Cruise passengers usually have a choice of restaurants included in the base price of their holiday.

Many guests opt to dine at the buffet, which is usually the largest of the ship’s restaurants, as it has so much choice.

However, a frequent cruise holidaymaker has warned tourists to avoid the buffet restaurant on the first day.

Posting on Reddit, the cruise tourist ‘madmaxx’ said: “The buffet is usually crazy busy on embarkation day, but speciality restaurants and the main dining room are usually not.

“Our first day on our first cruise was utter madness as the Lido buffet was a zoo, it’s difficult to find tables and long lines for food. Every other day was fine.”

The ship’s buffet restaurant is usually the top choice on the first day of a cruise as guests are looking for something quick.

However, it can get busy very quickly so guests may have a more peaceful experience in the main dining room.

On some ships, specialty restaurants will have special offers available for guests on the first day of a cruise so it’s worth having a look around.

The guest added: “Many main dining rooms allow a number of classic dining options, but one we discovered on our last trip was that you may have the option to share (or not share) a table as a couple with any-time dining.

“There are some nights where the conversation is lovely, and other nights where we just want something for the two of us.”

Cruise ships usually have a range of dining options for guests and sociable passengers may want to mingle with other people.

Some ships have a ‘Captain’s Table’ option where guests can dine with the ship’s captain and find out more about the ship.

There may also be special tasting menus on offer at some of the specialty restaurants where guests can meet the chef.

Most cruises will share daily events and experiences on the app, but it’s a good idea to see what’s available before boarding as popular activities may sell out.