Please talk to me like I am 5 years old - I am so not good with the electronics

We'll be cruising on NCL, how do we make reservations? Is it from our cabin, or there is a screen by each restaurant, or something like a computer in a designated place for all restaurants?

I assume, we'll need a reservation even for the "free" restaurant, right?

If I do it from my cabin, is it over-the-phone dialing, or on TV using the remote? Or do I need to go somewhere to swipe the key card?

Faina,
I went on the NCL STAR in 2007. The way they booked at that time was there were tables and people set up in an area mid ship. There were menus on the tables to look at and you told the people what restaurant and time you wanted. Maybe they have changed that, I have not been on NCL since then. I did enjoy the mexican restaurant. Where did you hear it is electronic? (Sorry, I do not remember if the people had computers or not)

Somewhere on NCL website and on Cruisecritic - they just mention it without going into details.

This may be a development since last year. They were planning to go this route, but I actually hadn't heard about this. If you can't do it electronically, then you either call, go to the restaurant itself, or go to a designation area each morning.

Oh, Doug, I hoped you knew

I will call the restaurant. It will be interesting - my heave russian accent, and possibly a reply with an accent I cannot understand

Oh, well, somebody has to be first, I will be back with a report.

Sorry I can't tell you more. But I'll be interested in hearing what you find out.

OK, I'll be the first Fodorite scout, after the cruise I'll change the name to Dayenu007

I have been on three NCL cruises, the latest in January 2009. You do not need reservations for the main dining rooms, it is on a first come, first served basis. If there is a wait they give you a pager which works anywhere on the ship. You need to make reservations for any of the specialty resturants, even the ones that have no additional charge. They have been changing the time frame when you can make the reservations so check with their main office or as soon as you board. It used to be two days ahead but I think that may have been changed. I know last year I was told I would have to wait until I got on board to make reservations. It's best to give them a call ahead of time to find out the current procedure. There are tables set up around the ship one near the main desk in the lobby and one in the buffet up top. You can also call for a reservation. My advice is that if you want one of the better ones, like the steak house, make that right away, or you may find only very early or very late times available. My wife and I love the "Freestyle" cruising with NCL as it leaves you with a very flexible schedule. Don't shy away from the main dining rooms. I have had some very good meals in them.

We have been on a few NCL cruises. We've eaten in the specialty and main/free restaurants. Truthfully, we really like the main dining. The last time we were on NCL, last May, you could make reservations via phone or visiting the restaurant directly. It is true. You do not have to have a reservation for the main dining room, but they do accept them. I prefer a reservation so I don't have to wait if there is a long line on a particular night. They do have a "perk" for suites and high class cabins. They get to reserve farther in advance than the other cabins. The villas and those with concierge service can have them make reservations for them. Cruisecritic has very specific advice on anything cruise related, also.
Have a fun time.

Thank you, all! I am probably overthinking this