cruise wedding guest attire

What To Wear To A Wedding On A Cruise Ship

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But the standard wedding on a boat is typically associated with semi-formal attire, so colored linen shirts and beige slacks are acceptable, perhaps even a jacket. Sport coats, khakis, and Polo shirts will also be excused by the bride and groom. Shorts are uncomfortable.

What should female guests at weddings wear?

Women should wear a formal floor-length gown that covers their ankles at the hem, but if the wedding appears to be a little less formal, a chic cocktail dress might also be acceptable. Also acceptable are chic pant suits for women.

The language used in wedding invitations, such as “black tie optional” and “semi-formal,” can be difficult to understand, leaving you completely in the dark about the appropriate attire for wedding guests. The most typical wedding dress code is formal attire, according to Alicia Mae, CEO of the New Jersey-based wedding planning company IL Events. However, many couples would prefer their guests arrive in black-tie attire.

Despite the fact that formal attire may be the most typical, a wedding invitation may also specify a number of other dress codes. It can be challenging for guests to decide which level of formality they want to adopt because formal, semi-formal, and casual are a bit more ambiguous than, say, black-tie.

Investigating the venue is one of the best ways to decide what to wear. “As a guest, I would first think of the wedding location as the background that sets the tone,” says Mae. You can get a sense of the wedding style by conducting a quick Google search for the venue, and the location likely has pictures of previous weddings that you can use as inspiration.

On a cruise, what constitutes country club casual?

This uptown cruise line prides itself on its country club casual attire. During the day, you may wear jeans, shorts, and similar clothing, but not at night. In the evening, cocktail dresses or pantsuits, along with nice slacks and shirts or blouses, will make you feel right at home.

After many years of cruising and witnessing numerous fashion trends come and go, I can attest that choosing the right outfits for your cruise comes down to just three factors: your cruise line, your itinerary, and your current fashion mood.

You should be aware that many cruise ships have a designated evening dress code, such as casual, informal, or formal, that is in effect in public areas and restaurants starting at 6 o’clock each day. Thank goodness, a casual, easy-going look is always appropriate for the day.

Country club casual: The atmosphere of the Martinis Lounge on board Oceania Insignia.

When dining out on a ship, is formal attire required?

Bring a fancier, more formal outfit if you want to go to a “cruise elegant” evening. Men can put on suits or dress slacks with a sport coat and dress shirt. Women should wear cocktail dresses, pantsuits, or sophisticated skirts and blouses. A tuxedo or ball gown is a popular choice for some guests who want to go all out.

Choosing what to wear on a cruise requires taking into account a variety of factors, including your cruise destinations and their climates, the activities you plan to partake in both onboard and ashore, as well as your opportunities for formal dining. Naturally, choosing what to wear on a cruise to Alaska will be very different from choosing what to wear on a cruise to the Caribbean.

It will be necessary to pack various outfits for activities like horseback riding, ziplining, and ATV tours in addition to beach and shopping days.

Your cruise clothing should be comfortable above all else. Keep in mind that you only have a limited amount of space in your luggage and hotel room, but you’ll need enough clothes to cover all of your excursions and get you from point A to point B.

Does a woman have the right to wear pants to a wedding?

Yes, you can definitely wear pants to a wedding. Pants are totally acceptable if dresses aren’t your thing or your legs aren’t your best feature, as long as you consider the venue and time of day.

The summer wedding season is in full swing, and some of you might be wondering what to wear. Yes, you most definitely can wear pants to a wedding. As long as you consider the time of day and the venue, wearing pants is totally acceptable if you don’t like dresses or your legs aren’t your best feature. Here are some tips on how to feel comfortable wearing pants to a wedding.

If you’re unsure, ask the bride, the bride’s mother, or a member of the wedding party for some guidelines. The wedding dress code may be specified on the invitation. In a pinch, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed as a wedding guest.

Dress pants with a nice flowy look in silk, soft crepe, or chiffon overlay are elegant enough to work for a black-tie optional wedding.

Can a woman wear pants to a wedding?

You certainly can, though. If dresses aren’t your thing or your legs aren’t your best feature, wearing pants is totally acceptable as long as you consider the venue and time of day. Here are some tips on how to dress confidently when wearing pants to a wedding.

The season for summer weddings is well underway, and some of you might be wondering what to wear. Yes, you can definitely wear pants to a wedding. If dresses aren’t your thing or your legs aren’t your best feature, wearing pants is totally acceptable as long as you consider the venue and time of day. Here are some tips on how to dress confidently when wearing pants to a wedding.

If you’re unsure about the wedding dress code, ask the bride, the mother of the bride, or a member of the wedding party for clarification. As a wedding guest, it’s always preferable to be overdressed than underdressed in a pinch.

Dress pants with a nice flowy look in silk, soft crepe, or covered with chiffon are elegant enough to work for a black-tie optional wedding.

How should one dress for a wedding at sea?

The most typical beach wedding attire for men consists of a button-down shirt, slacks or chinos, and a suit jacket or blazer if the ceremony is formal. For women, flowing maxi and midi dresses are popular beach wedding attire, but jumpsuits and dressy separates are also suitable options.

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You’ve been invited to a beach wedding, which means you can finally go on vacation, right? Wrong. Before you pack your T-shirts and flip-flops, there are a few things you should know about what to wear to a beach wedding. Depending on the venue and type of event, guests’ attire for beach weddings can vary, but given the weather and setting (lots of sun and sand), it’s frequently more casual than black tie. However, there should still be some formality present because it is a special occasion. We have you covered if you’re not sure exactly what to wear to a beach wedding. In the section below, we go over proper beach wedding guest attire, including what to wear to adhere to various dress codes. We’ve also included a few shoppable outfit suggestions for men and women to make your search for beach-friendly clothing even simpler.

Wedding attire for a beach wedding is typically assumed to be dressy casual, but other weddings may be more formal, so what exactly should guests wear for a wedding at the beach? However, beach wedding attire for both men and women typically consists of vivid hues, floral prints, airy fabrics, and entertaining accessories.

What should I wear for a cocktail party?

Women can also wear nice jumpsuits or dressy suits with heels or formal flats in addition to the traditional cocktail dress. For men, a suit and tie are a necessity for cocktail attire, according to all experts.

The most popular wedding dress code, undoubtedly cocktail attire, can be challenging to follow when choosing what to wear as a guest. With the assistance of a few etiquette experts, we’ve eliminated the element of guesswork from selecting an outfit.

Cocktail attire attempts to strike a balance between formal and informal as well as elegant and cozy. Men typically don a suit and tie while women typically don a cocktail dress for an event with this dress code, such as a wedding.

According to bridal consultant LauraLee Baird, “cocktail attire is intended to bridge the gap between day and night.”. “A full-length gown is not required, but it is still appropriate to dress up for the occasion. This combines the fabric and embellishments of a formal gown with the shorter, garden party dress silhouette. Alena Kate Pettitt, author of English Etiquette: The Motivation Behind the Manners, continues, “Think somewhere between a sophisticated formal occasion and office or party wear.

For a beach wedding, what should the female guest wear?

Since beach weddings are frequently informal affairs, opting for a fun print, a vibrant color, and a shorter hemline will usually work. If the wedding is more formal, choose a jumpsuit or a dress that is a little longer, and look for solid, lighter colors.

Consider yourself fortunate if you received an invitation to a beach wedding this year. It feels a little bit more special because of the salty air and the roaring waves of the ocean. But as a wedding guest, you might be unsure of what to wear. A sweeping formal gown might feel inappropriate, and heels don’t really work in the sand, logically. However, you also don’t want to look too casual while wearing a printed sundress.

Having a clear understanding of the dress code is the first step in deciding what to wear as a guest. Since beach weddings are frequently informal affairs, opting for a fun print, a vibrant color, and a shorter hemline will usually work. If the wedding is more formal, choose a jumpsuit or a dress that is a little longer and go for solid, lighter colors.

While black may be a traditional wedding dress color, try to stay away from it for ceremonies by the sea. Choose vibrant hues instead, such as pink, coral, turquoise, or purple. If it’s a hot summer day, look for clothing made of breathable, lightweight materials. Although linen and cotton are excellent choices, satin and velvet should be avoided because they will look and feel heavy.

What should I wear for coastal chic?

A recent fashion craze known as “Coastal Grandmother” is called “Coastal Chic.”. It includes elements like airy dresses, straw accessories, light linens and cottons in muted colors, with sporadic pops of vibrant pastels like blue, pink, and yellow.

Coastal Chic is a recent style trend making headlines under the name of Coastal Grandmother. It has elements of breezy dresses, straw accessories, and lightweight linens and cottons in neutral shades with the occasional splashes of bright pastels like blue, pink, and yellow. The style is timeless and classic, far from being a trend with an expiration date, reminding one of stylish fashion icons like Diane Keaton and Martha Stewart with their effortlessly relaxed looks. In the same way that personal style has no time limit, timeless style does too. Even when we are in our grandmother years and beyond, we can still be cool, sophisticated, and stylish.

The term “Coastal Grandmother” was subject to some discussion when this group first decided to look into this “trend” in more detail. While some people thought the phrase was ageist and offensive, others embraced it as a support for fashion models who are over 40.

I am years away from ever becoming a grandmother, although there are many women my age who are grandmothers. Suddenly, the word grandmother no longer means “old” to me; therefore, I am not offended by the use of that word in any context really. In fact, the whole concept of old versus young just keeps changing for me as time passes and I continue to age. I feel younger at 48 than I did at 30, and I feel healthier than I ever have in my entire life. I don’t consider myself even at the halfway point in my life, if I have any say in it, so as far as I am concerned, I am still firmly planted in youth.

What do you wear to boarding a cruise ship?

What should I wear on embarkation day? Since you will most likely be doing a lot of walking and standing in line, comfortable shoes are key. Dress casually, and don’t be surprised to see tropical wear on Caribbean cruises or even groups in matching T-shirts. Also, make sure you check the weather beforehand.

Since you most likely will be doing a lot of walking and standing in line, comfortable shoes are key. Dress casually, and don’t be surprised to see tropical wear on Caribbean cruises or even groups in matching T-shirts. Also make sure you check the weather beforehand. Layers are always convenient for temperature changes (such as between overly air-conditioned interior spaces and muggy Florida weather), sudden rainstorms, or when you break a sweat from exploring the ship.

All rooms or cabins are cleaned and prepped on embarkation day, so it depends on when yours is ready. The cruise director will make an announcement over the PA system when rooms are ready. In some cases, you might be able to pop in early if your cabin has already been cleaned; some ships will block hallway access with fire doors until all rooms are serviced. If you have a bag you’d rather not carry around, the guest relations’ desk might be able to hold onto it for you.

Luggage is delivered to the cabins within a few hours after boarding. Most cruisers get theirs before dinnertime, but there’s a chance luggage could be delayed or that some of your bags arrive before others. (Because of that, dinner on the first night is almost always a casual affair.uisers get theirs before dinnertime, but there’s a chance luggage could be delayed or that some of your bags arrive before others. (Because of that, dinner on the first night is almost always a casual affair.) We recommend packing a carry-on with anything you’ll need for the first day on board.

Can I wear a floral dress to a beach wedding?

If the dress code is more casual, Other beach weddings will have a more relaxed dress code, such as ‘casual’ or tropical—this means floral prints, linen material, and even some boho-style maxi dresses are fair game.

If you’ve been invited to a beach wedding, you’re in for a treat. A cool sea breeze, a romantic sunset, and a ceremony on the sand—it’s the perfect excuse to take a tropical vacation. But despite the picturesque setting, it can quite the challenge for wedding guests to know just what to wear to a destination wedding like this. Beach weddings present a number of challenges when it comes to appropriate attire—you need shoes that can be worn on sand and a dress that’s lightweight enough to keep you cool and easy to pack without wrinkling or taking up too much real estate in your suitcase.

To help you navigate these challenges and fully enjoy your friends’ or family member’s big day, we’ve rounded up the best beach wedding guest dresses for every type of oceanside ceremony. Whether you’re attending a large, formal affair in Capri or heading to an intimate gathering in Melides, these wedding guest dresses have you covered. From floral gowns to casual mini dresses and everything in between, here are our picks for the 34 best beach wedding guest dresses that will keep you comfortable all night long, whether you’re on the sand or the dance floor.

Even though beach wedding attire often means a more relaxed dress code, sometimes the hosts prefer their guests to wear formal attire. While it’s unlikely to be a black-tie affair, you’ll still want to find elegant styles that will look polished with a clutch and a chic pair of sandals instead of heels. The formal dresses and gowns below are lightweight, packable, and come in bright colors that scream destination wedding by the beach.

What do you wear to a wedding at a yacht club?

Look, if you can fit in with a cocktail party, you’ll be good to go. Then you can also bring earrings. Like this that are much more formal, pair it with a formal necklace.

Can you wear jeans to dinner on a cruise?

On formal nights, proper attire includes tuxedos, suits, or slacks (jackets required) for men and evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or dressy pantsuits for women. Jeans are welcome in all dining venues during the day, but they’re not appropriate in any public venues for dinner or cocktail hour.

Cruise clothing is the subject of countless questions. What exactly is a cocktail dress code or smart casual for women? And what exactly does your cruise line consider formal enough for your formal night dress code? Few issues create as much confusion among cruisers as what they are allowed to wear onboard, especially the when and where of it all.

Cruise line dress codes run the gamut from hyper-casual to elegant (and don’t forget White Nights, of course). For example, you may be surprised to learn that the high-end dress code of Viking Ocean Cruises is closer to Norwegian Cruises’ than to Seabourn’s. Or that Royal Caribbean’s dress code may be enforced differently from ship to ship.

If you’re wondering what cruise clothing to pack for your holiday at sea, here’s how each major cruise line would like you to dress. Once you’ve made it onboard, it’s important to know that most cruise lines reiterate the dress codes for specific times and venues in each day’s newsletter.

Is it cold on a cruise ship at night?

And while you might be cruising the Caribbean or some other tropical locale, ship decks can get pretty cold at night when the sun goes down and the wind picks up, so it may be smart to bring a shawl or light jacket. 19.

There’s a reason the cruise world has an army of dedicated followers who spend as many of their vacation days as possible plying the seas. The whole experience is relatively stress-free, with planned meals, excursions, and onboard entertainment. But for those who are new to the cruise or anyone looking to get more out of their high seas vacation, here are 23 cruise tips to help you out.

Related: Check out these 10 things you didn’t know you could do on a cruise.

A lot of cruise ships offer drink packages, which sound like a nice, worry-free way to enjoy yourself while onboard. But in some cases, you’d have to drink at least eight alcoholic beverages per day to get your money’s worth with the package. Crunch the numbers ahead of time to see if a package is the best option for you.

How many outfits do I need for a 7-day cruise?

Bottom Line: As a rough guide, for a 7-night cruise, you will need to bring enough clothing for at least 4 formal or semi-formal nights, a couple of casual evenings, pool and loungewear, and practical clothing for excursions on dry land. I fall somewhere in the middle, as I usually do, and can understand both sides of the debate while really not having much of an opinion about it myself.

Related Articles:

• Can You Get Married On A Cruise Ship?
• How To Arrange A Wedding On A Cruise Ship
• Is It Legal To Get Married On A Cruise Ship?
• Cruise Weddings. What To Know Before You Book!
• How To Book A Cruise Wedding
• Do I Need My Marriage License For A Cruise?

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From beach casual to full formal, the recommended attire for your event is totally up to you.

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What To Wear To A Wedding On A Boat – All You Need to Know!

A wedding on the water is different than a wedding on land. There are some dress code rules you need to follow to look good and stay safe. Also, marriages can occur during the day, in the afternoon, or evening and therefore, you’ll have to dress accordingly. So you better be well prepared before you get to the ceremony. The last thing you want is to get stuck with inappropriate outfits. Right? But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about what to wear to a wedding on a boat so that you can feel good about yourself and, most importantly, enjoy!

Table of Contents

Attire To Wear a Boat Wedding During The Day

Fashion blunders are difficult to hide during the day. You have to look effortlessly cool and stylish without outshining the bride or groom. Finding the right balance is challenging but not impossible. Fortunately, you have quite a few options at your disposal:

Daylight calls for lighter colors like blue and tan. Again, though, at the end of the day, the dress code dictated by invitation will determine your attire of choice. In most cases, weddings require the same style that would fit a high-end restaurant, regardless of the time of day or night.

In other words, a white-tie affair means black tailcoats, white shirts, vests, bowties, and gloves, not to mention opera shoes. Black Tie events necessitate dark tuxedos, light dress shirts, and an appropriately colored bow tie. Dress shoes are the norm.

But the average wedding on a boat is usually associated with semi-formal attire, which means that colored linen shirts and beige slacks are fine, possibly even a jacket. The bride and groom will also excuse sport coats, khakis, and Polos. Shorts are a stretch. Though, some people can make them work, especially if the wedding encourages casual attire, in which case, you might as well throw a relaxed buttoned-down shirt with short sleeves into the mix.

Ties are not necessary, even with the tan or cream-colored suits that often appear during daytime events. However, depending on the weather, they may become a source of considerable discomfort, which is the last thing you want during a boat wedding.

You cannot go wrong with a long, formal dress for a White Tie event. But the dress shouldn’t be so long that it sweeps the floor. You don’t want to trip on it. Poufy dresses are tricky because they complicate sitting. And as you might expect, heels are highly discouraged.

Black tie events call for similar attire. But again. Since this is a wedding on a boat, and such parties are typically associated with semi-formal clothing, women have many options. They can experiment with dressy skirts, tops, and short dresses (below the knees).

Elegant pantsuits are all the rage in some circles, and for a good reason—the colors matter. Aim for tropical tones that match the environment. With shoes , comfort is crucial, which is why many women target formal flats and wedges.

If the invitation did not specify a dress code, loose-fitting clothing (like a Maxi dress) would make your experience far more pleasant, particularly in warm, humid weather.

In most cases, children can dress however they like. But, naturally, their clothes should be spotless and free of holes and tears. Otherwise, so long as they are comfortable, neither the bride nor the groom will care.

Attire To Wear To A Boat Wedding In The Evening

Evening weddings provide some cover for guests with a less than attractive fashion sense. However, they also place greater emphasis on elegance. Consider the following:

Evening weddings are associated with formal styles. That means darker suits for men. The right man can pull off a white dinner jacket and suits with brighter colors. But evening receptions call for navy blue, black, charcoal, and various shades of black and gray. With shoes , look for dark leather non-slip, non-marking brands.

Casual events are just as strict. You can’t just stroll in with a loose T-shirt and flip-flops. Instead, aim for button-down shirts and dress pants. Slacks and loafers are acceptable.

Look for formal, longer dresses and gowns. But, again, they can’t be so long that they sweep the floor when you walk. You can also wear skirts and dress pants. A wrap dress seems casual, but it would fit right in with an evening wedding on a boat. The same goes for a shirt dress. Identify matching dress slippers, structured sandals, and dress pumps. Aim for shoes with some grip.

Get formalwear for your kids. That means suits with button-down shirts (boys) and appropriate dresses with dressy shoes (Girls). Even though wedding dress codes rarely address kids, your children’s attire has to fit the atmosphere of an evening wedding. So again, make sure their attire is comfortable.

What Not To Wear To A Wedding On The Boat

Boat weddings demand the same precautions as ordinary weddings. That means women cannot wear white. Also, sleeveless and strapless clothing is rarely appropriate for religious ceremonies. However, boat weddings also introduce several complications that do not matter as much on land, which is why you have to keep the following in mind:

1). You can’t be too casual, not unless the invitation says otherwise. Sunglasses are fine. So are hats , especially if they match your outfit. In fact, they are encouraged in sunny conditions. However, shorts are a bad idea. Again, unless the invitation says otherwise, anyone wearing shorts tends to stand out, and not in a good way.

This applies to jeans, stretchy pants, shirts with brands and logos, and any other piece of clothing you usually find in a beach setting.

2). The length of the dress matters. Many women understand the importance of avoiding long dresses that trail across the floor. However, it doesn’t always occur to them to avoid short dresses as well. Boat weddings are typically accompanied by relatively windy conditions. A single gust of wind will send a loose dress flying, and the last thing you want is to unintentionally flash the bride and groom during an emotional speech.

3). Like shorts, sneakers are risky. They may set you apart in the worst way. You should avoid them and shoes that look like sneakers unless the invitation says otherwise. This is true for flip-flops as well.

4). If you want to wear shoes, pants, or dresses that expose your legs and feet, pay careful attention to your grooming ladies. Creams and lotions are just as important for your legs as they are for your face. In addition, of course, pedicures are highly encouraged. And if you don’t feel confident showing the lower extremity, avoid short dresses, shorts, and open-toed shoes.

• If the wedding takes place during the summertime on the deck, you must wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun. However, you don’t need any hats for the evening unless you want to add an elegant style to your look.
• Again, you want to wear polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from the dazzling sun during the summer and apply sunscreen on your skin.
• Even if it’s a formal wedding, I highly suggest you not wear a floor-length dress. You could trip on it and get a severe injury.
• Some boat owners don’t allow guests to wear shoes onboard because it scratches and damages the deck. So you will either have to take off your shoes or wear non-marking shoes.
• High heels give a sexy look to ladies’ legs, but please, leave them at home and instead wear flat sandals.
• At sea, mosquitoes start to be active around 4:00 pm and work ard all night until dawn. So if you want to enjoy the wedding, make sure to bring some mosquito repellent. I use citronella or lavender oils. Both work fantastically and don’t cause any allergies to the skin.
• The last piece of advice. Some people get sick on a boat , so you should consider using wristbands or take something to prevent seasickness.

Final Words

Wearing the proper attire at a boat wedding is important, but don’t overthink, and if you follow the advice stated in the article, you should find the appropriate outfits. Whatever you decide to wear, it’s super important that your clothes reflect your personality and that you feel comfortable in them!

Want to Know More about Dress Code?

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What do you wear to a boat wedding? You are welcome to share your secret in the comments below.

More articles to read

• What to Wear on a Boat Ride
• What to Wear for Sailing
• What To Wear To A Yacht Party At Night
• What to Wear to a Yacht Party

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

4 thoughts on “What To Wear To A Wedding On A Boat – All You Need to Know!”

This was such an excellent article on wedding wear for weddings on a boat. I get the impression that you have had plenty of experience as you picked all the best suggestions and also warned against the worst problems. Thanks for the reminder about not wearing white as I wear this all the time and it certainly would be in bad taste. It is so important to wear shoes with good grip and no or low heels. No dresses too short or fly away. Could you probably wear a type of dress with slacks or thin pants underneath? They may be the most comfortable and very stylish.

Thank you, I am glad you’ve found my article useful:)

Sure, you can wear a dress with pants or slacks underneath if you feel comfortable with it. What matters most is that you feel good with what you wear and, of course, that it adheres to the invitation’s dress code:)

I hope it helped. Please let me know if you need more info. I’ll be more than happy to assist.

Thank you for the comment, and I wish you a lovely day.

I think it can be very interesting to have a wedding on a boat. I am happy that you pointed out the fact that you need to wear some protection against the sun. I also think that it is a good idea to wear white or colors instead of black. Lighter colors help to keep you cool during the day. I think waterproof clothes might also be a good idea, but I don’t think one should go overboard with them.

You are right. Dark colors tend to absorb the heat, so yes, it’s better to dress in light clothes.

If you need any help, please, let,e know. I am always happy to assist:)

Thank you for the comment, and I wish you a lovely day!

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Home » Cruise Tips » Cruise Weddings: A Complete Guide to Getting Married on a Cruise Ship

Cruise Weddings: A Complete Guide to Getting Married on a Cruise Ship

Planning or planning to attend a wedding at sea? Here's our guide on everything you need to know about cruise weddings.

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Decided to say, “I do”? Congratulations! The next step in planning your nuptials is typically deciding on a wedding venue. Why limit your options to land when you can exchange vows on a cruise ship? If you’re considering how to have a wedding on a cruise ship, there are a few things to know. The following should help you on your way to planning — or attending — a wedding on a cruise ship.

Call to Book Your Next Cruise Now: 1-855-228-5584!

How do cruise weddings work?

A legal marriage can’t be recognized in open seas, which are not under the jurisdiction of any country, unless the ship captain or officiant is also a justice of the peace, minister, or notary public. That means that most legal cruise weddings take place either onboard the ship in port or harborside, docked in a destination. Many cruise ships do have chapels, but some offer more scenic options like a ceremony out on deck.

Each port has their own requirements to obtain a marriage license, which couples are responsible for handling. Documentation should be completed and submitted approximately two to three months prior to any legal ceremony at sea.

Same-sex marriages are a possibility in countries where they are recognized. Of course, any couple can also opt for a symbolic ceremony, meaning that there is still all the pomp and circumstance of a celebration, without it being legally binding.

Cruise wedding couples can choose to hold their ceremony in a homeport like Seattle or Miami before departure. This gives them the ability to choose their own clergy and invite day guests onboard for the afternoon before setting sail. Or they can choose a wedding in a port of call, like Mexico, either onboard the ship or at a venue like the beach of a resort.

Attending as a guest? It’s probably best to leave the giant gift box of fine China at home and opt for either a cash gift or utilize the couple’s registry to mail them their present ahead of time. Some cruise lines even offer their own registry and wedding websites. This allows the cruising couple to register for shipside gifts like spa treatments , excursions , and onboard spending money .

When to book a cruise wedding?

It’s important to decide if most of the wedding guests will only be along for the vows, or if friends and family are also cruising with you. If you extend the invitation for the latter, be sure to book your cruise wedding well in advance. You will need to secure a block of cabins with a group rate and ensure that guests have ample time to plan the vacation and request off work.

On the other hand, if guests are traveling just for the ceremony, be sure to advise them to fly in well before the day so they don’t miss the big event.

Cruise lines only allot a certain number of weddings to take place on any given week or sailing. So, if you have a very specific date in mind, it’s best to book as far in advance as possible . The downside to this is that during that long stretch of time, something could impact the sailing affecting dates, ports of call, and more. As with any cruise, all guests need to be flexible — even those exchanging nuptials.

One way to handle any potential tweaks to your cruise wedding is to provide as much logistical (time and place) information as possible on save the dates but refer to the voyage as “ Caribbean ” or an “ Alaskan adventure ,” rather than listing specific ships or ports. As the date draws nearer and it’s time to send out the official invitations, you can include more information at your discretion.

As with every aspect of a cruise wedding, it’s important to discuss how any changes (or heaven forbid, cancellations ) will be handled with your coordinator so expectations can be managed.

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What is included in wedding cruise packages?

Each cruise line has a dedicated wedding coordinator to help plan the absolute best cruise weddings. Typically, there are a variety of packages on offer, much like at any banquet hall or more traditional wedding venue.

These wedding cruise packages vary in offerings from an intimate ceremony on the ship to an idyllic destination event and reception — but they do not include the cost of the cruise itself. In addition to standard marriage packages, many cruise lines also offer vow renewals and even romantic proposal packages.

Inclusions of wedding packages vary by cruise line and by tier. Packages typically employ the cruise line’s preferred vendors, so keep in mind that it might be difficult or impossible to handpick florists or photographers.

Expect cruise wedding inclusions along the lines of:

• Services of a wedding coordinator pre-cruise and onboard
• Ceremony officiated by ship captain
• Decorations
• Recorded music
• Wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
• Dedicated photographer
• Keepsake certificate and small gifts for the wedded couple
• Dinner for two and/or a luncheon for guests
• Breakfast in bed

As with any milestone event, you can keep it as simple as an intimate elopement or as lavish as a large ceremony with a banquet dinner with every upgrade on offer. Choosing a cruise line that provides options will help tailor your wedding day to fit within your means as well as your dreams.

Should I get married onboard or in port?

The decision to officiate a cruise wedding onboard or in port is a personal decision, but there are a few logistical differences between the two options.

Only couples with a relatively small guest list are able to conduct their wedding onboard a cruise ship. Most lines restrict onboard wedding parties to 50 non-sailing guests maximum.

Sailing with more than 50 guests might be its own organizational challenge, but couples looking for a larger wedding at sea can opt to hold their ceremony at a land-based venue in one of their itinerary’s approved destinations.

Some neat options of cruise wedding venues include the shores of San Juan; a winery in Santorini; cruise line private islands like MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve; or atop a glacier in Juneau, Alaska. The nice part about a destination cruise wedding package is that many cruise lines include roundtrip transportation from the ship to the venue for the couple in the cost of the package.

Either a marriage in port or onboard can be legally binding, as long as the couple works with the cruise line to file the correct paperwork in advance.

What is the best cruise ship to get married on?

Because you’ll be embarking on your built-in honeymoon along with your wedding, be sure to choose a ship and itinerary that distinctly suits your style. A notable exception is popular cruise line Viking Cruises, which does not offer cruise weddings.

The ship that will serve as the setting for your wedding day should reflect you as a couple . In addition to the itinerary and the length, consider how you’ll want to spend your time aboard together. Are you looking for a ship that will cater to the whims of your entire wedding party or are you looking for an intimate escape that revolves around time by the pool or in the spa?

Using a travel advisor who specializes in cruise weddings could be helpful in selecting the right vessel for your preferences and perhaps most importantly, your budget . It’s also helpful to note that not every ship in a cruise line’s fleet accommodates legal marriage ceremonies.

How much do cruise weddings cost?

In terms of the packages, cruise weddings are a considerable value when it comes to how much is spent on the ceremony and reception in comparison to the average land-based wedding. However, an inherent part of a cruise wedding is the cruise, which can fluctuate in price depending if the betrothed are looking to splash out on a suite or opt for a more modest cabin.

As an example, Carnival ’s entry-level Signature Ceremony for up to eight guests is $1,799. Princess Cruises , known for being the “Love Boat,” offers a selection of wedding packages including a Timeless Wedding at Sea, also for up to eight guests, for $4,495. Most wedding packages are modifiable to add additional guests for a per-person fee.

Other popular cruise lines that offer a range of cruise wedding packages include Disney Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Windstar Cruises, and more.

A simple Polynesian-style vow renewal ceremony on Paul Gauguin Cruises is just $290. But its weeklong Tahitian cruises typically start from about $10,000 per couple.

Weddings held during busy holiday seasons as well as popular times of the year (read: summer) might incur an additional fee. 

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What to wear for a cruise wedding?

While a cruise wedding is unlike your typical occasion, it still borrows from common wedding etiquette. The marrying couple sets the tone for their special day. It is up to them whether it is a fully formal event or if the theme is more beachy chic.

If you’re a guest, take your cue on what to wear from the invitation and when in doubt, ask. Just because it’s a destination wedding in Hawaii doesn’t automatically mean flip-flops and shorts are acceptable. On the other hand, many couples enjoy the freedom to fuss less about gowns and tuxedos as they — and many of their nearest and dearest — get ready to voyage through Alaska or set sail on a tropical vacation.

Did you find this guide to cruise weddings helpful? Were you or someone you know married at sea? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences with cruise weddings.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Cruise Weddings: Everything You Need to Know

Getting married on a cruise is a one-of-a-kind experience. If you're considering having a cruise wedding, here is essential info to help you with the cruise wedding process.

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That First Moment

If you’re considering getting married abroad but can’t decide on a single location for your big day, you may want to consider a cruise wedding. Getting married on a cruise allows you and your guests to visit multiple destinations and easily stay close to one another—plus you can all enjoy the amenities a cruise ship has to offer. So, is a cruise wedding right for you? We talked to Heather Marohl of Travel Pros in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Frank Armstrong of Cruise & Vacation Travel in Le Roy, Michigan, and Julie A. Miller of Unlimited Vacations & Cruises in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, to get all the details on cruise weddings.

* Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cruises are on hold for the time being. Please be sure and check local and federal guidelines before booking.

What types of couples and weddings are cruise weddings best suited for?

According to our pros, cruise weddings can work for a variety of different couples and styles. However, it’s best for those who don’t mind  letting go of the details  and keeping things simple. “From the flowers to the music, cruise weddings tend to be simple and you likely won’t have many choices to pick from, if any,” says Heather. In terms of wedding size, cruise ship weddings tend to work for  smaller guest lists —but some cruises can accommodate larger party sizes. Cruise weddings also can be ideal for couples who  don’t want any guests at all , and who want to combine their wedding or elopement with a unique honeymoon experience.

What are the cost differences between a cruise ship wedding and an “on-land” destination wedding?

“The  traditional destination wedding  is more costly, but you get a lot more options, more security—you are not at the whim of the sea—and you can have more people,” says Heather. “Cruise weddings, first you have to pay for the cruise itself, and then the wedding package. Some companies offer à la carte options, which can add up quickly. You will also have to pay for license fees, which vary by cruise line, per package, per location if you’re getting married on shore.”

How do cruise weddings work? Do couples typically get married on the ship or at a port?

It’s up to you. Some couples choose to get married on the ship before it departs, while others get married on land at a destination port. “If friends and family cannot afford to take the cruise but can be at the wedding, then having it on ship prior to sailing would be the logical choice,” says Frank. “If friends and family can go on the cruise, then there is nothing like being married in a tropical garden or on the beach in a Caribbean island.”

Can you legally get married on a cruise ship?

You’ll have to  take note of legal requirements  when it comes to getting married on a cruise ship or on land. Some countries have residency requirements, meaning you have to reside on the island for a certain period of time in order to legally marry there—not possible if you’re just making a cruise stop. Of course, you could legally marry in your home country before your cruise and have a symbolic wedding at the port. When it comes to getting married on a cruise ship, you’ll need to follow the laws of the country where the ship is registered. So you can easily marry on certain cruise lines’ ships, while there are others where you can’t. Be sure to do your research, talk to a  travel agent who specializes in weddings , and apply for licenses far in advance.

B. Jones Photography

How long of a cruise typically works best for a wedding.

If you’re planning on combining your wedding with a honeymoon, a five to seven-day cruise will likely be ideal. “If the wedding party can sail along with the couple, then the party continues for the entire cruise and that could also be a very memorable event for all,” says Frank.

Which wedding details will a cruise arrange? What is the couple responsible for?

If you’re getting married on the ship, the cruise will typically provide a  wedding coordinator  with their package. “Generally, the cruise line includes the flowers, music, photographer, and officiant (this could be the captain) in the packages, though some of these might cost extra,” says Heather. “The couple is responsible for, but not limited to, registering for their marriage license, their attire, and  the invitations .” If you’re getting married on land, you’ll be responsible for arranging all of the details—and it’s recommended to hire a planner at your wedding location to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Are there any times of year that should be avoided when it comes to cruise weddings?

“This depends on the destination of your cruise,” says Heather. “The Caribbean’s hurricane season is from June 1 through November 30, so I would avoid booking during this time period as to not have to  deal with any unpredicted storms . The Greek Islands generally close for the off-season. Alaska cruises have a particular set of dates when they allow cruises.” Frank notes that holidays and the family vacation season (summer) can be quite  expensive and crowded  and might not be the best for a cruise wedding.

What are some popular cruise locations for weddings?

The Caribbean is most popular, but again, be aware of residency requirements before booking. St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and St. Lucia tend to be popular. But don’t limit yourself to warm-weather locations! Why not try Alaska? Says Heather: “How many people can say they got married on a glacier?” There are also U.S.-based cruises, such as ones that sail along the New England and Canadian coastlines during the fall. Or for something completely different, the famed Queen Mary 2 offers weddings as it sails across the Atlantic Ocean!

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What are some popular cruise lines for weddings?

Many cruise lines and companies can accommodate weddings, including Princess Cruises , Disney Cruise Line , Carnival Cruise Line , Crystal Cruises , Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , and Royal Caribbean , among others. These cruise lines offer a variety of routes and price points so it’s often best to work with a travel agent to find the exact cruise that best suits your desired event.

What can go wrong with a cruise wedding?

Mother Nature pose certain problems when it comes to cruise weddings. Cruises may skip ports due to weather, which can be a risk if you’re planning a wedding on land. And as we’ve seen, cruises can be at greater risk for COVID-19 outbreaks due to the close quarters.

How should you travel with valuable wedding essentials, such as rings and attire?

If you’re hosting a cruise wedding, it’s important to think about how you’ll be transporting your valuable items, such as your rings, attire, and more . When it comes to these items, it’s essential to have them close by at all times—do not check valuable items and do not showcase them out in the open. You might also want to bring a steamer on your trip to ensure that you can straighten out any attire that may become wrinkled in transport.

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15 Amazing Outfits to Steal the Spotlight at a Cruise Wedding

Attending a cruise wedding is a unique and delightful experience, combining the joy of nuptials with the scenic beauty of the open sea. As you prepare for this special occasion, selecting the perfect outfit becomes paramount.

The maritime setting, coupled with the celebratory atmosphere, calls for attire that balances elegance with comfort. In this guide, we will explore a curated list of 15 outfit items to wear, ensuring you strike the right chord between style and appropriateness for the cruise wedding setting.

You will also discover four outfit items you should avoid, to ensure you are impeccably dressed for the maritime celebration. Whether you are envisioning a sundress under the sun, or a linen suit kissed by the sea breeze, let this guide be your compass for crafting the ideal ensemble for a cruise wedding.

Panaprium is proud to be 100% independent, free of any influence, and not sponsored. We carefully handpick products from brands we trust. Thank you so much for buying something through our link, as we may earn a commission that supports us.

Elegant Cocktail Dress

Choose a knee-length or midi cocktail dress in a vibrant color or classic black. The length is perfect for the occasion, offering a sophisticated look.

Consider a dress with subtle embellishments or lace details for added elegance. Here are the 12 best American-made cocktail dresses for any party. 

Lightweight Maxi Dress

Opt for a flowy, lightweight maxi dress in a floral or tropical print. This is ideal for a cruise wedding, offering a touch of sophistication with a relaxed vibe. The flowing silhouette adds a sense of movement, perfect for a seaside celebration.

Beautiful Jumpsuit

A chic linen jumpsuit is a stylish alternative. It is comfortable, and breathable, and can be dressed up with accessories like statement earrings and a clutch.

The jumpsuit effortlessly combines modern fashion with a laid-back, beachy feel. Check out the 20 best affordable and sustainable jumpsuits . 

A wrap dress is flattering on many body types and can be dressed up with heels or down with sandals. Choose a fabric that suits the season, like a lightweight cotton blend. The wrap detail accentuates the waist, creating a feminine and timeless look.

Elegant Blouse with Dressy Pants

Pair a lace blouse with tailored dress pants for a sophisticated look. This ensemble strikes a balance between formal and casual, allowing you to dance the night away in comfort and style. For more inspiration, check out these affordable, ethical, and sustainable blouses . 

Nautical-Inspired Attire

Embrace the maritime theme with navy and white striped pieces. A striped dress or a striped blazer paired with solid-colored bottoms adds a touch of nautical flair. The ensemble pays homage to the cruise setting without being overly theme-oriented.

Linen Shirt

Pair a crisp linen shirt with dress shorts or lightweight trousers for a polished yet relaxed look. This is perfect for a beachy, cruise wedding atmosphere.

The breathable fabric keeps you cool, while the tailored fit maintains a smart appearance. Check out the 10+ best affordable plus-size linen shirts and tops . 

Tea-Length Dress

A tea-length dress with a flared skirt is both classy and fun. Choose a print or solid color that complements the cruise setting. The tea length adds a touch of vintage charm, perfect for a romantic celebration. Here are the 20 best affordable and sustainable formal dresses . 

Cute Sundress

A sundress in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen is perfect for a daytime cruise wedding. Opt for bright, cheerful colors or floral patterns. The sundress radiates effortless charm, making it a versatile and comfortable choice. Here are the 15 best affordable sundresses made in the USA. 

Lightweight Blazer

A lightweight blazer adds a touch of formality. Pair it with dress pants or khakis, and you will be ready for the celebration. The blazer enhances the overall polished look, making it suitable for various wedding dress codes. Here are the 20 best ethical and sustainable blazers you will love. 

Palazzo Pants with a Dressy Top

For a trendy and comfortable option, choose flowy palazzo pants with a dressy top. This combination is versatile and can be dressed up or down. T

he palazzo pants offer a contemporary flair, while the dressy top adds a touch of sophistication. Discover the 20 best s ustainable wide-leg pants and jeans . 

Tropical Print Shirt for Men

If the dress code allows for a more casual look, a well-fitted tropical print shirt paired with chinos or dress shorts is a great choice. The tropical print injects a playful and festive element into the outfit, perfect for a cruise celebration.

Strappy Sandals or Wedges

Comfortable yet stylish footwear is essential. Strappy sandals or wedges work well with dresses and add a touch of elegance. Opt for a pair in a neutral tone to complement your outfit seamlessly. Discover the 15 best affordable, vegan, and sustainable sandals . 

Statement Jewelry

Elevate your look with statement jewelry like bold earrings or a chunky necklace. Choose accessories that complement your outfit's color scheme. The jewelry adds a personal touch and can be a conversation starter. Discover the 15 best sustainable jewelry brands you need to know. 

Clutch or Small Handbag

A small clutch or handbag that complements your outfit adds a finishing touch. Opt for a design that suits the formality of the event. A clutch in a metallic finish or a pop of color can be a stylish accessory. Do not forget to check out the 15 best faux leather designer handbags in 2023. 

Outfit Items to Avoid!

Casual jeans.

While jeans are comfortable, they may be too casual for a wedding. Opt for dressier options like trousers or khakis. Reserve jeans for more casual occasions.

Athletic Shoes

Sneakers or athletic shoes are too informal for a wedding. Choose dress shoes or stylish sandals instead. The right footwear completes the look and adds a polished touch.

While dress shorts can work for men, women may want to opt for more dressy options like dresses or skirts. Shorts may be too casual for a wedding setting.

Overly Revealing Outfits

It is best to err on the side of modesty for a wedding. Avoid overly revealing outfits that may not be suitable for the occasion. Opt for styles that strike a balance between comfort and sophistication.

Was this article helpful to you? Please tell us what you liked or didn't like in the comments below.

About the Author: Gohar Davtyan

Gohar is a linguist fluent in 5 languages. She has lived and worked in several countries in Asia and Europe. She is passionate about travelling, different cultures, and yoga. Having volunteered in many environmental projects, Gohar feels very strongly about the environment and advocates for sustainable and eco-friendly fashion.

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20 Things to know when planning a cruise ship wedding

August 01, 2020 6 min read

Cruise ship weddings can be fun, simple, and affordable. Check out the things you should know before planning a cruise ship wedding!  Did you know that the average wedding in the United States cost over  $20,000?  I personally had my wedding on a cruise ship and I loved it! A cruise wedding can be as cheap as  $1500-$7000  depending on what you want and how many people will be attending. You can also add things and still have an amazing wedding on a budget.  A wedding on a cruise ship is a great way to save money, time, and is a very unique way to tie the knot!   I have created this cruise ship wedding guide for anyone looking for perspective and tips on tying the knot on board a cruise ship.  

1.) Reserve in advance  

With any wedding whether land or sea, reserve in advance because you may not be the only couple considering a certain wedding date. Also, you want to book your cruise vacation in advance to avoid it being sold out.  

2.)Your Wedding can be at a port or destination venue 

I had my wedding in Miami before the cruise set sail. You can choose to have your wedding on the ship in your home port before it sets sail or at another port like the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii etc. Keep in mind that you can not have your wedding while the cruise is actually sailing on the ocean because a legal marriage has to be within a country. Also, know that you can renew your vows on a cruise if you are already married!  

3.)Pick the right cruise for you  

For most ships they will require you to book your cruise vacation first before starting any wedding planning so keep this in mind. Also, every ship is different with different cruise lengths and things to offer so you will want to pick the cruise ship that matches your personality. I personally chose to have a wedding on Carnival cruise because it offered affordable wedding packages compared to other ships and I chose a 7 day cruise because it was not too long or too short. A 4 day cruise is also a great option.  

4.) Get the balcony suite  

You will be saving some major bucks on your wedding, so you will have some extra cash to get an ocean view suite with a balcony. I would highly recommend getting a balcony suite because it is more spacious and waking up to different views every morning will be very romantic.  

5) Bring marriage license  

You will need to get your marriage license prior to the wedding. After the wedding ceremony the newly married couple, their witnesses, and clergy will sign the marriage license. It will be up to the couple to file it with the courts after the wedding so that it will be legal.  

6) Non-cruising family members can attend wedding  

   Even if your family members will not be passengers on the ship, they can still be in attendance to your wedding when the ship is in port. When I had my wedding with Carnival cruise line I was able to get onto the ship with all of my family members and friends before the ship was to set sail from Miami, FL and have my wedding. Also, keep in mind there will be no other people on the boat besides you, your wedding guest, and the cruise staff at the time of your wedding because you will be given priority boarding and get on the ship earlier than others for your wedding.  

7.) Honeymoon will still be amazing even with cruising family members  

Speaking of family members, don't worry about your honeymoon being less romantic with family or friends cruising with you. The ships are so big and full of different activities that you are not likely to run into them. However, if you do want to hang out with them it can be very fun. 

8.) Let your guest know your plans ASAP  

When planning a cruise wedding you will want to let your guest know your plans as soon as possible, so that they can have time to prepare or take off from work. You can do this  BEFORE  sending out invitations by simply emailing, calling or texting your guest to give them a heads up of your plans.  

9.) Make a wedding website & registry  

When it comes to a cruise wedding there are a lot of little details that your guest will need to know and understand. On your wedding website or facebook page be sure to include hotel information, directions to the cruise port and where to meet for the wedding. You will also want to let them know that if they are a non-sailing wedding guest they will need to bring I.D and if they are a sailing guest to bring their passport.   Check out how I set up my wedding website  here .  

10.)Try to get group rates  

Try to book accommodations as a group so that your wedding guests and you can get better rates and save money on your cruise booking.  

11.) Wedding planners will assist you  

The great thing about having a wedding on a ship is that it will be a lot less stressful. The cruise wedding coordinators take care of everything, you just let them know what you want. Wedding packages offered on the ship also help to take a lot of the work out of the wedding planning. Packages will include cake, food, flowers, and entertainment..  

Tip:  A great company to get some beautiful themed wedding invitations is the  stylishscribe.com  and you can get real looking artifice flowers looking online.  

12.) When or when not to have your wedding cruise...  

Avoid summer and spring breaks:  if you choose to have your wedding during these times you may be sharing your cruise vacation with college spring breakers and families on vacation with their kids However, do book your cruise during these time if it fits into your wedding plans and guest schedules.     Avoid holidays: keep in mind when planning your wedding and cruise vacation that it may be more money during holidays.     Consider the season & weather: of course you will want to try your best to avoid bad weather months. For example I avoided having my wedding during hurricane season in Florida  

13.)Come at least a day prior to wedding cruise  

If you do not happen to live conveniently near the cruise port and are driving or flying in for the wedding, do yourself the favor and stay in a hotel prior to your big day. This will save you from running around like a crazy person and from getting stressed out. It also gives you more time to spend with family and friends prior to your wedding as wedding cruises typically are shorter.  

  14.)Get reliable transportation  

  Be sure to get reliable transportation to the cruise ship for your big day and preferably get a hotel near the cruise port. You may want to consider getting a shuttle from your hotel for you and your wedding party.  

15.) Arriving to cruise port...  

  you will be met outside by a cruise coordinator in a designated area. They will escort you and your wedding party into the ship in order to get ready. For your wedding you and all your guest will have priority boarding and check in. I boarded the ship at 10:00 a.m with all of my wedding guest.  

16.) Getting ready for your wedding  

  Makeup:  On the boat they can do your wedding makeup for you or you can be sure that your makeup artist comes with you into your cabin along with your wedding party.     Hair:   I would recommend having most of your hair done prior to getting on the boat and leave any minor finishing touches for the boat in order to save time in getting ready for your big day.     Clothes: Dress for the occasion, yes it is a cruise wedding and can be laid back but I would recommend to still dress to impress.       Cabins:   Your cabin will be ready early for you and your wedding party to get ready in.   I would recommend that you request a second cabin be opened so that the groom and the bridal party can get ready in separate locations.  

17.)Wedding ceremony  

keep in mind that  the ceremony room you get will be based off of the number of guest that you have attending your wedding. During your big day your guest will be directed to the ceremony room by your wedding coordinator.  

18.)Wedding Reception  

I would recommend that during the reception you just try and mingle with your wedding guest, with the exception of some candid shots and the standard wedding cake cutting photo. The time you have is short and it is better to pick up the professional picture taking after the reception where you will be able to go around the boat and outside to take plenty of photos by the photographer.  

19.) Photos and videography  

You can not bring your own photographer. Also, be aware that with any wedding that the professional photos and videos may be expensive. I personally would recommend getting the professional photos and video of your wedding and try to get the photo package that is right for your budget.     See example wedding video:  here  

20.) Honeymoon  

Time to sit back, relax and enjoy your honeymoon! My honeymoon was spent in Belize, Mexico, Honduras and Grand Cayman on the ship Carnival Glory. We had a balcony suite and really enjoyed every part of our honeymoon cruise from ordering room service in our cabin to snorkeling in the crystal blue waters of Mexico and riding around on a scooter.  

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How To Plan A Wedding On A Cruise Ship

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ruperta Echeverria

• Romantic Vacations

Introduction

Planning a wedding is a momentous and exciting occasion. It’s a time when couples dream of a perfect day, filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable wedding experience, consider saying “I do” on a cruise ship. A cruise ship wedding offers the opportunity to exchange vows while surrounded by breathtaking ocean views, luxurious amenities, and the excitement of exploring multiple destinations.

Choosing a cruise ship wedding allows you to combine your wedding celebrations with a romantic honeymoon, as you set sail to stunning destinations. From sun-drenched Caribbean islands to picturesque Mediterranean ports, the world is your oyster when it comes to selecting the perfect cruise itinerary for your special day.

One of the biggest advantages of a cruise ship wedding is the convenience it offers. You can have your ceremony, reception, and accommodations all in one place, eliminating the need for travel between multiple venues. Additionally, many cruise lines provide comprehensive wedding packages that take care of the details, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day without the stress of planning every aspect.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of planning a wedding on a cruise ship. From choosing the right cruise ship and dates to budgeting, legal requirements, and customizing your wedding package, we will cover everything you need to know to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. So, grab a pen and paper and get ready to set sail on the journey of a lifetime, as we explore how to plan a wedding on a cruise ship.

Choosing the Right Cruise Ship Wedding

When it comes to choosing the right cruise ship for your wedding, it’s important to consider several factors that will contribute to the overall experience. Here are some key considerations to help you make the best choice:

• Destination: Think about the destination you’ve always dreamed of for your wedding. Whether it’s the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, the stunning fjords of Alaska, or the romantic cities of Europe, different cruise ships offer different itineraries. Research the destinations offered by various cruise lines and choose one that resonates with your vision.
• Ship Size: The size of the ship can greatly impact the atmosphere and overall feel of your wedding. Larger cruise ships offer a multitude of onboard amenities, entertainment options, and dining choices. They may also have dedicated wedding chapels or venues that can accommodate a larger guest list. On the other hand, smaller ships provide a more intimate and personalized experience, with the opportunity to explore smaller, off-the-beaten-path ports of call.
• Wedding Packages: Research the wedding packages offered by different cruise lines. These packages generally include the ceremony, officiant, flowers, decorations, cake, and sometimes even photography. Consider your budget and desired level of customization when evaluating the packages. Some cruise lines also offer additional add-ons, such as live music, upgraded menus, or onboard spa treatments.
• Wedding Coordinator: Find out if the cruise line provides a dedicated wedding coordinator to assist you throughout the planning process. Having an experienced professional to guide you through the logistics and details can alleviate stress and ensure that your vision for the perfect day is brought to life.
• Guest Accommodations: Consider the comfort and convenience of your guests. Ensure that the cruise ship has enough cabin options to accommodate the number of attendees, as well as amenities and activities that will keep everyone entertained throughout the duration of the cruise.
• Budget: Set a clear budget for your cruise ship wedding and research the costs associated with each option. Take into account the wedding package, guest accommodations, travel expenses, and any additional expenses you may incur, such as customizations or onboard activities.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the cruise ship that aligns with your wedding vision and ensures that you and your guests have an unforgettable experience.

Selecting Dates and Planning Ahead

Choosing the perfect date for your cruise ship wedding requires careful consideration and planning. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

• Availability: Check with the cruise line to determine which dates are available for weddings. Popular cruises and peak travel seasons tend to book up quickly, so it’s advisable to inquire and secure your desired date well in advance. This will give you more flexibility and ensure that you get the date that works best for you.
• Guests’ Availability: Consider the availability of your guests when selecting the wedding date. Consult with your close family and friends to find a date that works for everyone. It’s a good idea to send out save-the-date cards or notifications well in advance, allowing your guests enough time to plan their travel arrangements.
• Weather: Research the weather patterns of your chosen destination during your planned wedding dates. Consider potential climatic conditions, such as hurricane seasons or extreme temperatures. While it’s impossible to predict weather conditions far in advance, consulting historical weather data can give you a general idea of what to expect during that time of the year.
• Special Occasions: Determine if there are any special events or holidays during your desired dates. While getting married on a special occasion can add an extra layer of excitement, keep in mind that there may be increased demand and prices for travel and accommodations during these times. Additionally, availability of wedding packages or onboard activities may be limited, so it’s important to plan ahead and secure your reservations early.
• Personal Significance: Consider if there are any meaningful dates or anniversaries that hold significance to you and your partner. Getting married on a date that is special to you can add an extra layer of sentiment to your wedding day.
• Plan Ahead: Once you have chosen the date for your cruise ship wedding, start planning ahead. Make a checklist of all the tasks and deadlines you need to meet, such as sending out invitations, finalizing guest accommodations, choosing vendors, and confirming wedding package details. Create a timeline to ensure that you stay on track with your preparations and make the most of your planning process.

By carefully considering these factors and planning ahead, you can select the ideal date for your cruise ship wedding and ensure that everything falls into place seamlessly.

Budgeting for a Cruise Ship Wedding

Planning a wedding can be a significant financial undertaking, and budgeting is an essential aspect of the planning process. When it comes to budgeting for a cruise ship wedding, here are some key factors to consider:

• Wedding Package Costs: Begin by researching the wedding packages offered by the cruise line of your choice. These packages usually include the ceremony, officiant, flower arrangements, decorations, wedding cake, and sometimes photography. Carefully evaluate the costs associated with each package to determine the best fit for your budget.
• Customizations: Decide on any additional customizations or upgrades you would like for your wedding day. These might include live music, upgraded menus, additional decorations, or specialty cakes. Keep in mind that each customization may come with an additional cost, so factor these into your budget as well.
• Guest Accommodations: Consider the costs of guest accommodations and factor them into your budget. Different cabin categories have varying price ranges, so take into account the number of guests and their preferences when selecting accommodation options.
• Travel Expenses: Depending on the cruise itinerary, there may be additional travel expenses involved, such as flights to the port of departure or transportation to and from the port. Research these costs and factor them into your budget accordingly.
• Additional Expenses: Think about any additional expenses you may incur during the cruise, such as onboard activities, specialty restaurants, or spa treatments. It’s important to budget for these extras to ensure you can fully enjoy your wedding experience without stressing about additional costs.
• Wedding Attire and Accessories: Don’t forget to set aside a budget for your wedding attire, including the wedding dress, groom’s attire, and accessories. Consider any alterations, special shoes, or jewelry that you may need.
• Vendor Costs: If you plan to hire additional vendors for services such as photography, videography, or music, research the costs associated with these services and incorporate them into your budget. Keep in mind that some cruise lines may have restrictions on external vendors, so be sure to check with your wedding coordinator.
• Contingency Fund: It’s always a good idea to have a contingency fund for any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the planning process or on the wedding day itself. Setting aside a small percentage of your overall budget for unexpected costs will give you peace of mind in case anything unexpected happens.

By carefully considering these factors and creating a detailed budget, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of the costs associated with your cruise ship wedding and avoid any financial surprises along the way.

Legal Requirements and Documentation

When planning a cruise ship wedding, it is essential to be aware of the legal requirements and documentation needed to ensure a legally binding marriage. While the specific requirements may vary based on the cruise line, ship, and destination, here are some general guidelines to consider:

• Marriage License: Research the marriage license requirements for both the country where the ship is registered and the destination(s) where the ceremony will take place. Check if the cruise line will assist in obtaining the necessary marriage license or if you need to obtain it on your own. Be aware of any waiting periods or residency requirements that may be imposed by the destination.
• Identification Documents: Ensure that you and your partner have valid passports, as well as any other required identification documents, such as birth certificates or driver’s licenses. Some countries may have specific entry visa requirements, so check with the respective embassy or consulate if necessary.
• Divorce or Death Certificates: If either you or your partner has been previously married, you may need to provide divorce decrees or death certificates to demonstrate the dissolution of previous marriages. Check the specific requirements for each destination to ensure compliance.
• Translations and Notarizations: If any of your documents are in a language other than English, you may need to have them translated into the required language and notarized. Check with the appropriate authorities to ascertain if this is necessary.
• Witnesses: Confirm the number and age requirements for witnesses to the wedding ceremony. Some destinations may require a specific number of witnesses, and they may need to be of legal age.
• Legalization and Apostille: Some countries require additional steps, such as the legalization or apostille of documents. This involves getting official approvals or certifications from the respective authorities to validate the authenticity of the documents.
• Wedding Officiant: Check if the cruise line provides qualified wedding officiants or if you need to arrange for your own. Depending on the ship’s registry and the destination’s requirements, there may be specific qualifications or certifications needed for the officiant.
• Pre-Wedding Counseling: In some cases, destinations may require pre-wedding counseling or blood tests. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the destination to ensure compliance.

It is essential to consult with the cruise line’s wedding planner or coordinator to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the legal requirements for your cruise ship wedding. They can guide you through the necessary steps and help ensure that all legal documentation is in order, allowing you to have a hassle-free and legally recognized wedding ceremony.

Wedding Packages and Customization Options

One of the advantages of having a cruise ship wedding is the convenience of inclusive wedding packages offered by many cruise lines. These packages are designed to provide all the essentials for your special day. Here are some key points to consider when exploring wedding packages and customization options:

• Package Inclusions: Review the details of the wedding packages offered by the cruise line. Typically, these packages include the ceremony venue, officiant, floral arrangements, decorations, wedding cake, and sometimes photography services. Be sure to understand exactly what is included in the package and any limitations or restrictions that may apply.
• Upgrade Options: Explore any upgrade options available to enhance your wedding package. This may include options such as upgraded floral arrangements, premium cake designs, live music or entertainment, upgraded menu selections, or additional photography or videography services. Consider these options based on your preferences and budget.
• Customizations: Determine if the cruise line allows for customizations to their standard wedding packages. This could involve adding personalized touches, such as incorporating your own vows, selecting specific music or readings, or including cultural or religious rituals. Discuss customization options with the wedding coordinator to ensure your vision for the ceremony is realized.
• Additional Services: Inquire about any additional services or amenities that can be added to your wedding package. This may include arranging spa treatments, reserving private dining experiences, organizing group shore excursions for your guests, or planning pre- or post-wedding celebrations. Explore these options to create a comprehensive and memorable wedding experience.
• Photography and Videography: Assess the cruise line’s photography and videography services included in the wedding package. Review sample portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your preferences. If desired, inquire about the possibility of bringing in your own professional photographer or videographer, as some cruise lines allow for outside vendors at an additional fee or with specific requirements.
• Wedding Reception: Determine if the wedding package includes a reception after the ceremony and what options are available. This may range from intimate dinners at specialty restaurants to grand receptions in dedicated venues onboard the ship. Consider the number of guests, your budget, and your desired atmosphere when selecting the reception options.
• Personalization Opportunities: Discuss any opportunities for personalization, such as creating customized wedding invitations, favors, or welcome gifts for your guests. These small details can add a special touch to your wedding and make it truly unique.

By carefully reviewing the wedding packages and exploring customization options, you can select a package that aligns with your vision, budget, and personal preferences. Don’t hesitate to communicate your desires and requests with the cruise line’s wedding coordinator to ensure your dream wedding becomes a reality.

Coordinating with Wedding Planners and Cruise Staff

When planning a cruise ship wedding, you will have the support and expertise of wedding planners and cruise staff who are dedicated to ensuring your special day goes smoothly. Here are some important points to consider when coordinating with them:

• Initial Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with the cruise line’s wedding planner to discuss your vision, preferences, and any specific requirements for your wedding. This will help establish clear expectations and enable the planner to guide you in the right direction.
• Clear Communication: Maintain open and clear communication with your wedding planner throughout the planning process. Clearly communicate your priorities, preferences, and any changes or updates that may arise. Respond promptly to their requests for information or decisions to ensure a smooth planning process.
• Clarify Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for the wedding day, including the ceremony and reception details, preferred vendors (if applicable), and any personalized elements you wish to include. Providing a clear vision will help the wedding planner and cruise staff work together to create the wedding of your dreams.
• Regular Updates: Stay connected with the wedding planner and cruise staff by scheduling regular updates or check-ins. This will allow you to address any concerns, ask questions, or make adjustments as needed throughout the planning process.
• Timeline and Deadlines: Work with the wedding planner to establish a timeline and adhere to deadlines for tasks such as selecting wedding packages, customizations, vendor selections, and guest accommodations. This will help ensure that all elements are arranged in a timely manner and reduce any last-minute stress.
• Onboard Meetings: If possible, schedule in-person meetings with the wedding planner and cruise staff once you embark on the cruise ship. Use this opportunity to review all the details and finalize any remaining arrangements. This will allow you to address any last-minute concerns and ensure that everything is in place for your wedding day.
• Rehearsal: Coordinate the wedding rehearsal with the wedding planner and cruise staff. Walk through the ceremony and reception details, ensuring that everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities. A rehearsal will help alleviate any nerves and ensure a smooth flow on the actual wedding day.
• Day-Of Coordination: Trust the expertise and professionalism of the cruise staff on the wedding day. They will work diligently to ensure that everything runs smoothly, from setting up the ceremony and reception venues to coordinating with vendors and managing any unexpected situations. Allow them to take care of the logistics while you focus on enjoying your special day.
• Express Gratitude: After the wedding, take the time to express your gratitude to the wedding planner and cruise staff for their efforts in making your wedding day memorable. A simple gesture of appreciation goes a long way in acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

Coordinating with the wedding planners and cruise staff is crucial for a successful and stress-free cruise ship wedding. By maintaining clear communication, adhering to timelines, and building a trusting relationship, you can ensure that your wedding day is flawlessly executed.

Guest Accommodations and Invitations

When planning a cruise ship wedding, it’s important to consider the accommodations and invitations for your guests. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Guest Accommodations: Work closely with the cruise line to ensure that there are enough accommodations for your guests. Check the availability of cabin categories and ensure that they align with the preferences and budgets of your guests. Consider reserving a block of cabins to secure availability and potentially receive group booking discounts.
• Informing Guests: Notify your guests about the wedding as soon as possible. Send out save-the-date cards or notifications well in advance to allow them time to plan and make any necessary travel arrangements. Include all relevant information such as the cruise line, ship name, embarkation port, wedding date, and any additional events or activities you have planned.
• Invitations: Follow up the initial notification with formal invitations. These can be sent electronically or through traditional paper invitations, depending on your preference. Include details such as the ceremony and reception times, onboard dress code guidelines, and any specific instructions or requirements for the wedding day.
• Travel Planning Assistance: Provide your guests with travel planning assistance by sharing helpful information such as recommended flights, transportation options to the embarkation port, and any special arrangements made for group transfers. Including contact details for a designated point person who can assist with questions or concerns will also be appreciated.
• Group Activities: Plan pre- or post-wedding activities for your guests to enjoy together. This could include welcome gatherings, group shore excursions, or informal get-togethers onboard the ship. Organizing group activities fosters a sense of camaraderie and allows your guests to make the most of their time together.
• Wedding Website: Consider creating a wedding website to provide your guests with additional information about the cruise ship, the destination(s), travel tips, and a detailed itinerary of the wedding events. This can also serve as a platform for collecting RSVPs, sharing updates, and communicating important details with your guests.
• Guest Favors: Show appreciation for your guests’ presence by providing thoughtful wedding favors. These could be small mementos, personalized tokens, or practical items that will remind them of the special occasion. Consider incorporating elements that reflect the cruise ship wedding theme or the destination.
• Follow-Up Communication: Keep in touch with your guests leading up to the wedding. Send reminders, updates, and any additional information they may need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Encourage them to reach out if they have any questions or concerns and assure them that you are there to assist.
• Special Considerations: Take into account any special considerations for your guests, such as dietary restrictions, mobility issues, or medical requirements. Communicate these to the cruise line so that appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of all attendees.

By thoughtfully planning guest accommodations and invitations, you can ensure that your loved ones feel welcome, informed, and excited to be a part of your cruise ship wedding. Their presence and support will contribute to making your wedding celebrations all the more memorable.

Onboard Activities and Entertainment

When planning a cruise ship wedding, it’s important to consider the onboard activities and entertainment options available to you and your guests. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Pre-Wedding Gatherings: Take advantage of the various facilities and venues onboard the ship to organize pre-wedding gatherings or welcome parties. This could be a casual get-together at one of the ship’s bars or lounges, a poolside meet-and-greet, or a more formal cocktail reception.
• Spa and Wellness: Indulge in relaxation and pampering by booking spa treatments for you and your wedding party. Many cruise ships have luxurious spas offering a range of services, including massages, facials, and beauty treatments. Treat yourself to some pre-wedding self-care and rejuvenation.
• Recreation Opportunities: Cruise ships are equipped with a myriad of recreational activities to keep you and your guests entertained. From swimming pools and water slides to sports courts, fitness centers, and even rock climbing walls or zip lines, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their time on the ship.
• Specialty Restaurants: While most cruise ships offer dining options included in the fare, consider treating your guests to a memorable dining experience at one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. These establishments often offer gourmet cuisine and a more intimate atmosphere, providing a perfect setting for a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding celebration.
• Evening Entertainment: Cruise ships are renowned for their evening entertainment, which may include Broadway-style shows, live music performances, comedy acts, and dance parties. Coordinate with the ship’s entertainment staff to ensure that there are engaging activities for your guests to enjoy during your wedding celebrations.
• Group Shore Excursions: Plan group shore excursions to give your guests the opportunity to explore the ports of call together. Cruise lines offer a variety of excursions, ranging from guided city tours to adventure activities, cultural experiences, and beach outings. This allows your guests to have shared experiences and create lasting memories during the cruise.
• Unique Onboard Experiences: Research the unique onboard experiences offered by the cruise line, such as wine tastings, cooking classes, art auctions, or educational seminars. These activities can add an extra dimension to your wedding celebrations and provide opportunities for your guests to bond and engage in enriching experiences together.
• Casino and Nightlife: For those who enjoy some late-night excitement, cruise ship casinos provide an entertaining and lively atmosphere. Additionally, the ship’s bars, lounges, and nightclub venues offer opportunities for your guests to dance, socialize, and celebrate long into the night.
• Personalized Activities: Consider coordinating personalized activities or surprises for your guests, such as a themed costume party, a group photo session, or a private gathering for your wedding party. These personalized touches add a special touch to the overall wedding experience and create lasting memories.

By exploring the onboard activities and entertainment options available, you can enhance the wedding experience for both you and your guests. From relaxation and wellness to exciting excursions and unforgettable entertainment, a cruise ship wedding provides a wide range of activities to ensure that everyone has a truly memorable time onboard.

Selecting Vendors for Photography, Flowers, and Cake

While many cruise ship wedding packages include the services of photographers, florists, and pastry chefs, you may have the option to select external vendors for these important elements of your special day. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing vendors for photography, flowers, and cake:

• Photography: Research the photography options available onboard the cruise ship. Review the sample portfolios provided by the cruise line’s recommended photographers to ensure their style aligns with your preferences. If you prefer a different approach or have a specific photographer in mind, check if the cruise line allows for external vendors and if there are any additional fees or restrictions involved.
• Flowers: Consider your floral preferences and consult with the onboard florist provided by the cruise line. They will be familiar with the options available, taking into account the destination, season, and ship’s resources. If you have specific floral arrangements in mind or desire a wider selection, inquire if external florists are allowed and what requirements must be met.
• Cake: Review the cake options offered by the cruise line. Determine if they can accommodate any dietary restrictions or specific design requests. If you have a specific cake design in mind, discuss it with the cruise line’s pastry chef. Alternatively, find out if you can bring in an external baker to create a custom cake that meets your vision.
• Vendor Experience and Reputation: Whether you choose vendors provided by the cruise line or bring in external vendors, it’s important to research their experience and reputation. Read reviews, view their portfolios, and ask for references to ensure they have a track record of delivering high-quality work.
• Communication and Personalization: When selecting vendors, consider their responsiveness and ability to understand your vision and preferences. Ensure that they are willing to customize their services based on your specific requirements and offer open lines of communication throughout the planning process.
• Budget Considerations: Compare the costs of using external vendors versus the services provided by the cruise line. Take into account any extra fees, such as corkage fees for the cake or photography permits for the ship. Balance your desire for specific vendors with any budgetary constraints you may have.
• Coordination and Logistics: Discuss the logistics of working with external vendors with the cruise line’s wedding coordinator. Determine if there are any restrictions or requirements for vendors boarding the ship or delivering their services onboard. Coordinate with the wedding coordinator to ensure a smooth collaboration between the vendors and the cruise ship staff.
• Insurance and Contracts: If you decide to bring in external vendors, make sure they have appropriate liability insurance coverage. Review all contracts carefully and ensure that they outline the specific services, deliverables, payment terms, and cancellation policies. Protect yourself and your investment by clarifying these details in advance.

By carefully considering these factors and making informed decisions, you can ensure that the vendors you choose for photography, flowers, and cake contribute to the overall success and beauty of your cruise ship wedding. Whether you opt for onboard services or bring in external vendors, make sure your vision is realized and your wedding day is everything you dreamed of.

Finalizing Details and Rehearsal

As your cruise ship wedding date approaches, it’s time to focus on finalizing the last details and ensuring that everything is in place for your special day. Here are some important steps to take during this phase:

• Review Contracts and Confirmations: Double-check all contracts and confirmations with the cruise line, vendors, and any external service providers. Ensure that everyone is clear on the agreed-upon details, including dates, times, venues, services, and any special requests or customization. Make note of any outstanding payments and confirm deadlines.
• Finalize Guest Accommodations: Confirm the guest accommodations with the cruise line, ensuring that all rooms are properly allocated and any specific requests or special needs have been addressed. Communicate the instructions for embarkation to your guests, including meeting points and times, as well as any documents they may need to bring onboard.
• Seating Arrangements: If you are planning a reception, finalize the seating arrangements for your guests. Consider any special requests, groupings, or preferences when arranging the tables. Create a seating chart or placeholders as necessary and provide this information to the cruise line’s staff for set up on the wedding day.
• Rehearsal: Schedule a rehearsal with the wedding coordinator and anyone involved in the ceremony, such as the wedding party, officiant, musicians, and readers. Walk through the ceremony processional, exchange of vows, and recessional to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and knows their roles. Take this opportunity to address any last-minute questions or concerns.
• Finalize Playlist and Readings: Confirm the music selection and any readings or speeches that will take place during the ceremony. Provide the necessary information to the musicians, readers, or speakers. If you have specific timing or cues, communicate them clearly to ensure a smooth and coordinated flow during the ceremony.
• Check Transportation Arrangements: If you have arranged for transportation to and from the embarkation port or any off-ship activities, reconfirm the details and ensure that everything is in place. Communicate the transportation information to your guests so that they are aware of the arrangements and can plan accordingly.
• Delegate Wedding Day Tasks: Assign specific tasks or responsibilities to trusted individuals who can assist with any last-minute errands or tasks on the wedding day. This may include coordinating with vendors, overseeing guest arrivals, or handling any unexpected situations. By delegating these responsibilities, you can focus on enjoying your wedding day.
• Finalize Payments and Tips: Settle any outstanding payments with the cruise line, vendors, and service providers. Prepare envelopes with tips for vendors who have provided exceptional service and plan to distribute them accordingly on the wedding day or before, depending on the cruise line’s guidelines.
• Confirm the Wedding Day Itinerary: Review the final wedding day itinerary with the wedding coordinator and ensure that all details are accurate. Share the itinerary with the key members of your wedding party and any guests who may need to be aware of specific timing or events during the day.
• Take Some Time for Yourself: Amidst all the final details and preparations, remember to take some time for yourself to relax, reflect, and prepare for your wedding day. Get a good night’s sleep, eat well, and engage in activities that help you feel calm and centered. This will ensure that you are ready to fully enjoy and embrace every moment of your special day.

By finalizing these details and conducting a rehearsal, you can feel confident that everything is in order for your cruise ship wedding. Remember to stay organized, communicate effectively, and trust in the support of the wedding coordinator and cruise line’s staff to make your wedding day a truly memorable experience.

The Big Day: Wedding Ceremony and Reception on a Cruise Ship

Your big day has arrived! It’s time to celebrate and exchange vows on your cruise ship wedding. Here’s what you can expect for the wedding ceremony and reception:

The Ceremony:

Arrive at the designated venue for your ceremony, such as a dedicated wedding chapel or a picturesque deck with stunning ocean views. The ceremony site will be beautifully prepared, adorned with flowers and decorations according to your chosen theme or preferences.

With the assistance of the wedding coordinator, gather with your wedding party and loved ones, ready to embark on this memorable journey. The officiant, whether provided by the cruise line or an external vendor, will guide you through the ceremony, ensuring that your personalized vows and readings are flawlessly incorporated into the proceedings.

As you exchange vows, surrounded by panoramic ocean views and the embrace of your loved ones, you’ll feel an immense sense of joy and fulfillment, knowing that you’re starting this new chapter of your life in a truly unique and breathtaking setting.

The Reception:

After the ceremony, your guests will move to the designated reception area, which may be a dedicated venue onboard the ship or a reserved section in one of the ship’s restaurants. The reception area will be beautifully decorated, reflecting your chosen theme and creating a celebratory atmosphere.

Enjoy delicious cuisine crafted by the ship’s talented chefs, who will have prepared a delectable menu tailored to your preferences. Raise a toast to your new union and share heartwarming speeches, laughter, and joyful moments with your guests.

Throughout the reception, the ship’s staff and wedding coordinator will ensure that everything flows smoothly. They will coordinate the timing of the events, assist with any necessary announcements, and be there to anticipate and fulfill any last-minute requests or needs.

Immerse yourself in the festivities, dance to your favorite tunes, and celebrate with your guests, surrounded by the luxurious ambiance of the cruise ship. The onboard entertainment and live music will add to the merriment, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Capture the Memories:

Throughout your wedding day, professional photographers will be there to capture every cherished moment, from the exchange of vows to your first dance as a married couple. They will expertly document the emotions, joy, and love felt during this special day, providing you with beautiful and lasting memories of your cruise ship wedding.

Post-Wedding Celebrations:

Extend the celebration beyond the wedding day by planning post-wedding activities. This could involve organizing group shore excursions at the ports of call, hosting informal gatherings onboard the ship, or even arranging a post-cruise celebration at your final destination.

Continue cherishing the moments with your loved ones and create lasting memories as you explore new destinations or relax and unwind on the remainder of your cruise. The wedding experience on a cruise ship offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and celebration, making it a truly unforgettable journey for everyone involved.

As the sun sets on your wedding day, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories made, the love shared, and the beginning of a lifelong journey. Your cruise ship wedding will forever remain a cherished chapter in your love story.

Post-Wedding Activities and Celebrations

Your cruise ship wedding doesn’t have to end with the ceremony and reception. Extend the celebration and create lasting memories with post-wedding activities and celebrations. Here are some ideas to consider:

Group Shore Excursions:

Take advantage of the exciting ports of call during your cruise and plan group shore excursions. Explore the local attractions, indulge in unique cultural experiences, or partake in thrilling adventures together. From city tours to snorkeling trips, there are plenty of options to suit different interests and preferences. These group adventures will provide an opportunity for your guests to bond, create shared memories, and continue the celebration in new and exciting destinations.

Informal Gatherings:

Organize informal gatherings onboard the ship, such as poolside parties, sunset cocktail hours, or casual group meals. These relaxed and laid-back events will allow your guests to mingle, reminisce about the wedding day, and enjoy each other’s company. It’s also an opportunity to thank them for being a part of your journey and to express your appreciation for their presence and support.

Post-Cruise Celebrations:

If your cruise concludes at a destination that holds significance to you and your partner, consider extending the celebrations with a post-cruise gathering or party. Book a venue at the destination and invite your closest family and friends to join you for a reception or dinner. This is a chance to continue the festivities and spend quality time with loved ones while reveling in the memories of your beautiful cruise ship wedding.

Toast and Thank You:

Take a moment during one of the post-wedding activities or celebrations to express your gratitude and toast to your guests. This is a wonderful opportunity to thank everyone for their presence, support, and love throughout the journey. Raise a glass, share heartfelt words, and let your guests know how much their presence has meant to you.

Relaxation and Reflection:

After the excitement of your wedding day, take some time for you and your partner to relax and reflect on the journey you’ve embarked upon. Whether it’s indulging in a couples’ spa treatment, finding a quiet spot on the ship’s deck to watch the sunset, or simply spending quality time together, prioritize having moments of calm and intimacy amidst the celebration. This will allow you to savor the memories and strengthen the bond between you as newlyweds.

Create a Wedding Album or Video:

Once you have returned from your cruise ship wedding, gather the beautiful photographs taken by the professional photographers and any video footage captured. Compile these precious memories into a wedding album or video that you can share with your loved ones. Reliving the joyous moments through images and videos will keep the memories of your cruise ship wedding alive and cherished for years to come.

Plan a Wedding Celebration at Home:

If you want to extend the celebration even further, consider planning a wedding reception or party back home to include those who couldn’t attend the cruise ship wedding. This is an opportunity to share the joy and happiness of your wedding day with a wider circle of family and friends. It can be a formal affair or a casual gathering, depending on your preferences and budget.

By planning post-wedding activities and celebrations, you can prolong the joy and create even more cherished memories with your loved ones following your cruise ship wedding. The adventure continues beyond the ceremony and reception, allowing you to fully embrace the journey of love and celebration.

A cruise ship wedding offers a unique and unforgettable experience, combining the joyous celebration of your union with the adventure of exploring beautiful destinations. From the moment you say “I do” against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views to the post-wedding activities and celebrations, a cruise ship wedding creates cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Throughout the planning process, considerations such as choosing the right cruise ship, selecting wedding packages, coordinating with wedding planners and cruise staff, and finalizing all the details ensure that your wedding day is seamless and stress-free. The convenience of having everything in one place, from the ceremony to the reception and guest accommodations, eliminates the need for additional logistics and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the joy of your special day.

With the ocean as your backdrop and the luxurious amenities of the cruise ship at your disposal, your wedding day will be filled with beauty, romance, and adventure. The onboard activities and entertainment options provide a perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and celebration for you and your guests, ensuring that every moment is filled with love and happiness.

As your cruise ship wedding comes to an end, the post-wedding activities and celebrations continue the joyous experience. Group shore excursions allow you to explore new destinations together, informal gatherings provide opportunities for connection and laughter, and post-cruise celebrations extend the festivities beyond the ship. It’s a time to relax, reflect, and express your gratitude to those who shared in your special day.

Remember, a cruise ship wedding is not just about the wedding day itself—it’s about the journey you embark upon as a couple. It’s a celebration of your love and commitment, surrounded by the endless possibilities of the open sea and the beauty of the world’s most stunning destinations.

Whether you dream of exchanging vows under a Caribbean sunset, in the embrace of the Mediterranean’s romantic cities, or on a voyage to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska, a cruise ship wedding guarantees an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. So, set sail on the journey of a lifetime, create lasting memories, and celebrate your love with a cruise ship wedding that is truly one-of-a-kind.

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Setting Sail – A Guide To Your Dream Cruise Wedding

Just imagine exchanging your vows against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset, surrounded by the endless sea – a cruise wedding offers a unique and romantic setting for your special day. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the cruise wedding of your dreams. From choosing the perfect cruise line and ship to coordinating logistics and ensuring a smooth sailing experience for you and your guests, we’ve got you covered. Let’s set sail on this unforgettable journey to say “I do” in style on the open waters.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

• Plan in advance: Booking a cruise wedding requires careful planning and coordination with the cruise line’s wedding coordinator to ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day.
• Consider guest experience: Keep in mind the comfort and enjoyment of your guests by choosing a cruise itinerary and activities that cater to a diverse group of attendees.
• Customize your wedding package: Work with the cruise line to personalize your wedding package with options such as flowers, music, photography, and dining preferences to create a truly memorable experience.

Understanding Cruise Weddings

Some dream of a picturesque wedding at sea, surrounded by the tranquil ocean and a breathtaking horizon. If you are considering a cruise wedding, be sure to check out Cruise Weddings: A Complete Guide to Getting Married on… before you set sail on your nuptial voyage.

Types of Cruise Weddings

There’s a variety of cruise wedding options available, from intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations with family and friends. Knowing the different types can help you choose the perfect fit for your special day.

Pros and Cons of Saying “I Do” at Sea

There’s a mix of advantages and disadvantages to consider when planning a cruise wedding. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve outlined the key points below.

When considering a cruise wedding, it is important to weigh these pros and cons carefully to ensure your special day sails smoothly.

Planning Your Dream Cruise Wedding

Step-by-step planning guide, factors to consider.

Choosing to have your wedding on a cruise ship comes with its own set of unique factors to consider. From guest accommodations to legal requirements, here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Guest Accommodations
• Legal Requirements
• Cruise Itinerary

When choosing your wedding cruise itinerary, consider the destinations you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Whether you envision saying “I do” against the backdrop of a stunning sunset at sea or exchanging vows on a pristine beach in a tropical locale, the cruise itinerary plays a crucial role in setting the stage for your dream wedding.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Sailing

• Work closely with your cruise wedding coordinator to ensure all details are in place.
• Set a clear budget and prioritize your expenses accordingly.
• Pack the appropriate attire and imperatives for a wedding at sea.
• Coordinate onboard activities to keep your guests entertained and engaged.

Working with Cruise Wedding Coordinators

With the help of a cruise wedding coordinator, you can navigate the intricate details of planning a wedding at sea with ease. Make sure to communicate your vision clearly and provide feedback promptly to ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day.

Budgeting for Your Cruise Wedding

Coordinators can assist you in setting a realistic budget for your cruise wedding, taking into account all the necessary expenses such as venue rental, catering, decorations, and any additional amenities you may desire for your special day.

Wedding at sea can be cost-effective compared to traditional land weddings, as cruise packages often include accommodation, dining, and entertainment options for you and your guests.

Attire and Packing Tips for a Wedding at Sea

• Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics for your attire.
• Consider the weather conditions of your cruise destination when packing.
• Thou must pack imperative items like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for outdoor ceremonies.

Clearly, when it comes to attire for a wedding at sea, comfort and practicality should be your top priorities to ensure you look and feel your best throughout the event.

For instance, consider bringing a shawl or light jacket for cooler evenings and remember to pack comfortable shoes for walking on the ship’s deck. Thou should also consider the dress code for any formal dinners or events onboard.

Coordinating Onboard Activities for Guests

If you want to enhance the experience for your guests, coordinate onboard activities that cater to different interests and age groups. Consider organizing group excursions, cocktail parties, or even a group dining experience to create unforgettable memories for everyone.

Working closely with the cruise staff, you can plan a schedule of activities that will keep your guests entertained and engaged throughout the cruise, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

So, whether you are considering a cruise wedding for its convenience, unique experiences, or stunning backdrops, “Setting Sail – A Guide to Your Dream Cruise Wedding” is here to provide you with all the vital information and tips to make your special day unforgettable. From choosing the right cruise line to planning the perfect itinerary and navigating the legal requirements, this guide has you covered every step of the way. Embrace the beauty of the sea, the luxury of a cruise ship, and the romance of a wedding at sea. With this comprehensive guide in hand, your dream cruise wedding is within reach.

Q: What is a cruise wedding?

A: A cruise wedding is a unique and exciting way to celebrate your special day while sailing the open seas. It combines the adventure of a cruise vacation with the romance of a wedding, creating a truly memorable experience for you and your guests.

Q: How do I plan a cruise wedding?

A: Planning a cruise wedding involves coordination between the cruise line, wedding planner, and any additional vendors you choose to work with. Start by selecting a cruise line that offers wedding packages, then work closely with their wedding coordinator to customize the details of your special day.

Q: What are the benefits of a cruise wedding?

A: A cruise wedding offers numerous benefits, including a picturesque backdrop of the ocean, all-inclusive packages that simplify planning, a built-in honeymoon with various destinations to explore, and the opportunity for your guests to enjoy a mini-vacation while celebrating with you.

Related posts:

• Embark On A Luxurious Journey With A Cruise Wedding! Say 'I Do' Amidst Stunning Ocean Views And World-Class Amenities!
• Set Sail For Love – The Ultimate Cruise Wedding Experience
• Sail Away To Forever – 10 Exquisite Cruise Wedding Destinations
• What are the top tips for a stress-free overseas wedding?

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Guide To Cruise Ship Weddings – What Brides Need to Know

What It’s Like To Get Married at Sea – Tips Every Bride Needs To Know

There are almost 2.4 million weddings performed in the US each year. Out of which, 25% are destinations wedding .  It feels like romance is in the air when you are getting married on a cruise. Exotic sea view and gently blowing sea breeze that greets the couple; I believe this feeling is worth trying.

But, the reality is a little different from Hollywood. You have to pre-plan the wedding and be prepared for any unexpected situations. Let’s discuss some tips for the bride who is planning a cruise ship wedding.

The Ship Matters

Selecting an adequate ship is the first step. Not all 314 luxury cruise ships will arrange a wedding for you. And, if they do, it can cost you a fortune.  Many larger cruise ships have no problem with wedding planning and often have a wedding planner available to assist you.   As per the ship’s size, there are many options you can choose for taking your vows. For instance, you can tie a knot at;

• Open deck with a breathtaking sea view.
• Lounge area.
• Open atrium with built-in lookers.
• In an onboard chapel.

Cross Check the Legalities

Getting legally married on a cruise can be a tricky step. There many legalities and procedures that you have to follow prior to departing.  It is best to ask your wedding planner regarding these legalities. The pro tip for this is to decide on the specific location where you want to get married, identify the authoritative country of that location and then study their legalities and regulations.  Some couples decide to get married on the ship, while others choose to have the wedding ceremony on an island beach where the ship pulls into port.

Tips for the Bride

For every bride, the wedding day is the most auspicious day of her life. She has to look perfect so some advance planning is essential.  Here are some tips for the bride to make her cruise wedding momentous.

Dress as per the Cruise

The wedding dress is one of the most crucial elements of the wedding. It should be purchased well in advance and packaged to travel.  Let your wedding shop know that you will be traveling with your dress.

The bridesmaids on a cruise wedding are suggested to wear nautical attire that suits the cruise ship’s steep staircases and uneven (or possibly rolling) floors.  But in most instances, your ceremony will take place while the ship is docked.  For the bride, it can be a lightweight wedding dress or a short-length dress without a veil. The sea breeze and veil and can get a bit messy.

A simple white dress with crop shoulder is the perfect one for cooler weather and remember that it is often cooler at sea.

Match your Makeup with the Environment

It can take up to 4.5 hours for a bride to finish her makeup and hair. Your makeup for the cruise wedding should be light, especially if you are going to be wed out of doors in the bright sunlight.  If you have oily skin, then do not use too much foundation or concealers that may not stand up in tropical temperatures.

Just highlight your features with light shade eye makeup. Do not use dark shades like red. The best one is to use light pinks or tropical shades for your eye makeup.

As far as hair is concerned,  a nice updo or Chignon is the best as it will not be affected by ocean breezes. The cruise ship will most likely have a makeup artist available in the beauty salon to help you with your hair and makeup.

Shoes and Jewelry are Essential

A tiara, earrings, and a bracelet are considered to be the perfect combination for a bride. You might want to go with a nautical theme, or a pearl ensemble is always appropriate.  Or you could wear flowers as hair accessories and a bracelet.

As far as shoes are concerned, do not wear super high heels as staircases and unstable decks can cause a problem.   Either wear simple (non-spike) wedding shoes, strappy sandals or other dressy footwear.

Capture Memories with Professional Photographers

Cruise ships provide professional photographers of their own. They also create beautiful keepsake albums.  Many times, this will be part of your wedding package.

If you have your own photographer in mind, then you will need to plan for their attendance on the ship. Therefore, discuss all of this prior with the photographer or go with the ship’s photographer to simplify planning.

Compromise on Decorations

Every bride wants to shout out loud about her happiness through banners and decorations. Though, not all cruise ships provide your desired flower decorations.  Many cruise ships offer a limited range of decorations costing between $700-$2500 . But, you can take your own decoration items and fill in your wedding colors or theme, but this may be too many details to worry about.

Fresh natural flowers may not be available, so, brides need to be prepared to be flexible with decorations.

Enjoy your Family Time

You don’t have to invite 300 guests on a cruise wedding, it will be a much smaller more intimate group of family and close friends. It is a special occasion to spend some quality family time.  As a cruise ship bride, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy time with your family for the entire length of the cruise. Arrange dinners and brunches with your family and plan special gatherings with relatives you may not know well.

Pack your Bags Early

You have to do your packing early. Do not start packing things at the 11th hour. It is suggested to make a list of valuable and essential items that are essential for the wedding.  Pack them all well in advance so nothing important is left behind.  Most important of all will be the documents that are required, so be sure those are packed well in advance.

Also, pack for unpredictable weather conditions. Be sure to put your rings in a pouch in a bag that will be with you at all times while traveling, and in the cabin safe once you are onboard.  Make sure to cross-check the essentials list before leaving home.

Be Aware of Sea Sickness

Sea Sickness or motion sickness is a common problem when travelling from a cruise. It is a condition in which you will feel nausea, dizziness, tiredness, excessive saliva production, and burping.

Don’t worry about that; it won’t ruin your big day. Consult your doctor in advance and take pre-medication from the doctor. There are shots, tablets, and patches forms of medication available.  Be careful as you may need to intake medication at regular time intervals and they may interact with other medications or alcohol consumption.  Your doctor will be able to prescribe the best medication for your circumstances.

Calculate the Cost of Your Cruise Wedding

Regardless of the wedding type, this is a pricey event and cruise ship weddings are no exception.  The onboard chapel and wedding services at a medium-price luxury cruise will cost you around $1000. Most cruise ships have wedding planning services and have tiered packages that include most of the essential arrangements you will need.  Of course, as you add on additional items, the price will increase accordingly.  The good news is that you will have your pricing well in advance and can budget accordingly.

The fewer the number of guests, the lower your costs will be, and you’ll be able to enjoy your big day with minimal stress.

Choose Your Guest List Wisely

This may sound a bit weird, but girls, trust me, this one is an important tip. The first reason for limiting your guests is that it will lessen the financial burden on you.  You will need to decide if you are paying for the wedding party’s cruise fare.  You may wish to pay for essential family members and ask others to pay their own way.  This alone will limit the number of guests attending.  You should be sure to ask for group pricing from your cruise advisor.

What can go wrong?

Despite all the tips that I have given you, be ready for some unpredictable events; that any human can’t control. So it’s better to prepare for this mentally.   Here are some examples:

A planned port of call may not be available when you reach it for rough seas or other reasons.   If you have desired to exchange your vows at a certain port location, there is a possibility that the port is closed due to unforeseen issues.

There can be unpredictable weather or storm that ruins your wedding on the water. Though the weather forecast may predict it, still there is the proportionality of unpredictable weather.  Ask in advance if the time and/or day of your onboard ceremony can be changed in the case of bad weather.

Again the motion sickness or medical emergency can create a significant impact on your big day.

If you are a same-sex couple, legal issues outside of your home country can cause complications.  Be sure to investigate regulations well in advance.

Wrapping It Up

Your wedding is the most awaited day for any couple, especially brides. The brides have dreamed about it a lot and want to complete their dream list in a single day.  Getting wed on a cruise ship is a unique experience.  Although it requires a lot of preparation before hopping on the boat, it can be well worth considering.

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Author’s Bio:   Samantha Kaylee is currently working as a Travel Blogger at Crowd Writer and Assignment Assistance UK . She is travel lover and often trek through the snow. She never forget to use trekking poles as a safety precaution. Samantha also blogs at ObjectMe.

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What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (day, evening & formal night)

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What to Wear on a Cruise – The Ultimate Guide

Planning a cruise is so exciting! You might be wondering what to pack and what to wear on a cruise, during the day, evening and even on formal nights.

In this post, we’ll go over the basics of cruise line dress codes, as well as ideas for cruise wear for sea days, shore excursions and dinners on a cruise ship. I’ve also included cruise packing checklists to help you plan your cruise outfits.

What to Wear on a Cruise – Cruise Line Dress Codes (2021 & Beyond)

You may imagine, or even remember, the days of dressing to the nines on a cruise. The reality is, as times have changed, so have the cruise line dress codes and expectations.

My first cruise was on the Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. Can you guess what we wore on formal night ?

My husband wore a black tuxedo and I wore a floor champagne evening gown with gorgeous beading at the top.

True story – My brother got married just a month before, and these were our bride’s maid and groomsmen outfits. I was so thankful to be able to have a place to wear them again!

Yet, we weren’t out of place and certainly at that time, most men were either in a dark suit or tuxedo. Most women wore long gowns or cocktail dresses on formal nights on a cruise.

While you definitely can still wear an evening gown and tuxedo, most popular cruise lines have relaxed their dress codes over the last few years. You can still expect to dress up on a cruise , but there are more opportunities to dress less formally if you prefer this as well.

Read more: 

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

What to Wear on a Celebrity Cruise (evening chic explained)

What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night

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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cruise Line Dress Codes – What to Expect

Each cruise line has it’s own dress code, however most have a version of casual , smart casual, and formal nights . The terminology that cruise lines are using reflect subtle changes to the dress code.

A casual dress code means includes casual pants or nice jeans for men (no holes), along with a nice shirt or polo. For ladies, capri pants, nice jeans and a cute top, or a sundress are all great. Most of the time, first and last evenings of your cruise, will be a casual dress suggestion.

Cruise tip: Most cruise lines don’t allow shorts in the dining room, so men, make sure you pack at least a pair or two of pants.

Smart Casual

The smart casual dress code may also be called resort casual. A good guideline is to dress as you would at a nice restaurant at home. For men, this can include dress pants or khakis and a nice polo, short or long sleeve buttoned shirt. For ladies, a casual dress or pants with a pretty top is perfect.

Cruise tip:   The ship’s air conditioning may be quite cool in the dining room. Bring a light shawl, scarf or cardigan to cover your shoulders.

Formal Night

Dressing up for formal night  remains a tradition on a cruise vacation. These days, the formal night dress code may be called a gala evening , evening chic or dress your best , but it is a night where people tend to put on their best cruise attire . You’ll usually have 2 formal nights during a 7 day cruise.

How formal is formal night?

How formal is formal night on a cruise? This does depend on the cruise line. Tuxedos and dark suits are always appropriate. However, in most cases men can feel comfortable wearing a suit or dress pants and a dress shirt. For ladies, an evening gown, cocktail dress, pant suit or “little black dress” are great choices.

Keep in mind, that if you’re not feeling like dressing up, you can always eat in more casual clothes in the buffet and most casual restaurants on the ship.

Read more:   What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (Q & A)

Read more about specific cruise line dress codes:

Celebrity Cruises – What to Wear on Chic Night (including photos)

Norwegian Cruise Line – What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise

What to Wear on a Cruise During the Day

What to wear boarding a cruise ship.

When boarding your cruise ship, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes . Cruise boarding procedures can take an hour or more.

Make sure to dress for the weather and wear warmer clothing if you’re going on a cool weather cruise. You may want to explore the cruise ship soon after you board .

On a Caribbean or other warm weather cruise, dress lightly and casually for the first day of your cruise. A light sundress or cute shorts and a top are perfect outfits for the first day of your cruise vacation. Men can wear a tshirt or polo style shirt and shorts.

If you’re cruising with kids , you can have them put a bathing suit on under their clothing. This way they can hit the pool and water slides as soon as you finish lunch on embarkation day .

It’s a good idea to bring an embarkation day bag. Here’s a list of 23 essential items to pack in your cruise carry on that will be helpful.

Cruise tip: Don’t forget to take an embarkation day photo. It will be a great memory of your amazing cruise vacation !

Cruise Day Wear for Sea Days

Most cruise lines are quite casual during the day. In our experience, family oriented cruise lines are understandably much more “casual” than “higher-end” cruise lines. Cruise casual, resort wear or country club casual are all terms used by the cruise lines as a recommendation.

Shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses are all appropriate day wear for sea days . If you’re by the pool, it’s important to know that bathing suits are not permitted in the buffet or inside the cruise ship, so make sure to pack a cover up.

Read more:   What Not to Wear on a Cruise; Rules and Guidelines

What to Wear on Shore Excursions

Beach and water activities.

Deciding what to wear on a cruise port day, will depend on your plans and excursions. If you’re going to the beach , you can wear a bathing suit under a light sundress or cover up. Bring some water shoes or flip flops too.

You may want to pack a change of clothing in your beach bag , along with your other beach day essentials .

Tours and Sightseeing

If you’re going on a tour or sightseeing shore excursion, there will likely be a lot of walking involved. Dress comfortably for the weather and make sure to wear comfortable shoes . A casual summer dress or shorts and a t-shirt is great.

Cruise tip: Keep in mind that if you are visiting religious buildings, such as a church or synagogue, it’s often suggested to cover your shoulders. I usually throw a very light cardigan or scarf in my handbag for these occasions.

Read more:   Cruise Wear for Ladies over 40 (flattering & affordable)

What to Wear in the Evening on a Cruise

Non-formal nights.

Most evenings on a cruise will be casual, smart casual or resort casual dress code. Many cruise lines now allow wearing nice jeans to the main dining room on a cruise, a change from the past.

A casual dress for ladies, or a nice pair of pants and a stylish top is perfect. A good suggestion for men is a polo style shirt and pants or a pair of dark jeans.

Related post: 50 Useful Items to Pack for your Cruise

Many first time cruisers are concerned about what to wear on formal nights on a cruise . It’s understandable, as this is quite different from a typical land vacation.

Generally, formal nights, sometimes called gala evenings or chic evenings , call for a tuxedo, suit or dress pants and a sports jacket for men. However, in our experience in recent years, this has relaxed quite a bit and tuxedos in particular are far less common. Suits and dress pants, with or without a jacket and tie, have become the norm.

For ladies, dressing in an evening gown, cocktail dress, or fancy outfit is perfect. I like to think of it as “wedding guest” attire.

Something to remember is to dress in what you enjoy. If you love the glamour of a long gown and tuxedo, go for it! If you prefer a little black dress, that works well too (plus you can wear it for years!)

Cruise tip: Check your cruise line dress code and judge accordingly, however you can also check your cruise line roll call or Facebook group to get a better idea of how people are really dressing on a cruise. In some cases, in practice, things are more or less in keeping with the dress code.

Cruise Line Dress Code Exceptions to Note

There are a couple of exceptions out of the mainstream cruise lines, that fall on either end of the cruise dress code spectrum.

Norwegian Cruise Line: NCL has a Freestyle concept and therefore does not impose a dress code in it’s dining rooms (however rules of decorum* are in place). You can feel comfortable either dressing up or dressing down. Think of it as “You do you” .

Cunard: On the other end of the pendulum is Cunard, which prides itself on tradition and a more formal dining experience. Therefore, jackets are required nightly by men and it is quite common to see tuxes and gowns on Formal nights. For more information on what to expect on a Cunard Cruise, you may enjoy this post (Queen Mary 2 Cunard Cruise) that details it.

Luxury Cruise Line Dress Codes

Luxury cruise line dress codes vary from one cruise line to the other, however it may surprise you to know that many luxury cruise lines don’t have formal nights, and instead are Country Club Casual.

Oceania and Azamara are elegant, but not formal, however Silversea does have formal nights. Check with your cruise line for details.

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Cruise Outfit Packing List for Women

What to bring on a 7 day cruise.

Here’s a list of clothing to bring on a 7 day Caribbean or warm weather cruise . Please adjust the to your personal preferences and style.

Full disclosure – I like to shop, I over-pack and I bring too many shoes. 

My own cruise outfit list is larger than this, but based on feedback in my Life Well Cruised Facebook community , I think this is a sufficient base. Adjust to your own preferences, style and luggage allowance.

Cruise Clothing Packing List for Ladies

• Shorts and t-shirts
• 2-3 bathing suits
• 1-2 cover ups
• undergarments and sleepwear
• pool flip flops
• sundresses for day
• gym clothes and sports shoes
• Capri pants and/or nice jeans
• Cute flowy tops to pair with pants or jeans
• casual dresses
• 1-2 fancy dresses (maybe one Little Black Dress)
• shawl or light sweater
• sweatshirt or sweater
• evening bag or clutch (optional)
• 1-2 evening dress shoes
• 1-2 comfortable day shoes or wedges

Related posts:

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

What to Pack for a Bermuda Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

What I Wore on a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise – Cruise Outfits

Cruise Wear over 40: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women 

Plus Size Cruise Wear: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Curvy Women

What Shoes to Bring for a Cruise (for day, evening & shore excursions)

15 Best Beach & Tote Bags for a Cruise

Cruise Outfit Packing List for Men

• shorts and t-shirts
• work-out clothes
• 1-2 pairs jeans
• 1-2 buttoned shirts
• 2 dress shirts
• sweater or sweatshirt
• running or walking shoes
• dress shoes
• casual shoes
• baseball cap or hat

Related:  Cruise Wear for Men’s Packing List for a Cruise

What Should Children Wear on a Cruise?

If you’re going on a family cruise , you might be wondering how dress codes apply to children. Generally, dress codes are quite relaxed for kids. Most cruise lines are fine with children wearing nice shorts in the dining room and restaurants for evening dinners.

That being said, it’s not uncommon for families with children to get dressed up on formal nights. It does make a great time to take family photos and have memories that will last a lifetime.

Teenagers can dress casually on a cruise most of the time, but should follow dress codes in the main dining room.

20 Cruise Packing Tips all Cruisers Need

21 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On

Cruise Outfit Tips

If you’re trying to pack light for a cruise , or even carry on only, here are a few tips:

• Rather than bringing several dresses, you can repurpose the same one or two by changing accessories from one evening to the other.
• Scarves, belts and jewelry can make an outfit feel new again. The reality is, no one cares or even notices if you wear the same outfit more than once.
• You can also bring one pair of white pants or dark jeans, and bring a couple stylish tops to go with them.
• A useful tip when planning your cruise outfits of the day is to wear your tighter dresses early on and save the looser styles for the last few days. It might sound like I’m joking, but I’m not 😉
• I personally love shoes and have to restrain myself from bringing too many. However, you can do with 3-4 pairs of shoes on a cruise and be just fine.

Read more:  How to Pack Light for a Cruise

How to Pack your Cruise Outfits

Garment bag.

If you’re bring formal wear, a garment bag (like this one on Amazon) for suits and dresses keeps things nice and neat and easy to put away when you get to your cabin.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are great when packing for a cruise . They’re also a helpful items to keep your cruise cabin organized .

You may also want to pack your clothing in packing cubes. The benefit to this is keeping organized, which makes unpacking so much easier, on the first day of your cruise .

I like these packing cubes , which come with a laundry bag and get 5 * reviews on Amazon.

What to Wear on a Cruise YouTube Video

In this video I share more information about how to plan your outfits for a 7 day cruise. It’s full of real tips that you can use as you’re planning what to wear on your upcoming cruise.

If you enjoy cruise content on YouTube, I’d love it if you subscribed to the channel !

Recap: What to Wear on a Cruise (Day, Evening and Formal Nights)

We’ve gone over what to wear on a cruise during the day, evening and on formal nights. I hope this post has given you some ideas of what to wear on the first day of your cruise and shore excursions as well.

Whether you prefer to dress up on a cruise or be more casual, there is something for everyone. Please keep in mind that if you would rather not eat in the main dining room on formal night, you always have great casual options on a cruise.

Do you enjoy dressing up when on a cruise or do you prefer to keep it casual? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

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18 Comments

very Impressive! good job and thanks for sharing such a unique post.

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.

Great advice. I’m cruising to Aruba on Friday, so I’m right in the midst of packing our suitcases right now. The formal nights completely annoy me. I feel like it’s just an income opportunity for the cruise line. I do like to dress up, but trying to fit everything into one big suitcase and a carry-on is tough. I am bringing those vacuum bags to try and squeeze in everything for our ship days, our excursions, and our dress-up dinners. It’s definitely going to take some squeezing, but I am kind of glad they’ve toned down the formal nights. I’m just bringing a maxi-skirt with a nice top and we’ll probably opt-out of the second one.

I’m so excited for you! Love Aruba! You’re right about the packing. I’m really trying to bring less these days (but I’m an over packer).I also wear items on “formal nights” that are dressy but comfortable, and ideally pack well.

Have a great cruise!

That’s a good idea to bring some more formal clothes. I would think that would be nice to have if you are on a fancier trip. I’ll have to make sure to pack a suit and that my wife packs a nice dress if we go on a cruise.

If you enjoy dressing up a couple of nights, you’ll adore formal or chic nights on a cruise. It definitely feels elegant.

Do check the cruise line dress code before you book, just to make sure that you choose a cruise ship where you’ll have this experience.

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment,

I do like to dress up, but trying to fit everything into one big suitcase and a carry-on is tough. I am bringing those vacuum bags to try and squeeze in everything for our ship days, our excursions, and our dress-up dinners. It’s definitely going to take some squeezing, but I am kind of glad they’ve toned down the formal nights.

I’m a little bit like you. I love that it’s just a little less formal than years ago, but dressing up makes the evenings special. Great idea to pack with vacuum packed bags!

I have also found that gowns are downright odd on Princess formal nights now. There are always a few of us that wear them, but to-the-floor is gawked at. Not that I mind. And, Club Class Dining people seem to dress up more than others. On our Feb 2020 Hawaii cruise there were several white tie dinner jackets. On the opposite end, if you DON’T dress on formal nights, you are gawked at and should stay out of the main dining rooms.

Thanks for sharing your experience and what things have really been like onboard. When we’ve done holiday sailings we have found people dressed a little more (more suits and even tuxes) and other sailings less. Interesting about Club Class though.

Thanks again for your comments,

I dont see the tuxedo. You will have to point it out to me?

Each cruise has it’s own dress code, and tuxedos are definitely welcome. Some cruise lines are quite traditional and a tuxedo will be worn by many men (ie. Cunard). Other cruise lines, despite listing tuxedos among their dress suggestions, tend to have less passengers who are actually wearing them. What cruise line do you usually use?

So glad I found your YouTube channel, then website. Although I’ve been on a number of cruises (Disney, Carnival & RC), I regularly get great tips and ideas from you. Our next cruise is on RC NEXT week, February 27, 10 day western Caribbean. Can. Not. Wait!! Thus will be the third family reunion style cruise we have done with my wife’s family – this time sans kids – who are all now 18+. With this in mind, we chose Radiance of the Seas for the simple pleasure of cruising. Peace!

Very exciting!! Enjoy your cruise!

HI MY FIRST TIME GOING ON A CRUISE I HAVE READ A LOT OF YOUR SUGGESTIONS I WILL NOT BE GOING UNTIL 2024 SO I HAVE PLENTY OF TIME TO GET READY.. ONE THING I FEEL WOULD BE I GOOD IDEA …WHEN YOU GET THE FOLDABLE HAMPER SET IT UP AND START PUTTING YOU LIST OF TO GET ITEMS IN SIDE,, YOU WILL HAVE PLENTY OF ROOM ..I HAVE FOUND THIS OUT THANK YOU

Happy planning!

Thank you so much! I’ve been stressing about what type of clothes to pack for our first cruise as a family (it’s a surprise 40th for my husband). Thanks to your post, I feel much more relieved and have a better idea of what we need. Again, THANK YOU!

So exciting! Enjoy!

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Cruise Weddings: All About a Wedding on a Cruise Ship

Cruise weddings are considered to be the most romantic weddings. Whether you host your wedding onboard, at an exotic beach or in a garden, wedding cruises help you make your story stunning by simply combining your love for each other with your love for travel in beautiful settings. Yes, if you’re looking for a more leisurely way to travel and cruises are always a great alternative to air travel. And the best part is cruise cost you less than airfares.

There are many cruise lines already offering cruise wedding packages. They have their own on-board chapels and celebrants, and are able to take care of the entire wedding and wedding guests properly. They even provide you wedding packages you can choose. Or if you want to customize everything on your cruise wedding then you can do that too.

Cruise weddings are the most hassle-free weddings as they take care of everything. They are event management experts, and can help you organize the big day exactly how you want. They can help you plan every detail to create memories that last a lifetime.

If you are also looking forward to a cruise wedding. Here’s all about a wedding on a cruise ship, you need to know:

Your marriage should be legal

First things first, before you plan your wedding on a cruise ship, it is essential to know that you will need a marriage license wherever your ceremony is held. So, ask your wedding coordinator about all the requirements at the cruise ship, where the ceremony will take place. He will help you understand the details.

Each country has different requirements. For instance, some countries have residency requirements, which means you have to reside on the island for a certain period of time in order to legally marry there, which I believe is not possible. In such a case, you can legally marry in your home country before your cruise ship wedding and have a symbolic wedding at the port.

However, as I said, different countries have different rules for cruise ship wedding. Basically, you need to follow the laws of the country where the ship is registered. So, it is crucial to do your research, talk to your coordinator or a travel agent. And yeah, don’t forget to apply for licenses far in advance if you really want a cruise ship wedding.

Cruise ship weddings are best for…

Cruise weddings are a perfect idea for a variety of different couples and styles. But, it is considered best for the couples who don’t go deep into details and looking for a low-key ceremony. Because everything at cruise weddings from the flowers to the music will be simple. Also, you have less choices in a cruise wedding.

When it comes to wedding size, cruise ships usually work best for a smaller guest lists. However, there are some cruises where you can host a comparatively bigger wedding. If you don’t want any wedding guests just you two, your families and few close friends then cruise ship wedding is surely meant for you. You can combine your wedding with a unique honeymoon experience.

How do cruise weddings work?

It’s up to the couple, there are couples who choose to get married on the ship before it departs, while some get married on land at the destination port.

If your friends and family are not able to afford the cruise but can make for your wedding, then you can tie knot on ship before it sails. But if your family and friends can make for the cruise, then you can choose to get married in a tropical garden or on the beach on a Caribbean island.

Note: cruises may skip ports due to weather conditions that can be a risk if you’re planning a wedding on land.

Duration of cruise ship wedding

If you’re planning to combine your wedding with your honeymoon, then a five to seven-day cruise will be ideal.

What to expect from a cruise ship

If you’re planning to tie know on the ship, then the cruise will provide you a wedding coordinator in their package. And the wedding package usually includes, the flowers, music, photographer, and officiant in the packages. Besides these, the couple will be responsible for other things like; registering for their marriage license, their wedding attire, and the wedding invitations.

Popular cruise locations for weddings

The Caribbean is most popular amongst all, but it has residency requirements. St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, St. Lucia tend, Bahamas, Mexico etc. are popular.

Popular cruise lines for your weddings

These are few best cruise lines you can consider for your cruise wedding: Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, P&O Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard Line, MSC Cruises.

Make sure you pick a ship that matches your style

Every cruise ship will be unique in its own way and will have its own personality! So, while planning your wedding on a cruise ship, make sure you pick the one that matches your own style, with the dining, entertaining and amenity options that you and your wedding guests will enjoy.

Make sure you book your cruise ship a bit early

Cruise weddings are trending, every couple wants to make their wedding a unique experience for everyone. So make sure you book your cruise ship early so as to avoid a sold out sailing and also be mindful of possible holiday surcharges.

Know weather conditions beforehand

You may be excited to host your wedding on a cruise ship, but it is crucial to consider the weather and the season while planning your wedding on a cruise ship.

Arrive to the port a day early

It is always a good idea to arrive to the port a day early simply to ensure that everything is in order and also you can enjoy the city!

Make sure you inform your guests well in advance

Of course, it is crucial that your guests who you are expecting on your cruise wedding should know about it well in advance. You don’t need to send out the wedding invites as soon as you book your cruise, but they will definitely need time to make arrangements to take time off work.

Set up your wedding registry

Make sure you set up a wedding website and honeymoon registry so that it becomes easy for you to share information with your wedding guests. Also, they can help create the perfect honeymoon experience as you start your life together.

Check your cruise length in advance

While picking a cruise line for you wedding, make sure you check the cruise itinerary before that. It should not rush your wedding celebrations and at the same time it should not be too long or too expensive for your guests. A five- to seven-day cruise gives couples enough time for the ceremony and doesn’t require too much of their vacation time.

Check for affordable group rates for your cruise weddings

Cruise do provide group rates, which are comparatively cheaper than the ones you buy for individuals. While planning your cruise wedding make sure you book accommodations as a group so that your wedding guests get a better rate. Also, you can plan group shore excursions, it will allow you to have a fun time with your wedding guests and turn your wedding into an affordable vacation for yourself and your family and friends!

16. Pick a wedding package that’s in your pocket

Different cruise lines offer different inclusions in their wedding packages, which allows you to match your budget and your wedding style. You can choose an elegant sit-down reception, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, or even you can join your guests at the shipboard buffet. Different wedding packages allow you to choose your favorite menu selections. Also, you can customize your wedding package with flowers, favors, entertainment and other personal touches, which you always wanted to have.

Dress accordingly

By and large, cruise ship life is casual, but brides would still want to dress up for their ceremony. So, it is essential that the bride and her attendants have dresses that are easy to get into, especially if the wedding ceremony has to take place in the home port prior to sailing. However, for the groom and his gang, it’s easy to look handsome without having to pack a tux; because on-board formal wear rentals can have their suits ready in their rooms when they arrive.

Photographer will be supplied on board

Yes, your cruise wedding package will include the wedding photographer as well. Cruise ship usually do supply a professional photographer to take photos and videos of your wedding and create beautiful wedding albums. And the best part is, photo prints will be ready before you head home, allowing you to avoid long waits for the final wedding albums.

Cruise wedding are exceptionally meant to enjoy

Cruise weddings are meant to spend a wonderful time together with your loved ones and embrace the bond and togetherness amidst beautiful water. You can have a perfect vacation at the cruise wedding, where your guests will be sailing with you. There’s so much to do on a ship, each wedding guests will have something to enjoy.

Perfect for a low-key wedding ceremony

Cruises are a great way to host a low-key ceremony with just a few people and create wonderful memories of the biggest event of your life.

Combine your wedding with your honeymoon

Cruise makes for a perfect honeymoon as well. So, you can combine your honeymoon with your wedding. Like this you will not only save on money that you may spend on airfares and hotel bookings otherwise, but also on time.

Don’t miss to relax

Once your wedding ceremony is over, so is the stress. Now is the time to enjoy the ship’s amenities and shore excursions. Also, you can find quiet corners on the deck where you two can simply enjoy each other’s company as a newly married couple!

Best season to plan a wedding on a cruise ship

While booking your cruise, it is essential that you see the best time for the same. For instance, the Caribbean’s hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30, so avoid booking during this time period, then you will not have to deal with any unpredicted storms. Crete and Santorini are appealing in April and November. Athens is best from March to June and September to November. Temperature starts to drop in Alaska during winters; hence, summer is the best time to have a wedding in Alaska. Also, Alaska cruises have a particular set of dates when they allow cruises.

Holidays and the family vacation season, especially summer can be quite expensive and over-crowded and might not be the best for planning a cruise wedding.

Cost of wedding on a cruise ship

Believe it or not but the traditional destination wedding is costlier that the wedding on a cruise ship. But on the land you get a lot more options, more security, you are not at the whim of the sea, and you can have more people at the wedding.

For a cruise wedding, you pay for the cruise and for the wedding package. Some companies offer à la carte options. Also, you will have to pay for license fees, which vary by cruise line, per package, per location.

Cruise wedding packages often have flat surcharges. The base packages are remarkably affordable, which includes accommodation, travel, a legal ceremony, venue hire, meals and much more. Usually a cruise wedding package starts from $1500 and can go up to $3000 at the most.

If will get married on land, you’ll be responsible for arranging all of the details, you may even need to hire a planner at your wedding location to ensure that everything goes smoothly. However, on a cruise ship these people are event management experts, who take care of all your needs exactly the way you want.

Cruise weddings in holiday season can be expensive.

Wrapping up……..

Cruise lines are large event specialists, they can help you create a wonderful and unique wedding that too in your budget. You can plan a premium wedding for reasonable prices on a cruise ship. Also, you don’t have to take care of wedding décor and food as the cruise ship takes care of that. It is the best way to have a stress-free wedding ceremony.

If you’re planning to host a cruise destination wedding, it is recommended to check the prices offered by different cruise lines. Pick up the cruise that matches your style perfectly and is able to accommodate your wedding guests as well.

Your wedding on a cruise ship will be a unique experience for not just you and your partner, but for your wedding guests as well. Also, the destination wedding at cruise cost you less than what it can cost you at your home.

So Happy Cruising….. ☺ ☺

Thanks for reading….. And Happy Wedding…….

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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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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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Designer Cruise Dresses

If you’re going on your first cruise, figuring out what to wear for the formal events can feel like a daunting task. There’s the Captain's dinner, dinner in the main dining room, and other snazzy cruise events you want to stand out for.  

To avoid sticking out among the crowd, it’s important that you find the right cruise formal wear to bring with you on your exciting vacation. Understanding the different cruise events and the cruise line’s dress code is key before stocking up on garments.

Nevertheless, participating in formal events on cruise ships is fun! For most people, it allows them to dress up and wear designer cruise dresses they wouldn’t typically wear.

Formal Cruise Event Attire

Before you buy clothes to wear, it’s best to look at the dress code your particular cruise line has set. Cruise ships have hundreds of events happening every night and certain events may have different codes than others. Some dress codes can be “resort casual,” “smart casual,” or “formal” for certain events or daytime wear.

Typically, there are one or two dinners aboard the ship that require formal wear, mainly dinners. Depending on how long your cruise is, there will be somewhere between one and three dinner nights where formal wear is the dress code. Other events that may require you to dress up formally could be the casino or shows.

When a cruise line has a “formal” dress code requirement, it typically means men wear suits or tuxedos and women wear  gala dresses and  evening gowns .

Styles To Bring On a Cruise

Cruise lines and luxury cruise lines are your place to make a statement with the type of designer cruise gowns and styles you bring along with you. Staying on top of the trends is another factor to consider when finding the right cruise ship dresses.

For spring or summer colors, the trending tones seem to be pastel colors, specifically  soft pink and  blue tones . Colors to stay away from onboard a cruise ship are  brown or warm tones relating to this color.  Black , however, is an exception.

Navy , white, and lighter colors are the perfect tones to choose for your nautical voyage. When it comes to patterns and styles, off-the-shoulder dresses, halter tops, spaghetti straps, and sequins can add beauty to your sophisticated look.

Why Buy From NYD?

NewYorkDress is a company that keeps up with the trending fashion for any kind of sophisticated, formal event. We feature exclusive designers that offer the best formal and gala dresses to bring as your formal cruise dinner dresses. Our selection of styles is perfect for cruise formal wear, and we love to make sure our customers look fabulous and elegant wherever they go. We like to make our dresses affordable for every woman who’s going to steal the show in the selection of their choice. Get ready for your voyage by shopping from our designer cruise gowns today!

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Princess ® Perfect Weddings (And More To Love)

Creating celebrations with heart on your cruise, dream big for your big day.

That perfect wedding you've always wanted? You deserve it. And with Princess® Perfect Weddings it's within reach.

Just tell us your dream destination, wedding date and ceremony style, and we'll take it from there. We have a world of options — grand ceremonies in The Piazza, outdoor settings with an ocean backdrop — and packages at a value that beats land-based venues.

Wedding Packages To Fit Your Lifestyle

Browse our three At-Sea wedding packages, all offered as either legal or symbolic ceremonies.

By clicking the below link, you are now leaving the Princess Cruises website and navigating to a 3rd party website that is not owned, operated, or controlled by Princess Cruises or any of its affiliates.

Perfect Pair Wedding

The perfect package for couples getting hitched before only a few of your favorite people (includes the couple and up to 2 guests).

Package highlights:

Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship’s captain

Fresh florals, wedding cake and sparkling wine toast

• Dedicated photographer and memorable prints

Romantic breakfast for the couple

• Stateroom gifts and goodies
• Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
• Keepsake certificate

Timeless Ceremony at Sea (Ceremony Only)

Celebrate in style with a romantic ceremony at sea (includes the couple and up to 8 guests).

Solo live musician during the ceremony

Dedicated photographer service

Memorable prints and digital high-res photos

Timeless Wedding at Sea (Ceremony + Reception)

This package includes everything from the ceremony to the reception to celebrate with your whole crew (includes the couple and up to 18 guests).

Fresh florals for the couple

Fresh florals for the wedding party

Two treatments from select salon services

1-Hour dedicated venue to celebrate after ceremony

Solo live musician during the reception

Good Spirits welcome cocktails, curated by the couple

2-Tier wedding cake and sparkling wine toast

Memorable prints and all digital high-res photos

One specialty dining reservation for the couple

So we offer additional packages about more than just matrimony

Renew the love

(Includes just the couple)

There's no better place to renew your vows than The Love Boat®. Our crew's got you covered!

Package highlights

• Short, sweet indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship's captain
• Fresh florals, celebration cake and sparkling wine toast for the couple

Princess perfect proposals

"Will you…" have a proposal that’s one for the books (just the right setting and setup)? You will.

• Secret proposal setup in a private indoor or outdoor location
• Proposal rose and rose petal décor
• Celebration cake
• Pre-cruise and onboard coordinator

Weddings & Occasions

Wedding Packages

You’ve done the hard part: the man or woman of your dreams is yours, and aren’t they lovely? Do we ever have a wedding spot to match — aboard a Carnival ship! A Carnival shipboard wedding is a great way to start your life together… a spot as unique as the two of you. After all, think of all the weddings you’ve been to — we’ve got the fun alternative, with a view that’s hard to find on land and a sea breeze you just can’t get at a country club. Your shipboard wedding will be held in the port of your choice, so choose a city you’ll remember forever as the one where you made it official. Leave wedding stress ashore, because for a simple fee Carnival takes care of it all: the ceremony includes not only an officiant to get the knot tied right, but little details like the cake, champagne, music and more. And perhaps best of all: once you’re married, you’re already on your honeymoon! Your shipboard wedding can be customized to fit your imagination and budget. Add packages that include everything from a simple open bar and hors d’oeuvres reception to an elegant sit-down luncheon in the ship’s formal restaurant. Whatever you’re looking for, let our professional wedding agents help you design your ideal wedding. Learn more about shipboard weddings.

Wedding Venues

Personal touches.

What matters most on your wedding day is that you’ll be spending it with the person of your dreams. But if you could custom-design your dream wedding, how would you make it truly your own? Let’s start with where — a Carnival destination wedding lets you choose a scenic island as the background for your memories. The blue skies, the sounds of nature and even the sea-scented breeze as you say “I do” will become some of the most vivid parts of the memories you make that day. It’s important to remember that a Carnival destination wedding makes planning easy, because we take care of nearly every detail. We’ll take the bride and groom to the wedding site, select a local officiant to perform the ceremony, and handle the music and bouquet. We’ll even help you obtain a legally-binding marriage certificate in your destination port! Since we’ve already thought of everything, all you need to think about is how great it’s going to be. Learn more about destination weddings.

These folks celebrated their wedding on a Carnival cruise. If you did too, we’d love to see! Hashtag your photos #CarnivalCruiseWedding — you may see them right here.

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Wedding Guest Attire Guidelines

A visual guide of what to wear to every kind of wedding!

What to Wear to a Wedding

Wedding guest attire guidelines can be tricky, but we'll decode the dress codes for what to wear to a casual wedding, a beach wedding, a semi-formal wedding, and the most formal events.

When your next wedding invitation arrives, guests typically get all the details of who, when, and where – but the specifics of the other “w”s--namely, what to wear to a wedding  are sometimes left for guests to interpret between the lines.

A Visual Guide: Wedding Dress Codes Decoded

Links to details product sources for the individual collages created by Dress for the Wedding  Beach Chic: Outfit for an Outdoor Summer Wedding | Daytime: Pretty Yellow Printed Dress | Cocktail: Sequin Cocktail Dress for a Wedding Guest | Black Tie:  What to Wear to a Fall Black Tie Wedding |  | Formal: High Low Ball Gown | Destination: Blue Strapless Dress for a Wedding Guest | Afternoon: Coral Lace Dress | Rustic: Cold Shoulder Floral Maxi Dress

Why Follow the Wedding Dress Code?

It is a sign of respect for the couple and the event to get dressed up for a wedding, and your attire should always be respectful, conservative, and appropriate. But keep in mind, the rules of etiquette were designed to help one feel more at ease and comfortable in all social situations. So simply remember your cheerful presence at the wedding is what counts here, and you're likely to have a good time no matter what you decide to wear.

Wedding Guest Attire Guidelines for Any Type of Wedding

Before 4 pm.

In general, daytime weddings are more casual, so lighter fabrics, festive colors, and less-formal attire is the rule. 

For women, a nice daytime dress, skirt, top, or jumpsuit are good choices.

For men, a well-tailored suit in a mid-to-dark neutral color like gray, blue, or charcoal is appropriate.

In the case of evening weddings, more formal styles, longer dresses, and gowns special occasion fabrics are appropriate for women

Men should wear darker suits in navy,  black, gray.

Although sometimes a white dinner jacket or suit in a fun color can work too! We go into deep detail in our wedding attire style boards

Above all, the wearer should also always chose something that fits with one's own personal style as well as the requested dress code.

What Never To Wear to a Wedding

Jeans, hats, non-collared shirts.

The standard rules of being well-dressed for a wedding still apply, so just like a restaurant or private club, the warning of ripped jeans, baseball hats, and non-collared shirts aren't appropriate  --unless it's at the request of the couple that you dress down. (You may be asking, do people really wear that ? But I have been to weddings where I have seen all of these things recently so I have edited this post just to address this!) 

White or Off-White

Please don't wear white or off-white dresses or anything that could perhaps photograph as white. Head- to-toe white suits or jumpsuits are also off-limits, too.  Pale pastels like the palest blues, greens, yellows, grays, nudes, and blushes all have a tendency to look lighter than they are in photos. A white wrap or sweater to throw on if you get chilly is generally fine, especially if it's after the ceremony. Prints with some white elements are ok but just be sure the colors are much more predominant than any white background. We wrote a whole post about wearing white to a wedding , but we're sure you get it -- please, just don't!

Anything Too Revealing or Too Short

And of course, don't wear anything too short or revealing, and don't look unkempt or wrinkled. If you have to fight with your outfit to keep parts of your body you'd rather not show, it might not be the right choice.

Anything too Formal or Glamourous for the Requested Dress Code

This means, that if it's a casual outdoor wedding, it's not the time to break out your favorite super glam sequin maxi dress or the tux you still have from your own wedding. You never want to outshine the couple. Try to read the tone of the invitation to get a glimpse into the style of the wedding. 

The Wedding Party Colors and Styles

It's sometimes hard to know this, but sometimes you can guess at a potential color scheme from the invitation and other elements. It's not the end of the world, but it can be awkward if you're wearing exactly the same outfit as the wedding party. For instance if you wear a suit like the groomsmen and the same color tie - you will probably get mistaken as one of the gang. For women, we think it's really hard to completely avoid most bridesmaid dress colors because popular colors blue, pink, and green make great colors for wedding guest dresses too. However, if you know for sure what the color scheme is or what style of dress the bridesmaids are wearing, try to avoid coming too close to that style and color with your own attire. 

Head to Toe Black, (but not for the reason you think!)

It's more than ok to wear a black dress to a wedding in my book, in fact, it's pretty common! However, dressing in a non-festive black outfit--for instance, a very simple work-type black sheath dress or a black shirt and pants is a bad idea. Why? Because usually, a tasteful all-black outfit is the uniform of choice for the catering staff, photographers, DJ, and other vendors who are working the event. You don't want to have to spend the reception explaining you're a guest - so add a little bit of color and sparkle to your outfit. 

Red - in Some Cases

We think burgundy and berry reds are perfect and very tasteful colors to wear to a wedding. However, some of the more fiery red dresses with a hot orange hue to them can be a little attention-grabbing, especially if the dress or suit itself makes a huge statement with its general silhouette. We still love them and even recommend some of them in our posts,  but in some cultural areas of the US, and perhaps some couples see a red dress as a no-no. We leave this to your judgment on your personal feeling on whether red would be festive or offensive in your own situation. Here are more details on red dresses you can wear to a wedding!

Even after those general wedding guest attire guidelines, there can still be many gray areas. We'll go into much more detail about wedding dress codes below!

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Quickly find attire for your next wedding by dress code, or read below for the guidelines of what to wear!

Dressy Casual          Semi Formal         Formal or Black Tie 

Winter         Summer         Spring        Fall

Daytime     Afternoon     Evening Semi Formal     Evening Formal

What to Wear to a Daytime Wedding

If both the wedding ceremony and reception will start and end before 5, it's a daytime wedding! Morning or early afternoon weddings are usually slightly more casual. (But if your invite still requests formal attire, then certainly defer to that! )

In general, lighter colors and more casual styles and fabrics like floral prints, soft chiffons, and even cotton will work for daytime casual or dressy casual weddings. Here's a bit more decoding the daytime dress code.

What is Casual Wedding Attire?

While this type of dressing sounds the most relaxed, it can also be the most open-ended, and, therefore, sometimes the most mystifying! The venue may help you better determine the best level of formality --or lack thereof.  Usually, this casual style is reserved for a morning or daytime wedding in an outdoor or informal venue.

For Women:  A skirt and top or nice pants with a pretty top, and a casual sundress or casual cocktail would certainly be appropriate.

For Men: If it's a very casual event, just a nice collared or button-down shirt in a short or long sleeve, worn with a tie, and some dress pants might suffice. However, unless it's a casual outdoor wedding or a beach wedding, usually a little more formality is good. If you're sure it's casual enough that a full suit isn't required, try a navy or subtly patterned blazer and dress pants with a crisp collared shirt with no tie, or if you forgo that tie, vest,  and shirt can work. After all, it’s a wedding, and still calls for a little more formality. So err on the side of being overdressed;  it's easy enough to take off the tie or blazer if you feel like you've gone overboard.

For the Feet: Heeled or structured sandals (not flip-flops) for footwear for women are fine, and dress shoe like a loafer or similar style would be nice for men. Sneakers or sneaker-like shoes should be avoided.

What not to wear:  jeans, tank tops, t-shirts, stretchy pants, cargo shorts, flip-flops, and athletic clothing would still be a poor choice, unless specifically approved.

It is almost always better to err slightly on the side of being overdressed, so dress as you would for meeting with clients in a business casual setting. And, if you accidentally go dressed too casually, as long as you have a smile on and your best manners, you’ll probably be just fine.   Find a casual wedding look , and check out The Wedding Guest Boutique

Some Favorite Casual Wedding Guest Attire Styles

Beach wedding attire (casual and formal).

This style of wedding sounds soothing and peaceful at first, but can be very intimidating to dress for.  Again, let the venue, weather, season, and time of day be your guide. Are you headed to the local State Beach at sunset for an informal exchange of vows, or are you going to be at a four-star hotel’s private beach club, with elegant cabanas and white-gloved waiters surrounding you?

If it’s the former, wearing approximately the same thing as a casual wedding - but with a beachy twist and beach-appropriate fabrics should be fine.

Women can also wear a beachy look with a linen or cotton shirt and nice pants, or a pretty, light, flowy skirt, tunic dress, or casual sundress.

Men can wear a festive linen shirt, a cotton short-sleeved shirt or button-down, or a tasteful tropical printed shirt. I'd pair this with dress pants in linen, cotton, or twill, or – if you have the knees, socks, and courage for it-- Bermuda shorts.

If it’s a more formal venue, women can wear a sundress, a casual maxi dress, or beachy-but-elegant skirt and top, and make the look a little bit dressier with some dazzling accessories.

At a more formal beach affair, men’s shirts should be of elegant linen or crisp cotton. A summer suit or sport coat in madras or seersucker or linen would fit well here. A tie is not required, but some of the lovely preppy or beachy print ties would certainly look wonderful, just be sure to wear them with a shirt with a full-length sleeve.

Because of the sand, you’ll want to wear flat shoes with some grip in case there’s a slippery rock step or two for you to navigate. Or, be prepared to swap out your heels for some flip flops, and then change back if you find yourself on solid ground again. Find attire for a beach wedding guest , or check out  The Wedding Guest Boutique

Some current favorite beach wedding guest dresses and styles:

Dressy casual and casual wedding dress code.

This designation is a bit of a contradiction but if you combine elements that are a little bit dressy with casual you should be just fine.

For instance,  a cotton dress in a formal cut will work, or a chiffon dress made in a casual style would also be fine. Overall, I take this dressing designation to mean more festive, elegant attire.  Casual fabrics like cotton or knits are acceptable here if the overall style of dress is correct.  The time of day and venue again will be a good guide here. If it’s daytime, then a sundress would be fine. If it’s evening, then wear cocktail attire in darker, richer colors, and fabrics like silk or satin in a casual length and cut. Make it dressy with more accessories and a simple dress.  Find a Dressy Casual look  or check out  The Wedding Guest Dress Boutique

What is a Semi-Formal Wedding Dress Code?

A semi-formal dress is an evening style of dress with formal fabrics like a satin, chiffon, silk, and a bit of beading. A rich fabric like velvet or velveteen in the winter months would also be very nice.

Generally, the dress length would be cocktail length—in other words, just above, or at the knee; or a little longer. A tea-length, midi length, or a longer, ankle-skimming hemline–like a maxi dress would also be perfect, as long as it is not an overly formal silhouette or material--save those ball gown style dresses for the fully formal wedding invites you receive!

Find a Semi-Formal look   or check out  The Wedding Guest Dress Boutique

Favorite Semi Formal Styles

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Black tie optional dress code, is formal but with the option of black tie. I would assume that the wedding party will be wearing tuxedos and formal attire, but the guests need not exactly meet that level of formality.

For the women, a dressy cocktail dress, jumpsuit or sleek pantsuit, or a long formal dress or long skirt and top is appropriate for black-tie optional attire.  You can see more details below in Black Tie required.

For male guests, you have easy access to a tuxedo, by all means, wear black tie. However,  there will be probably many other men in a dark suit and dark tie or bow tie and these gentlemen will look just as elegant and appropriate as the dapper tuxedo-wearing folks. Find a Black Tie Optional look   or Find a black  tie optional wedding guest dress.

Formal Attire for a Wedding

Formal attire, to me, is nearly the same as black tie optional, but I also think this implies slightly less pressure for the men to wear a tuxedo.  A dark navy or black suit, and crisp white shirt, with a dark, or neutral tie is appropriate here.  Look at Formal Styling ideas   or find a formal dress for a wedding ,

Women should wear an elegant cocktail dress or full-length dress, and beautiful real jewelry or costume jewelry.  Sparkling accessories are encouraged for formal events!

A Black Tie Wedding Dress Code

This one clears up any ambiguity for the men. In this case, a tuxedo in a dark color is in order with the other elements: either vest, or cummerbund, or suspenders, and appropriate bow tie or tie. In some cases, a well-cut black suit and black tie will do!

Women should generally wear a full-length gown for black tie dress codes, but those rules are changing.  Many styles of types of mid-length, cocktail, or tiered skirt length are usually appropriate if the material, cut, or embellishment is highly formal. A long or ball gown style skirt paired with a dressy top is also a great look.

If dresses aren't your thing, a formal pantsuit or women's style tuxedo or formal jumpsuit is also appropriate, especially if a skirt or gown isn't part of your personal style.

If you know it's a very formal event, to be truly correct, full-length is the standard.  Find a Black Tie Look  or check out  The Wedding Guest Dress Boutique

Favorite Formal Looks

White tie dress .

This is the most formal type of wedding, so you should adhere to the rules on this one. I had to consult Emily Post again on this since these types of weddings are rare in my life.

Women should wear a floor-length, formal evening gown (No knee-length dresses here!)

Men should wear a tailcoat with a white vest, white shirt, and tie with white gloves (gray is an acceptable choice as well), and fine black shoes without laces.   Find a White Tie Look  

Cultural Attire at a Wedding

If the wedding party will be wearing some sort of cultural dress that is not your own culture--for instance, kilts or saris you could wear something that might complement those other guests' styles, as long as you are sure you are not appropriating cultural dress.

For instance, if you know the groomsmen will be wearing kilts, perhaps wearing a tie with a bit of plaid is a way to join in, without upstaging the attire of the wedding party or misappropriating cultural dress.

If your own religion or heritage states that you wear a certain type of dress to an occasion,  as long as you’re sure it’s in keeping with the event and won’t cause offense or detract from the event, then I'm sure most couples would welcome this expression of respect and festivity.  I'm eager to hear first-hand stories on cultural dress, so if anyone has experience here, please let me know.

Getting More Information on What to Wear if the Wedding Invitation is Vague

If the invitation is vague, and there's no wedding website, getting more information on what to wear can also be gleaned from the wedding party. They are likely to know the attire in advance.

I would avoid asking couple getting married about the dress code unless you are already in frequent communication. Please especially don't ask the couple for details within a few days of the wedding. The couple has so much going on already! One of the roles of the wedding party is to support and attend to other details --like assisting guests with questions like this!

How To Find Out the Wedding Dress Code

If you know a member of the wedding party, ask them about the dress code. Attending the showers, and bachelorette parties, are good avenues for getting in touch with the bridal party. Asking someone in the wedding party about what to wear, also help to ensure you pick a dress that is complementary to the wedding theme. It will also help you avoid wearing a dress that is similar to the wedding party. It's an easy mistake to make since many guests and bridesmaids shop at similar stores.

If you don't know the couple  -- perhaps you are a date of a friend -- then you might call the venue or check their Instagram of other weddings to see what type of dress is appropriate.  Sticking with a classic semi-formal look is usually a good rule!

Be Prepared

Another idea is to bring a few easily-packed accessories that will either dress up or dress down your core outfit. Then, just adjust once you find out how everyone else is dressed.

Again, no matter how you are dressed, be sure to enjoy yourself!

Here are a few other ways to search for wedding guest attire:

Spring Wedding Guest Dresses

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Are you in the wedding? Check out :  Wedding Dresses | Mother of the Bride Dresses | Bridesmaid Dresses 

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The Best 5 Cruise Formal Dresses for 2024 - Reviews and Guides

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Set sail in style with our ultimate guide to the best cruise formal dresses of 2024! Whether you're embarking on a luxurious voyage or a romantic getaway, dressing to impress for those elegant evenings at sea is a must. In this comprehensive blog post, we've curated a collection of the most exquisite dresses that are sure to turn heads and make a statement on the ship's deck. Get ready to indulge in reviews, style tips, and insider guides, as we unveil the finest selection of cruise formal dresses to ensure you shine like a star throughout your unforgettable journey. Let's embark on a sartorial adventure together!

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• Cruise Formal Dresses for Evening Chic

Guides for Cruise Formal Dresses 2024

Cruise formal dresses for evening  chic.

Embrace the enchantment of evening chic with our breathtaking collection of cruise formal dresses. From glamorous ball gowns to sophisticated cocktail dresses, we have handpicked the epitome of elegance for your unforgettable nights at sea. Let the moonlight dance off luxurious fabrics and exquisite embellishments as you step into a world of refined style and refined allure.

1. A-Line Lotus Leaf Shimmering Formal Dress

Sale Price: $58.99

Size Range: Size 4-26

This charming formal dress for cruise , it features a transparent long sleeve design that showcases captivating lines, along with carefully crafted twist knot embellishments that add a unique style and charm. The A-line silhouette gently cinches at the waist, revealing graceful curves, complemented by the lotus leaf edge design that adds a touch of elegance and lightness. The shimmering fabric of the dress adds a sparkling element to your look, ensuring you radiate captivating charm every evening on the cruise. Wearing this gorgeous evening dress, you'll be one of the most eye-catching sights on the entire cruise, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to your vacation journey.

2. V Neck Ruffle Sleeves Sequin Maxi Long Formal Evening Dress

Sale Price: $69.99

On an evening aboard the cruise, this long formal evening dress for cruise will make you shine brightly, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The deep V-neck design accentuates your captivating neckline, while the ruffle sleeves add a touch of softness and elegance to the overall look. The shimmering sequin leaf decorations on the dress will make you sparkle on the dance floor, each turn resembling captivating twinkling stars. Wearing this dress, you will feel the nourishment of confidence and charm, becoming the dazzling star on the stage and adding an unforgettable charm to the cruise night.

3. Chiffon V-Neckline Long Sleeve Formal Evening Dress

Sale Price: $49.99

This elegant long lantern sleeve dress features a V-neckline that accentuates your neckline beautifully, exuding confidence and grace. The flowing long lantern sleeves sway gently like satin dancing in the sea breeze, adding a touch of softness and elegance. Additionally, this dress is equipped with sun protection elements, ensuring your comfort and safety during your cruise. When you wear this dress, you'll become the sparkling center of attention on the cruise night, every step imbued with the confidence of a dancer, creating enchanting charm and wonderful memories throughout the evening.

4. Women's Casual Boat Neck A-Line Midi Dress with Asymmetrical Hems

Sale Price: $62.99

This versatile and chic dress is perfect for those seeking a combination of comfort and sophistication. The boat neckline adds a touch of elegance, while the A-line silhouette flatters your figure beautifully. The asymmetrical hems add a playful and modern twist, setting you apart from the crowd. Whether you're strolling along the deck or enjoying a lively evening gathering, this dress offers both style and ease of movement.

5. Cold Shoulder Flare Sleeves Flowy Formal Dress

Sale Price: $52.99

Wearing this cold shoulder flare sleeves flowy formal dress, you will experience unparalleled elegance and confidence on the cruise night. The dress features a flowing design, with a cold shoulder neckline and a floor-length skirt with a thigh-high slit, showcasing your charming curves and captivating allure. The lightweight and flowing skirt dances in the sea breeze, making you feel like an elegant dancer gracefully moving under the moonlight. The cold shoulder design exudes a hint of allure and mystery, making you the center of attention on the entire cruise. Whether dancing on the dance floor or admiring the starry sky on the deck, this dress will add an unforgettable charm and excitement to your cruise night.

To ensure you look elegant and stylish for the various formal events onboard, it's important to consider factors when choosing cruise formal dresses such as the dress code, venue, comfort, body type, and accessories. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable tips and advice on selecting the perfect cruise formal dress. From understanding the dress code to considering fabrics, colors, and silhouettes, as well as offering insights into accessories and proper fit, this guide will help you navigate the world of cruise formal attire with confidence. Get ready to shine and make a statement on your cruise nights with our expert guidance for cruise formal dresses.

• Know the Dress Code : Before shopping for cruise formal dresses, familiarize yourself with the dress code specified by the cruise line. Some cruises may have specific requirements, such as black-tie or evening chic, while others may allow for more relaxed formal attire. Understanding the dress code will help you choose the appropriate style and level of formality for your dress.
• Consider the Venue and Occasion : Cruises often have various formal events, such as dinners, cocktail parties, and themed nights. Consider the specific venues and occasions you will be attending and choose a dress that suits the setting. For elegant dining experiences, opt for a floor-length gown or a sophisticated cocktail dress. For themed nights, embrace the spirit of the event with playful or unique dress choices.
• Fabrics and Comfort : Since you'll be wearing your cruise formal dress for an extended period, choose fabrics that are comfortable and breathable. Lightweight materials such as chiffon, silk, or satin are excellent options. Additionally, consider the climate of your cruise destination and choose fabrics accordingly to ensure comfort throughout the evening.
• Dress Silhouette and Body Type : Select a dress silhouette that flatters your body type and enhances your best features. A-line dresses are versatile and complement most body shapes, while sheath or mermaid styles offer a more fitted and glamorous look. Experiment with different silhouettes and find the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
• Colors and Embellishments : Consider the color palette that complements your skin tone and personal style. Classic choices like black, navy, or deep jewel tones are timeless and elegant. If you prefer a bolder statement, opt for dresses with sequins, beading, or lace embellishments. Just ensure that the embellishments don't overpower your overall look.
• Accessories and Shoes : Complete your cruise formal look with carefully chosen accessories and footwear. Select jewelry, such as statement earrings or a delicate necklace, that enhances the neckline and adds a touch of sparkle. As for shoes, opt for comfortable yet stylish options like dressy flats, low heels, or wedge sandals, especially if you'll be walking on deck or dancing.
• Proper Fit and Alterations : When purchasing a cruise formal dress, ensure it fits you well or be prepared to have it altered. Pay attention to the length, waistline, and overall fit to create a polished and flattering appearance. If needed, consult a professional tailor to make any necessary alterations for a perfect fit.
• Pack and Care for Your Dress : When packing your cruise formal dress, use garment bags or protective covers to prevent wrinkles or damage during transit. Upon arrival, hang the dress in the bathroom while showering to allow any slight wrinkles to steam out naturally. If necessary, consult the ship's laundry or dry-cleaning services for professional care.

Remember, c ruise formal dresses should make you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the special events onboard. By following these reviews and guides, you'll be well-prepared to select the perfect dress for your cruise experience.

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I Spent Hours Searching for the Best Wedding Guest Dresses — Here Are My Favorite Picks From Just $30

We did all of the shopping for you.

Best Formal Wedding Guest Dresses

Best beach wedding guest dresses, best cocktail wedding guest dresses, best formal jumpsuits, best wedding guest shoes, best wedding travel accessories.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

The RSVPs are in, flights and accommodations are booked, but what about your outfit? We’re approaching peak wedding season — which typically spans from late spring to early fall — and if you’re stumped on finding the perfect spring wedding guest dress that’ll keep you comfortable and looking great while fitting the theme of the occasion, you’ll absolutely want to keep reading. 

I love weddings. Between the food, dancing, and celebration of love, they're among my favorite events. And while I might be an anomaly, I’m not afraid to admit that I even love the preparation that goes into such an occasion. Finding the perfect dress, shoes, and accessories feels like my niche superpower, and as your resident shopping expert (and someone who will be attending five weddings this year), I’ve curated a list of some of the most stylish dresses on the market right now that are fit for any and all occasions. 

From splurge-worthy pieces to stunning budget-friendly dresses , this is your complete guide for finding the best wedding guest dress. I've also outlined some of the most comfortable shoes to dance all night in and the important accessories that you won’t want to travel without. 

Anthropologie

If you have a wedding on the calendar with a formal or black-tie dress code, don’t fret; take this as an opportunity to pull out all the stops with a striking dress that’ll turn heads (but not so much as to overshadow the bride). In terms of formal weddings, it’s hard to be overdressed as the theme practically asks for it. Think: satin, maxi dresses, dramatic necklines, or something with a tailcoat. If you don’t know where to start, Anthropologie is a one-stop shop for all of your formal wedding guest dress needs (and most styles are even up to 50 percent off). Check out the Bhldn Piper V-Neck Gown on sale starting at just $43 thanks to a rare double discount. 

And if you’ve already spent so much on the flight and hotel and are looking for a wallet-friendlier option, Amazon happens to have a ton of under-$50 formal wedding guest dresses like the PrettyGarden Women's One-Shoulder Dress , which comes in 15 different hues and is on sale today for just $41. 

• Amanda Uprichard Keller Dress , $264
• PrettyGarden Women's One-Shoulder Dress , $41 (originally $51) 
• PrettyGarden Women’s Sleeveless Slit Maxi Dress , $43 (originally $53) 
• Bhldn Piper V-Neck Gown in Sedona , $43 (originally $85) 
• Bhldn Claudia Asymmetric Ruffle Dress , $115 (originally $328)  
• Anthropologie Halter Plissé Maxi Dress , $168 
• Merokeety Women’s Strapless Backless Dress , $51
• Ymduch Women’s Elegant Off Shoulder Dress , $53
• Maeve Sleeveless Seamed Slip Midi Dress , $168
• Everlane Women's Dream Strapless Dress , $89 (originally $118) 
• Abercrombie Draped Maxi Dress , $104 (originally $130)
• Acler Hansley Sleeveless Floral Dress , $550
• Abercrombie Satin Pleated Maxi Dress , $120 (originally $150)
• Madewell Flutter-Sleeve Maxi Slip Dress , $85 (originally $138)     
• Rails Solana Dress , $268 

PrettyGarden Women's One-Shoulder Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

A scenic wedding requires a fabulous dress to match (and one that can withstand plenty of sand). Such occasions lend itself well to lots of color and flowy skirts — anything breezy and beautiful . Consider this wrinkle-resistant, halter-styled Bhldn Lola Sleeveless Chiffon Midi Dress that's a kaleidoscope of color and will stun at a wedding, but is still super wearable for an array of other events. 

Or if you want something with a bit more dazzle, the Abercrombie Ruffle Tiered Gown features a dramatic ruffled skirt and floral print that makes it a flattering crowd pleaser. Speaking of florals, consider shopping the Styleworld Women's Elegant Floral Dress or Tsher Women's Sleeveless Satin Midi Dress , which are each under $50. I also love this Btfbm Women's Drawstring Shoulder Dress from Amazon that has a pleated design and drawstring waist to make it extra flattering and dressy while remaining on theme.

• Bhldn Lola Sleeveless Chiffon Midi Dress , $248
• Abercrombie Ruffle Tiered Gown , $120 (originally $150)
• Never Fully Dressed Multi Sun Geo Plisse Emma Dress , $210
• Never Fully Dressed Apricot Palm Mini Soho Dress , $145
• Styleworld Women's Elegant Floral Dress , $42 (originally $51) 
• Merokeety Women's Shoulder Mid Dress , $41 (originally $45) 
• Btfbm Women's Drawstring Shoulder Dress , $52
• Madewell The Ariana Midi Dress , $95 (originally $110) 
• Tsher Women's Sleeveless Satin Midi Dress , $38 
• Steve Madden Amira Tiered Cotton Midi Dress , $39
• Free People Free-est La La Tiered Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress , $98  
• Rails Constance Dress , $268
• Achanti Pleated Maxi Dress , $99  
• Deep Self Women's Maxi Dress , $46
• Prettygarden Women’s Wrap Ruffled Midi Dress , $52

Btfbm Women's Drawstring Shoulder Dress

The difference between cocktail and formal dress codes can be a bit confusing to get a grasp of; think of cocktail events as a more laidback event with lots of dancing, drinks, and looser rules. This ambiguity can make it hard to make a choice on what exactly to wear, but you’re in luck because I’ve outlined a few of my favorite styles on the internet right now — starting with the Zesica Women's Sleeveless Chiffon Dress ; it has a tiered design that begs to be on the dance floor all night long. Formal-leaning dresses with a midi length are also great for cocktail parties, like the Ihot Women's V-Neck Midi Dress and PrettyGarden Women's One-Shoulder Ruched Midi Dress from Amazon. Or, you can channel your inner goddess with the Never Fully Dressed Gold Plisse Luna Dress at your next celebration.

Anthropologie excels in this department as well, as I’m between the Bhldn Isla Strapless Stretch Satin Midi Dress and Bhldn Isla Strapless Stretch Satin Midi Dress for a cocktail-themed wedding I'm attending this summer.

• Bhldn Isla Strapless Stretch Satin Midi Dress , $198
• Never Fully Dressed Gold Plisse Luna Dress , $145
• Bhldn Simone Printed Halter Midi Dress , $248 
• Zesica Women's Sleeveless Chiffon Dress , $56
• Ihot Women's V-Neck Midi Dress , $34 (originally $42) 
• PrettyGarden Women's One-Shoulder Ruched Midi Dress , $54 (originally $63)
• Grace Karin Women's Sequin Cocktail Dress , $34 (originally $52)
• Cupshe Women's Satin Cocktail Dress , $30 (originally $40) 
• Dress The Population Nicole Sweetheart Neck Cocktail , $148
• Bebe Smocked Georgette Cocktail Dress , $129    
• Kirundo Women's Satin Midi Dress , $51 with on-site coupon (originally $60) 

Bhldn Isla Strapless Stretch Satin Midi Dress

Abercrombie

Jumpsuits have undoubtedly gained plenty of popularity over the past decade for their ability to strike the perfect balance of comfort and style , so it’s no surprise that they’re gaining momentum on the wedding scene as well. I went to a wedding a few weeks ago and the jealousy I felt when I saw fellow guests busting a move on the dance floor in incredibly fashionable (and stretchy) jumpsuits made me consider shopping for one for my next event. 

I’m personally eyeing the Abercrombie Giselle Pleated Jumpsuit , especially while it's discounted by nearly $30 right now, or the Anrabess Women's One-Shoulder Jumpsuit that’s made with an ultra-soft polyester-spandex material that’ll move with you (and barely take up any space in your suitcase). They can be dressed up with a put-together updo and heels or down with a lovely pair of wedges. If you’ve never considered wearing a jumpsuit to a wedding, take this as your opportunity to start. 

• Abercrombie Giselle Pleated Jumpsuit , $112 (originally $140)
• Anrabess Women's One-Shoulder Jumpsuit , $48
• Julia Jordan Halter Neck Jumpsuit , $98 (originally $139)
• Adrianna Papell One-Shoulder Jumpsuit in Watermelon Bliss , $140 (originally $199)
• Blencot Women’s Sleeveless Jumpsuit , $47 
• Red Dot Boutique Asymmetrical Wide-Leg Jumpsuit , $48 
• Verwin Women’s Overlay Embellished Jumpsuit , $52
• Mac Duggal Ruched Wide-Leg Jumpsuit , $338
• Knitee Women's Ruffled Jumpsuit , $44 (originally $58)
• Ekaliy Women's Halter Neck Jumpsuit , $40  

Anrabess Women’s One-Shoulder Jumpsuit

The dress that you choose for the occasion is only half of the battle, you'll also need a great pair of shoes that’ll not only compliment your look, but also keep you comfortable — even on a day spent standing. I wore the viral Vivaia Square Toe Chunky Heels to a wedding a few weeks ago and was beyond pleasantly surprised at how well they cushioned my feet after hours of dancing. As for splurge-worthy pairs that’ll last you for years to come, the Scarlett Chase 75 Pumps are another one of my recent finds, and I was blown away by their sleek look and support. 

Below, you'll also find the stellar Dream Pairs Women's Open Toe Espadrilles Wedges that’ll compliment any outdoor wedding, and even a pair of the compact Rolly Flats that you can throw in your clutch and change into after the ceremony (and the photos are taken) for comfy bliss for the rest of the night. 

• Vivaia Square Toe Chunky Heels , $139 
• Top Moda Women's Gallery Heels , $20
• Dream Pairs Women's Open Toe Espadrilles Wedges , $29 (originally $43)  
• Cushionaire Women's Memory Foam Heels , $40 (originally $65) 
• Inez Mia Black Suede Heels , $258
• Scarlettchase 75 Pumps , $445
• Rolly Flats , $17 

Cushionaire Women's Memory Foam Heels

Packing lists vary from trip to trip, but for a wedding, you’ll need a few more items to make the entire evening a breeze . Got a stain on your dress? That's nothing a Tide To-Go Pen can’t help you with. A few wrinkles? No problem, you've got the HiLife Portable Steam Cleaner packed in your suitcase already. If you want to avoid wrinkles entirely, though, consider snagging this on-sale Marmins Dress Bag to keep your dress smooth and protected from travel-induced spills and tears before your event. 

As for accessories to make the day itself easier, I never attend any wedding without a good sticky bra and personally love the Nsolex Reusable Sticky Bra Set for backless dresses, and the high-quality Tita Circle Nipple Covers when I’m wearing something low cut. And to make an uncomfortable pair of heels comfortable, you should consider adding the Dr. Scholl's Comfort Cushions or Mate Fix Heel Cushions to your cart — especially while they’re both on sale. 

• Tide To-Go Pen , $3 (originally $5) 
• Hilife Portable Steam Cleaner , $30 (originally $40)
• Marmins Dress Bag , $16 (originally $20) 
• Nsolex Reusable Sticky Bra Set , $15 (originally $23)
• Tita Circle Nipple Covers , $24
• Dr. Scholl's Comfort Cushions , $7 (originally $9) 
• Matie Fix Heel Cushions , $10 (originally $13) 
• Benevolence LA Plush Travel Jewelry Box , $25
• Yamiu Travel Shoe Bags Set , $13 (originally $22)
• Matein Travel Garment Bag , $46

HiLife Portable Steam Cleaner

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Here's your ultimate guide to cocktail wedding guest attire

Navigate the popular wedding dress code and shop a few of our favorite cocktail looks!

Updated April 10, 2024

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Your guide to cocktail wedding guest attire:

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Wedding Cocktail Attire for Women.

When it comes to choosing your cocktail wedding attire, there are a few easy rules to follow.  

First, aim for something that can easily bridge the transition from day to night. The outfit should ideally fall between "formal" and "casual." Avoid anything casual enough that you'd wear it to the office or formal enough that you are red-carpet ready. If in doubt, err on the dressier side as a sign of respect. 

It's worth noting that cocktail attire is often confused with the "semi-formal" and "dressy casual" dress codes. However, there are subtle differences. Cocktail attire is considered one step higher in formality than either of these and can be thought of as a more playful way to approach a formal event. 

That said, accessory choice can often mark the difference between these two dress codes. If you're still looking for ideas or trying to figure out the difference, be sure to check out our guide on the semi-formal dress code.   

For a little more clarity on the fashion nuances of the cocktail attire wedding dress code, keep the following parameters in mind: 

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Stick to dresses that are knee-length, tea-length, or midi-length. If wearing a longer dress, keep the fabric casual to balance the dressiness.  

Skirts with shirts are acceptable but be sure that both are made from a material and fit that feels appropriately dressy for the occasion. 

Accessorize with beautiful shoes and jewelry to step up the look or more casual pieces to tone down formality.  

For masculine suits, wear a tie. You can also include a pocket square if desired. Both accessories can be in fun colors and patterns that add personality, as long as they are classy and not too garish.  

For feminine suits, a tie is not necessary. Consider using jewelry to take the suit from a day at the office to a night on the town. 

Jumpsuits are a great alternative if you like the idea of pants but don't want the hassle or warmth of a jacket. 

Cocktail dress code don'ts:  

Avoid long dresses in formal fabrics. You shouldn't be able to attend a gala or formal event with the dress you choose for a cocktail wedding.  

Avoid ripped items, jeans, khakis, rompers, or shorts. Those opting for a masculine look should also avoid sandals. 

For masculine looks, plan to wear a jacket most of the gathering. Pants and a button-down shirt alone are not considered formal enough for this dress code. 

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For a daytime cocktail wedding .

This bow-adorned midi dress is available in XS to XL.

This floral print dress is a colorful addition to any cocktail hour.

For an evening cocktail wedding 

For evening looks, you can really ramp up the drama. Pull in your deeper colors and fancier fabrics and utilize extra additions like sequins (so long as it's not so bright or flashy that you'll be distracting from the ceremony). 

Jewel tones are a great way to make a statement.

A sleek silver number available in XXS to XL.

For an outdoor cocktail wedding 

If you're headed somewhere like a beach, backyard, or barn, you'll want to keep the weather and season in mind when picking your outfit. Aim for clothes that won't drag on the ground and shoes that can navigate surfaces like grass or sand. Outdoor weddings are a great time to wear something that will flow—just be sure that wind won't cause unexpected wardrobe mishaps (particularly in places like the beach, where there is likely to be a lot of it).    

This lace midi dress is perfect for a little flow without risking a full wardrobe malfunction.

Glam up your outdoor look with these booties. You’ll still be able to navigate any surface.

The Ella Jumpsuit is a great way to feel feminine and fabulous in any weather. (Plus, it has pockets!)

For a conservative cocktail look 

For those who don't like to show too much skin, finding a more conservative cocktail dress doesn't have to be a challenge. Look beautiful without sacrificing confidence or comfort.  

This polka dot dress is an absolute classic. It provides great cover while looking sleek and stylish.

Throw on a jacket, cardigan, or shawl for extra coverage on this high-neck dress.

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For a winter cocktail wedding .

Velvet is always perfect for a winter wedding look.

This long sleeve red number has pockets to store all your needed items.

For a spring cocktail wedding 

This green satin dress also comes in a pretty pink and blue.

A cheerful floral piece with back smocking and a front slit.

A bolder pastel dress, available in XXS to XXL.

For a summer cocktail wedding 

A summery midi dress, available in sizes XS to XXL.

This trendy orange piece is a great statement dress.

Consider these shiny metallic sandals to brighten up any summer wedding.

For a fall cocktail wedding 

Go toward jewel tones and darker colors for fall weddings. If the venue is outdoors, consider what will complement nature's changing colors around you and be sure to bring a jacket or sweater for when the sun sets.  

The red Adair Dress is perfectly classy and made for fall weather.

Amp up the drama with this classic red shade and silhouette.

This floral piece has high ratings and is beloved by Anthropologie reviewers.

Cocktail dress alternatives  

If cocktail dresses aren't your style, there's no reason you have to go in one as a wedding guest. Great alternatives for those who still want a feminine touch include jumpsuits and suits.  

A sleek and stylish jumpsuit in an eye-catching color.

This navy suit is classy yet trend-forward.

Combine the comfort of pants with the flow of a dress. The bow adds formal detailing. Plus, it comes in a ton of colors.

Related content

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

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