Trying to decide on a time for a reservation in Signatures...desire to make on the evening of the "Captain's Welcome" on our 9/13-20 Alaskan cruise. Can anyone tell what the "Captain's Welcome" entails and how long it normally lasts? Is it something before dinner -- such as the Captain's reception on other cruise lines? (This is our inital cruise on Regent.) Thanks...

Larry: On our 8/30 Alaska cruise I believe CW's is 8/31

Usually second night out, just as Formal night would be, so yours would probably be 9/14.

...yes, I am aware it is the second night...just trying to determine what is involved so that I can choose a reservations time in Signatures. Thanks.

Oh sorry - misunderstood what you were asking. I would think 7:30 would be a good time to book Signatures - thats what I would do if in the same situation.

Larry, the party is either 6:00 or 6:30 for an hour. It is usually in the Theater. There will be photgraphers there at the entrance (I bypass them, you may not want to) You go in, have a drink and some hors d'oevres, and then the Captain will come up at some point and introduce the staff. For your reservation at Signatures, many people also will be at that party. I would suggest that you book at 7:30. They will know why people are late, but might want to run that by the maitre'd upon boarding. Maybe leave a little before the end of the party and get seated early? That dining room will be rather empty before you come.

Gosh...SOOOO sorry misunderstood -

Captain's Welcome is usually one of the best dinners in Compass Rose. Depending on how far you have travelled, I like to go to Signatures or Latitudes (or Portofino if I am on the Navigator) the first night. They are not usually extra busy that first night and food and service are usually excellent. There is not a show to conflict with dinner because everyone else is unpacking and going to sleep early.

Kathy-
Signatures first night sounds great. We have made reservations there later in the week. Do you suggest changing them (since they only accept one reservation for each restaurant) or should we just tempt tempt fate, assume they won't be busy and wait until we are aboard?
Mitch

Mitch,

You really can't go wrong any night in Signatures and if there was something on the Compass Rose menu you will miss, you can special order it for another night. Just tell the Maitre D'. a day in advance.

We've been doing the group cruises for the last few years so between cocktail parties, officer dinners, group dinners, and being with friends, that is what works for us.