msc cruise formal night attire

MSC Dress Code Photo Guide – 96% Agree The Dress Codes are Relaxed

If you’re taking your first cruise with MSC you may be wondering what the dress codes are, and to what extent the dress codes are enforced.

MSC does have formal nights which they call gala or elegant nights but these aren’t the only nights where dress codes are in place.

In this post, we will explore all guidelines in place in regards to dress codes onboard.

What Is The Dress Code on an MSC Cruise?

The evening dress codes on MSC cruises range from ‘casual’ to ‘elegant’ depending on the night. On relaxed nights the only restrictions are no shorts or swimwear in the main dining rooms. On ‘gala’ and ‘elegant’ nights, the dress code suggests a collared shirt for men and a dress or blouse/trousers combination for women.

That said, the dress codes on MSC cruises aren’t very strictly enforced. 

Daytime Dress Code

What is the daytime dress code on msc cruises.

The daytime dress code on MSC cruises is incredibly relaxed. The only dress code rules are that swimwear cannot be worn inside the ship and guests must wear shoes.

Even the cruise lines which have strict evening dress codes rarely have dress codes enforced during the day. Guests are free to wear almost anything onboard during the day.

There are a few things which you’re not allowed to wear onboard:

• Swimwear usually can’t be worn inside the ship, guests must be dressed. In reality, if you are covered in a towel or robe and want to quickly get back to your room, as long as you don’t pass through any restaurants or bars you’ll be fine.
• Shoes must be worn at all times in the ship and on the top decks

As far as dress codes go MSC is one of the most relaxed cruise lines. Almost anything goes. If you were to wear something particularly offensive or inappropriate you may be asked to remove it but generally speaking if you are dressed, this is good enough.

MSC doesn’t have any rules about not wearing costumes onboard.

Do MSC Have a Dress Code for Excursions?

There aren’t any specific dress codes for excursions with MSC but some excursions may come with dress code suggestions.

Some excursions may require things like walking boots and for some excursions, you may need to bring things like hats or swimwear. This depends entirely on the excursion that you choose to take.

If there is anything you need to remember to bring or wear during an excursion this will be clearly told to you at the time of booking and when you receive your tickets.

What Is The Evening Dress  Code on MSC Cruises?

MSC has two main dress codes that apply to the ship.

The first is a formal gala or elegant dress code which applies only to the main dining room on certain nights of the cruise.

The second is a more relaxed casual dress code which happens the rest of the time.

Evening Dress Code – Formal Nights

MSC has two types of ‘formal’ nights.

The first are called ‘gala’ nights and these usually involve a special menu in the main dining room by a Michelin starred chef. They also usually include the opportunity to have photos taken with the captain.

The second type is an ‘elegant’ night.

Elegant nights on MSC are almost identical to the gala nights apart from there is no special menu and there isn’t normally a chance to have photos taken with the captain.

Apart from this the experience onboard is generally the same. The dress codes are identical for both nights. 

Formal Nights

The dress code for gala nights is as below:

For Gala evenings, the dress code is more formal. We suggest a tuxedo, dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie for men and a dressy outfit, formal gown, or cocktail dress for women. – source.

The above explanation is taken directly from MSC’s UK website.

What does the dress code mean in practice?

Men: Most men on MSC cruises will wear a collared shirt with smart chinos/trousers.

Jackets and ties are optional although you will see a lot of people wearing these. Some guests will dress up and wear a tuxedo or full suit but this isn’t required.

Patterned shirts and national dress are also worn so don’t be afraid to be creative!

Women: The majority of women on MSC cruises will wear a smart looking dress or skirt/blouse combination.

Trousers and a blouse are also acceptable!

Almost any style, color, and pattern is okay. Most women wear sandals/heels or flat shoes and it’s always a good idea to bring a shrug/cardigan/cover-up because it can get quite cold in the main dining room.

How Many Gala/Elegant Nights Are There?

MSC are able to change the number of dress codes at any time but generally speaking the following guidelines apply:

Cruises Between 3-5 Nights: 1 Gala Night 

Cruises between 6-13 nights: 1 gala night and 1 or 2 elegant nights, cruises over 14+ nights: 1 gala night and 3 elegant nights.

If you are cruising for under 5 nights there will usually only be one ‘formal’ style night.

This is usually the gala night instead of the elegant night to give the guests the opportunity to have photos taken with the captain.

On a 7 night cruise, you will usually find one gala night and one elegant night, this will increase as the cruise gets longer.

To learn more about MSC’s formal nights, including where the dress code applies, check out this post:

MSC Cruises Formal Nights – Everything You Need To Know

Evening Dress Code – Informal Nights

On all nights which aren’t gala or elegant, the dress code on board will be casual.

On casual nights I often just wear the clothes that I’ve been wearing during the day. There are a few things which aren’t allowed such as swimwear or shorts in the main dining room but apart from that, you are free to wear almost anything.

Informal Nights

The dress code for the casual night is as follows:

For informal evenings, we recommend summery dresses for women and a lightweight jacket for men. – source.

What does the dress code actually mean?

Any t-shirts or shirt would be acceptable for men.

Technically speaking, shorts aren’t allowed in the main dining room but jeans are okay. Hoodies, sweaters, and jackets are also appropriate.

Women:  

For women, a pair of jeans and a t-shirt would be perfectly appropriate.

Alternatively, any dress/skirt/trouser combination would be more than okay. Sneakers, sandals, heels or flat shoes would all be appropriate.

Generally speaking: As long as you are clean and dressed, you’ll be okay! 

How Many Informal Nights Are There?

Informal nights are every night which isn’t a gala or elegant night.

If you are cruising for 7 nights and have 1 gala and 1 elegant night you can expect that the other 5 nights onboard will have informal dress codes.

Will I Know Ahead of Time About The Dress Codes?

The dress codes for dinner are usually only made available the night before when your daily schedule is placed in your cabin.

Your daily schedule is a program of the day’s events which is placed in your cabin each night during the turndown service.

It’s also possible to view the daily schedule using MSC’s app.

If you are cruising with MSC I would strongly recommend that you download the app, it is free to use and has lots of useful functions. You can even look at the menus ahead of time!

Dress Codes For Children

When it comes to children they are also expected to adhere to the formal night dress codes.

That said MSC’s dress codes are already very relaxed and for children, these are relaxed even further.

I would not worry too much about what your children will wear on an MSC cruise, you definitely won’t be turned away from the dining room due to what your children are wearing.

Adults are not allowed to wear shorts in the main dining room but children can definitely get away with breaking this rule. 

Most young boys will wear chinos/a shirt or t-shirt. Some do dress up with bow ties and jackets although this is definitely not a requirement. Again, as long as they are dressed and clean, you will be fine.

For girls: 

Most girls will usually wear a dress or shirt/trousers. Almost anything is okay.

The way that MSC are so relaxed with dress codes is one of the primary reasons why I consistently recommend them as being one of my favourite cruise lines for families.

To find out the other reasons, and which other cruise lines I recommend, check out our recommended cruise lines page:  Best Cruise Lines For Families (Tried & Tested, Pros & Cons!)

Dress Codes in Speciality Dining Restaurants

Most of MSC’s specialty dining restaurants don’t have strict dress codes.

The majority of guests do dress nicely when going to a specialty restaurant as opposed to the main dining room as it’s generally seen as a bit of a treat!

Passengers tend to go to specialty restaurants for birthdays, anniversaries or just to experience the specialty restaurant.

Is The Dress Code Ship Wide on MSC Cruises?

The formal night dress codes apply only to the main dining room. Guests wanting to avoid the dress codes can do so by eating in other restaurants.

The informal dress code applies everywhere else on the ship.

Is The Dress Code Ship on MSC Cruises Enforced?

This is a difficult question. I’ve never seen the dress code be strictly enforced but I have only cruised with MSC 3 times. To answer this question I decided to ask the lovely members of our Facebook group.

96% of people described MSC’s dress code as relaxed!

I think the results speak for themselves!

Only one person said that they found the dress codes to be formal, the rest said that they either felt that the dress codes were relaxed or that the other passengers were treating the dress codes as if they were relaxed.

Other Dress Codes:

Some MSC cruise ships do have ropes courses, when taking part on the ropes course it is advised that you wear closed-toe shoes.

I had so much fun on the ropes course on the MSC Meraviglia in January, it was FREEZING but so much fun.

To learn more about the ropes courses, including the waiver that you have to sign, check out this post: MSC Meraviglia: Ropes Course and Waterslides

Themed Evenings

On all MSC cruises, MSC have themed evenings.

These themed evenings come with suggested dress codes although guests do not have to take part.

I often see people worrying about the fact that they don’t have an outfit to fit a certain theme, you don’t need to worry about this! In my experience, it is a very small proportion of guests that fully embrace the evening’s theme and you will not look out of place if you don’t.

Examples of MSC’s themed evenings include things like: 70s, white, country, pirate.

There isn’t any way to know ahead of time which themed evenings your cruise will have although similar cruises do seem to have the same theme nights.

For example, if the MSC Meraviglia is completing 7 night Mediterranean cruises and one has a white party and a 70s party, chances are the other cruises on this itinerary will too.

Do You HAVE To Dress Up On an MSC Cruise?

If you don’t want to take part in any dress codes or formal nights on an MSC cruise you don’t have to.

Casual dress is always acceptable in the buffet and public areas of the ship, the only guidelines are that passengers don’t wear swimwear and have shoes on at all times. 

More Dress Code Examples from our Facebook group members:

A huge thank you to you all for sharing these with us. I love seeing your smiley faces!

If I didn’t include you PLEASE don’t take it personally, I would love to include every photo but we had loads of photo submissions.

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MSC Theme Nights 2024: the Schedule for all Ships!

April 9, 2024

All MSC Cruises have theme nights, but they can vary between ships . The theme is stated on the on-board program, which can be found in your stateroom the previous evening.

I want to make clear that dressing according to the theme is not mandatory, but if you like to have fun, dance, and really want to participate, it might be a good idea to follow the dress code for each night .

On week-long cruises, there are usually 3 or 4 theme nights, while on other evenings you can dress casually or smartly. So let’s find out the 2024 schedule for theme nights on MSC ships.

Table of Contents

• White Night

You can find the White Night , or White Party, basically on every MSC cruise!

As the name implies, the dress code for the evening is to dress completely in white .

It should not be very difficult to find something to wear. I’m sure everyone has something in their closet.

Men can wear white pants or light-colored jeans along with a shirt or polo shirt . Perhaps if it’s winter, a white jacket might also fit.

Women can opt for a long or short white dress, a smart jumpsuit, or a matching set . The attire should reflect a chic but comfortable style to enjoy the festive evening that generally ends with music and dancing under the stars .

For the accessories, you can match white shoes, silver jewelry, and a small evening bag.

60s, 70s, 80s and 90s Night

For those who like to take a dip into the past, there is the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s theme night .

You can revive the atmosphere and styles of those years through an explosion of colors, music, and vintage style.

Men can wear flared pants, colorful jackets, t-shirts with prints or looks inspired by the rock stars of those decades.

Women have plenty of choices: psychedelic mini-dresses, skirts with optical or pleated prints, leggings and themed T-shirts or sequin-studded disco outfits .

The accessories can be headbands, oversized sunglasses, and flashy retro-style jewelry.

Make sure to wear something comfy because you will dance to the notes of the timeless hits of those years.

• Casual Night

Casual night (on some ships also called smart casual) offers a nice break from elegance and formality .

There are usually at least a couple on these nights on each cruise, and during these evenings you can dress more relaxed.

Men can opt for chino pants or jeans, paired with long-sleeved shirts or polo shirts.

Women can choose simple dresses, skirts with tops, or just pants with blouses.

• Tropical Night

The Tropical Night has a different name on some ships, you can also find it as Hawaiian Night or Flower Party .

The concept however does not change, you can should dress exotic, festive, and colorful.

Men can wear classic brightly colored Hawaiian shirts and light pants.

Women can wear floral dresses, long skirts, and colorful tops . The accessories can be flower necklaces, bracelets, and themed earrings.

Generally, this evening is followed by a beach party or a tropical pool party.

Gala or Elegant Night on MSC

The night that absolutely cannot be missed on cruise ships is the Elegant one , or as it is called on MSC “ The Gala Night “.

During this evening you can usually take a photo with the captain, and there is an elegant and glamorous atmosphere on board.

Men should wear tuxedos or dark suits, complemented by a tie or bow tie.

Women can wear long evening gowns or cocktail dresses. This evening is also perfect for wearing bright jewelry, elegant watches, and sophisticated accessories.

During the evening, there is generally a gourmet dinner, live music, and different performances.

• Mediterranean Night

The Mediterranean Night can only be found on some MSC ships. The idea is to enhance the Mediterranean style through food and music.

How to dress for the Mediterranean evening ? I have to say that this evening is the one for which it is most difficult to choose clothing.

It seems that Mediterranean evening is more about the restaurant menu than the actual attire. Some people opt for clothing that recalls the colors of the Italian flag .

If you don’t want to go wrong, you can wear green . During the Mediterranean evening, both the tablecloth and the waiters’ aprons at the restaurant are sage green.

Theme Nights on MSC Armonia

Theme nights on msc sinfonia.

• Gala/Elegant Night

Theme Nights on MSC Lirica

• 70s/80s/90s Night

Theme Nights on MSC Opera

• Latin Night
• Elegant Night

Theme Nights on MSC Musica

• 60s/70s Night
• Floral Night

Theme Nights on MSC Orchestra

• Smart Casual Night

Theme Nights on MSC Poesia

• 70s/80s Night
• Elegant/Gala Night

Theme Nights on MSC Magnifica

Theme nights on msc fantasia, theme nights on msc splendida.

• Tropical/Floral Night

Theme Nights on MSC Divina

Theme nights on msc preziosa, theme nights on msc meraviglia.

Theme Nights on MSC Bellissima

• Red Night (only on some itineraries)

Theme Nights on MSC Seaside

Theme nights on msc seaview, theme nights on msc grandiosa.

• 60s/70s/80s Night

Theme Nights on MSC Virtuosa

Theme nights on msc euribia, theme nights on msc seashore, theme nights on msc seascape, theme nights on msc world europa.

• Hawaiian Night

Related Posts

• Buffet on MSC Cruises: opening times, food and photos!
• All MSC Cruises Menus for 2024: Images and PDF!
• MSC Drink Packages: Full List and Prices 2024!

6 thoughts on “MSC Theme Nights 2024: the Schedule for all Ships!”

Thank you for this VERY useful information. The last cruise I was on during the dancjng evening everyone was in white and I was WONDERING what was going on!? Haha… This time I will go prepared 🙂

Thank you very much Joanna, I am very happy that the article was useful to you and I wish you a good cruise!

Thank you for sharing! Very helpful in our upcoming cruise! 🙂

Good Luck knowing what night is what. We are on the ship and have no way of knowing when each themed night is. We arrived at the dinning room only to find it was formal night. Needless to say we were not allowed in the dining room as we’re not dressed correctly. But nowhere on the ship did we see it was formal night. We are not given the daily hand out like on the other ships. Sea shore you are lacing in informing your passengers

Fantastic article, thank you. Is there a way to find out (before sailing) which night of our sailing is assigned to each theme?

Thank you for posting this very useful information.

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What to Wear on an MSC Cruise: A Complete Guide for Beginners

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

Embarking on an MSC cruise can be an exciting adventure, filled with breathtaking views, exhilarating activities, and luxurious experiences. But knowing what to pack and wear can be a dilemma, especially for beginners. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the dos and don’ts of dressing for an MSC cruise, ensuring you feel comfortable and stylish throughout your journey.

Understanding the Dress Codes

MSC cruise ships have formal, informal, and casual dress codes that vary based on the time of day and the onboard events. Understanding these dress codes is crucial to packing the right clothing for each occasion.

Formal Wear

During formal nights, MSC cruise lines encourage guests to dress elegantly. Think of it as a special occasion, so bring your fancy outfits! Men should wear a tuxedo, suit, or at least a dress shirt with a tie. Ladies could opt for an evening gown, a sophisticated cocktail dress, or an elegant pantsuit.

Informal Wear

Informal nights are less formal than the formal nights but still call for neat and stylish attire. Men should wear slacks with a button-up shirt and a blazer or sports jacket. Women can opt for a dress or a skirt paired with a blouse, or dressy pants with a nice top.

Casual Wear

For casual nights and daytime activities, informal and comfortable clothing is appropriate. This includes jeans, shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and casual skirts. Remember to dress according to the weather and the activities you plan to participate in.

Packing Essentials

When preparing for an MSC cruise, it’s important to pack a variety of clothing options to suit the different dress codes and activities onboard. Here is a list of essential items you should consider adding to your cruise packing checklist:

It’s essential to pack comfortable shoes for both formal and casual occasions, as you may be exploring the ship or going on excursions that require a fair amount of walking.

Tips for Cruise Fashion

Layering is key.

Cruise ship temperatures can vary, so it’s advisable to pack lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove. Bring a light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings or air-conditioned areas on the ship.

Don’t Forget Swimwear

MSC cruises offer various pools and hot tubs for relaxation and fun. Be sure to pack swimwear that fits well and makes you feel comfortable, whether you plan on lounging poolside or taking a dip.

Consider Themed Parties

Many MSC cruises host themed parties, such as the White Party or tropical nights. Pack appropriate attire to fully enjoy these events and participate in the festivities.

Dress Comfortably for Port Excursions

When planning on exploring the ports of call, pack comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing, and consider the local cultural norms to ensure you’re appropriately dressed for your excursions.

Packing for an MSC cruise can be a breeze if you understand the dress codes and plan accordingly. Remember to pack a variety of outfits based on the formal, informal, and casual attire requirements. Layer your clothing for comfort, don’t forget swimwear and attire for themed parties, and dress comfortably for port excursions. By following these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy a fabulous and well-dressed journey on your MSC cruise!

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

In This Article...

What Is a Cruise Formal Night?

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

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

Do I Have to Dress Up?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is The Dress Code Strictly Enforced?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Formal Night For Everywhere on the Ship?

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

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

How Many Formal Nights Are There During the Cruise?

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

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

Does Everyone on the Ship Dress Up?

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

How Will I Know When it Is Formal Night?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom Line on Cruise Formal Nights

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

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

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

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WHAT TO WEAR ON A CRUISE

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WHAT TO WEAR ON A CRUISE

Daytime attire.

Casual wear is recommended for daytime attire. Shorts and T-shirts are permitted.

Evening Wear

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

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

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

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

What is Formal Night on a Cruise?

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

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

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

Formal Night Photos

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

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

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

Cruise Formal Night Attire – What to Expect

What’s considered formal wear on a cruise?

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

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

How formal are cruise formal nights?

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Formal Night Recommendations for Cruise Travel Wear

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

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

Ladies Dresses for Formal Night

Long evening gown cocktail dress.

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

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

Little Black Dress

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

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

Halter Neck Sleeveless Dress

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

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

Beaded Cocktail Dress with Caplet Sleeves

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

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

Off the Shoulder Evening Cocktail Dress

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

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

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

Men’s Formal Wear Dress Suggestions

Calvin klein slim fit suit separates.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Formal Night – Frequently Asked Questions (and answers)

Can you skip formal night?

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

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

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

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

Do all cruise lines have formal nights?

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

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

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

How many formal nights are there on a cruise?

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

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

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

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Recap: What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night

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

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

Happy cruising!

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

So glad this was helpful! 🙂

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WHAT TO WEAR ON A CRUISE

Daytime attire.

Casual wear is recommended for daytime attire. Shorts and T-shirts are permitted.

Evening Wear

Theme parties, dress restrictions, sport lovers, northern europe cruises, shore excursions, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

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What to Wear on Formal Night on a Cruise

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: December 15, 2021  - Last updated: November 27, 2022

Have you booked a cruise that has a formal night or two? Formal night on a cruise can be a highlight of your vacation! But if you don’t know what to wear on formal night, no worries—here’s everything you need to know.

Read on to find out all about cruise formal night—from how to find out how many nights will be formal, what the formal night dress codes are for the major cruise lines, and what to do if the idea of dressing up on a cruise just isn’t your thing.

I’ve even put together some cruise formal night outfit ideas for men, women, and kids to inspire you!

Be sure to read my cruise formal night FAQ at the end for quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about formal night on a cruise.

What is formal night on a cruise?

Formal night on a cruise ship is the evening when passengers don dressy clothing for dinner, photos, and special activities. The main dining rooms usually will serve an elevated menu, with fancier options like filet mignon, prime rib, or lobster tail.

Some cruise lines have the Captain’s welcome party the evening of the first formal night, with the opportunity to meet the captain and mingle with the other guests.

Your cruise line might use an alternate name for formal night, like “Evening Chic”, “Gala Evening”, or “Cruise Elegant”, but it’s essentially the same thing—a night when most passengers dress in their finest clothing for dinner and evening festivities.

Why do cruise lines have formal nights?

During the golden age of ocean liners, guests staying in first class cabins were required to wear formal attire after 6 PM in all public areas of the ship. In the early decades of modern cruise travel, women wore evening gowns and men donned white tie in the evenings.

Learn more: The Story of the First Cruise Ship: SS Prinzessin Victoria Luise

In the 1960s, when standards of dress became less formal in general, cruise lines began to alter their dress codes to appeal to a more modern aesthetic—as well as to the less well-heeled guests who were now able to afford a cruise vacation.

Today, many passengers enjoy having the opportunity to dress up once or twice during a cruise. In an increasingly casual world, this tradition is unique to the cruise industry!

Do all cruise lines have formal night?

If you really don’t like dressing up, you might want to choose one of the cruise lines that doesn’t have formal nights. These cruise lines don’t have a specific formal night with dressy attire required in the main dining rooms:

• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Virgin Voyages
• Oceania Cruises
• Paul Gauguin Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas

However, most of these cruise lines do have “formal optional” evenings, when many passengers do dress up in the evening—but it’s not required.

What should you wear for formal night on a cruise?

When people ask me what to wear for formal night on a cruise, I usually advise them to dress like they would for an elegant evening wedding—a dark suit and tie for men, and a cocktail dress or dressy evening separates for women.

You’ll often see people dressed to both ends of the “formal” spectrum on many ships—some wear tuxedos and full-length gowns, and others will wear chinos and a dress shirt or a more casual dress.

On more traditional cruise lines like Holland America or Cunard, you’ll notice the general level of dressiness to be a bit higher. But as long as you’re within your cruise line’s dress code, feel free to be as dressy or as casual as you prefer.

Where to find the formal night dress code for your cruise line

The idea of “formal night” may conjure up different images to different people, so the cruise lines have come up with guidelines to help cruisers understand the dress code expectations before they pack for vacation.

Here are links to the formal night dress codes for many of the major cruise lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line – look for “Cruise Elegant”
• Celebrity Cruises – look for “Evening Chic”
• Costa Cruises – look for “Formal”
• Cunard Line – look for “Gala Evening”
• Disney Cruise Line – look for “formal” and “semi-formal”
• Holland America Line – look for “Formal”
• MSC Cruises – click on “Gala Evenings”
• Princess Cruises – click on Clothing Recommendations and look for “Formal”
• Royal Caribbean – look for “Formal nights”

Where is formal night attire required on the ship?

If you’re opting out of formal night attire, you don’t need to stay in your stateroom all night! Formal night dress code is generally only required in the main dining room during dinner. (Some cruise lines also require formal attire in specialty restaurants on formal nights).

The buffet’s dress code will always be more casual, and of course no one expects you to lounge on the Lido deck in your suit or cocktail dress!

However, in the central area of the ship, especially after 5 or 6 PM, you’ll see most people dressed up for pre-dinner photos or cocktails. If I’m skipping formal night (or I’m having a late dinner and haven’t changed yet), I tend to avoid the atrium or the busiest part of the ship. You can feel a bit out of place in a t-shirt and shorts when everyone else has changed into their nighttime best!

Cruise formal night outfit ideas

Need some inspiration for your cruise formal night outfit? I’ve included ideas for men, women, and kids—with options ranging from semi-formal to black tie.

Cruise formal night outfit ideas for women

Retro sleeveless pencil dress.

You can’t go wrong with a little black dress, and this one’s extra special with a draped ruffle and flattering pleats at the waist. Add some cross-strap heels and an elegant gold bracelet to complete your evening outfit.

Vintage glam v-neck gown

A floor-length gown in a stunning shade of red brings to mind old-school Hollywood glamour, just right for your elegant evening! (I’m picturing this with a peekaboo wave hairstyle, à la Veronica Lake). Pair it with vintage-style gold stilettoes and a crystal necklace and earrings set for a little sparkle.

Floral lace cocktail dress

This bracelet-sleeve lace cocktail dress features eyelash lace at the scalloped hem and an elegant v-neck at the back, making it perfect for a formal night updo. Add gold chain link earrings and kitten heel pumps for a polished evening ensemble.

Side ruffle slit tailored evening dress

An elegant yet simple long gown would be stunning for formal night, especially in this dark teal hue. A side ruffle and asymmetrical cap sleeves give it extra visual appeal. Just add metallic heels and gold bar drop earrings for a refined evening look.

Jeweled neckline halter sheath dress

This sleek charcoal sheath dress features ruching at the waist and an embellished halter neckline that adds just a hint of sparkle. Add a pair of black strappy heels and a crystal cuff bracelet to complete your formal night look.

Lace overlay fit and flare dress

This pretty knee-length fit and flare dress with lace overlay would be perfect for formal night—and it comes in burgundy and black options as well! Pair it with some neutral sandals and gold-plated drop earrings for a simple yet elegant outfit.

Plus size 3-piece evening ensemble

These lightweight georgette dressy separates make an elegant formal night option. The embellished top pairs with a matching flowy jacket and elastic waist pants—just add some strappy heels and crystal tassel earrings to finish the look!

Cruise formal night outfit ideas for men

Slim-fit classic suiting separates.

I love this classic Calvin Klein suiting in a slim fit—in lightweight wool with a little Lycra for stretch, it’s a good choice for any cruise year-round. It comes in several darker hues including navy, black, and charcoal, and the jacket and trousers are sold separately so he can choose the perfect fit.

Pair it with a classic dress shirt in any color, plus a silk tie (pocket square optional) to look dapper on formal night.

Linen two-piece vest + pant

If your cruise line’s formal night dress code is a bit on the casual side, this beige linen-cotton blend vest and trousers would look amazing for a summertime cruise. Pair it with a classic white dress shirt , fun tie , and loafers for a dressed-up but comfortable look.

Modern fit tuxedo separates

These 100% wool tuxedo separates are perfect for an elegant look on formal night. The slim-fit single-breasted tuxedo jacket and matching trousers look great with a classic tuxedo shirt and black bow tie .

Cruise formal night outfit ideas for kids

Striped box-pleated party dress.

This adorable striped party dress in shades of pink, champagne, light blue and navy is an unfussy formal night choice for a little girl. Pair it with some ankle strap gold flats to match the included belt.

Navy three-piece suit

He’ll look ship-shape for formal night in this navy boys’ three-piece suit! It comes with a shirt and tie, so you’ll just need dress shoes and a matching belt to complete the look.

Chiffon tutu-skirt dress

She’ll feel like a princess on formal night with this long-sleeved tutu dress featuring 3D appliqué flowers. Pair it with sparkly flats and a jeweled headband to amp up the fairytale look.

Nautica Baby Boys’ 4-Piece Set

Your littlest cruiser doesn’t have to miss out on formal night! How cute would this “suit” set be for a dressy family photo? The four-piece set is comfy for fussy little ones with an elastic waistband and spandex for stretchiness.

Style it with some adorable leather dress shoes that come in the tiniest sizes!

Renting formal wear for your cruise

If you’d prefer to rent formal wear for your cruise, some cruise lines do offer tuxedo rentals. You’ll usually need to book this through the cruise line at least a couple of weeks before you sail.

Links and phone numbers for cruise line tux rentals:

• Carnival: Call the Fun Shops at 1-800-522-7648
• Cunard (tuxedo rental on board, no need to pre-order. Type “tuxedo” in FAQ search bar to see pricing)

Some cruise lines, including Disney and HAL, traditionally partnered with a company called Cruiseline Formalwear. Unfortunately, this company closed permanently during the pandemic. Instead, many cruisers have been renting tuxedos from local formal wear shops and carrying them on board.

For cocktail dress or gown rentals, you can check sites like Rent the Runway or Armoire (they’re especially great for maternity formal wear rentals). You’ll be able to rent a formal dress for far less than buying, and they take care of the cleaning for you.

How many formal nights will there be on my cruise?

When you’re deciding what to wear for formal night on a cruise, it’s a good idea to know how many formal nights your sailing will have.

In general, cruise lines that have formal nights will have two each week on a seven-day cruise. On short cruises (less than five days), there often isn’t a formal night.

Check with the cruise line or your travel agent to see how many formal nights are planned for your particular voyage.

Having photos taken on formal night

Once you’re all dressed up for the evening, why not plan to have some formal portraits taken to commemorate your cruise?

On most mainstream cruise lines, the roving photographers are ready to snap your pic in locations around the ship. But during formal night evenings, the photo team is out in full force!

They’ll often set up in the atrium or main public area with professional lighting and backdrops to capture your family or group in your formal night best.

Unlike a photoshoot on land, you won’t need to pay to have your pictures taken (although some cruise lines do have a portrait studio where you can book a photo session for a fee). You’ll only pay for the photos that you like, and prices are reasonable for formal shots.

A single 8″x10″ will run you about $25, and you’ll be able to purchase a discounted photo package if you want several prints to take home.

How to keep your cruise formal wear from wrinkling

Many cruisers worry about their dressy clothes for formal night wrinkling from being stuffed in a suitcase while traveling to the cruise port. You do have some options that will keep your formal wear looking good when you’re ready for that special night!

Although you can’t pack your own clothes iron or steamer (they’re a fire hazard on ships), some cruise lines do have passenger laundry rooms with an iron you can use to touch up your outfits.

But if your formal wear is too delicate for an iron, I have a few tricks you can use to get the wrinkles out:

• Use wrinkle release spray and hang to dry
• Use a home dry clean kit in the laundry room dryer
• Hang your outfits in the bathroom with a hot shower running for a few minutes

Read more: How to Prevent Wrinkled Clothes on a Cruise

Can you skip formal night on a cruise?

If dressing up just isn’t your thing, you can absolutely skip formal night on a cruise! The main dining room will have a formal dress code, but you can always have dinner at the buffet or order room service.

Many cruise lines have a “smart casual” dress code in their specialty restaurants, making them a popular choice on formal nights for those who want to avoid dressing up. But double-check dress codes—some cruise lines (Carnival for example) have the same dress code in their specialty restaurants as in the MDR on formal nights.

Cruise formal night FAQ

Do you have to dress up for formal night on a cruise?

As long as you don’t have dinner in the main dining room or a specialty restaurant with a formal night dress code, you don’t need to dress up for formal night. Instead, you can eat at the buffet, a quick-service restaurant, or order room service.

Do men have to wear a jacket and tie for cruise formal night?

Some cruise lines do require a jacket and tie to enter the main dining room on formal night. Check your cruise line’s  formal night dress code  for details.

Do women have to wear a dress for cruise formal night?

Cruise lines that have formal nights don’t specify that women need to wear a dress on those evenings. Dressy evening separates, like an elegant top paired with a matching skirt or trousers are fine for formal night.

Do kids need to dress up for formal night on a cruise?

If your cruise line has formal nights, kids who are eating in the main dining room with their parents will need to adhere to the formal night dress code.

Which cruise lines don’t have formal nights?

Several cruise lines don’t have formal nights, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, Azamara, Oceania Cruises, Paul Gauguin Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas. However, there may be an optional dress-up night on your sailing.

Can you buy or rent formal wear on the cruise ship?

Many cruise lines offer tuxedo rentals, but you should reserve your tux at least several weeks before you sail.

I’d love to hear your opinions about what to wear for formal night on a cruise! Do you go all out, do the minimum, or skip it altogether? Let me know in the comments below!

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Sunday 13th of March 2022

I was wondering if it would be inappropriate to wear a simple wedding dress during formal night. My fiancé and I are eloping but the cruise is our honeymoon and much of his family will be there! I thought it might be fun! Nothing too poofy, just a lace sheath dress. TIA!

Monday 14th of March 2022

Hi Darby, I think a simple white lace sheath would be perfect for formal night on most cruise lines! As long as it doesn't actually look like a wedding dress, you'll be fine. Congrats on your upcoming wedding!

Friday 17th of December 2021

I always enjoy formal night when we cruise. We don't dress up often at home so this is always special and so much fun!

Thursday 16th of December 2021

What a great idea! I feel like not many people think about needing such a formal outfit for a cruise!

Hi Alex, lots of new cruisers don't know about formal night on their first cruise! Thankfully it's optional - you just need to eat dinner on those nights in a casual-friendly environment. But hopefully lots of first-time cruisers read this post so they know how to join in on the fun! :D

I like the fact you don't have to attend a formal evening if you don't want to - i'd be the one in the buffet or getting room service ;-) Although I may be tempted to bring a cocktail dress for a long cruise!

Hi Hannah! I totally get skipping formal night (I sometimes do if I'm tired)! It's great that it's not mandatory and you're free to do your own thing :D

I love formal nights on the cruise, definitely my favorite theme night

Hi Elyse, I agree! I love a chance to get dressed up and enjoy the fancier meal choices on formal nights. Thanks for stopping by!

What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night: Cruise Line Dress Code

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

For many cruisers, cruise ship formal nights are the elegant highlight of their voyage. And yet, one of the most frequent questions we receive revolves around what to wear on a cruise formal night. You may wonder what to expect from a cruise ship’s formal night, are they mandatory, and how many formal nights are there?

The dress code for cruise formal night consists of tuxedos or suits and ties for men and evening gowns or cocktail dresses for women. Don’t worry if the formal night isn’t your style. It is usually optional, and most cruise ships have alternative dining options.

In this post, I’ll explain everything you need to know about formal nights on a cruise, how they work, and what you will need to wear. Each cruise line is different, so I will help break down the dress code of the major cruise lines. 

Table of Contents

What is a Formal Night on a Cruise Ship?

Formal nights are precisely what the name suggests: they are special evenings during the cruise where passengers dress up in formal attire. On formal nights, passengers dawn fresh-pressed dress shirts, glittering gowns, stunning jewelry, and polished shoes.

The main dining room will often serve lobster, duck a l’orange, prime rib, and other delicacies worth dressing up for to commemorate the special evenings.

The cruise formal night might also be called Captain’s Night, often with photo opportunities with the captain and a speech.

Formal nights are unique to the cruise industry, which may be a change for traditional resort vacationers. The tradition is reminiscent of the golden age of transatlantic cruises when guests were required to dress formally during the evening.

Can you Skip Formal Night?

You can skip formal nights on most mainstream cruise lines. If you’re tired after a long day of cruising or you’re just not feeling in the mood to dress up, there are always alternatives for passengers, and you won’t be alone.

While the formal night is a fun night of elegant dining, photographs with the captain, and a change of pace from the rest of the cruise, you won’t be alone if you decide to skip the occasion. Rather than dine in the main dining room, you can always eat in the buffet or on your balcony via room service.

Many cruise lines don’t extend the formal dress code to their specialty dining restaurants. Consider making a reservation if you prefer to be served and dress comfortably. Keep in mind that many specialty restaurants will cost extra.

Tip: If you skip formal dining, you may be able to find lobster and prime rib served in the buffet.

Formal Night Photographs

Cruise ship formal nights are an excellent time to get professional photos taken – when else will you look this good?

Whether you are cruising to celebrate a special occasion or cruising as a family, you won’t find a better time to get your photo taken. The ship’s photographers will set up in public areas with assorted backdrops or selected backgrounds. Scenes might include an image of the ship, black velvet, or a tropical beach. 

While you will have to pay to bring the photographs home, there is no charge to get your pictures taken. If you want to try each scene or see which photographer captures you best, try them all! The final photos cost less than a professional photographer in most cities would charge, and it’s a lot of fun to be in the spotlight, if only for a moment.

Tip: Photo sessions usually have lineups on formal nights. You can generally get in quickly, about an hour before the first dinner service when the photographer sets up.

How Many Formal Nights are on a Cruise?

Depending on the length of your cruise, there may be one or more formal nights. Each cruise line will have different guidelines on when formal nights will occur, but they will never be held on the first or last night of a cruise due to luggage handling concerns.

Most cruise lines will have one formal night on sailings of less than six days and two formal nights on cruises of 7 days and more. Keep in mind that this is a general approximation. Before sailing, you should check your cruise itinerary to see how many formal nights your cruise will have.

What is Considered Formal Wear?

Now that you know what to expect, we need to discuss what to wear on a formal cruise night. The dress code varies between cruise lines.

Some cruise lines are more relaxed than others, while some do not have formal nights. We’ve broken down the formal night requirements of the major cruise lines below. 

Formal Night Dress Code by Cruise Line

Carnival cruise line.

Dress Code on Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruises’ evening dress code is typically “cruise casual.” Carnival will hold Cruise Elegant evenings with special dress requirements on one or two nights of the voyage. Cruise elegant for men means a dress shirt, dress pants, and the optional sport jacket, suit, tie, or tuxedo. Cocktail dresses, elegant skirts, pantsuits, and blouses are acceptable for women, and evening gowns are an option.

Number of Formal Nights on a Carnival Cruise:

• 1 Day cruise: none
• 2 Day to 5-day cruise: one Cruise Elegant evening
• 6 Day or longer cruise: two Cruise Elegant evenings
• Melbourne Cup cruise: one Cruise Elegant evening

Celebrity Cruises

Dress Code on Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises’ evening dress code is typically “smart casual,” meaning sport shirts and slacks or jeans for men and skirts, pants or jeans, and a casual top for women.

On “Evening Chic” nights, the suggested attire is formal wear. Men should wear pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt, and the optional sport coat or blazer. Suggestions for women include a skirt, pants, cocktail dress, or designer jeans with an elegant top.

Number of Evening Chic Nights on a Celebrity Cruise:

• Cruise length up to 6 days: one Evening Chic night
• Cruise length of 7 or more days: two Evening Chic nights

Costa Cruises

Dress Code on Costa Cruises: Most nights aboard Costa Cruises ships are casual and allow “resort-appropriate wear.”

On formal nights Costa Cruises’ dress code allows for a dark suit or tuxedo for men, an evening gown or cocktail dress for women

Number of Formal Nights on a Costa Cruise: 

• Most 3- and 4-night cruises have one formal night
• Most 7-night cruises have two formal nights
• Most 10-night cruises have three formal nights

Crystal Cruises

Dress Code on Crystal Cruises: Crystal Cruises allows casual attire on its oceangoing cruise ships during the day. After 6:00 pm every night, casual clothing, including robes, baseball hats, swimsuits, cover-ups, and denim shorts, are not appropriate. Crystal Casual attire applies on most evenings, including a collard or button-down shirt paired with dress pants for men, and skirts, blouses, sweaters, and dresses for women. Jeans are also acceptable attire only on these nights.

A Black Tie Optional Evening allows passengers to dress more formally on special evenings. This includes a dark suit and tie or tuxedo for men and a formal cocktail dress or an evening gown for women. It’s requested that men wear a jacket on Black Tie evenings.

Number of Black Tie Optional evenings on a  Crystal Cruise:

• 7-day cruises (or less): Crystal Casual only, no Black Tie Optional evenings
• 8– to 10–day cruises: Up to one Black Tie Optional evening
• 11– to 13–day cruises: Two Black Tie Optional evenings
• World Cruises, Holiday voyages, and Crossings may be scheduled differently

Cunard Line

Dress Code on Cunard Line: Most nights aboard a Cunard cruise ship, request “smart attire.” The dress code goes into effect from 6:00 pm onwards. On these nights, acceptable smart attire simply means a dress shirt and trousers, a skirt and a top, or a cocktail dress.

Gala Evenings aboard Cunard Line cruises are highly anticipated and often themed. When sailing with Cunard, you will find themes such as Roaring 20s, Red and Gold, Black and White, and Masquerade Ball. During Gala Evenings, guests are asked to observe a black-tie dress code. The requested attire is dinner jackets, tuxedos, formal dark suits for men, and cocktail or evening dresses for women.

Number of Gala Evenings on a Cunard Line Cruise:

• Rule of thumb: One Gala Evening for every three days of sailing

Disney Cruise Line

Dress Code on Disney Cruise Line: Most onboard restaurants are “cruise casual,” so casual cruise attire, such as shorts and T-shirts, is allowed, except for swimwear and tank tops. Most cruises have special theme nights that provide opportunities to dress up for a one-of-a-kind family photo.

On some nights aboard a Disney cruise, the ship will hold a special themed night, including a pirate theme, dress-up night, or semi-formal night. During dress-up night, the cruise line recommends dress pants with a jacket or a suit for men and a dress or pantsuit for women during dress-up night.

Number of Formal Nights on a Disney Cruise: 

• One cruise casual night
• One pirate night-themed deck party
• One optional “dress-up night.”
• The first night is cruise casual
• One optional dress-up night
• The final night is cruise casual
• One pirate night or another themed deck party
• Three additional cruise casual nights—no swimwear or tank tops
• One formal and one semi-formal night

Holland America Line

Dress Code on Holland America Line: Most nights aboard a Holland America cruise are “resort casual.” Guests visiting their fine dining restaurants must follow casual resort attire, including a collared shirt and pants for men (jacket and tie preferred) and dresses, shirts, or pants for women. Jeans are allowed on resort casual nights as long as they are not distressed but prohibited on Gala Night.

Gala Night is a time for passengers to dress up and experience fine dining aboard a Holland  America cruise. The formal Gala attire includes dress pants with a jacket or a suit for men and a dress or pantsuit for women

Number of Gala Nights on a Holland America Cruise: 

• 7-day cruises or less: 1 Gala Night
• 8 to 13-day cruises: 2 Gala Nights
• 14 to 20-day cruises: 3 Gala Nights

MSC Cruises

Dress Code on MSC Cruises: In general, casual wear is appropriate aboard an MSC Cruise, except for the formal “Gala evening,” which requires a suit or jacket and tie for men and cocktail dresses for women. The ship’s public areas don’t permit shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear after 6:00 pm. Jeans are acceptable if they are not torn, ripped, or otherwise distressed.

Number of Gala Evenings on an MSC Cruise: 

• 4 to 6-night cruises: 1 Gala Evening
• 7 to 9-night cruises: 2 Gala Evenings
• 10 to 14-night cruises: 3 Gala Evenings
• 15+ night cruises: 4 Gala Evenings 

Norwegian Cruise Line

Dress Code on Norwegian Cruise Line: “ Cruise casual” is usually acceptable aboard a Norwegian cruise. Cruise casual includes jeans, khakis, shorts, and casual shirts for men and summer, and regular or capri pants, casual dresses, skirts, shorts, and tops for women. For dinner in one of the onboard upscale restaurants or the main dining room, collared shirts and pants or “nice” jeans for men, and pants or jeans, dresses, skirts, and tops are standard for women.

Norwegian Cruise Line does not allow passengers to wear tank tops for men, baseball caps, flip-flops, or visors in the main dining room or specialty restaurants.

Number of Formal Nights on a Norwegian Cruise: 

Norwegian Cruise Line does not have an official “formal night;” however, “Norwegian’s Night Out” is the cruise line’s optional version of a ship-wide event. There is no dress code associated with “Norwegians Night Out.”

Princess Cruises

Dress Code on a Princess Cruise: Evening attire aboard Princess Cruises is typically “smart casual,” which includes dresses, skirts, or trousers with a t-shirt or blouse for ladies, trousers and shirt, or polo shirt for gentlemen. Like many cruise lines on this list, the restaurant does not allow swimwear and shorts.

For formal nights on Princess Cruises, acceptable formal wear includes an evening gown, cocktail dress, or pantsuit for ladies and a suit, combination, or dinner jacket for gentlemen.

Number of Formal Nights on a Princess Cruise: 

• 5 to 6-night cruises: 1 formal evening
• 7 to 13-night cruises: 2 formal evening
• 14 to 20-night cruises: 3 formal evening
• 21 to 28-night cruises: 4 formal evening
• 29-night or more cruises: Minimum of 5 formal evening

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Dress Code on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise: Daytime attire aboard a Regent Seven Seas Cruise is typically casual and consists of resort-style clothing. After 6:00 pm, the dress code is almost always “elegant casual,” except for the final evening of each cruise, which allows passengers to dress in casual attire. Elegant casual requests passengers to wear slacks and collared shirts, blouses, sweaters, pantsuits, skirts, or dresses.

After 6:00 pm, t-shirts, jeans, tennis shoes, and shorts are not permitted in public areas of the ship, except for the pool. 

Longer cruises have optional formal or semi-formal nights where passengers can wear elegant attire or a more formal look (dark suits, tuxedos, gowns, or cocktail dresses.)

Number of Formal Nights on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise: 

• 16 or more nights: 2 or more formal nights
• Cruises less than 16 days are always “elegant casual.”

Royal Caribbean International

Dress Code on Royal Caribbean: Most nights aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise are smart-casual, including collared shirts and slacks for men (jackets, blazers, and sports coats are recommended but optional) and skirts, dresses, and blouses or pantsuits for women.

Formal nights on Royal Caribbean consist of suits and ties or tuxedos for men and cocktail dresses and evening gowns for women.

No tank tops, caps, or bathing suits are permitted in the main dining room or specialty restaurants, and footwear is always required.

Number of Formal Nights on a Royal Caribbean Cruise: 

• 3-5 night cruises: 1 formal night
• 6+ night cruises: 2 formal nights

Seabourn Cruise Line

Dress Code on a Seabourn Cruise: The daytime dress code for Seabourn is typically casual attire, and shorts and jeans are acceptable – even in the ship’s restaurants. However, passengers should not wear swimsuits, cover-ups, and gym wear outside the spa, fitness center, and outer decks.

Evenings are typically “elegant casual,” and recommended attire includes slacks with collared dress shirts or sweaters for men, but jackets are optional. Women should choose dresses, pantsuits or skirts, or slacks with nice tops.

On formal nights, men are asked to wear a suit, tuxedo, or slacks with a jacket, while women are requested to wear a cocktail dress, evening gown, or pantsuit.

Number of Formal Nights on a Seabourn Cruise: 

• Cruises up to 13 nights: 1 formal night
• Cruises of 14 to 20 nights: 2 formal nights
• Cruises of 21 nights or more: 3 formal nights

Windstar Cruises

Dress Code on Windstar Cruises: Windstar suggests “casual elegant” attire for dinners and evenings aboard their cruise ships. Slacks and collared shirts for men and sundresses and informal cocktail dresses for women are acceptable attire. At no time are flip-flops, shorts, jeans, hats, or T-shirts prohibited throughout the ship during the evening.

Unlike most cruise lines, there are no formal nights on a Windstar Cruise.

Number of Formal Nights on a Windstar Cruises: 

• There are no formal nights on a Windstar Cruise

Viking Ocean Cruises

Dress Code on a Viking Ocean Cruise: Viking’s daytime dress code is casual and comfortable. The daytime attire includes shorts and jeans, while shorts, swimsuits, cover-ups, and exercise attire should be limited to the poolside, the fitness center, and the sports deck.

For evenings, the recommended onboard attire is “elegant casual.” Suggested clothing for men includes trousers and collared shirts (ties and jackets are optional but not required). For women, acceptable attire includes dresses, a skirt, or slacks with a blouse or sweater.

Number of Formal Nights on a Viking Ocean Cruise:

• There are no formal nights on a Viking Ocean Cruise.

Marcello De Lio

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Cruises are expensive, but we are generally treated like royalty. We should therefore do our best to act like royalty. I like nothing less than two formal evenings per week. By formal, I mean tuxedo or black suit for men and corresponding attire for women. I fear that cruise lines are allowing dress code to deteriorate to the lowest common denominator. Even Cunard’s dress code is under attack since it has been taken over by Carnival.

I agree that the formal nights are what I look forward to most on the cruise. I enjoy being able to dress up and be pampered. This is why I generally choose the cruise lines that offer the most formal nights, such as Cunard Cruise Line. However, for people such as my father, who would prefer to stay in his swim shorts all day everyday I’m glad there is an option for him to choose the relaxing vacation he deserves, such as what you might find with Norwegian Cruise Lines.

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• MSC Cruises

MSC Formal Night Dress

By woodofpine , January 13, 2010 in MSC Cruises

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I'm getting excited about my upcoming cruise on Magnifica (Med - March)...

Notwithstanding the decline and fall of western civilization and the cruise industry as it relates to formal wear... and the multi-line debates here on CC...

I take it MSC is pretty 'typical' of large lines on formal night. The greater majority of men 'appropriately' dressed in suits or tuxes (being 1/4 or 1/3) with casually dressed renegades also 1/4 or 1/3?

Is the dress on MSC in Europe more or less formal than the Caribbean mass market?

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I'm getting excited about my upcoming cruise on Magnifica (Med - March)...   Notwithstanding the decline and fall of western civilization and the cruise industry as it relates to formal wear... and the multi-line debates here on CC...   I take it MSC is pretty 'typical' of large lines on formal night. The greater majority of men 'appropriately' dressed in suits or tuxes (being 1/4 or 1/3) with casually dressed renegades also 1/4 or 1/3?   Is the dress on MSC in Europe more or less formal than the Caribbean mass market?

It varies a bit in the med depending on the time of year/passenger mix, but generally speaking from personal observation

dress tends to be more formal in europe than in the caribbean

The women tend to make more of an effort than the men

tuxs and long gowns I'd say 20% or less

suits, cocktail dresses or similar 30 or 40%

sports jackets (worn with or without a tie) and smart dress shirt worn with or without a tie and no jacket can be quite common too,

Complete renegades that turn up casually small percentage varies from 10-20%.

If the cruise is at Christmas or New year then the percantages all move upwards in the favour of the more formal

• 1 month later...

cruiser87654321

We are sailing out of Venice in March and flying in by RYANAIR:( so luggage allowance is limited. On RCI my husband wears a tux, but would he need one on MSC? how many gala nights are there in a 7 day cruise and when are they likely to be? My son will be 12, will a smart suit be sufficient or should he pack a tux too?

Should we know in advance when our sitting is? from memory I *think* we booked late sitting, but there seems no mention of it on our cruise docs.

Will there be a table tennis table/tournaments?:D

Capricruiser

This is a standard question. For a 7 night cruise there will be two gala nights. A tux is not necessary - only a very few men wear one. Best would be a dark suit, but even a sport coat and tie would be perfectly acceptable. Nowadays men wear what they feel most comfortable in whether it be a tux or just a dress shirt and tie. If your 12 year old dresses in a tux or even a suit he will be the only child so dressed in the dining room. Your seating and table number should appear on your cruise card issued when you embark.

Thank you for those ansers, very helpful:D

Dartmoordan

On our 7 night med cruise we only had 1 formal night which was the gala dinner. About 90% were in formal wear. Most other nights everyone made an effort and were dressed for dinner. Daytime was normal summer wear shorts T shirts etc. Hope this helps

We seem to be mixing you up as we go along.

On our last cruise on the Splendida in November there were hardly any men in a tux. Most men wore jackets and ties , a few wore shirts and ties and there were hardly any wearing casual tops.

As regards women - many wore black trousers/skirts and sparkly or smart tops. In fact VERY few wore long dresses.

Your son would be appropriately dressed in a shirt and tie.

Dartmoordan didn't specify what ship he was on, but in all my Med cruises I have NEVER seen more than 5-10% of the men in formal wear and maybe 30% of the ladies. Lots of men in dark suits but I would say the informal or casual dressers on gala nights made up a good 40-50% of the male passengers. Regarding the non-gala evenings, on all MSC ships they specify in the daily program whether dinner will be gala, informal, or casual (with "casual" making up about half of the dinners). On casual evenings for example, jeans are perfectly okay.

My experience of MSC tis that there are 2 formal nights on a 7 night Med cruise with the majority dressing formally but few (10-15%) of people in tuxes or long gowns. I'd also say that there is only a minority completely ignoring dress code and wearing something very casual.

Thankyou, I think we will leave the Tux at home and he will opt for a lightweight dark suit. I will take black trousers and a variety of evening tops and a couple of dresses. From your responses I think those items should see us through.:D

• 4 years later...

hello, just wonder if anybody know if we can expect any formal or gala night on 4 days cruise with MSC?

from personal experience for 7-8 days/nights sailings there are 2 GALA and 2 Formal nights with this company. what about 4 days/nights cruise? would it be 1 formal/GALA and rest casual?

thanks in advance for the answers

We did a 4 night cruise from Hamburg to Southampton last September and there was just the one formal/gala night.

Hope that helps :)

hello, just wonder if anybody know if we can expect any formal or gala night on 4 days cruise with MSC? from personal experience for 7-8 days/nights sailings there are 2 GALA and 2 Formal nights with this company. what about 4 days/nights cruise? would it be 1 formal/GALA and rest casual? thanks in advance for the answers

Been on 4 cruises with them usually at least one formal/gala night, but not to the extreme with tuxs , most just wear a jacket and tie, that's what I like about MSC, not over the top.

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

What to Wear on a Cruise

Key Takeaways

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

Do you have to dress up on a cruise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do you wear on cruises during the day?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Swim coverups

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

Sweater or fleece

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

Sunglasses and sun hats

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

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

Casual, comfortable attire

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

Dinner or “smart casual” attire

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

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

What kind of shoes should you wear on a cruise?

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

Flip flops, sandals, or waterproof slides

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

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

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

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

Shoes or sandals for dinner

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

Understanding Cruise Dress Codes

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

Packing for Daytime Adventures Onboard and Ashore

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

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

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

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

What to Wear on a Cruise During the Day

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

Comfort Meets Style: Day Wear Essentials

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

Poolside Fashion: Swimsuits to Sun Hats

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

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

Cruise Wear for Sophisticated Evenings at Sea

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

Non-Formal Night Outfit Ideas

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

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

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

Gala Nights and Special Themes

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

The Glamour of Gala Night: A Guide to Upscale Attire

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

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

Preparing for Themed Parties: Costume Ideas and Tips

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

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

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

Adapting Cruise Wardrobe to Varied Climates

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

What To Wear On A Cruise – FAQ

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

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

Do all cruise lines have formal nights?

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

What should I wear during casual nights on a cruise?

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

Can I wear jeans on a cruise?

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

What is evening chic attire on a cruise?

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

Should I pack a formal gown for a cruise?

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

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

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

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

Experts share their top recommendations for versatile cruise clothing.

What to Wear on a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

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

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

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

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

Formal Nights

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

• Cocktail dresses
• Evening gowns
• Dress shoes

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

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

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

Shore Excursions

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

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

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

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

Read: Beach Packing List

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Cruise Line Dress Codes

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

Azamara Dress Code

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

Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code

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

Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

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

Costa Cruises Dress Code

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

Cunard Line Dress Code

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

Disney Cruise Line Dress Code

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

Holland America Line Dress Code

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

MSC Cruises Dress Code

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

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code

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

Princess Cruises Dress Code

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

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Dress Code

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

Royal Caribbean International Dress Code

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

Silversea Cruises Dress Code

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

Seabourn Cruise Line Dress Code

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

Viking Ocean Cruises Dress Code

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

Virgin Voyages Dress Code

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

Why Trust U.S. News

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

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What to wear on a cruise: 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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theme cruises

MSC Cruises has themed cruises for sports fans, couples, holidays and more! Check out all of our theme cruises as well as themed parties onboard!

HOLIDAY CRUISES

2020 - 2021

Theme nights on board

Every MSC cruise offers themed nights on board, including White Parties, Elegant Nights, Flower Party and more!  Guests are encouraged to bring outfits that go with each of the themed nights.

Officers & Gentlemen

An elegant formal evening with a traditional glamorous twist.  Our officers invite the ladies to dance, in traditional maritime style.  Traditionally, there are two themed Elegant Nights during a 7-night cruise.

- Flower Party

Travel back in time to the groovy vibes of the 1970s - the music, the clothes and a great time.  Guests are encouraged to pack 1970's themed or flower attire.

- White Party

The night will be decked-out in all white decor and outfits.  Guests are encourage to pack an outfit themed for the White Party.  It's the biggest themed night on board!

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