Who Wants Sugar-Free Options?
There is notable demand for sugar-free dining on cruises. Many passengers require it for medical reasons like diabetes management, while others — myself included — choose it for weight management purposes. Both motivations drive interest in these accommodations, and it’s worth knowing what’s available before you board.
What Sugar-Free Options Are There on Princess Cruises?
Princess Cruises offers sugar-free selections across three primary venues.
Main Dining Room
The evening menus at dining rooms (Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli) consistently feature one sugar-free dessert option. These selections typically rotate between small cakes, Napoleons, or poached pears with cream. In my experience, the fruit-based options tend to be superior in taste compared to the heavier cake varieties.
Horizon Food Court
This buffet-style venue includes a dedicated dessert station where one or two items daily are marked “S/F” (sugar-free). Options include cream cakes, profiteroles, and Napoleons, with interesting flavour variations available throughout the cruise.
The Horizon Food Court is the most reliable spot for sugar-free desserts at lunch. The labelling is clear, and the variety changes enough that you won’t feel like you’re eating the same thing every day.
Coffee and Cones
Located on Deck 14, this venue serves complimentary morning beverages and ice cream throughout the day. One sugar-free ice cream flavour is always available — typically chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry — served either in a cone or cup.
This is a great spot for an afternoon treat. The sugar-free ice cream holds up well against the standard options, and the location overlooking the pool deck makes it a pleasant stop between activities.
My Verdict
I felt genuinely well looked-after on Princess when it came to sugar-free options. There were consistent choices at lunch, dinner, and throughout the day without needing to make special requests or draw attention to dietary needs.
The Main Dining Room desserts were hit and miss — stick with the fruit-based options where possible. The Horizon Food Court was the most reliable, and Coffee and Cones was a welcome daily bonus.
For anyone concerned about managing sugar intake while cruising, Princess handles it quietly and effectively.