: skip the package, do the quick math on what it would have cost, and use that number as your unofficial ceiling for the cruise.
Say a 4-night sailing's drink package runs $89 per person, per day, that's $356 total. Ask yourself: can I have a good time for $356 or less? The "strategy" is simple: have fun, order what you want, and try to land under that number. No committing to a flat daily rate, no pressure to hit a break-even number of drinks. You can track your spending in real time through the cruise line's app.
It works because it flips the math: instead of asking "how many drinks do I need to make this package worth it," you're asking "can I enjoy myself for less than what they'd charge me for unlimited." For light-to-moderate drinkers, the answer is almost always yes.
Other Ways to Save on Onboard Drinks
Bring Your Own Wine and Soda
Most cruise lines let you bring one or two bottles of wine or champagne per adult onboard at embarkation, plus a limited amount of soda or other non-alcoholic beverages, though exact limits vary by line, so check the specifics before you pack. Keep in mind that many lines charge a corkage fee if you open wine in a dining venue or bar; drinking it in your cabin is usually free.
Watch for Daily Drink Specials
Many ships run daily drink specials or happy hour pricing that can cut the cost of individual drinks significantly. This is a solid option if you want a few cocktails during your cruise without paying for a full beverage package upfront.
How We Help
We're a travel agency built specifically around gluten-free travelers, and cruises are one of the trips where that focus pays off the most. When you book a cruise through us, you get our guide to gluten-free alcoholic drinks, a straightforward reference covering which spirits, wines, and common cocktails are safe, which ones to avoid, and how to order confidently at any bar onboard.
We also help you think through the drink package question itself, based on your actual itinerary and your actual drinking habits, not a one-size-fits-all upsell, so you're not gambling $500+ per person on a package you're not sure you'll enjoy safely.
The bottom line: a cruise drink package can be a great deal or a bad one, and the answer depends on your habits, your itinerary, and, if you're gluten-free, knowing exactly what's safe to order before you ever step up to the bar. That's exactly the kind of planning we specialize in.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Noreen Wheeler
Travel Advisor
Noreen specializes in Disney vacations and cruises for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. She is also a gluten-free blogger who shares her and her daughter’s journey with celiac disease on Gluten Free Life & Travels, offering tips for living and traveling gluten-free.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
Ready to book your next European vacation? Let our travel agents make the process easy!
Our travel agents specialize in:
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6 Reasons Why We Love AmaWaterways
As travel advisors, our goal is to curate exceptional experiences for our clients, and AmaWaterways never fails to deliver. Whether you're an experienced cruiser or embarking on your first river journey, AmaWaterways is a standout choice. Even better, they excel at accommodating dietary restrictions, making them an ideal option for travelers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Here are the top 6 reasons why we love cruising with AmaWaterways!
1. Expansive Comfort
One of the best things about AmaWaterways is the open, relaxed feel of the ship. Unlike larger cruise lines, AmaWaterways’ ships are designed with comfort in mind, accommodating an average of just 156 guests. Spacious staterooms, uncrowded common areas, and panoramic views create a feeling of ease and privacy, so you can unwind at your own pace without the bustle of large crowds.
The extraordinary AmaMagna stands out with the largest and most luxurious suites on the Danube River. Expansive open-air Sun Decks offer even more to enjoy, including a walking track, pool or whirlpool (both available on AmaMagna), a bar, a comfortable sitting area, and plenty of room for their complimentary Wellness Program’s host-led fitness classes.
Many ships have large balcony staterooms as well. AmaMagna has stunning suites, complete with full balconies, range from 355 to 710 square feet.
2. Unmatched Personal Service
What really sets AmaWaterways apart is their attentive, thoughtful service. The crew members go out of their way to get to know you and make your experience personal and special. From remembering your name to anticipating your preferences, their service feels genuine and makes your journey that much more enjoyable.
“From the moment I boarded, the staff assured me they understood my gluten-free needs. They checked in regularly, from meals to excursions, to make sure I felt comfortable and safe. It was such a relief knowing I was taken care of."
- Gluten-free Traveler
3. All-Inclusive Shore Excursions for Every Traveler
Each destination offers a variety of excursions tailored to different interests and energy levels, all included in your fare. Love to explore by bike? They’ve got it. Prefer a gentle walking tour with a local guide? No problem. From historic city tours to scenic hikes and cultural food tastings, you’ll find an adventure that suits you — and makes each stop feel like a meaningful experience, not just a quick visit.
One of the many perks of sailing with AmaWaterways is that the ships dock right in the heart of each destination. Unlike ocean cruises, which often require long transfers from the port to the main city, smaller river ships can pull right up to central locations in most towns and cities. For example, In Europe, the ship docks in the heart of Vienna, right on the edge of Budapest's riverside and within walking distance of Strasbourg's enchanting Old Town. This allows you to explore at your own pace.
4. Award-Winning Culinary Experiences, Perfect for Gluten-Free Travelers
Dining on AmaWaterways is a standout experience, with menus inspired by each region you visit. And for gluten-free travelers, AmaWaterways does an incredible job at making sure you can dine with confidence. One gluten-free traveler shared, “Every meal was a delight, and I never had to worry about what I was eating—the staff took such care.”
AmaWaterways’ attention to detail extends to shore excursions, too. If an excursion includes a food experience, like a wine and cheese tasting or a cooking demo, the crew will work ahead to provide safe, gluten-free alternatives so you don’t miss a thing. And onboard, if you have questions or special requests, the chefs are happy to discuss your options directly.
Book AmaWaterways with Gluten-free Vacations!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers in your destinations
Custom document package mailed to you with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
If you book using this link, we will contact you to assist in planning all of the details of your trip!
Need recommendations?
Let us help you find the best itinerary, ship, and stateroom to meet your needs!
5. All-Inclusive Peace of Mind
When you book with AmaWaterways, you get a true all-inclusive experience. Your fare covers excursions, wine and beer with meals, specialty coffee, and Wi-Fi—no surprise charges. This makes it easy to relax and just enjoy your trip, knowing everything is taken care of upfront.
6. Culturally Rich Destinations
AmaWaterways cruises through some of the world’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, including Europe, Asia, and Africa, with thoughtfully crafted itineraries that highlight both famous landmarks and hidden treasures.
In Europe, you can explore the fairytale-like castles of The Rhine River Cruise, visit Monet’s gardens in Giverny and the historic shores of Normandy on The Seine River France Cruise, or discover Portugal’s stunning wine country on The Douro River Cruise, complete with authentic Fado music.
For those drawn to Southeast Asia, The Mekong River Cruise takes you deep into the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia. This journey includes vibrant floating markets, ancient temples like Angkor Wat, and close-up encounters with local village life.
AmaWaterways also offers unforgettable experiences beyond Europe and Asia. The Nile River Cruise explores Egypt’s ancient wonders, including Luxor, Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and the Great Pyramids. And in Africa, The Chobe River Cruise in Botswana combines a river cruise with land-based game reserves giving you a chance to see Africa's iconic wildlife.
From European landmarks to Southeast Asia’s colorful markets and Africa’s wild savannahs, AmaWaterways’ itineraries offer an immersive, expertly small-group guided experience making it easy to explore the rich history and culture of any destination. Reaching these far-reaching destinations means you can explore parts of the world that might otherwise be challenging to navigate on your own while ensuring the added comfort of consistent, worry-free gluten-free dining throughout your journey.
What to learn more about AwaWaterways? Reach out!
Bon Voyage!
Anjli Patel
Travel Advisor
Planning a European getaway?
Every one of our travel planning packages includes:
Assistance with booking travel in up to three European cities (custom packages available for more destinations)
Personalized hotel recommendations, plus booking and reservation coordination
Airfare suggestions and booking support, if needed
Transportation planning and booking, including trains, transfers, and more
Travel insurance recommendations and booking assistance
Customized itinerary suggestions, including must-see attractions and curated tour options
Gluten-free travel support with restaurant recommendations, local guides, and translation cards
A beautifully organized travel packet with your custom itinerary, sent by mail or email before your trip
Ready to explore Europe with expert help? We’ve got you covered every step of the way.
Blog by: Anjli Patel
Travel Advisor
Anjli specializes in European travel for those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.
Ready to book your next European vacation? Let our team make the process easy!
Our travel agents specialize in:
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Exploring the Mediterranean with Royal Caribbean
I've had quite a few clients recently ask me about my experience on a Mediterranean cruise I took a few years ago with Royal Caribbean. As someone who enjoys cruising in general, I must say that a Mediterranean cruise takes things to an entirely different level compared to the Caribbean. The cuisine, the culture, and Europe’s myriad of historic ports make it an unforgettable adventure. Plus, if you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, Royal Caribbean is able to provide great options so that you can have a stress-free trip.
Despite the elevated experience, it's still a remarkable bargain when you consider that all your meals are included, there's fantastic entertainment, and you have the opportunity to visit multiple countries in a single trip. It's truly a wonderful way to see so much of the world in a relatively short amount of time.
We traveled with a lively group of 35 friends and family members on a 7-day Mediterranean cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas. We set sail from Venice, with stops in Dubrovnik, Chania, and Athens, before returning to Venice.
We decided to arrive in Venice two days prior to the departure of the cruise for two main reasons:
To ensure we didn’t miss the start of the cruise in case of any flight delays.
To have ample time to explore Venice thoroughly, knowing that by the end of the cruise, we would likely be eager to return home.
Our group of 35 visiting Dubrovnik, Croatia.
PRE-CRUISE IN VENICE, ITALY
Venice is a city that's best enjoyed leisurely, and those two days gave us the opportunity to soak in all its beauty and charm before embarking on our journey. During our stay, we had the opportunity to also visit Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its exquisite glass making tradition. Burano, with its colorful houses, felt like stepping into a fairy tale.
GLUTEN-FREE TIP: Stop at MEA Libera Tutti, which is a gluten-free specialty grocery store and pick up cookies, snacks, etc. to have during the remainder of your trip! Make sure to check their hours ahead of time.
Venice Canal
Burano Island
Murano glass
OUR SHIP
Rhapsody of the Seas
Maiden Voyage - 1997
Refurbished - 2012
Number of Decks - 12
Guests: 2,416 (total)
Restaurants: 3 complimentary and 5 specialty restaurants
I love Royal Caribbean's Rhapsody of the Seas because it has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, even though it’s an older ship. A few reasons why I love this ship is because of its small size, its ability to handle dietary restrictions, and the itineraries available.
Ship Size
Once we boarded the ship, the group went off exploring everything that Rhapsody of the Seas had to offer. I enjoyed this ship because of its smaller size, which provides a more intimate, curated adventure. We had some family members with slight mobility issues so it was no problem for them to navigate the ship. I also find that the lines to get into the shows and at the buffet are not long like the mega ships.
Gluten-free Dining
A few family members also had some dietary restrictions and cruising with Royal Caribbean provides a seamless way to manage this. The dining staff went out of their way to understand our needs and created unique meals tailored specifically to our group.
If you’re gluten-free, Royal Caribbean typically offers gluten-free bread, pasta, pizza, burger buns, pancakes, and desserts. Their staff understands the importance of avoiding cross-contact, and you’ll be able to order custom dishes from your servers. Note that larger ships have more restaurants, and therefore, offer more options.
Restaurants on Rhapsody of the Seas include:
Main Dining Room - a la carte breakfast and dinner
Windjammer Cafe - buffet
Park Cafe - made-to-order salads and sandwiches
Chops Grille - steakhouse (specialty restaurant - additional fee)
Giovanni’s Table - Italian cuisine (specialty restaurant - additional fee)
Izumi - Asian cuisine (specialty restaurant - additional fee)
Cafe Latte-tudes - coffee shop (specialty restaurant - additional fee)
My gluten-free dining tips:
Best Service - For the best service and attention to detail, dine in the Main Dining Room or specialty restaurants when possible. They have fewer guests per server / chef than the Windjammer Cafe, so they can cater to special requests more easily.
Main Dining Room - Here, you’ll even be able to order your meal the day prior, which will provide you with more options and reduce your wait time. For example, if you let them know a day in advance, they can usually provide gluten-free waffles or pancakes for breakfast.
Windjammer Cafe - When dining at the Windjammer Cafe, I recommend speaking with the maître d and they will let you know what gluten-free options are available on the buffet and what items can be prepared separately to avoid cross-contact. Many times, gluten-free bread, pasta, pizza, buns for burgers, etc. are available in the kitchen area and you can request a separate meal prepared for you.
Sign on the ship showing their dedication to providing gluten-free options.
Activities
Throughout the cruise, they had activities like sushi making classes, behind-the-scenes brunch tours, and my favorite - nightcaps at R Bar after an evening filled with exciting shows. If you have a competitive streak or want to fill a few hours with nonstop laughs, go to one of the cruise's game shows. Hosted by a hilarious emcee, these shows typically recreate popular challenges like Love & Marriage, Battle of the Sexes and Quest, an adults-only scavenger-style competition that separates the audience into teams and prompts them to work together in order to win. I definitely found out things I didn't know about my family and friends. Plus - kids will love the pools, kids clubs, rock climbing wall, arcade, movie nights, and more.
OUR PORTS OF CALL
One reason I love cruises for those with celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or other dietary restrictions is that passengers can enjoy safe meals for breakfast and dinner on the ship, only needing to plan lunch while in port. This makes the planning process much less stressful and allows for more freedom to explore.
GLUTEN-FREE TIPS:
Before you depart, download gluten-free apps for finding restaurants in your destination. If you book your vacation with our team, we will provide a list of apps specific to your destination and a list of recommended restaurants for gluten-free travelers near popular sites.
Carry a gluten-free translation card with you. If you book your vacation with us, we will mail you a gluten-free translation card in your document package.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Our first stop once we set sail was Dubrovnik, Croatia. This iconic city offers a rich blend of historical charm and scenic beauty. We walked along the Ancient City Walls for breathtaking views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. We wandered through Old Town, with charming shops and beautiful architecture. For the fans out there, which we were, Dubrovnik served as the filming location for King's Landing. The tour took us to all the spots!
Dubrovnik, Croatia
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Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
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Chania, Greece
Our next stop was Chania, Greece. We were supposed to go to Santorini, Greece however the ship wasn't able to tender there due to the rough sea water (don't worry, I ended up going back to Santorini AND Mykonos!). We ended up staying in Chania for 2 nights which, frankly, I loved! I really enjoyed exploring this picturesque coastal town thoroughly and it is probably one of my favorite Greek islands. We ate at a few restaurants in the Venetian Harbor and strolled through Agora Market for traditional Cretan products.
Athens, Greece
Our journey continued to Athens, the capital of Greece where ancient history meets vibrant modern culture. No visit to Athens is complete without exploring the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium, or Syntagma Square. We experienced local culture and cuisine in the Plaka District.
I loved seeing all of the sites in Athens!
Venice, Italy
Our last port before heading back to Venice was to the historic site of Olympia, Greece, known for its ancient ruins and connection to the original Olympic Games. We had a fantastic opportunity to visit a local olive-making factory. We learned about the production process, sampled various types of olive oil, and even brought home bottles as souvenirs.
If you are contemplating a Mediterranean cruise (or any European cruise), I can't recommend it enough. It's a travel experience that combines the convenience of cruising with the rich history and culture of Europe. The ships offer comfortable accommodations, delicious dining options, and excellent entertainment.
Bon Voyage!
Anjli Patel
Travel Advisor
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Blog by: Anjli Patel
Anjli specializes in European travel for those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.
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