What do I pack? De-mystifying Cruise Dress Codes

(As featured in Sail Away magazine)

What Should I Wear on a Cruise?

Cruise holidays offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury on the high seas. However, of the many aspects to consider when planning a cruise, understanding the dress codes for different cruise lines is a minefield, and is sometimes a stumbling block for new cruisers, who worry about making a nautical faux pas. What to do, then, to avoid a run in with the OFP (Ocean Fashion Police)?

It helps to understand the various types of dress codes you might encounter onboard ship and ashore beyond your comfy post-lockdown loungewear and your go-to ‘going out-out’ outfits. Whether you are more Marc Jacobs than Marks & Spencer or perhaps more ‘Primani’ than Armani, in this article, I’ll explain the diverse dress codes of various cruise lines, and help you navigate your way to the perfect wardrobe for an exceptional voyage.

First thing to know is that there are officially just three main dress codes onboard a cruise ship – Casual (which is appropriate on most ships during the day), Smart-Casual and Formal. Easy, yes? You think?

Each cruise company has its own unique approach to ship attire, ranging from resort casual to formal elegance, with various options in-between. Added to this, is the individual interpretation of what is meant by each of these dress codes which often leads to interesting, if not heated conversations on cruise forums.

What to wear on a Carnival or Royal Caribbean cruise may differ from the dress codes on the likes of Celebrity, Viking and Cunard.

Cruise Casual Dress Codes

Whatever your version of casual is, it is bound to be fine for most cruise lines during the day. Typical casual wear includes shorts, sundresses, T-shirts, polo shirts, jeans, and swimwear. Some dining venues may even allow casual dress during dinner service, while others may require a more refined appearance. Most, if not all, cruise companies will require you to cover up swimwear indoors, even if you are just nipping to the loo – and remember ‘bare is rare’ onboard whether that’s bare feet or bare chests (although there is apparently a discrete topless bathing area on Virgin Voyages ships – shhh, you didn’t hear it from me)!

For travellers seeking a laid-back and carefree experience, cruise lines like Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages and Marella Cruises are favoured for their casual dress codes. These cruise lines encourage guests to dress comfortably during the day, with relaxed clothes suitable for exploring the ship or participating in various onboard activities, and a little smarter after dark. Virgin Voyages attract a fashion-forward crowd, so you are likely to see an elevated, ultra trendy version of casual. Marella Cruises extend the informal vibe into the evening, with smart shorts and jeans acceptable in the dining rooms. They do discourage sportswear in restaurants after 6 pm, although in recent experience, some people’s interpretation of ‘smart shorts’ included the West Ham first team football kit.

Cruise Smart Casual Dress Codes

A step up from casual wear, the ‘smart-casual’ dress code is often the norm on mid-range and premium cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises particularly in the evening. Smart-casual combines comfort with a touch of sophistication, allowing guests to dress stylishly without being overly formal: think resort-wear appropriate for a 4-5 star hotel.

Options for smart-casual dressing include collared shirts (short or long sleeved), trousers, chinos or dark ‘designer’ jeans, with smart shoes, elegant separates, jumpsuits and dresses. Smart-casual attire is generally suitable for most dining venues during the evening. If you really want to keep it casual though, you can always choose to eat in the informal restaurants such as the buffet or enjoy room service.

On some luxury ships (Cunard springs to mind) you may encounter ‘semi-formal’ nights with the expectation of a shirt, tie, smart trousers, formal shoes, and jacket, evening separates or cocktail dresses etc. as the norm on most nights.

Cruise Formal Dress Codes

This is probably the most difficult dress code to navigate, not least because each cruise line refers to it differently.

Traditional cruise lines like Cunard and Fred. Olsen Cruise Line often have formal or black-tie optional dress codes for specific nights during the voyage (usually once or twice each week). These elegant evenings provide an opportunity for guests to don their finest outfits, bringing a touch of old-world glamour to the ship and channel their inner Rose from Titanic – ok perhaps not the best analogy but a chance, nevertheless, to put on your posh frock or best bib and tucker.

‘Black-Tie’ is self-evident (and formal generally means the same thing), with tuxedos/dinner suits, bow ties (they don’t actually need to be black), dress shirts, and long gowns encouraged; but formal dark suits, collared shirts, smart separates and cocktail dresses being acceptable alternatives. However, particularly on Cunard, anything less than that is likely to be frowned upon and you may find yourself in the minority. ‘Optional’ in this instance means you have the ‘option’ of eating in the buffet. Rumour has it that even Ed Sheeran was less than ‘Perfect’ when he was onboard Queen Mary 2 recording part of his ‘Divide” album. Having only packed jeans and trainers, Ed was confined to his cabin with room service.

On Cunard, particularly, there are still plenty of cummerbunds*, men’s patent evening shoes, ball gowns and jewel-encrusted outfits on show, with guests embracing the tradition and formality of it all. If this isn’t for you, perhaps look for a cruise line that more closely matches your personality.

* A cummerbund is a broad pleated waist sash, which is often worn with dinner jackets (or tuxedos).

Somewhat surprisingly perhaps, many of the more luxurious six-star cruise lines such as Azamara and Oceania don’t necessarily have formal nights as such. You may see terms such as ‘Country-Club Chic’ or ‘Country House Party Casual’ – as a rule of thumb think smart-casual or Semi-formal and you won’t go wrong.

Variations on Cruise Dress Codes

Many cruise brands have modified, (some seasoned cruisers might even say ‘dumbed-down’), their formal nights so as not to alienate potential guests who might shy away from restrictive dress codes, whilst at the same time not wanting to lose their more traditional base. The answer? Renaming the events and making dress codes optional. Here are some examples you may come across:

‘Dress to impress’ – Marella cruises

Generally, these evenings give those that want to, the opportunity to dress up in formal outfits. However, it is optional, and from recent personal experience, very few opt to do so. Whilst many of the ladies glam up, few men wear suits or jackets. If you want to go all out, no-one will bat an eyelid, and you may even get a few admiring glances or compliments. However, if you don’t like standing out, you may find it best to keep it more casual.

‘Evening Chic’ – Celebrity Cruises

Formal wear is again optional, but you will find Celebrity guests are in general a classy bunch and most will adhere to the dress code, if not always full-on black tie. You are less likely to be allowed in restaurants in casual wear on Evening Chic nights on a Celebrity cruise, but smart casual is accepted.

‘Black-Tie’ – P&O Cruises

Whilst Dinner jackets or tuxedos are optimal choices, a dark business suit and tie can be worn as an alternative. Formal National dress/Military Uniform is also acceptable. Minimum expected standards would be a semi-formal. However, if you are more of the “if you’ve got it, flaunt it” mindset you can go all out and really dress up.

Experience shows that on European itineraries many more people embrace P&O Cruises ‘black tie’ than on fly-cruises, particularly in the Caribbean (partly I would imagine due to luggage weight restrictions).

‘Gala Night Attire’ – Holland America Line

Holland America Line largely caters for American guests, who generally prefer informal dressing. Gala nights are no exception and therefore tuxedos are out and semi-formal is in (see above).

‘Scarlet Night’ – Virgin Voyages

Whilst Virgin Voyages steers well clear of cruise tradition, they do have a unique dress code all their own on Scarlet Night. This special party night, which happens once towards the end of each voyage, encompasses the whole ship which is lit up in red. Rather than a formal night, Scarlet Night is more of a deck party on steroids, and anything goes, as long as it’s red. Obviously, this isn’t compulsory, but if you are sailing on one of Virgin Voyages Ladyships it’s fun to pack something red and sparkly, even if it’s just an accessory. You will never be overdressed on Virgin, where guests go all out and fashionistas reign!

Cruise Theme Nights and Costume Parties

Many cruise lines have one- or two-party nights such as a 60s/70s/80s theme or a "Tropical" night, encouraging guests to embrace bright colours and island-inspired attire. If you are sailing on a Caribbean itinerary, why not dig out that Hawaiian shirt you bought for a laugh, or just wear one of the free floral garlands (lei) given out on deck. Theme nights and costume parties create a vibrant and lively atmosphere onboard, so even if you don’t join in, it’s fun to watch.

Virgin Voyages have established a new themed-night tradition on their sailings - the Pyjama Party. From onesies to sexy little baby-doll numbers (or if you prefer your granny’s full length wynciete nightie) anything goes.

White Nights or a Black and White Ball are very popular inclusions as they are easy to pack for. Theme nights are totally optional but if you are a party person make sure you pack a few suitable accessories so you can join in the fun.

Other Considerations When Packing for Your Cruise

Shore-side Dressing

What you wear when you leave the ship is personal choice of course and will be determined by where you are in the world and the seasons. For example, in the Med and Caribbean, resort wear is the norm. If you’ve chosen an Alaska or Norwegian cruise you will want to pack layers as even in the summer months weather can be unpredictable.

You will also need to be mindful of local cultures, especially if you intend to visit religious sites, where you will need to cover your shoulders and head as a minimum; and in the Caribbean, specifically Barbados, St. Vincent and St Lucia, it is forbidden for anyone not in the army, to wear camouflage clothing of any description – so leave those combat shorts onboard.

Clothing with (Hidden) Messages

Many cruise lines have banned t-shirts with offensive slogans or images. What is considered offensive, you may ask? Carnival Cruise Line’s website states: “items worn during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendos/suggestions. In addition, clothing and accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial, commentary, hatred, or violence in any form.”

Finally, I feel I should alert you to a couple of cruise-insider dress ‘codes’, with code being the operative word. Beware of the pineapple and flamingo. In an adult-only context on cruise ships, these symbols, particularly on clothing, can take on more playful and suggestive meanings.

Pineapples may be used as a discreet symbol for swingers, whilst Flamingos can sometimes symbolise a desire for casual relationships or flirtatious interactions among passengers.

Finally, whether you opt for leisurely casual attire, embrace the glamour of formal nights, or relish in themed costume parties, your cruise holiday will undoubtedly be an unforgettable journey filled with style and grace on the open waters. Bon voyage!