Hi. As we have done 19 Crystal sailings -- about 13 of which were on the symphony -- I'd be happy to answer any of your questions. About the fixed seating, you can request a table for 2, 4, 6, or 8 at either the main (6:15) or late (8:30) seatings. If for some reason you wish to change your table, either Josef or Remi (the alternating maitre d's) will be happy to help you. The alternative restaurants are Prego and Silk Road. There is also open seating on the Lido deck many evenings for a casual dinner. There is also 24 hour room service. If you wish lunch or dinner in your penthouse, your butler can serve you items from the room service or dining room menus. For dinner, you may also order from the alternative restaurant menus. Whenever you pay in full, you may go to the prereserve section of the website and either make alternative dining reservations or spa or salon appointments, or classes in the Creative Learning or Computer centers. Enjoy your cruise. Judith (Judithm310@msn.com)