Dining rules relaxed on 'Freestyle' cruises

Successful concept lets passengers eat when and with whom they want 

ABOARD NORWEGIAN SUN - Traditionally, dinner on a cruise ship is set for a specific time at a table with the same people for the entire cruise. Usually there are at least a few nights where formal dress in the dining room is required.

Seven years ago, Norwegian Cruise Line introduced a different system, which the company calls "Freestyle Cruising," on one of its ships. If you want to eat in a restaurant on an NCL ship, you show up between 5:30 and 10:30 p.m. and order off the menu. There is no dress code. You can ask for a table for two, or you can ask to sit at a large table and meet other passengers.

The concept has been a success, and is now available on all 15 NCL ships....