No, it is not a noodle, it is round and about about 24-30 inches across when in the carry mode (they had a shoulder strap carry)and about 2 inches thick. They look like discs. Then they spring open and the edge inflate (we think). They had a little head rest. We have never seen them but a few people had them.

Carol, you can wear anything you like in the dining room. It is very nice. I wore the same black pants (Chicos) almost every night with a different
"fun" top with a jacket. My sister wore a black dress every night with a different jacket, shirt over. The captain's party seems to bring out the best dressed of the week.
The lady with the captain (he kissed her goodbye at the tender) was totally decked! I wish I knew where she bought her awesome mother of pearl bracelet and unbelieveable necklace that wrapped around her like a Egyptian collar. I did see her shopping at one of the dock vendors in Moorea (the one that has the carved pearls).

The dining experience was so unbelievable that it does not matter what you are wearing. Just enjoy as tomorrow I am dieting!