Advice for making reservations at Portofino's

[ToddDH]

Need some help from those with more experience than I.

We're sailing from Port Liberty in about three weeks on the Explorer of the Seas, repeating the nine day itinerary we sailed on our first cruise in June of '06. At that time we didn't dine in Portofino's but this time we wish to.

If we're aboard between 12:30 and 1:00pm on the sailing date, will that be sufficiently early to insure a reservation for the first evening aboard and also, is there such a thing as being able to reserve a table for five at a window despite not being a cruiser with 10 or 15 cruises under one's belt?

Any advice would be most sincerely appreciated!

Todd

[Donna]

As soon as they will start taking reservations for Portfino's, just either call or go up there and see if you can get a table by the window for 5. Do you have a specific evening you want to dine there? I'm sure if you are some what flexible you'll have no problems.

[ToddDH]

Thanks a ton Donna.

Todd

[subtropic]

For some reason, the first night seems to be the heaviest at the specialty restaurants, so if you are aiming for the first night out I would reserve ASAP.

[ToddDH]

Thank you ever so much, Subtropic. That's something on which I had not figured.

I shall plan, as Rollerdonna suggested, on being flexible.

Todd

[IloveVegas]

Hi. We were on Explorer of the Seas a couple years ago, and when we boarded the ship, we went directly to Portofino's and made our reservation for the second night of the cruise no problem. So, just go asap for the first night.

You will LOVE Portofinos. It was the best dinner of the week!

[ToddDH]

to Ilovevegas,

I'm still kicking myself that we didn't dine there our first cruise on the Explorer. I shan't repeat the mistake!

Thank you!

Todd

[embchk]

We also prefer Portofinos more than Chops, the seafood skewer is to die for.

Of course you need to save room for dessert too.

[ToddDH]

Saving room for dessert WILL NOT be a problem (I'm 6'4" and 270lbs)! My wife is an Italian who grew up in Staten Island and we are looking forward to a REAL cannoli, not to mention Brother's Pizza when we get to Staten Island!

Thanks!

Todd

[AF1]

Todd, if you go to RCCL website and log in with your reservation# you may be able to make an online reservation. Backup plan is to call RCCL and ask them about making a reservation; or thirdly, go to RCCL website and under ask a question; email customer service and ask them how you can go about making a reservation at Portifino's. Good Luck,

cheers,

[ToddDH]

Thanks for the info Tkerwin. I'll certainly try but it's my understanding that while one may be able to make reservations at Portofino's prior to Boarding, it's yet to go into effect at least on the Explorer. Nevertheless, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Thanks again ever so much for your advice.'

Todd

[AF1]

You Are Welcome