carnival cruise formal attire

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What to Wear on a Carnival Cruise? Dress Code for Dinner

The Carnival dress code - what to wear on Carnival cruise, "dress code for dinner" review. What are the Carnival Dining Room dress code requirements - what to wear, where to wear it, and probably why. When considering the specifics of the Carnival dress code keep in mind, that one classy evening with all of you dressed up won't hurt anyone. Actually, it's the perfect excuse for you guys to look even more pretty than you usually do! Integrated with  Carnival cruise information, tips, and tricks .

Carnival - dress code questions

What is the dress code on the first day? What are dinner dress code rules for men, women, and children in MDR (main dining room), for breakfast and lunch (MDRs) and specialty restaurants (steakhouse/supper club)?

Generally speaking, "Carnival" means "Less Formal to Casual". Still, the dress code for dinner depends on the dining option you choose while onboard. There are 4 main Carnival dining options on ships - main dining room (two big capacity restaurants), casual dining (a Lido buffet, and the new venues which are by the new  Carnival Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades program ), specialty dining (limited capacity feature restaurants) and the 24-hour complimentary room service. As to their dress code requirements - the 1st is casual (with 1 dressy night), the 2nd is very casual, the 3rd is formal and 4th is totally a "freestyle" deal.

Carnival Cruise Dress Code for dinner, formal night, breakfast, for kids

• Carnival cruise ship dress code on the first night is casual, but in the Steakhouse shorts again are NOT permitted. Carnival knows that your luggage may have not been delivered to your cabin until after dinner, that's why the first night is always less formal than any other night, and pretty much anything goes in the MDR (even cargo shorts, T-shirts, sneakers, etc). The first sea day dinner is usually Elegant.
• Depending on the itinerary length - one "Elegant" evening on 2-5-day sailings, 2 "Elegant" evenings on 6-day and longer sailings.
• Carnival dress code for KIDS. There's no age limit considering all the dress code FAQs, so kids are expected to comply with the same rules as for the adults in the main dining room. Your boy in khakis & a polo and your girl in a sundress will be just fine on "Elegant" nights. Know that Carnival allows nice shorts on the non-formal evenings.
• The Carnival dress code for breakfast and lunch is more relaxed than for the dinner. Yet again, bathing suit attire, jeans and the rest of the stuff from the Carnival's NO-list are still not allowed in the MDR.

Unlike other lines tending to enforce the fancy dress code throughout their fleets, CCL’s dress code applies mainly to the MDR. On formal nights, many people can be seen walking around the ship in shorts/flip-flops, and this is not considered a bad taste or whatever.

So, if you prefer a casual and more relaxed type of vacation, Carnival is one of your best ever choices. For those not enjoying so much the opportunity to dress up for dinner "like them ladies and gentlemen", "Nightly Casual" is always OK in the Lido buffet-style restaurants on the boat. There's one such casual dining restaurant on each Carnival ship - a buffet during the day, and open nightly as a bistro. Your absolutely casual "Seaview Bistro" is located near the pool towards the ship's rear.

Note: shirts and footwear (shoes or flip-flops) must be worn at all times. Acceptable at any time are shorts, T-shirts, flip-flops, but inside the Lido buffet shirts/footwear must be worn at all times.

Carnival Cruise Dress Code: Your Complete Guide!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Setting sail on a Carnival cruise promises a journey of fun, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. But, ever wondered how to strike the perfect balance between comfort and style while cruising?

You’re not alone! Many travelers find themselves puzzled over what to pack and wear. That’s where our comprehensive guide comes into play.

The Basics of the Carnival Cruise Dress Code

Cruising is all about relaxation, exploration, and, of course, savoring unforgettable moments.

To make the most of these moments and ensure a harmonious experience for everyone onboard, it’s crucial to get familiar with the Carnival cruise dress code. Let’s embark on this foundational journey.

Purpose of Having a Dress Code

The Carnival cruise dress code isn’t just a set of arbitrary rules; it serves several meaningful purposes:

• Ensuring Comfort for All: Everyone should feel comfortable and suitably dressed, whether they’re lounging by the pool or dining in a posh restaurant.
• Upholding a Prestigious Ambiance: A certain standard of attire enhances the overall atmosphere of the cruise, making special nights feel even more special.
• Respecting Cultural Sensitivities: When the ship docks, it’s essential for guests to understand and respect the local culture and traditions of their destinations.

Emphasizing Comfort with Style

Comfort is paramount, especially when you’re on vacation. Carnival recognizes this need and has designed its dress code to prioritize guests’ comfort.

But comfort doesn’t have to be at odds with style. The Carnival cruise dress code allows guests to feel relaxed while also capturing those Instagram-worthy moments with flair.

Key Takeaways for Navigating the Dress Code

• Always Check Specific Cruise Details: Every Carnival cruise journey might have its unique set of events or themed nights. Ensure you’ve reviewed your specific cruise itinerary to pack the right outfits.
• When in Doubt, Aim High: It’s generally better to be slightly overdressed than the other way around. If you’re uncertain about an event’s attire requirements, leaning towards the dressier side is usually a good bet.

Daytime Dress Code Onboard

The sun is up, and the ship’s decks come alive with activities, from sunbathing near the pool to engaging in onboard games or attending workshops.

Knowing what to wear during these daylight hours ensures you blend comfort with the Carnival cruise dress code seamlessly.

Casual Wear Recommendations

During the day, Carnival emphasizes a more laid-back approach. Here’s what you can consider:

• For Lounging by the Pool: Swimwear is a go-to, but always remember to throw on a cover-up or a casual shirt when you’re walking around the ship or popping into indoor areas.
• Attending Daytime Activities/Events: From bingo sessions to art auctions, daytime events are aplenty. Opt for casual shorts, skirts, T-shirts, or summer dresses. Comfortable sandals or sneakers are ideal, especially if you’re moving around a lot.
• Exploring the Ship: As you wander and explore the ship’s amenities, casual wear like jeans, capris, tees, and polo shirts work perfectly. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes on.

Guidelines for Kids and Teens

Children and teens often have boundless energy, and their attire should accommodate that:

• Kids: Go for easy, breathable clothing. Think cotton shorts, tees, and sun hats. Pack a few swimsuits for those frequent pool visits.
• Teens: Much like adults, teens can opt for casual shorts, tank tops, and T-shirts. For teen-centric events or hangouts, they might want to have a couple of trendy outfits in their arsenal.

Footwear Recommendations

On a ship, the right footwear can make all the difference:

• Poolside: Flip-flops or water-resistant sandals are your best bet. You want something you can easily slip on and off.
• Activities & Exploring: Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes are crucial. Whether you’re heading to the gym, playing mini-golf, or just exploring, these will keep you comfortable.
• Indoor Areas & Dining: While daytime dining is casual, it’s a good idea to have closed-toe shoes or stylish sandals for indoor dining areas.

In the daytime, the Carnival cruise dress code leans towards relaxed and comfortable.

Still, being aware of these guidelines ensures you’re always in tune with the ship’s vibe, ready for any activity or photo opportunity that comes your way.

Evening Dress Code Onboard

As the sun sets and the ship’s lights begin to twinkle, the atmosphere on a Carnival cruise shifts. Evenings bring a sense of elegance and celebration, whether it’s a night of dancing, fine dining, or watching a Broadway-style show.

The Carnival cruise dress code for evenings ensures guests are dressed to impress, yet comfortable enough to enjoy every moment.

“Cruise Casual” Nights

Most nights onboard are dubbed “Cruise Casual,” but what does this mean for your wardrobe?

• For Men: Think of khakis, good jeans (no rips), polo shirts, and casual button-downs. Closed-toe shoes or sandals are acceptable.
• For Women: Summer dresses, casual skirts, pants, capris, and stylish blouses are ideal. Pair with sandals, flats, or heels, depending on your comfort.

“Cruise Elegant” Nights

These are the nights where you can truly dress to the nines! Generally, a cruise will have one or two of these Carnival formal nights , depending on the length of the journey.

• For Men: A suit or dress pants with a dress shirt is ideal. Ties are optional, but they can add an extra touch of sophistication. For those who really want to go all out, tuxedos are welcome.
• For Women: Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or elegant skirts and blouses are the order of the day. Accessories can shine here – think jewelry, clutches, and heels to complete the look.

Theme Nights and Parties

Occasionally, Carnival Cruise Line will host themed nights or parties, such as a ’70s disco or a tropical luau.

• Themed Attire: Participation is optional but highly encouraged! Dive into the fun by dressing in period attire for a ’70s night or tropical wear for a luau.
• Regular Dress: If you’re not into the theme, the dress code remains “Cruise Casual” for these events.

The evening Carnival cruise dress code might seem elaborate, but it’s designed to enhance the overall experience. There’s something magical about dressing up, heading to dinner, and then enjoying the night’s entertainment, knowing you look and feel fantastic.

Whether you’re in a laid-back mood or ready to dazzle, there’s an outfit for every evening onboard.

Dress Code for Offshore Excursions

One of the undeniable highlights of any cruise is the opportunity to explore various ports of call. Every time the ship docks, a world of adventure awaits, from pristine beaches to bustling markets and historic sites.

The Carnival cruise dress code for offshore excursions is geared towards ensuring guests are appropriately dressed for these diverse activities while respecting local customs and conditions.

Basic Tips for Exploring Ports of Call

• Know the Destination: Different places have different norms. For instance, European cities might be more relaxed about attire, while certain Asian or Middle Eastern destinations might require more conservative dressing.
• Weather-Wise: Always check the weather for your port of call. Pack accordingly, be it rain gear for drizzles or breathable fabrics for hot climates.

Respectful Dressing in Culturally Sensitive Areas

When visiting religious or culturally significant sites, it’s essential to dress respectfully.

• Cover Up: For both men and women, covering shoulders and knees is a general rule. This might mean packing a light scarf or shawl and avoiding shorts or sleeveless tops.
• Hats and Caps: In many religious sites, it’s customary for men to remove their hats. It’s a good practice to be aware of these nuances.

Suitable Wear for Adventure Activities

If your excursions include adventurous activities like zip-lining, diving, or hiking:

• Functional Clothing: Think about wearing quick-dry fabrics, sturdier shoes for trekking, or suitable swimwear for water-based activities.
• Protection: Don’t forget sunglasses, hats, or caps for sun protection. In colder climates, layering is key.

Protective and Functional Wear Recommendations

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or sandals with straps are recommended. Remember, you might be on your feet for extended periods, exploring ruins, markets, or natural wonders.
• Backpacks and Bags: A small, comfortable backpack can be invaluable. Carry essentials like water, sunscreen, a change of clothes, or any necessary documents.

Understanding the Carnival cruise dress code for offshore excursions isn’t just about looking good; it’s about ensuring you’re equipped for the day’s adventures, while also showing respect for the places you’re visiting.

With a little foresight and preparation, every shore visit can be comfortable, respectful, and absolutely memorable.

Dress Code for Special Venues Onboard

While the Carnival cruise offers a myriad of daytime and evening activities, it also boasts special venues that add an extra touch of charm to the cruising experience.

From gourmet dining areas to exclusive clubs and serene spas, each venue has its own ambiance, and with it, specific dress code considerations.

When it comes to culinary experiences, Carnival cruise ensures there’s something for every palate. Here’s what to wear in various dining settings:

• Main Dining Rooms: During the day, the dress code remains casual, but for dinner, “Cruise Casual” is expected. On “Cruise Elegant” nights, you can elevate your attire to match the evening’s upscale vibe.
• Specialty Restaurants: These dining venues often lean towards the finer side of dining onboard. While not as formal as “Cruise Elegant” nights, a smart-casual dress code is recommended. For men, this means dress pants or khakis with a nice shirt, and for women, a stylish dress, skirt, or pants ensemble.
• Buffets and Casual Dining Spots: Here, the vibe is relaxed. Daytime wear like shorts, tees, and sandals are perfectly fine. However, swimwear without a cover-up is usually frowned upon.

Entertainment Venues

The ship lights up at night with entertainment galore. Here’s how you can match the venue’s mood:

• Theaters: Whether you’re catching a movie or a live performance, the dress code leans towards “Cruise Casual.” However, since theaters can sometimes be chilly, consider bringing a light sweater or shawl.
• Nightclubs and Lounges: These lively spots are where you can let your hair down. Trendy, club-appropriate attire works great. For men, a stylish shirt and jeans or pants; for women, chic dresses, skirts, or fashionable tops and bottoms fit the scene.

Spa & Fitness Centers

For those looking to rejuvenate or maintain their fitness regimen:

• Workouts: Athletic wear is the go-to. Think gym shorts, leggings, tank tops, or moisture-wicking shirts. Don’t forget proper athletic shoes!
• Swimwear for the Spa: If you’re planning to use the spa’s pool or steam room, bring along your swimwear. However, most spas recommend using a robe or cover-up when navigating between different sections.

The Carnival cruise dress code for these special venues is all about enhancing the experience.

Whether you’re savoring a gourmet dish, sipping a cocktail as you groove to the beat, or enjoying a soothing massage, dressing appropriately ensures you get the most out of every unique onboard offering.

Tips and Tricks for Packing Right

Embarking on a Carnival cruise is undeniably thrilling. Yet, one of the common concerns many cruisers face is packing. How do you ensure you have the perfect outfit for every occasion without overpacking?

Here are some savvy tips to help you strike the right balance, keeping the Carnival cruise dress code in mind.

1. Layer Up!

• Versatility is Key: Bring clothing items that can be layered easily. A light cardigan or shawl, for instance, can elevate a daytime dress to evening wear. Similarly, a trendy jacket can turn a casual tee-and-jeans combo into a night-out ensemble.
• Weather Preparedness: Layers also ensure you’re prepared for varying onboard temperatures and sudden weather changes at ports.

2. Mix and Match

• Coordinate Colors: Stick to a color palette so that most of your clothing items can be mixed and matched. This strategy not only reduces the number of items you need to pack but also offers a variety of outfit combinations.
• Accessories as Game Changers: Changing accessories can entirely revamp an outfit. Packing a range of scarves, jewelry, belts, and hats can give a fresh twist to a previously worn ensemble.

3. The Power of Dual-Purpose Items

• Footwear: Instead of packing separate shoes for every occasion, consider versatile options. A stylish yet comfortable pair of sandals or flats can be perfect for both daytime explorations and casual evening dinners.
• Dresses and Shirts: Many dresses can be dressed down for the day with sneakers and a hat, then dressed up for the evening with heels and jewelry. Similarly, men can roll up their sleeves and pair a button-down shirt with shorts for a relaxed look or wear it with dress pants for a more formal setting.

4. Plan Outfits Ahead of Time

• Check the Itinerary: Before you start packing, review your cruise’s itinerary. Take note of special events, themed nights, and “Cruise Elegant” evenings. This way, you can pack specific outfits for these occasions and avoid overpacking.
• Lay it Out: Physically laying out outfits before packing can help you visualize what you’re taking and ensure you don’t forget any crucial pieces.

5. Travel Essentials

• Wrinkle-Free Clothing: Given the limited space, your clothes might get wrinkled. Consider packing fabrics that are less prone to wrinkling or invest in a travel-sized wrinkle releaser spray.
• Laundry Facilities: Many cruise ships, including Carnival, offer laundry services. Pack some detergent and make use of these facilities if you’re on a longer cruise.

Packing for a Carnival cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these tips and a clear understanding of the Carnival cruise dress code, you can ensure you’re both stylish and comfortable throughout your voyage, ready to dive into any adventure that comes your way!

Etiquette and Respect: Beyond the Dress Code

While adhering to the Carnival cruise dress code is vital for a harmonious onboard experience, there’s more to cruising than just dressing appropriately.

A huge part of the experience revolves around mutual respect, understanding, and maintaining an ambiance that everyone can enjoy. Here are some pointers to consider regarding onboard etiquette and the broader spectrum of respect.

1. Cultural Sensitivity

• Local Customs: Whenever the ship docks at a new destination, it’s essential to be aware of and respect the local customs and traditions, especially regarding attire. What might be considered casual wear on the ship could be seen as inappropriate in certain destinations.
• Interactions with Locals: Approach locals with respect and courtesy. It’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to understand and honor local customs.

2. Spaces of Serenity

• Spa and Quiet Zones: While the dress code in these areas is typically relaxed, the behavioral code is not. Maintain low noise levels and be conscious of others looking for a peaceful experience.
• Reading Rooms and Libraries: These are zones of quietude. Even if you’re dressed perfectly, maintaining silence and respecting others’ space is crucial.

3. Dining Etiquette

• Punctuality: If you have a dining reservation, especially in specialty restaurants, being on time is a sign of respect to both the staff and other diners.
• Consideration for Staff: While you should certainly dress appropriately for meals, also remember to treat the dining staff with respect and gratitude.

4. Respect for Fellow Cruisers

• Shared Spaces: Whether it’s the pool, gym, or entertainment areas, always be mindful of shared spaces. This means using headphones for music, not “reserving” sun loungers with personal items for long durations, and wearing suitable attire as outlined by the Carnival cruise dress code.
• Cabin Conduct: Remember, sound travels! Be considerate of your neighbors, especially during nighttime or early morning hours.

5. Feedback with Finesse

• Voicing Concerns: If something isn’t to your satisfaction, there’s absolutely a place for feedback. However, approach the situation with kindness and understanding. Constructive criticism is always more effective than aggressive complaints.

The Carnival cruise experience is heightened when everyone onboard embraces a spirit of community, respect, and consideration. The dress code is just one facet of this.

As you sail through breathtaking vistas, attending vibrant events, and exploring new cultures, always remember that mutual respect forms the cornerstone of every memorable journey.

Embracing Personal Style within the Dress Code

Sailing on a Carnival cruise is more than just an adventure—it’s an opportunity to express yourself and let your personality shine.

While adhering to the Carnival cruise dress code is essential for a harmonious experience, it certainly doesn’t mean sacrificing your personal style.

Here’s how you can infuse your unique flair into every outfit, making each day on the ship a personal runway moment.

1. Accessorize with Panache

• Jewelry: From statement necklaces to delicate anklets, jewelry can transform even the most basic outfit. Whether you’re wearing a simple sundress or an elegant evening gown, the right jewelry can add a personal touch.
• Hats and Scarves: These aren’t just functional; they’re incredibly stylish. A chic sun hat can elevate your poolside look, while a vibrant scarf can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit.

2. Textures and Patterns

• Play with Fabrics: Embrace different textures, from breezy linens for those hot port days to luxurious velvets for elegant evenings. The mix of fabrics can add depth and interest to your look.
• Bold Patterns: If you’re a fan of prints, cruises are a great time to showcase them. Floral, tropical, or geometric patterns can make you stand out and express your vibrant personality.

3. Customized Footwear

• Statement Shoes: While comfort is vital, especially during shore excursions, don’t be afraid to pack a couple of pairs of statement shoes. Be it colorful sandals, embellished flats, or heels with unique designs, your footwear can be a conversation starter.
• DIY Touch: If you’re crafty, consider adding personal touches to your shoes, like beads, paint, or other embellishments that reflect your style.

4. Show Your Colors

• Palette Preferences: While neutrals can be versatile, cruises are the perfect setting to experiment with colors. Whether you resonate with pastels, earth tones, or bold and bright shades, flaunt them with confidence.

5. Thrifted and Vintage Finds

• Unique Pieces: Vintage shops and thrift stores can be goldmines for unique clothing items that will set you apart. These pieces not only have a story but also ensure that you won’t bump into someone with the same outfit.

6. Personal Style Statements

• DIY and Handmade: If you’re into DIY or have handmade clothing items , bring them along. They not only showcase your skills but also infuse your personal touch into the Carnival cruise dress code.

At the end of the day, style is deeply personal. The Carnival cruise dress code provides a framework, but within those guidelines, there’s ample room for creativity, individuality, and flair.

Embarking on a Carnival cruise is a voyage of discovery, relaxation, and celebration. While the cruise line sets the stage with its dress code, it’s your unique style that brings the scenes to life.

Embracing the Carnival cruise dress code doesn’t mean sidelining your personality; rather, it’s an opportunity to merge comfort with individual flair. As you sail from one breathtaking destination to another, remember that every moment onboard is a chance to shine, to express, and to make memories that last a lifetime.

So pack with intention, dress with confidence, and let your style sail on the high seas!

FAQs on Carnival Cruise Dress Code

Navigating the dress code for any event or venue can bring up questions, and a cruise is no exception. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about the Carnival cruise dress code to ensure you’re well-prepared for your sailing adventure.

1. Can I wear jeans to dinner?

Yes, jeans are acceptable on “Cruise Casual” nights in the main dining room, as long as they’re in good condition (no rips or excessive wear). However, for “Cruise Elegant” nights, it’s advisable to opt for dressier attire.

2. Is swimwear allowed in the buffet area?

While swimwear is perfect for the poolside, it’s not appropriate for indoor dining areas, including buffets. Always throw on a cover-up or a casual shirt when you’re grabbing a bite.

3. Are hats and caps acceptable during evenings?

In casual dining settings and entertainment venues, hats and caps are generally acceptable. However, in more formal dining settings, it’s customary for men to remove their hats as a sign of respect.

4. Any restrictions on jewelry or accessories?

There are no specific restrictions on jewelry or accessories. However, for safety reasons during offshore excursions or certain onboard activities, it might be wise to leave valuable or bulky items in your cabin.

5. Do I need to participate in theme nights or parties?

Participation in theme nights or parties is entirely optional. If you choose not to dress according to the theme, the general “Cruise Casual” dress code is a safe bet.

6. Are athletic wear and gym shorts allowed in dining venues?

While athletic wear is perfect for the fitness center, it’s not recommended for dining venues during the evening. For breakfast and lunch, a more relaxed dress code applies, but it’s always a good idea to switch to casual wear for meals.

7. Can I wear sleeveless shirts or tank tops to dinner?

For men, sleeveless shirts or tank tops are generally not recommended for evening dining. Women can wear stylish sleeveless dresses or tops, especially during warmer sailings.

8. What’s the dress code for kids and teens in the evening?

Kids and teens are encouraged to follow the same general dress guidelines as adults. However, the code tends to be more lenient for younger children.

9. Are high heels advisable on board?

While high heels can be worn, especially on “Cruise Elegant” nights, it’s essential to note that the ship’s movement might make walking in very high heels challenging. It’s advisable to opt for lower or block heels to ensure stability and comfort.

10. What should I wear for the Captain’s cocktail party?

The Captain’s cocktail party is one of the highlights, often falling on a “Cruise Elegant” night. Women typically wear cocktail dresses or elegant gowns, while men opt for suits or dress pants with a shirt. Ties or jackets are optional but can elevate the look.

11. Is there a specific dress code for onboard casinos?

The dress code for onboard casinos typically aligns with the evening’s general dress code. On “Cruise Casual” nights, neat casual wear is acceptable, while on “Cruise Elegant” nights, a more dressed-up attire is preferable.

12. Can I wear shorts to the main dining room for dinner?

While shorts are generally acceptable for breakfast and lunch, they’re not recommended for dinner in the main dining room, especially on “Cruise Elegant” nights.

13. What attire is suitable for onboard dance classes or workshops?

Comfort is key for such activities. Opt for breathable and stretchy fabrics. Dance shoes or comfortable sneakers are recommended, depending on the type of dance class.

14. Do specialty restaurants have a stricter dress code?

Specialty restaurants often have a more upscale ambiance. While they might not require full “Cruise Elegant” attire, smart-casual dress is typically expected.

15. How formal is the “Cruise Elegant” dress code for children?

For children, especially younger ones, the “Cruise Elegant” dress code is flexible. While dressier attire is encouraged, comfort should be the priority, ensuring kids can enjoy the evening without feeling restricted.

16. Is there a dress code for the ship’s gym and fitness center?

Yes, proper athletic wear, including gym shorts, leggings, tank tops, or moisture-wicking shirts, is recommended. Additionally, proper athletic shoes are essential for safety and comfort.

17. Can I wear my bathrobe to the buffet or main dining room for breakfast?

While bathrobes are comfortable, they’re not considered appropriate attire for public dining areas, even during breakfast.

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Cruise Formal Night Explained: 10 Things to Know (What to Wear and More…)

Formal night on a cruise is a classic tradition, but for many passengers, it can also lead to lots of questions. Do I have to dress up? What can I wear? When are the formal nights?

We’ve taken dozens of cruise and know that for those unfamiliar with formal night, it can feel a bit unnerving trying to figure out the ins and outs of dressing up. No one wants to head to dinner underdressed. At the same time, some people don’t want to dress up at all and prefer to know what other options they have.

Below, we’ve covered some of the most frequent questions about formal night on a cruise.

In This Article...

What Is a Cruise Formal Night?

Just as the name implies, formal night is the evening on the cruise when the dress code goes from the casual style that’s normal around the ship to more elegant. It’s a chance for passengers on the ship to put on their best and have an evening out that feels more special than just going to grab dinner in the dining room.

You’ll find people around the ship dressed up, having drinks, taking formal pictures, and enjoying dinner and a show. Think of it as a special event where many passengers have an elegant “date night” that’s more memorable than just another dinner on the ship.

Do I Have to Dress Up?

Absolutely not. Your cruise is your own. If you don’t want to dress up for the evening, then you certainly don’t have to do so. Many people choose to keep it casual. If you decide that shorts and a t-shirt are as formal as you want to get, you won’t be alone.

However, if you do decide to not dress up, it’s a good idea to dine outside of the main dining room or higher-end specialty restaurants. These are spots that request nicer dress during formal night.

Even if casual dress is allowed in the dining room during formal night, you might feel out of place with others wearing suits or evening gowns.

What Can I Wear to Formal Night? Do I Have to Wear a Tux or an Evening Gown?

Perhaps the biggest question around formal night on a cruise is what to wear. What’s acceptable is wide-ranging. No, you don’t have to go out and get a tuxedo or a formal evening gown unless you want to.

For instance, you can go all out and dress up in your best. And you will see some people around the cruise ship go this route. But you don’t have to wear a suit or tux to enjoy the evening.

Women can simply wear a cocktail dress or a nice blouse with pants. For men, it’s fine to wear a suit, or even a buttoned-down shirt and a pair of slacks if you don’t want to get too fancy. Nice jeans would also be ok, although we’d suggest something slightly more dressy.

That said, not everything goes. There are some clothing items to avoid if you plan to eat in the dining room on formal night. This includes shorts, tank-tops, t-shirts, and swimsuits, as well as flip-flops. If you’d wear it to the pool or the beach, you don’t want to wear it to formal night.

• Ok to Wear for Formal Night (Women): Gowns, dresses, skirts, blouses with pants
• Ok to Wear for Formal Night (Men): Tuxedoes, suits, button-down shirts, slacks, nice jeans
• Avoid Wearing (Men and Women): Shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, flip-flops

Is The Dress Code Strictly Enforced?

Don’t worry, you aren’t likely to be denied entry to the dining room, even if you are dressed casually. It’s not like an exclusive nightclub that bars entry.

While the name might be “formal” or “elegant” night, you won’t be out of place as long as you dress nicer than a t-shirt and shorts. Remember, the cruise lines want you to enjoy yourself and not be worried about if you should be in a tuxedo.

For that reason, as long as you avoid wearing something very casual (e.g. flip flops, shorts, and a tank top), it’s likely to be no issue. Even so, we’d highly recommend dressing up somewhat if you plan on eating in a dining room or a nicer specialty restaurant. Not only will you feel more comfortable around others who are dressed up, but it also adds to the atmosphere of formal night for others.

Where Should I Eat If I Don’t Dress Up?

While the main dining room is the spot for formal eating during the evening, you won’t go hungry if you decide not to take part in dressing up. Every cruise ship offers a number of different places to eat, with many casual dining options for those who aren’t getting fancy for the evening.

For instance, instead of the main dining room you can head to the buffet or one of the 24-hour restaurants around the ship. The restaurant’s atmosphere will give you an idea of if it’s ok to eat there dressed casually or not. The fancy steakhouse? You want to go formal. The spot serving pizza? Shorts and a t-shirt are just fine.

Is Formal Night For Everywhere on the Ship?

While you’ll definitely see people dressed up all around the ship, the only place where you’ll find any sort of suggested or required dress code is in the dining room and/or specialty restaurants.

So if you are just hanging out around the ship — having a drink in a bar, playing in the casino, watching an evening show — then you are perfectly fine dressing down. You won’t be the only one. While many people participate in formal night, a considerable chunk of passengers don’t.

How Many Formal Nights Are There During the Cruise?

The number of formal nights varies based on the length of your cruise. The rule of thumb is that a week-long cruise will have two formal nights during the trip (i.e. Day 2 and Day 5). Shorter trips normally have one.

It may be that if you are on a very short cruise (e.g. three days), there might not even be one formal night. For instance, we’ve been on one short cruise with “Wear Your Best” (i.e. the nicest thing you packed) instead of formal night. 

Does Everyone on the Ship Dress Up?

No. If you decide to not dress up, then you certainly won’t be out of place. Many people choose to dress casually and just eat somewhere else other than the main dining room or higher-end restaurants. Even so, formal nights are popular and when you walk around the ship in the evening on one of these nights, there is no mistaking that it’s dressier than normal.

How Will I Know When it Is Formal Night?

Nothing would stop you in your tracks like heading down to dinner in a pair of shorts and then realizing everyone else is dressed up! Fortunately, you’ll get plenty of notice when it is formal night.

The most obvious spot will be with your daily cruise planner delivered to your cabin each day or through the cruise line’s app. There will be some mention of the dinner attire. It may be referred to as “formal” or “cruise elegant” or some other name. They all mean the same thing: Time to get dressed up!

As well, there are almost always announcements from the cruise director throughout the day sharing what is going on during the day and evening. They will usually mention it when it is formal night, so keep an ear out for announcements.

In the worst case, even if you don’t see any notice at all, you will definitely not miss the fact that many people are dressed up when you head to dinner that evening. That should give you a little time to head back to the room and dress up if you want to join in.

Do I Need to Dress Up at Any Other Time Than Formal Night?

For the most part, the only time you’ll need to dress anything other than casual is if you participate in formal night. That said, there are some spots where some nicer clothes are a good idea even if that evening’s dress code is casual.

Specifically, if you plan to visit any of the higher-end specialty restaurants on the ship, such as the steakhouse, then there may be a dress code.

Even if there is not, dressing up to fit the style of the restaurant is smart. So while it’s ok to dress casually at a burger joint on the ship, you’ll want to dress a little nicer if you go to the formal Italian or seafood spot for dinner.

Bottom Line on Cruise Formal Nights

The formal nights on a cruise are a fun way to do things a little differently. If you’re not someone that gets dressed up often, don’t worry. The rules around what’s formal and what’s not are flexible. As long as you make some sort of effort to dress a little nice, you’ll be fine. And if you want to go all out, you won’t be alone!

If you’re someone who likes to keep things casual, then that’s no issue either. While we’d suggest not eating the main dining room or nicer specialty restaurants on that night, you can wear what you want around the ship.

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I dressed up in an old maxi dress that was really oversized that I found from my daughter’s wedding 9 years ago. It was so flowing and pretty, so heck YEAH I wore it! I wore a nice outfit each night, like a skirt or dress. My embarkation outfit for the first night I modified by taking off the pants and putting on a skirt. I even kept the high boots on, which really worked! The last night I had a long ‘cover up’ dress that I gussied up with a sparkly throw and wedge high sandals.

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What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Have you ever had that nightmare where you're at work, in school or giving an important presentation, and you look down to discover you're wearing only your underwear (or worse, nothing at all)? If you're new to vacationing at sea, knowing how to dress for a cruise can be confusing — and just as potentially embarrassing if you're not prepared.

Packing acceptable attire for a cruise is simple if you remember a few general rules. Here, I'll break down some safe options if you're unsure, and I'll give an overview of the cruise dress codes for each of the "big eight" cruise lines.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

What do people wear on a cruise?

You can't go wrong with resort-casual clothing for sea days when you'll remain on board your ship. Although some lines will be more or less casual than that, it's a good baseline. But what is "resort casual"?

Khaki pants or shorts with loose-fitting, short-sleeve, button-down shirts or even nice, plain T-shirts work well for men. Women might opt for khaki shorts or palazzo pants with a nice top or a sundress. In most cases, nice jeans (dark wash with no holes) will work well also.

On most ships, this clothing will also be acceptable at night in the main dining rooms. For extra-fee restaurants, you might choose to dress up a bit more -- perhaps collared shirts or long-sleeve button-downs for men and slacks with a blouse, or a dress, for women.

For formal nights, men will want to bring a collared, button-down shirt at the bare minimum. For something a little more snazzy, bring a jacket to wear over your shirt, with or without a tie. Some men opt for suits or tuxes. For women, pantsuits and dressy pants outfits are a great choice, as are party dresses or even ball gowns.

Jeans are not allowed in the main dining rooms on formal nights, and cut-off shorts, baseball caps and flip-flops are banned at all times during dinner in the main dining rooms.

Related: 7 cruise ship packing mistakes you want to avoid at all costs

Another key piece of clothing to bring is a bathing suit. Whether you're headed to a warm-weather destination and plan to laze by the pool or on the beach, or you're visiting somewhere chilly but want to take advantage of your vessel's hot tubs, it's an item you won't want to forget. Note that cover-ups are required for entry at all restaurants and dining rooms, with the exception of walk-up, poolside window-service venues.

For shore excursions — particularly those in more rugged or active destinations that require a lot of walking — comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy footwear are a must. Bring layers for cold climates and moisture-wicking fabrics for places where it's warm or where you expect to work up a sweat.

Finally, check to see if your cruise line has any special theme nights planned. If so, you might want to pack an outfit for the white party or '80s night.

Carnival cruise dress code

Carnival is one line where casual is the name of the game. Passengers will be just fine in jeans, T-shirts, tank tops, shorts and bathing suits for their days on board or ashore.

At night, nice jeans and nice tops are perfect for eating in the main dining rooms.

On Carnival cruise formal nights, known as "cruise elegant" nights, cruisers wear everything from slacks with nice shirts to tuxes and ball gowns. However, most passengers stick to clothes that fall somewhere in the middle.

Voyages of six nights or longer will have two "cruise elegant" nights, while those five nights or shorter will see only one.

Celebrity Cruises dress code

Celebrity Cruises maintains a dress code that's best described as chic-casual. The demographic on board tends to be a bit more upscale than what you'll find on Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian. That means khaki shorts with nice button-downs are more common than jean shorts and tank tops, although you won't be out of place in the latter.

For dinner, you'll want to dress it up even more, as the line has a smart-casual dress code at night in most restaurants, including the main dining room. Anything from unripped jeans to dress pants with nice blouses or button-downs is acceptable.

Related: 10 unexpected items I won't cruise without

Are there formal nights on Celebrity cruises? Yes, there's one on every sailing of six nights or fewer and two on voyages of a week or more, but they have a different name. "Evening chic" nights encourage passengers to go all out with tuxes and evening gowns. However, most men choose slacks with collared or button-down shirts and jackets, sans ties. Most women choose slacks and nice blouses, sundresses or party dresses.

Disney Cruise Line dress code

Disney Cruise Line is synonymous with children, and children like to be comfortable. With that in mind, just about anything goes in terms of dress on The Mouse's ships, which tend toward casual in spite of their stellar service and high price point.

It's not uncommon to see jeans, shorts, T-shirts or bathing suits during the day. Unlike most other lines, the same goes at dinnertime, with jeans and T-shirts just as common as dressier attire like slacks and button-downs.

Exceptions are the line's "dress-up" nights — two on sailings of a week or more and one on shorter voyages. For those, DCL suggests that men avoid jeans and wear jackets. Women should go with dresses, skirts and blouses, or pantsuits.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Some of Disney Cruise Line's added-fee restaurants, such as Remy — one of the most expensive alternative eateries at sea — require jackets for men and don't allow jeans.

Each Disney sailing features a Pirate Night; cruisers wishing to participate should pack their best swashbuckling gear. As is standard at Disney parks, you're also likely to see large numbers of costumes and mouse ears at all hours of the day.

Holland America Line dress code

Although the dress code on Holland America Line ships is technically "cruise casual," you'll rarely spot anyone looking disheveled or like they just rolled out of bed. Most passengers tend toward resort wear or, at the bare minimum, nice jeans with pressed T-shirts.

The casual dress code carries through to dinner, but HAL cruisers can often be found dressing up a bit more — collared shirts or button-downs (sometimes with jackets) and slacks for men and slacks with nice tops or dresses for women.

As for Holland America formal nights, on sailings shorter than a week, there will be one "gala night," where travelers don evening or ball gowns, suits or tuxedos. Voyages of eight to 13 nights will see two gala nights, while any cruises of two weeks or longer will have three chances to dress to the nines.

MSC Cruises dress code

What to wear on MSC cruises largely depends on the crowd with whom you're sailing. On Europe cruises, your fellow passengers are likely to dress up more often — even during the day — with skimpy resort wear and designer bathing suits gracing the pool deck as far as the eye can see. On those voyages, dinner is an even more fancy affair, with elegance as the norm. Expect to see glittering dresses and stylish pants and button-downs with dress shoes, even when it's not formal night.

On cruises that depart from the U.S., expect a more casual vibe, with jeans, T-shirts and bathing suits ruling the day. At night, you'll be fine with nice jeans and a collared shirt or a sundress, although you might want to dress up a bit more to match the ship's ambiance.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Are there formal nights on MSC cruises? Absolutely. They're called "gala dinners," and they appear at least once per voyage, but the number can vary by itinerary. The dress code is strict, with the buffet the only place that will allow T-shirts and shorts. You'll fit in best in a ball gown, cocktail dress, suit or tuxedo.

Norwegian Cruise Line dress code

Norwegian prides itself on allowing cruisers to dress as they please, providing a "come as you are" atmosphere during the day and at night. The most popular clothing is cruise casual, and passengers are free to wear whatever they'd like with an emphasis on comfort.

The only exception is at dinner, when a smart casual vibe encourages travelers to avoid torn clothes or outfits that are suggestive or skimpy.

In a nod to Norwegian's laid-back style, NCL formal nights — dubbed "Dress Up or Not" nights — provide a chance for you to doll up. However, it's not required, and you won't be turned away from the main dining rooms if you choose not to participate. Passengers have been spotted wearing everything from jeans and T-shirts to ball gowns and tuxes, and all coexist in perfect harmony.

Princess Cruises dress code

Princess ' casual daytime mindset means you can wear the same types of clothing on board as you would during a day ashore — activewear, beachwear and jeans or T-shirts are totally fine.

Princess cruise formal nights are special because the line is one of the few industry holdouts in that it still has an official formal night. Its passengers enjoy a more traditional cruise experience, and they relish the romantic vibe that a formal night can provide. With that in mind, the line doesn't mention super-fancy garb like ball gowns or tuxes; instead, it advises suits or slacks with jackets for men and cocktail dresses or pantsuits for the ladies.

On voyages of less than a week, passengers should plan for one formal night, while sailings of a week to 13 days will have two, and cruises two weeks or longer will have three.

All other nights are listed as "smart casual," which means sundresses or pants with flowy tops for women and nice jeans or slacks with collared shirts for men will suffice.

Royal Caribbean dress code

As is the case with Carnival and Norwegian, Royal Caribbean is a casual line during the day. And, like Disney Cruise Line, it caters to a lot of families. Translation: Wear what allows you to have the most fun in the most comfort. Expect to see shorts or jeans with T-shirts or tank tops and bathing suits or beachwear almost exclusively during the daytime.

At night, you might want to put on something a little less comfortable, but it's certainly not required, unless it's a formal night. (Like Princess, Royal still has those.) What is confusing is that the line has three different dress codes, all of which are loosely enforced: casual, smart casual and formal. The ones that show up on your voyage will depend on the length of the cruise.

The only difference between the first two is that smart casual recommends pantsuits for ladies and jackets for the guys, but skirts or trousers with blouses or collared shirts are fine in both cases. Smart casual also strongly discourages jeans -- even nice ones.

Royal Caribbean formal nights have the highest expectations for passengers, urging them to put on their finest cocktail dresses, evening gowns, suits or tuxes. As with the line's smart casual dress code, jeans are not allowed in the main dining rooms on formal nights.

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When is a Formal Night On the Carnival Cruise? [Explained]

So, it’s your first cruising experience, and you heard a lot about the fascination of formal nights on a carnival cruise.

You must be excited to attend, but what nights are elegant nights on a carnival cruise? And how formal it will be so that you can easily decide what to pack and what’s not; it will ensure you get the most out of this memorable moment.

Don’t worry. In today’s guide, we will discuss all these to help you enjoy a sophisticated evening at sea.

Table of Contents

Carnival Cruise Elegant Night

Carnival cruise formal night is a special occasion. 

Furthermore, it is considered an ancient occasion, where passengers dress in their best attire to enjoy a glamorous atmosphere.

The Carnival Cruise Elegant Night is an evening of glamor where looking best is a becomest; it is becoming a symbol or way to show your wealth status to others.

On the contrary, the ultimate touch of an exquisite carnival cruise elegant menu will give you a beautiful feel. 

Related Post: Royal Caribbean Have Formal Nights

What is the number of formal nights on the carnival cruise?

The number of formal nights on a carnival cruise entirely depends on your cruising day’s plan. 

For example;

So, if you had a 1-day cruise plan, there would be no formal night.

However, you can expect one elegant night if you have more than two days cruise plan – for example, 3,4,5 days.

And the number of formal nights can exceed two if you have the popular 6,7 days cruising plan – Source: Carnival .

What to wear on an elegant night carnival cruise?

The formal night of Carnival Cruise is the ultimate opportunity to wear your best dress and take pictures from cruise photographers.

However, knowing what to wear and the dress code will save you from getting too formal or casual. 

So, here are the following guidelines by Carnival for what to wear. 

• A men can wear a dress slack or a dress shirt. A tie, tuxedo, and a sport coat are also suggested.
• Women can wear cocktail dresses, blouses, or skirts. However, if you wish to wear an evening – you are also good to go.

Carnival Cruise also has specific guidelines for what not to wear.

For example, the dining room strictly prohibits bathing suits, flip flops, t-shirts, sportswear, sleeveless shirts, shorts, and baseball caps.

Which day on the carnival cruise is considered a formal night?

Well, the day you can expect as a formal night on a carnival cruise depends on your itinerary.

However, the general rule of thumb is that.

• The elegant night can’t be the first day of your cruise. 
• Similarly, the last day of the cruise also can’t be a grand night. 
• Additionally, you must remember that you can not have two formal nights in a row

So, you can expect the first elegant evening cruise in the second and third cruises, and the second evening can be scheduled for the 2nd last or the third day before the cruise primarily ends. 

Remember, if you are cruising for more than six days, the strong chances are that your second elegant night will be on cruise port day. 

carnival cruise elegant night menu?

Food without crushing is pointless.

That’s why Carnival Cruise offers specially curated menu at an elegant night.

Moreover, the cruise line menu varies daily, and some unique dishes will be served elegantly.

On the contrary, you must know the menu could also vary depending on your cruising days. But all the dishes are usually prepared by expert chefs, making them super tasty.

You will certainly enjoy it.

Is it Compulsory to dress up on an elegant carnival night?

No, dressing up formally for an elegant night is not compulsory.

If you feel comfortable with T-shirts – you can still choose. 

However, you must ensure you are dining outside the main dining room. It’s because, generally, people will get up dressed up formally on these nights. And these are where you will see most guests dressed up appropriately.

We encourage you to dress up nicely on these nights and take memorable photos.

Final Words:

To conclude, which day is considered a formal night on a carnival cruise depends on your cruising days. However, following the general rule of thumb, you can quickly determine when. 

Furthermore, you must know the cruise director will update you by announcing.

So, all you need is to keep an ear on the announcement, and you will get to know when there will be an elegant carnival cruise.

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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What to Pack for a Cruise

By The Rebel Chick

In my recent  12 Things to Know Before Your First Cruise  article, I mentioned that one of the most frequently asked questions I hear about preparing for a cruise is: “What do I wear?” While my answer was simplified in the interest of brevity for that article, I want to delve a little deeper in today’s vacation planning post,which is sponsored by Carnival . I’ll not only tell you everything you need to wear, but  what to pack for a cruise  in general. I’m a big time planner and I have found that a well-packed suitcase makes for a much more enjoyable cruise vacation!

1. Bring activity-appropriate clothing and shoes.

Before you begin packing for your cruise, take a look at the itinerary on the cruise line’s website. Where are you going? What shore excursions have you booked? Do you plan on dining in the formal dining room, or only hitting the casual buffet each night?

Formal Attire

For most cruises , you’ll want to bring at least one formal outfit for “ formal night .” For women, this can mean anything from a nice dress to a ball gown. Men will want to wear a collared, button up shirt and tie with trousers and dress shoes. On Carnival cruises, ties aren’t required, but many men choose to wear them, as well as sport coats, on Cruise Elegant Dining nights. While men can wear a suit or tuxedo, it is not a requirement on most cruise lines. Think “Sunday Best” at the very least.

Bathing Suits and Cover Ups

Most people take a cruise vacations in the Caribbean because they want to spend time at the pool and on the beach during their shore excursions. Make sure to bring at least two bathing suits, as it can take a while for them to dry out! While you are allowed to wander around in your bathing suit, clothes and shoes are required when entering the restaurants and casinos, so bring along at least a few bathing suit cover-ups, sundresses, or shorts and tee shirts.

I recommend that women wear a bathing suit cover up that looks like a sundress, or actually IS a sundress, when going on shore excursions. You may be going to the beach, but there may be other stops along the way and you’ll want to look like your dressed.

Don’t Forget to Bring a Sweater

While you’re cruising to a Caribbean island, you might not think you will get chilly, but it can get downright cold on the open water at night. Restaurants and the casino can also be a bit chilly, and you’ll want a lightweight sweater or pashmina to keep you warm.

2. Bring a Back Pack or Beach Tote

When you leave the ship for a beach-day shore excursion, you’ll want something to carry your beach items in. Bring a tote bag or back pack from home so that you aren’t stuck juggling towels, sunscreen and your book!

A tote bag also comes in handy if you want to do a little shopping at the cruise port. It’s much easier to throw everything you purchase into a tote bag than struggle to carry around several shopping bags.

3. Bring Sunscreen and After-Sun Lotion

I recommend bringing at least one bottle of sunscreen/sunblock per person in your party. Whether you’re spending the day at the pool or laying on the beach during a shore excursion, you’ll go through more sunscreen than you can imagine! Remember to apply sunscreen liberally and often – especially if you are cruising somewhere sun-soaked like the Caribbean, where the heat and humidity cause you to sweat more often that you would elsewhere.

I always bring a bottle of after-sun soothing aloe gel, just in case we get sunburned. If you burn easily, this is a must to help you heal quickly. You don’t want to waste your vacation stuck indoors because you’re in too much pain to go have fun!

You might also want to bring along a sun hat or a visor, especially for children who will spend all day in the sun! It’s much easier to prevent a sunburn than it is to deal with one.

4. Bring Your Own Toiletries 

While many cruise lines offer complimentary shampoo and conditioner in stateroom bathrooms, they aren’t likely to be the products you use at home. I always bring my own shampoo, conditioner and of course, my hair care products.

I also recommend bringing a travel-sized air freshener for the bathroom – there isn’t a lot of ventilation and you can’t simply open the window like you would at home.

Don’t forget to bring a razor and shaving cream if you’re going on a longer cruise!

5. Bring Medications for Upset Stomach and Motion Sickness

I recommend packing a small first aid-style kit full of your common medications like pain relievers, upset stomach medication, anti-diarrhea, Benedryl (if you suffer from any allergies), and a motion sickness medication. You can also buy Sea Bands, which you wear on your wrists to help combat motion sickness. Most of these things are sold in the cruise shops, but they’re quite expensive compared to what you’d pay at home. Plus, who wants to trudge down to the cruise shops when feeling under the weather?

6. Bring an Underwater Camera

If you are going on a cruise and plan to go snorkeling, scuba diving, or to a water park, I suggest bringing a waterproof camera (or, if you’re cruising with Carnival, you can rent one onboard the cruise ship from the shore excursions desk). Angeline and I went snorkeling in Grand Cayman once and I was so disappointed when I realized that I had forgotten our waterproof camera at home! It’s so much fun to be able to take photos not only under water, but just while you’re on the beach or splashing in the waves! You can also purchase a waterproof phone case or a waterproof camera bag, which will cost you less than a camera. 

7. Bring Cash for Tipping

If you plan on doing shore excursions, it is customary to tip your tour guides, bus drivers, etc. Bring cash so that you aren’t left feeling awkward when it’s time to go back to the port and the tour guide makes a speech about how much they appreciate tips!

8. Bring a Portable Back Up Battery Charger

While you are out at sea, I recommend turning your cell phone on airplane mode to avoid incurring roaming charges. I usually use my phone to take a lot of photos while cruising, and my battery tends to die fairly quickly. Most staterooms only have one US electrical outlet and one European outlet, and taking turns charging your electronic devices means that you won’t always have a full charge. Bring along a portable back up battery charger so that you have a back-up plan when that low battery light starts flashing!

You can also bring along an outlet adapter to make using the European outlet easier. 

These are the essentials that go into my suitcase whenever I begin to prepare for a cruise vacation. Do you have any additional suggestions?

This post was created as part of my collaboration with  Carnival . As always, all of the opinions, thoughts, and ideas in this post are my own.

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What to Wear

During the day, casual clothes are suitable. After 5.30pm, smart casual clothing is required in the public lounges and restaurants or as published in the ships newsletter.

Cruise Casual Dining Dress Code: Gentlemen - casual pants, jeans (no cut-offs), dress shorts (long), collared sport shirts; Ladies - casual dresses, casual skirts or pants and blouses, summer dresses, Capri pants, dress shorts, jeans (no cut-offs). Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Casual dinner for ladies and gentlemen: shorts, gym shorts, basketball shorts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men and baseball hats.

Cruise Elegant Dining Dress Code: Gentlemen - dress trousers, dress shirts. We also suggest a sports jacket. If you wish to wear suits and ties or tuxedos, by all means we invite you to do so. Ladies - cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses. If you'd like to show off your evening gowns that's great too! Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Elegant dinner for ladies and gentlemen: shorts, gym shorts, T-shirts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, jeans, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men, sportswear, and baseball hats.

Important Note:  All guests are expected to ensure their clothing and accessories are respectful to fellow guests. Specifically, items worn during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendo/suggestions. In addition, clothing/accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial commentary, or hatred or violence in any form.

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What to wear on a cruise: daytime, formal nights & more.

Experts share their top recommendations for versatile cruise clothing.

What to Wear on a Cruise

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Know what types of clothing, shoes and accessories are best to wear on a cruise.

When it comes to cruising in style, packing the right attire for every occasion is essential. Including a few key versatile items on your cruise packing list will prevent your suitcase (and the limited closet space in your stateroom) from becoming overcrowded – and keep you looking appropriate for all events.

Although most cruise lines outline their suggested dress codes in the FAQ sections of their websites, be sure to also review the specifics of your cruise itinerary. Not only will the destination and weather factor into what you should wear on your cruise, but you'll also want to know if formal nights require black-tie attire, themed dress parties need costumes or shore excursions necessitate unique clothing or footwear.

Whether you'll be lounging by the pool or attending a glamorous dinner, our list of must-have items and suggestions from industry experts will help you navigate dressing for your next cruise vacation.

For relaxing sea days, prioritize comfort above all else. Depending on your planned activities, any of the following casual options are considered acceptable attire:

• Skirts or skorts
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Breezy lounge pants
• Bathing suits
• Cover-ups 
• Sun hats or baseball caps

Travel writer Jill Schildhouse always packs her VOTEPRETTY sundress . "This is my go-to cruise workhorse," says Schildhouse. "It's light and breezy, and the pockets come in very handy." She adds that the sundress can be worn to casual dinners on the ship or on shore excursions, and it can even double as a swimsuit cover-up. "I've taken it all over the world and it always arrives wrinkle-free," she says. Schildhouse has received many compliments on this classic sundress, which is available in multiple colors.

Sheri Griffiths, host of YouTube series CruiseTipsTV , suggests wearing comfortable, broken-in shoes on a cruise. She recommends avoiding brand-new footwear during your voyage to prevent blisters and daily discomfort. A basic sneaker can be worn for just about any cruise itinerary, from Alaska to the Caribbean . Griffiths says, "We love these Adidas Stan Smiths because they wear in quickly and have a timeless style."

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

In the evening, most cruise ships adopt a dress code in their main dining rooms and specialty restaurants that incorporate smart-casual or resort-wear attire. The following clothing choices will suffice:

• Maxi dresses
• Elegant tops
• Long- or short-sleeved button-down shirts
• Polo shirts
• Blazers and ties (typically optional, unless otherwise stated)
• Shawls or wraps
• Closed-toe dress shoes
• Sandals or heels

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, shares her best advice for cruise footwear. "I always pack my Rothy's shoes for any cruise because they're infinitely comfortable, work as both a formal and [an] informal shoe and can be tossed in the laundry if they get dirty." She notes that she has several pairs, but two of her go-to styles are The Point and The Ballet Flat . McDaniel adds that the shoes work in every occasion, from strolling along the ship decks to perusing cobblestone streets on shore. "I bought both [pairs] 5 years ago, and they look as new today as they did out of the box despite literally hundreds of hours of wear," she says.

Jason Leppert, founder of YouTube channel Popular Cruising , always packs his signature Hawaiian shirts to wear day or night. He says, "I love the RSVLTS collection because they can play casually with shorts or more dressy with slacks for dinner."

Formal Nights

While more casual these days, cruise formal nights still call for a bit more sophistication and style. Appropriate options include:

• Cocktail dresses
• Evening gowns
• Dress shoes

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer for The Points Guy, always packs a gown or a fancy cocktail dress for a formal night. "I work from home and don't have a reason to dress up otherwise, so I look forward to it." Still, Kosciolek is a firm believer that travelers should wear what is most comfortable for them while on vacation. She adds, "My dinner won't taste any better or worse based on what others are wearing."

Mikkel Woodruff, editor of cruise site Sometimes Sailing , always brings her Omega Sailing Bracelet on cruises. She says, "I like to bring jewelry that reminds me of the ocean and being on the sea." Woodruff appreciates the bracelet's versatility, noting how easily it can go from shore excursions to formal evenings to everyday activities.

Explore cruise deals on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Shore Excursions

When heading off the ship for a shore excursion, opt for comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear to make the most of your adventures on land. Consider packing the following items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Mesh water shoes
• T-shirts or tank tops
• A waterproof jacket

Freelance travel writer David Swanson shares his favorite versatile cruise shoes. He discovered a comfortable pair of Danner multitasking shoes that worked for dinners, casual events and multiple days of cycling on a recent European cruise. "I didn't think I'd find something to do dual duty, but I love this comfy pair from Danner, an outdoor brand [that is] new to me but has been around since 1932," says Swanson.

Paul Thornton, host of The Joy of Cruising Podcast , always packs his Coofandy linen shirts and shorts for hot Caribbean days and breezy cruise ship evenings. "I love Coofandy because they enable this senior to look 'youthful' on the beach and excursions," says Thornton. He adds that the brand is also his go-to retailer for White Party-themed nights on board.

Read: Beach Packing List

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Cruise Line Dress Codes

Dress codes can vary significantly from one cruise company to the next, so it's a good idea to check with your specific line before filling up your suitcase. Once you're on board, be sure to read the daily program for reminders about the dress codes required at the events and dining venues during your voyage.

Azamara Dress Code

• Daytime: Fairly casual attire is suitable throughout Azamara 's ships during the day. However, baseball caps, distressed denim, tank tops and bathing suits cannot be worn at Discoveries, Aqualina and Prime C restaurants (and shoes are required).
• Evening: At night, women typically wear casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, blouses and knit tops, while men are welcome to wear collared golf and polo shirts, shorts and pants. Sport coats are optional. Note: There are no official formal nights on Azamara's voyages.
• Themed Nights: Be sure to pack an all-white outfit for Azamara's signature White Night dinner and deck party.

Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Pack casual, comfortable attire to sail with Carnival Cruise Line , such as T-shirts, polo shirts or relaxed tops paired with shorts, capris, khakis or jeans. Athletic wear paired with a lightweight sweater or jacket are suitable for those looking to stay active. 
• "Cruise casual" attire for men typically suggests longer dress shorts, pants or jeans and a collared polo shirt. Women usually wear sundresses, blouses, skirts, dress shorts and capri pants.
• "Cruise elegant" typically translates to dress slacks, dress shirts and sports coats (suggested) for men, with some wearing suits, ties or tuxedos. Women choose dresses (party or cocktail), pantsuits and elegant skirts with blouses, while some may wear evening gowns. Kids should follow the adult dress code, opting for school dance- or party-appropriate attire. Note: Jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, shorts, T-shirts, sportswear, exercise clothes, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suits are not permitted. The number of "cruise elegant" evenings varies based on the length of the cruise.
• Carnival Journeys cruises feature a "Throwback Sea Day," where guests can relive the '80s by day (outfits included) and dress up for a themed Captain's Cocktail Party by night. 
• Cruises between early December and Christmas Day feature an "Ugly Sweater Contest."
• Costumes are suggested for Halloween cruises between the end of September and October. However, when choosing a costume, keep in mind that full masks are prohibited (masks covering half of the face are allowed).

Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, smart casual resort wear is suitable throughout Celebrity Cruises ' ships. (Think: sundresses, shorts, polos and button-down shirts paired with sandals, low heels and loafers.) Bathing suits with cover-ups, T-shirts, tank tops, hats and sunglasses are only appropriate poolside. Cruisers should avoid wearing these items in the dining areas.
• Evening: Most evenings, guests are expected to wear comfortable yet tasteful attire. This entails dresses, skirts, long pants or jeans, stylish tops and button-down shirts. Shorts and flip-flops do not meet the evening dress code. Depending on your voyage, there will be one or two formal nights that require "evening chic" wear. Passengers can dress to impress in formal gowns, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, dressy jeans or blazers.

Costa Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, Costa Cruises ' passengers may wear casual clothing like T-shirts, shorts and sundresses. Beach clothing and flip-flops are not permitted in ship restaurants. Depending on the itinerary, some shore excursions may have specific dress codes.
• Evening: Most nights require resort attire; however, Costa hosts one or two Elegant Evenings per cruise, when men may wear dark suits or tuxedos and women can wear evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
• Themed Nights: Costa recommends that guests pack white clothing for its White Night events and white, red and green clothing and accessories for its Italy-themed evenings.

Cunard Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Shorts, T-shirts and sundresses are appropriate daytime wardrobe options on sailings with Cunard Line . Swimwear is acceptable by the pool but should not be worn in indoor dining areas.
• Evening: In the evenings, passengers are asked to wear smart attire, which includes dress shirts and trousers for men, and cocktail dresses or sophisticated tops and skirts for women – similar to what you'd choose for dinner at a trendy restaurant or a special occasion. Voyages lasting seven nights host at least two Gala Evenings, during which guests are requested to adhere to a more formal dress code. 
• Themed Nights: Gala Evenings employ themes ranging from specific colors (such as black and white or red and gold outfits) to the roaring '20s to masquerade balls.

Disney Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: On Disney Cruise Line sailings, cruise casual attire is acceptable during the day; outfit options include sundresses and shorts and tees. Swimwear and tank tops are not permitted in dining venues.
• Evening: After the sun sets, polished attire like collared shirts and jeans without rips are acceptable. Bathing suits, tees, tank tops and sports attire are not allowed. Adult-exclusive dining venues on Disney ships call for elegance; formal or semiformal wear is recommended.
• Themed Nights: On three- and four-night sailings, there is typically a pirate-themed deck party and one optional dress-up night for guests of all ages. Sailings lasting seven nights or longer add one formal and one semiformal night, when women may wear a formal dress or pantsuit and men can opt for a suit or dress pants with a jacket.

Holland America Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Plan on wearing casual attire aboard Holland America Line 's ships during the day. When indoors, guests must wear shirts, cover-ups and footwear.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual clothing is acceptable. However, in table service restaurants, shorts, bathing suits, distressed jeans and tank tops are prohibited. Grand Voyages cruises host formal nights, when suits and dresses are appropriate.
• Themed Nights: Once per cruise, Holland America hosts an Orange Party in celebration of King's Day. Pack your favorite orange clothing and accessories for this event, which honors the cruise line's Dutch heritage.

MSC Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Guests of MSC Cruises dress fairly casual during the day in T-shirts and shorts.
• Evening: Collared shirts, dresses and tailored pants are expected at night in the main dining rooms, specialty restaurants and entertainment venues. There is one optional Gala Night, when varying levels of elegance are acceptable. Guests should wear what makes them feel comfortable, ranging from tuxedos or ball gowns to dressy jeans and polo shirts.
• Themed Nights: MSC hosts a White Night Party (where guests wear all white) and a Sunshine Party, where guests don cheerful colors.

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, plan to wear cruise casual attire like summer dresses, jeans, khakis, shorts and casual shirts on Norwegian Cruise Line voyages. At the buffet and outdoor restaurants, swimwear can be worn with a cover-up and footwear. In dining rooms and specialty restaurants, Norwegian does not permit tank tops for men, jeans with rips or tears, flip-flops, baseball caps or visors.
• Evening: In Norwegian's upscale specialty restaurants, smart casual attire is the norm. Women can wear slacks, jeans, dresses, skirts and tops, while men should opt for jeans or slacks, a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes. Children ages 12 and younger may wear shorts in all restaurants. On each cruise, there is one particular "Dress-Up or Not Night," when guests can wear fancier clothing (if they choose).
• Themed Nights: Pack an all-white outfit for the White Hot Party and formal attire for Norwegian's Night Out.

Princess Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: In Princess Cruises ' restaurants and public spaces, casual resort wear is required. Shoes must be worn in the dining areas, and pool or beach attire, ball caps and frayed jeans are prohibited in restaurants.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual attire is acceptable in restaurants. However, on formal evenings, women may wear evening gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits; while men may opt for tuxedos, dark suits or dinner jackets with slacks. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Elevated resort wear, including jeans, shorts, T-shirts and tennis shoes, is appropriate before 6 p.m. on Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: At night, elegant casual attire is recommended. Women typically dresses, pantsuits or slacks paired with blouses or sweaters; a collared shirt and dress pants for men is the norm, with the option for sport jackets and ties. On cruises lasting 16 nights or longer, there are two evenings when guests can choose to wear formal or semiformal attire. Wardrobe choices include dark suits and cocktail dresses or tuxedos and gowns. Note: On the last night of every voyage, the dinner dress code is "relaxed casual" to accommodate guests packing for early morning flights.

Royal Caribbean International Dress Code

• Daytime: A relaxed, casual style is acceptable during the day on cruises with Royal Caribbean International . However, swimwear should be limited to the pool deck. 
• Evening: On most nights, guests wear smart casual attire, which includes collared or button-up shirts, dresses, skirts, blouses and pantsuits. Jackets, sports coats and blazers are encouraged but not required. On formal evenings and for the Chef's Table dining experience, cruisers are expected to wear black-tie attire, which includes tuxedos, suits with ties, cocktail dresses and evening gowns. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.
• Themed Nights: Offered on cruises lasting four nights or longer, themed nights may include toga parties, masquerade balls, decade themes and black and white nights.

Silversea Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual attire akin to what you'd wear at a five-star resort is suitable during the day aboard Silversea Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: Evening attire is categorized into three groups: casual, informal and formal. On casual evenings, women wear pants, blouses, skirts, and casual dresses, while men wear open-neck shirts and slacks. On informal evenings, ladies often choose dresses or pantsuits, and gentlemen typically wear jackets (ties are optional). Formal night is always optional; if you choose to participate, outfits may include cocktail dresses, gowns, tuxedos and suits. The number of formal nights per cruise varies by voyage length.

Seabourn Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual resort wear like jeans and shorts are welcome in all lounges and dining venues on Seabourn Cruise Lines ' ships. Athletic apparel and swimwear should only be worn in the pool area, on the deck or at the spa and fitness center.
• Evening: After 6 p.m., the dress code is "elegant casual." Men are expected to wear slacks with collared shirts or sweaters (jackets are optional), while women can choose pants, skirts, pantsuits or dresses. Elegant jeans are allowed in all dining venues except The Restaurant. On formal evenings in The Restaurant, men may wear tuxedos, suits or slacks and jackets, while women can opt for evening gowns and cocktail dresses.

Viking Ocean Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: On Viking Ocean Cruises ' ships, casual daytime clothing such as shorts, pants, jeans and comfortable walking shoes are acceptable. Athletic wear including exercise clothing, swimsuits and cover-ups may only be worn in the fitness center, pool zones and sports deck.
• Evening: While there are no dedicated formal nights, the dress code after 6 p.m. calls for elegant casual attire for all dining venues, lounges, bars and theaters. Jeans are not permitted (with the exception of the World Cafe, where the dress code remains casual in the evenings). For women, wardrobe options include dresses, jumpsuits, skirts or slacks paired with elegant tops. Jackets and ties are optional for men, but trousers and collared shirts should be worn in the evenings.

Virgin Voyages Dress Code

• Day or night, cruisers on Virgin Voyages ' ships are encouraged to wear attire that expresses their personal style. Just note: In restaurants, bathing suits are not permitted, and shoes are necessary. There are no formal nights; guests can dress up or down, depending on what makes them feel their best.
• Themed Nights: Pack something scarlet red for the Scarlet Night Party, which occurs once per voyage.

Why Trust U.S. News

Dana Freeman is a highly experienced cruise writer who embarked on her first cruise with her grandmother when she was just 12 years old, and she hasn't stopped since. Having sailed on more than 20 different cruise lines and completed over 30 voyages, Freeman's cruise expertise spans from small ships accommodating only eight passengers to massive ones accommodating over 5,000. To curate this article, she leveraged her extensive knowledge of the cruise ship industry, combined with her strong research skills.

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What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (and frequently asked questions)

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Wondering what to wear on a cruise formal night? One of the most fun, but surprisingly stressful parts of planning a cruise, is planning your formal wear attire.

You might be wondering what to expect on cruise formal nights, how many there are, and even if you can skip them if you like.

In this post, I’ll answer some questions you may have about formal nights on a cruise and how they work. Plus, I’ll share some  recommendations for cruise formal wear to make it easy.

What is Formal Night on a Cruise?

Formal night is a special evening during the cruise when cruise passengers dress up in fancy or formal attire. However it doesn’t stop there. There is usually a special meal served in the Main Dining Room, where guests might be treated to a choice of menu which includes loster tail or prime rib, or a “surf and turf”. This is often a passenger favorite!

Formal night is sometimes referred to as Captain’s Night, and the Cruise Ship Captain will often make a speech welcoming all guests to his ship. The Captain will often be available for a photo opportunity with one of the cruise ship’s professional photographers.

In addition, there may be other formal night traditions to enjoy. For example, Princess Cruises have a champagne waterfall, where guests can participate and have a photo as well. If there are “welcome back” parties for past passengers, they often occur on formal night as well.

Formal Night Photos

Cruise ship formal nights are a great time to get professional photos taken. Whether you’re cruising as a couple for an anniversary or special occasion, or cruising as a family , there is no better time to capture the memories.

Truthfully, some way wonder if buying photos or a photo package on a cruise ship is worth it. However, at about $25 for an 8 x 10 photo or about $200 for a larger photo package, I think it’s a splurge that may be worth it on a cruise . Professional photo shoots in most cities will cost more than this, and will be much less convenient.

Read more:  10 Cruise “Extras” that Are Totally Worth It

Cruise Formal Night Attire – What to Expect

What’s considered formal wear on a cruise?

On most cruise lines, a tuxedo or suit for men, and an evening gown or cocktail dress for ladies is appropriate formal wear for a cruise. In practice, there will be a wide variety of “formal wear” seen on a cruise. Simply put, some people dress up more, and some less. 

Men can feel comfortable wearing a suit or dress pants and a dress shirt. Ladies can wear a nice dress or nice pant suit. Shorts and other casual wear are best left to the buffet or to other more casual restaurant choices.

How formal are cruise formal nights?

Years ago, formal nights on cruises were very formal. It was common for men to be dressed in tuxedos and ladies in long evening gowns. Nowadays, you’ll see a wide variety of dress on formal nights.

If you want to get a feeling for how formal is formal on a cruise, simply think about what clothing you’ll see at a wedding. On most cruise lines, dressing in formal attire will mean cocktail dresses or elegant pant suits for ladies, and a dark suit or dress pants and sports coat for men.

Remember to check your cruise line dress codes. Cunard is one of the most formal and you’ll want to be prepared with proper formal attire. Norwegian Cruise Line does not have a formal dress code, however do have optional dress up nights.

However, on most cruise ships, ladies can also feel comfortable to wear a nice dress (like a Little Black Dress) and men a pair on black dress pants and a dress shirt, with or without tie.

Read more:   Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise

Cruise Formal Night Recommendations for Cruise Travel Wear

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Life Well Cruised is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

You might be wondering about what outfits are too dressy or not dressy enough for formal nights on a cruise. Here are a few examples and recommendations for formal night cruise wear, to give you a idea. 

These cruise formal wear outfits are all affordable suggestions that you could wear on your cruise. 

Ladies Dresses for Formal Night

Long evening gown cocktail dress.

This flattering long cocktail dress is available in several colors, including black. It’s high neck and beautiful detail along the skirt, make this simple design a winner for any cruise line formal night.

Recommended: Mermaid Evening Gown Cocktail Dress – See on Amazon here

Little Black Dress

If you already own a LBD (little black dress) , you can definitely wear it on a cruise for formal night. If you don’t, it’s a good time to get one, since you can wear it literally for years. I love this flattering pencil style dress (see it on Amazon) .

Recommended: Little black dress (see over 13,000 Amazon reviews here)

Halter Neck Sleeveless Dress

You formal night dress doesn’t have to be super traditional. A flowing halter top dress paired with an evening bag clutch is perfect for an evening on a cruise.

Recommended: Halter neck sleeveless dress (see dress and Amazon reviews here)

Beaded Cocktail Dress with Caplet Sleeves

This plus size dress is flattering and made for real size women. I love this navy color dress with sheer detail, however it’s available in paler colors including pale pink and silver.

Recommended: Beaded cocktails dress with caplet sleeves (see pricing and details on Amazon here)

Off the Shoulder Evening Cocktail Dress

This gorgeous cocktail dress is a good example of a dress that you can wear on any cruise for formal night. It also fits perfectly well on any cruise line, from Princess to Celebrity Cruises and from Carnival to NCL . 

Recommended: Off the shoulder cocktail dress – see colors and pricing here (Amazon)

Read more:   Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women

Men’s Formal Wear Dress Suggestions

Calvin klein slim fit suit separates.

Men’s formal cruise wear is less “complicated” than ladies. Men can wear a dark suit, or even dress pants and a dress shirt. This Calvin Klein suit example comes in separates, so you can mix and match the jacket size and pants. Choose a nice tie and dress shirt and you’re all set.

Don’t forget dress shoes and a belt. I mention it because these are items that cruisers have reported forgetting bringing on a cruise , and regretting.

Recommended: Calvin Klein slim fit suit separates (see affordable options on Amazon)

Tuxedo Style Suit – Men’s Blazer, Vest and Dress Pants

This suit gets amazing reviews on Amazon and is available in smaller and larger sizes. This suit is modern and fashionable, and the separates can be worn at home to restaurants and even the office.

Recommended: 4 piece Suit! This includes a jacket, pants, vest and tie (see options here)

Cruise Formal Night – Frequently Asked Questions (and answers)

Can you skip formal night?

Can you skip formal nights? Of course you can. If you’re not feeling like dressing up or you’ve had a long day and you’re a bit tired, you have alternatives to formal night for evening dinner.

If you want to skip formal night on your cruise, you can always eat in the buffet or one of the other casual restaurants. You might even want to order room service and have dinner on your private balcony .

As well, many cruise lines don’t extend the formal dress code to specialty dining restaurants on “formal night”. If you prefer to be served but would rather dress in smart casual wear, consider making reservations at one of your cruise ship’s specialty restaurants. 

Read more:   25+ Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise

Do all cruise lines have formal nights?

Most popular cruise lines have a formal night, or a version of it by a different name, during each cruise. In recent years, cruises are becoming more casual and dress codes are changing , however, having a special “dress up” night is still very common.

Some cruise line’s formal nights may be called Gala Nights , which are usually quite formal. Other cruise dress codes include Celebrity’s “Evening Chic” and Carnival’s “Cruise Elegant”, which leave more leeway for dressing up with less formality. Norwegian Cruise Line does not have a formal night, however they do have an optional dress up night called “Norwegian Night Out”.

Since cruise lines can really differ on what type of attire is expected on formal nights, it’s important to check your cruise line’s dress codes to make sure you pack the appropriate cruise wear. 

How many formal nights are there on a cruise?

Most cruise lines have 1 formal night on cruises that are 6 days and less, and 2 formal nights on cruises 7 days and more.

In short, if you’re sailing on a 3, 4 or 5 night cruise, there will be one formal or dress up night. Typical 7 night cruises will have 2 formal nights.

Some cruise lines, including Holland America and Princess Cruises, will have 3 formal nights on cruises that are 14 days and longer. 

What to Wear on a Cruise YouTube Video

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Recap: What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night

In this post we’ve gone over what to expect on cruise formal nights, and why they are a special part of many cruises. We’ve also answered many frequently asked questions about formal nights on cruises, the traditions and offored suggestions showing what people might wear on formal nights.

Do you enjoy cruise formal nights and if so, what traditions do you enjoy most? Do you have questions about how formal nights, or “chic evenings”, work? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

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Nice & very informative site. I have enjoyed this reading very interesting. I will use this as a guide to get my packing done.

So glad this was helpful! 🙂

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What should I wear at sea? Here's what to know about cruise line dress codes

When I was getting ready to take a cruise in October, there were a handful of items I made sure to pack: my passport, anti-nausea medicine, and a blazer and tie.

The cruise line, Holland America Line, had advised me that during the transatlantic voyage from the Netherlands to New York there would be some occasions to dress up. But after lint-rolling my jacket and multiple attempts at a half-Windsor knot, I left my stateroom and realized I may not have needed them.

While plenty of guests were decked out in jackets, dresses and slacks, others were in sartorial vacation mode, dressed in varying degrees of (in)formality.

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First-time cruisers may not realize that ships have some guidelines for clothing, from formal nights to events that call for unique attire, but those rules and recommendations have evolved over time. 

"It really has gotten more and more relaxed as we've gone along, especially after the pandemic," said Valerie Dorsey, a franchise owner and travel adviser at Cruise Planners.

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Do cruise lines have dress codes?

Though travelers may associate cruising with formal nights – when lines encourage passengers to dress up for dinner in certain venues, stemming from grand tradition – the onboard experience has grown more easygoing, Dorsey said. 

Dorsey said she noticed a shift from true formal wear to "smart casual" or "smart elegant" clothing around 2015 and began hearing more from clients about how other travelers weren't dressing up as much, a change that has irked some guests .

Passengers have gotten more casual on regular nights, too.

That shift has only been exacerbated in the wake of COVID-19 as more travelers work from home, according to Dorsey, though some lines take formal nights more seriously and some passengers choose to go all out, regardless.

"I've seen people dress way up, meaning tuxedos, evening gowns, beautiful clothing, down to 'I'm just going to dinner at Red Lobster tonight,' " she said. "I think it's all over the place."

Enforcement of the dress codes has eased, as well.

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"It used to be if you walked in in a pair of shorts, they would say, 'I'm sorry, you can't enter the dining room,' and they don't even stop people anymore," Dorsey said. "So that's why it's really hard to get a handle on how you're supposed to dress."

If you want to opt out of dressing up altogether, there are parts of the ship that usually remain more casual, even on dressy or formal nights. Travelers can always head to the buffet or other casual eateries, Dorsey said, though on smaller lines more passengers may be dressed up more across the board.

Cruise lines each have their own dress codes, but we've rounded up some of the major lines' policies:

Carnival Cruise Line dress code

Passengers can wear casual clothes during the day, but the line requires smart casual clothing after 5:30 p.m. in its public lounges and restaurants or as stated in the ship's newsletter, spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an email.

The line's Cruise Casual dress code calls for collared sport shirts, casual pants or jeans – but no cut-offs – and long dress shorts for men. Women can wear items including casual dresses, blouses and skirts or pants, dress shorts and jeans.

In accordance with the dress code, passengers cannot wear regular shorts or gym shorts, bathing suit attire, beach flip-flops and other similar items in the dining room.

When the Cruise Elegant Dress Code is in effect, men can wear dress trousers and shirts, and the line recommends a sport jacket.

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For women, the line calls for cocktail dresses, "elegant skirts and blouses," pantsuits or even evening gowns. Items like T-shirts, jeans, shorts and gym shorts and bathing suit attire are similarly barred from the dining room.

The length of the cruise determines the number of Cruise Elegant evenings, according to Carnival's website . The Cruise Elegant dress code applies for the main dining rooms and the Steakhouse. However, Lupoli said passengers dressed in Cruise Casual will not be turned away from those venues on Cruise Elegant nights.

Royal Caribbean International dress code

Royal Caribbean breaks its suggested attire into several categories. Casual includes polos, jeans and sundresses, but the line asks that guests wear swimwear only on the pool deck and shorts at breakfast and lunch, according to its website .

The line defines smart casual "as a step up from your typical dinner wear," including collared shirts, dresses, skirts and blouses. Passengers are also welcome to wear items like jackets and blazers.

For formal attire, the line said on its website, "make it a night out in your best black-tie look - suits and ties, tuxedos, cocktail dresses or evening gowns." The line may have one to four formal nights on a given cruise.

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Norwegian Cruise Line dress code

"When it comes to what to wear, you can go resort casual or get decked out and look your best – it's your call," Norwegian said on its website . 

Cruise casual clothing – including jeans and shorts for men and jeans, casual dresses and shorts for women – is acceptable at the buffet and most specialty restaurants anytime during the day. Guests can wear swimwear at the buffet and outdoor restaurant as long as they have a shirt or cover-up and footwear.

Passengers cannot wear certain items such as tank tops for men, baseball caps and overly faded jeans, those that have holes in them or those worn below the hips in the main dining rooms or specialty restaurants, the line said on its website.

In Norwegian's "more formal dining room or in our more upscale specialty restaurants," the line calls for smart casual clothing, which includes slacks or jeans, dresses, skirts and tops for women, and collared shirts, jeans and slacks for men.

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Holland America Line dress code

Holland America guests can dress casually during the day, though they must always wear shirts or cover-ups and footwear inside, a spokesperson for the line said in an email.

The nighttime dress code has two categories. Smart casual includes a sport shirt or sweater and slacks for men, and a sweater or blouse and a skirt or pants for women. "Shorts, pool and beachwear, distressed jeans and tank tops are not permitted in table service restaurants," the spokesperson said.

On dressy nights, the line recommends blouses, skirts, slacks, dresses, collared shirts and jackets. There will be two dressy nights on most seven-night cruises, with additional dressy nights for longer sailings. Guests can reference the ship's daily program for the evening's suggested attire.

On the line's Grand Voyages, the line recommends suits or dresses when formal attire is suggested. "Grand Voyages are 60-plus-day voyages, and this is the only time guests would be in 'formal' attire," the spokesperson said.

Cunard Line dress code

Cunard passengers can dress as they like during the day. "Then as the sun goes down, the style goes up," Cunard said in dress code guidelines provided by a spokesperson.

At night, the line asks guests to wear smart attire in the majority of its restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. That includes "smart trousers" with a collared shirt – and optional jacket and tie – for men, and blouses and skirts or "stylish trousers and dresses" for women.

The line also has at least two Gala evenings over seven days of a sailing, when passengers are invited to dress up more. 

"After 6:00pm on Gala evenings, it's dinner jacket, tuxedo, or dark suit for the men with a regular tie or bow tie," the line said. "Evening or cocktail dress, smart trouser suit, or formal separates for the ladies please."

How should passengers pack for cruise line dress codes?

Dorsey recommended women bring a "nice long skirt" and a blouse or a dress. "You know, you might wear slacks every other night, but if they come upon a more formal night, then you can kind of dress something like that up," she said.

For men, she suggested packing collared shirts and nice pants – even chinos are formal enough. "And maybe throw one jacket in there and then you're prepared"

Cruise lines may also have special events that call for unique attire, such as an all-white ensemble  at Norwegian's White Hot Party.

Even if formal nights aren't as formal as they used to be, they still provide an excuse to get dressed up: cruise lines will have photographers out on those nights to take portraits of guests, Dorsey said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Preparing for an upcoming cruise can be stressful, and you must consider what you will wear. Selecting the right clothes for a cruise is more than just filling up your suitcase—it’s about curating a wardrobe that sails smoothly from the sun-soaked deck to the main dining room. As the choices in cruise dress-up evolve, gone are the days of mandatory tuxedos and evening gowns. Today’s cruise ship clothes offer a delicate balance between elegance and ease.

What to Wear on a Cruise

Key Takeaways

• Understand the shift from traditional to modern cruise attire, allowing for sophistication and comfort.
• Learn how to perfectly blend in or stand out with the right clothes for various cruise ship activities.
• Ascertain the importance of balancing the cruise line’s dress code with your style preferences.
• Recognize how the proper attire can enhance your cruising experience and match themes and onboard events.
• Discover the essentials for looking chic and comfortable on deck, during dinners, and at special events.
• Grasp the nuances of dressing for a cruise with practical wardrobe choices tailored to your travel plans.

Do you have to dress up on a cruise?

The dress code on a cruise ship can vary depending on the cruise line and specific sailing. While some cruise lines have formal nights where dressing up is recommended, others have more relaxed dress codes. You must check the dress code guidelines provided by your cruise line and plan your attire accordingly.

Some cruises may have specific dress code requirements for certain events or venues onboard. For example, formal or gala evenings may call for more elegant attire, such as cocktail dresses, evening gowns, tuxedos, or suits. These dressier nights allow you to celebrate and showcase your sophisticated style while enjoying a special evening onboard.

On the other hand, many cruise lines also offer more casual dining options where you can dress comfortably. Various clothing options are essential to accommodate different activities and dress codes onboard. This can include casual, comfortable outfits for daytime activities and more formal attire for special events or evenings.

Dressing up on a cruise is not mandatory, but it can enhance the overall experience and add to the festive atmosphere onboard. Whether you embrace formal nights or opt for a more relaxed dress code, the key is to feel comfortable and confident in what you wear.

What do you wear on a dressier night on a cruise?

Dressier nights on a cruise, known as formal or gala evenings, allow one to dress up and celebrate. Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, tuxedos, or suits are appropriate for these occasions. It’s a chance to showcase more elegant and sophisticated attire while enjoying a special evening onboard.

On dressier nights, you can embrace a more glamorous and refined look. Ladies can opt for a stunning cocktail dress or an elegant evening gown that complements the occasion. Choose fabrics like chiffon or silk to add a touch of luxury to your ensemble. Complete your look with stylish heels and statement jewelry to enhance your overall appearance.

Gentlemen can dress to impress with a tailored tuxedo or a well-fitted suit. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt, a tie, and polished dress shoes for a sophisticated look. Consider adding a pocket square or cufflinks to elevate your outfit further. Remember to ensure your attire is well-pressed and the details are well-groomed.

What do you wear on cruises during the day?

Casual and comfortable attire is essential during a cruise. Whether you’re planning to lounge by the pool, explore the ports of call, or participate in fun onboard activities, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather and the activities planned for the day.

Shorts and T-shirts are popular for men and women, providing a relaxed and breezy look. Sundresses are also an excellent option for women, offering a stylish yet comfortable outfit. To keep cool under the sun, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics.

Comfortable shoes are key when it comes to footwear. Sneakers or sandals with cushioned soles are ideal for long walks or excursions, while flip-flops or water-resistant slides are perfect for poolside relaxation. Remember to pack a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and a hat for added sun protection.

Remember that the daytime dress code on a cruise is generally laid-back and relaxed. So, embrace the casual nature of your cruise vacation and enjoy the freedom to dress comfortably while you explore and unwind during the day.

What clothes should you be sure to pack for a cruise?

When preparing for a cruise, it’s essential to pack various clothing to suit different activities and occasions. Below are some essential items you should consider including in your cruise wardrobe:

Don’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuits for fun-filled days by the pool or at the beach. Whether you prefer a one-piece or a bikini, bring enough options to enjoy the sun and water.

Swim coverups

Stay stylish and comfortable with swim coverups. They provide coverage when you’re away from the water and can be a fashionable accessory for your poolside or beachside looks.

Sweater or fleece

A lightweight sweater or fleece with air conditioning is essential, especially for cooler evenings or areas of the ship. A cozy layer is always a good idea to keep warm and comfortable.

Sunglasses and sun hats

Protect your eyes and skin from the sun’s rays with sunglasses and sun hats. These accessories shield you from harmful UV rays and add a touch of style to your cruise outfits.

Wear a watch to keep track of time on your cruise adventure. This practical accessory ensures you won’t miss any planned activities or dining reservations. Many cruisers might use a phone, which can be tricky when traveling. So a standard watch can help you stay on “ships time” throughout your cruise easier. It’s not uncommon during a cruise for the ship’s time to change once or more as you travel great distances.

Casual, comfortable attire

Opt for casual and comfortable attire for daytime activities onboard or during port excursions. T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and sneakers are perfect options for exploring, lounging, and participating in onboard activities.

Dinner or “smart casual” attire

Regarding evening dining or “smart casual” dress codes, bring a selection of pants, jeans, a dress or skirt, blouses, a nice top, or a button-down shirt. These outfits are perfect for a delicious dinner while looking stylish and put-together.

Layering is essential to adjusting to changing temperatures throughout the day. Bring lightweight cardigans, wraps, or jackets that can easily be added or removed to accommodate different environments, both onboard and ashore.

What kind of shoes should you wear on a cruise?

Choosing the proper footwear for a cruise is vital for comfort and style. Here are some options to consider:

Flip flops, sandals, or waterproof slides

Flip-flops, sandals, or waterproof slides are a must for pool days and beach excursions. They are easy to slip on and off and perfect for lounging by the pool or exploring sandy shores. Many of the beaches in the Caribbean are beautiful, but they can also be rocky, and I often wear strap-on water sandals to protect my feet from any sharp rocks or debris. Many cruise line pool decks can get extremely hot, so water shoes are vital for kids who want to ride the slides. Shoes often have to be removed before sliding down, so consider this. Kids should always have water shoes for the beach as the sand can also be hot and rocky.

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

If you plan to go on shore excursions or explore the cruise ship extensively, opt for sneakers or comfortable walking shoes. These will provide the support and comfort needed for long walks and ensure you can enjoy your adventures without discomfort.

Boots are an excellent option for colder weather destinations or activities like hiking. They provide extra warmth and protection, making them suitable for outdoor pursuits.

Shoes or sandals for dinner

When going to dinner on a cruise, bringing dressier shoes to elevate your outfit is a good idea. Whether it’s a formal night or a casual evening, having the right shoes can add a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

Understanding Cruise Dress Codes

Embarking on a cruise entails knowing the nuances of cruise attire. As passengers, we navigate a sea of clothing options divided into distinct categories, each tailored to a specific part of the cruise experience. Casual dress cruises have reshaped our views on sea travel, offering comfort without compromising charm. Yet, the essence of cruise elegance remains an inviting prospect for those who relish the opportunity to dress up. Much of this depends on the cruise line and the type of cruise experience it offers its guests.

Packing for Daytime Adventures Onboard and Ashore

Selecting the right cruise ship clothes  transforms your daytime experiences into comfortable, memorable adventures. Whether lounging poolside or exploring exotic locales, understanding  what to wear on a cruise during the day is essential to enjoy every moment. Below is a guide to the crucial items in your suitcase.

• Lightweight dresses or polo shirts for a versatile, comfortable look suitable for dining or daytime entertainment onboard.
• Quality swimwear that provides style and functionality for those refreshing dips in the pool or ocean snorkeling adventures.
• Comfortable t-shirts and shorts for strolling on the deck or engaging in onshore activities.
• Wear protective sun hats and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield you from the sun’s intense glare at sea or on the beach.
• Durable water shoes that safeguard your feet during water-based excursions or on sandy shores.

When considering things to wear on a cruise , it’s not just about clothing. Accessories and footwear are pivotal in ensuring comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here’s a breakdown of essential daytime cruise attire categorized by activity:

Remember that daytime cruise attire should suit the diverse activities available onboard and ashore. By packing smartly, you blend in with the cruising culture while prioritizing your comfort and readiness for any adventure that calls your name.

What to Wear on a Cruise During the Day

When sunlight graces the decks of your cruise ship, your attire should blend comfort and style suitable for many activities. From breakfast on the balcony to exploring exotic destinations, choosing the right day wear is essential. This section will guide you through the essentials for comfort and style, ensuring your cruise wardrobe is on point from dawn to dusk.

Comfort Meets Style: Day Wear Essentials

Day wear on a cruise encapsulates casual and functional elegance. For the women, think of the breezy women’s cruise wear, such as flowy dresses and lightweight tops perfect for strolling the ship or a local market. Men can opt for casual cruise wear for men, including relaxed button-up shirts and breathable shorts, making transitions from onboard leisure to shore excursions seamless. Remember comfortable footwear; supportive sneakers are ideal for daytime exploration, while sandals work well for casual hangouts.

Poolside Fashion: Swimsuits to Sun Hats

When it’s time to unwind by the pool or hit the shores, what to wear on a cruise ship during the day includes swim-ready attire. Women can bask in the sun in one-piece suits or trendy bikinis, complimented by a chic cover-up. Men can wear stylish swim trunks with a casual shirt, epitomizing the cruise for men’s attire. Protective gear like sun hats and UV-filter sunglasses are more than fashion statements; they’re necessities to shield you from the midday glare. Below is a table highlighting essential day wear for your next cruise.

The key to perfecting your cruise wardrobe is anticipating your needs for the day ahead. Whether participating in onboard activities or venturing ashore, the proper attire will enhance your comfort and overall cruise experience. Please remember to make your clothing choices for the cruise’s destinations and anticipated weather conditions. This way, whether you’re soaking up rays on the deck or discovering new cultures on land, you’ll always be adequately dressed for the occasion.

Cruise Wear for Sophisticated Evenings at Sea

When the sun dips below the horizon and the evening lights begin to twinkle on deck, cruise guests delight in the opportunity to showcase their style with cruise evening wear. As the ambiance onboard shifts to a more elegant setting, passengers are faced with the delightful decision of what to wear to encapsulate the sophistication of the sea at night.

Non-Formal Night Outfit Ideas

For those evenings when the dress code is relaxed yet chic, passengers seek attire that balances comfort and fashion. Women might opt for women’s cruise evening wear that includes flowy dresses or sleek jumpsuits paired with delicate jewelry, while men can don men’s cruise wear clothing such as lightweight blazers over casual shirts paired with chinos. These versatile outfits resonate with the laid-back luxury of a cruise and ensure a memorable dinner under the stars or a serene walk along the promenade deck.

‘Dress Your Best’ – Selecting Attire for Cruise Elegant Evenings

Evening dresses for cruise ships can include dazzling gowns with tasteful cuts or sophisticated cocktail dresses that reflect a timeless cruise cocktail attire . Men are encouraged to don suits or sports coats, adding a touch of suavity with a tie or a pocket square, capturing the essence of cruise line clothing . The tradition of “dressing your best” remains intrinsic to the cruise experience, inviting all aboard to indulge in the night’s festivities with style and grace.

Gala Nights and Special Themes

Themed evenings and gala nights are the hallmarks of cruise entertainment, demanding a wardrobe that elevates your style to match the night’s festivities. From the lively spirit of a themed party to the sophisticated ambiance of a gala, every event presents an opportunity to showcase your fashion while adhering to the cruise party dress code .

The Glamour of Gala Night: A Guide to Upscale Attire

When it comes to gala nights at sea, envision a red-carpet event where everyone is a celebrity. These nights are synonymous with gala night attire , where sequins, ties, and flowing gowns become the norm. The key to mastering cruise formal night attire is understanding the event’s tone:

For a traditional ‘Captain’s Gala,’ think timeless elegance with a modern twist – a tailored suit for men and an evening gown or a chic cocktail dress for women. But don’t fret if your closet isn’t brimming with tuxedos and ball gowns – a dark suit and a sophisticated little black dress can go a long way.

Preparing for Themed Parties: Costume Ideas and Tips

Themed cruise events vary widely from nautical nuances to roaring twenties extravaganzas. For instance, a white night on a cruise suggests guests don all shades of white, turning the deck into a sea of elegance and purity. To ensure you’re prepared, research the kind of parties planned on your cruise and consider these ideas:

• Luminous white attire for “White Night” events, from sundresses to smart-casual shirts.
• Pirate-themed accessories for a buccaneer bash, including eye patches and bandanas.
• 70s disco gear for retro dancing featuring colorful jumpsuits and flared pants.

Remember, while dressing up is part of the fun, comfort shouldn’t take a backseat. Opt for themed cruise attire that allows you to enjoy the party from dusk till dawn.

Adapting Cruise Wardrobe to Varied Climates

When planning your wardrobe for a cruise, considering the climate is paramount. For those setting sail on a Caribbean cruise, you’re likely heading to tropical locations with a hot and humid forecast. Here, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. Consider packing items like linen shirts, flowy dresses, and shorts. Plus, don’t forget swimwear for those beach excursions and comfortable sandals that tackle sand and deck.

Layering is critical if your destination is a bit cooler or you’re planning what to wear on a cruise to Hawaii in the breezier months. Start with a base of moisture-wicking fabrics and add layers such as cardigans, pullovers, or light jackets that you can remove or add as needed. This approach allows for seamless transitions from the calm wind on the deck to the warmer interior spaces of the ship.

• April Showers: Waterproof jackets and hoodies for unexpected rain
• Summer Sun: Extra sun protection, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses
• Tropical Nights: Light cardigans or wraps for evenings on the deck
• Shore Excursions: Comfortable walking shoes plus a small backpack for day trip

Final Thoughts

As your voyage draws near, remember that the key to a seamless and enjoyable cruise experience is finding that perfect balance between practicality and sophistication in your wardrobe. Thoughtfully curated cruise ship outfits ensure adherence to the cruise line dress code and give you the confidence to partake in every activity easily. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on deck or indulging in a gourmet dinner under the stars, the right outfits to wear on a cruise can significantly enhance your overall enjoyment.

What To Wear On A Cruise – FAQ

What is the dress code for formal nights on a cruise?

The dress code for formal nights on a cruise typically requires guests to wear formal attire, such as a suit and tie for men and a cocktail dress or gown for women.

Do all cruise lines have formal nights?

Not all cruise lines have formal nights, but many do. Please check with your specific cruise line to see if they have formal night requirements.

What should I wear during casual nights on a cruise?

During casual nights on a cruise, resort wear or casual attire is usually appropriate. This can include nice slacks, a blouse for women, khakis, and a polo shirt for men.

Can I wear jeans on a cruise?

While some cruise lines may allow jeans in specific dining venues, it’s best to avoid them on formal nights. Please check with your cruise line’s specific dress code to make sure you follow their guidelines.

What is evening chic attire on a cruise?

Evening chic attire on a cruise is a step below formal wear but still requires guests to dress up. This may include a dressy skirt or pants with a nice blouse for women and a jacket with dress pants for men.

Should I pack a formal gown for a cruise?

Packing a formal gown for a cruise is recommended if you plan to attend formal nights. However, a cocktail dress or dressy outfit will also be good enough to avoid bringing a gown.

Are there specific dress codes for activities during the day on a cruise?

During the day on a cruise, resort wear or casual attire is usually acceptable for most activities. However, if extraordinary events or excursions are planned, you may need to pack specific attire

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What To Wear For Dinner On Carnival Cruise

Published: December 10, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Katharyn Barraza

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Introduction

Welcome aboard the Carnival Cruise Line, where you’re embarking on a journey of adventure and relaxation. As you set sail to explore exotic destinations, one of the highlights of your cruise experience will undoubtedly be the delicious and diverse dining options available on board. From elegant fine dining to casual buffet options, there’s something to suit every palate and preference.

When it comes to dining on a Carnival cruise, it’s not just about the food. It’s also about the ambiance and the experience. And part of creating that experience is dressing appropriately for each meal. While there are no strict dress codes enforced throughout the entire cruise, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind to ensure you feel comfortable and look stylish.

In this article, we’ll explore the factors to consider when choosing dinner attire on a Carnival cruise, including formal nights, casual nights, and theme nights. We’ll also provide some helpful tips on how to pack the right clothing for a variety of dining occasions. So let’s dive in and discover what to wear for dinner on a Carnival cruise!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dinner Attire

When deciding what to wear for dinner on a Carnival cruise, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help you determine the appropriate level of formality for each dining occasion and ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in your chosen attire.

• Time of Day: The time of day can play a role in determining dinner attire. For breakfast and lunch, resort casual attire is typically sufficient, while dinner may require a slightly dressier outfit.
• Restaurant Choice: Carnival cruises offer a variety of dining options ranging from formal, specialty restaurants to casual buffet-style eateries. The dress code may vary depending on the restaurant you choose, so it’s important to check beforehand.
• Dining Location: The location of the dining venue can also influence your attire. If you’re dining in the main dining room or a specialty restaurant, a slightly more formal outfit may be appropriate. For casual dining venues like the Lido Deck buffet, resort casual is usually acceptable.
• Occasion: Consider if there are any special occasions or events taking place during your cruise. Formal nights, themed parties, or special celebrations may require specific attire. Keep an eye on the cruise itinerary for any dress-up events.
• Personal Style: Lastly, consider your own personal style and comfort. While there may be some guidelines to follow, it’s important to choose attire that makes you feel confident and showcases your personal taste.

By taking these factors into consideration, you’ll be able to choose the perfect dinner attire that fits the occasion and your personal preferences.

Formal Nights on a Carnival Cruise

Formal nights on a Carnival cruise are the epitome of elegance and sophistication. These special evenings provide an opportunity for guests to dress up and indulge in a glamorous dining experience. While not mandatory, many guests choose to embrace the formal atmosphere and showcase their most stylish outfits.

On formal nights, men are encouraged to wear suits, tuxedos, or dress pants paired with a button-down shirt and a tie. For ladies, cocktail dresses, elegant gowns, or dressy separates are popular choices. Don’t forget to complete your formal look with accessories like jewelry and a stylish clutch.

If you don’t have a formal outfit, Carnival offers a convenient rental service for tuxedos and formal attire. Simply pre-book your rental online or inquire at the onboard Formalities shop.

Formal nights are the perfect occasion to capture stunning photos and create lasting memories, so be sure to bring your camera and strike a pose in your dashing formal attire.

It’s important to note that if you choose not to participate in the formal nights, there are still plenty of dining options available for you. The Lido Deck buffet and other casual dining venues are open for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

Remember, the key to enjoying formal nights on a Carnival cruise is to have fun and embrace the glamorous ambiance. So, get ready to dance the night away, indulge in delectable cuisine, and make a grand entrance in your finest attire.

Casual Nights on a Carnival Cruise

While formal nights on a Carnival cruise offer a chance to dress up, casual nights provide a more laid-back and relaxed dining experience. The dress code for these evenings is resort casual, allowing guests to be comfortable while enjoying a delicious meal.

For men, resort casual attire typically includes khakis or dress pants paired with a collared shirt or polo shirt. You can also opt for a casual button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up for a more relaxed look. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops during dinner on casual nights.

For women, resort casual attire can range from sundresses and skirts to casual pants or capris paired with a blouse or a nice top. Sandals or dressy flats are suitable footwear options. Keep in mind that swimwear, revealing clothing, and flip-flops are not appropriate for dinner on casual nights.

Casual nights provide a great opportunity to explore the various casual dining options aboard your Carnival cruise. From the Lido Deck buffet to casual sit-down restaurants, you can enjoy a wide range of delicious cuisine in a more relaxed setting.

While the dress code is more casual, it’s still important to present yourself in a neat and presentable manner. Remember, you’re on vacation, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style and elegance.

So, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely dinner with family or socializing with newfound friends, casual nights on a Carnival cruise offer a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Theme Nights on a Carnival Cruise

One of the most exciting aspects of a Carnival cruise is the variety of themed nights that add a touch of fun and liveliness to your dining experience. These theme nights allow guests to dress up according to a specific theme and immerse themselves in the festivities.

Theme nights on a Carnival cruise can range from tropical nights to 80’s parties, and even formal masquerade balls. The themes may vary depending on the itinerary and length of your cruise, but rest assured, there’s always something special lined up.

For theme nights, it’s all about embracing the spirit of the theme and getting creative with your attire. Think Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts for a tropical night, neon-colored outfits for an 80’s party, or formal attire with a masquerade mask for a formal masquerade ball.

Carnival provides guests with a daily itinerary that includes information about the upcoming theme nights. This allows you to plan your outfits in advance and fully participate in the festivities.

Whether you choose to go all out with a head-to-toe themed ensemble or simply incorporate a few accessories that align with the theme, the goal is to have fun and join in on the excitement. Don’t be afraid to get into character and let your creative side shine.

Theme nights on a Carnival cruise not only allow you to express your individuality but also create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere where you can socialize with other guests who share a common love for fun and adventure.

So, get ready to embrace the themes, let your imagination run wild, and prepare for a memorable dining experience on the themed nights of your Carnival cruise.

Tips for Packing the Right Clothing for Dinner

Packing the right clothing for dinner on a Carnival cruise can help you feel prepared and ensure that you have appropriate attire for each dining occasion. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in packing the right clothing:

• Check the Dress Code: Before your cruise, familiarize yourself with the dress code for each dining venue. This will give you a clear idea of the level of formality required for each evening.
• Plan Your Outfits: Take into account the number of formal, casual, and theme nights during your cruise. Plan your outfits accordingly so that you have the appropriate attire for each occasion.
• Mix and Match: Pack versatile clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched. This will help maximize your outfit options while minimizing the amount of clothing you need to bring.
• Consider Layering: Bring a few lightweight cardigans or jackets that can be layered over your dresses or tops. This allows you to adapt to different temperatures and dining venues.
• Pack Comfortable Shoes: While formal nights may call for dressier footwear, make sure to also pack comfortable shoes for casual evenings and theme nights. You’ll want to be able to enjoy your meals without any discomfort.
• Don’t Forget Accessories: Accessorize your outfits with jewelry, scarves, or belts to add a touch of style. These can help elevate the look of your outfits without taking up much space in your luggage.
• Bring Wrinkle-Resistant Clothing: Opt for wrinkle-resistant clothing materials to minimize the need for ironing during your cruise. This will save you time and allow you to focus on enjoying your vacation.
• Consider Laundry Services: If you’re worried about running out of clean clothes, take advantage of the onboard laundry services. This way, you can refresh your outfits and have clean clothes throughout your trip.
• Leave Room for Souvenirs: Remember to leave some space in your luggage for any souvenirs or items you may purchase during your cruise. This will prevent you from overpacking and help you avoid any excess baggage fees.

By following these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared and have the right clothing for every dining occasion on your Carnival cruise. So pack wisely, enjoy the delicious meals, and make lasting memories on your voyage at sea!

Choosing the right attire for dinner on a Carnival cruise is an essential part of creating a memorable dining experience. From formal nights to casual evenings and themed parties, each dining occasion offers a unique ambiance and dress code to enhance your onboard experience.

By considering factors such as time of day, restaurant choice, dining location, occasion, and personal style, you can ensure that you’re appropriately dressed for each dining experience. Whether you’re dressing up in glamorous attire for formal nights or embracing a more casual and relaxed look for casual nights, finding the right balance between comfort and style is key.

Theme nights add an extra layer of fun and excitement to your dining experience, allowing you to get creative with your attire and fully immerse yourself in the festivities. These themed evenings offer a chance to let loose, express your individuality, and engage with other guests who share a love for adventure and enjoyment.

Remember to pack smartly, taking into consideration the dress codes and the various dining occasions throughout your cruise. Mixing and matching versatile pieces, packing wrinkle-resistant clothing, and leaving room for souvenirs will help you make the most of your wardrobe while keeping your luggage manageable.

Ultimately, the goal is to feel comfortable, confident, and stylish throughout your dining experiences on a Carnival cruise. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner with your partner, gathering with friends, or indulging in a family meal, your chosen attire will contribute to the overall ambiance and enjoyment of the dining experience.

So, embrace the opportunity to dress up or dress down and savor every delicious bite as you embark on an unforgettable culinary journey on your Carnival cruise.

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