You already paid for the cruise—and food is included. So why would you pay even more money just to eat dinner?In Episode 4 of the “Is It Worth It?” series, Scott Showalter takes on specialty dining and whether those steakhouses, Italian restaurants, sushi spots, chef’s tables, and dining packages are actually worth opening your wallet for.We’ll talk about the difference between included dining and specialty restaurants, when dining packages can save money, why reservations matter, and the biggest question of all: Are you paying for better food—or a better experience?Then specialty dining gets put through the Scott Showalter Worth-It Meter for the final verdict.Because the price is easy to find. The value is what we’re here to figure out.

Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill Debut for the 2026 Japan Season FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess, at 115,875 tons and accommodating 2,670 guests, added two specialty dining venues – Makoto Ocean and Princess’ signature, guest‑favorite steakhouse Crown Grill, further elevating the onboard culinary experience. Reservations are now available for all sailings. Makoto Ocean Makoto Ocean, which premiered onboard Sun Princess and Star Princess, brings the refined artistry of Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi to Diamond Princess. Located on Deck 7, the venue showcases a premium menu of signature dishes such as truffle salmon, […]