Is there a dress code on cruise ships and what to wear on a trip: experts answer

Today, most cruise lines have relaxed their dress code somewhat - almost none of them require black tie attire (even on "formal nights"), but the idea that cruises are only for the powerful still somewhat inhibits interest in them.

The policy varies from cruise line to cruise line, but there are some commonalities across brands, writes Condé Nast Traveler.

The basics of the dress code

During the day, the basics are pretty much universal: unless at the pool bar or poolside restaurant, passengers should generally wear a top, bottom and shoes when walking around the ship. Swimwear is usually only acceptable at or near the pool (buffet restaurants are usually located near the pools and dry swimwear or swimsuits with a cape are usually allowed).

During dinner, especially in the main and specialty restaurants, bars, nightclubs and theaters, most cruise lines prefer a more dapper look for men, requiring passengers to refrain from shorts, sleeveless T-shirts, flip-flops and baseball caps. Interestingly, many do not publish specific requirements for women, although it can be assumed that the same clothing is not recommended for women either. A good rule of thumb for cruisers is to always take at least one pair of long pants that are not jeans for dinner on board.

When it comes to clothing bans, cruise lines generally follow a policy similar to airlines, prohibiting guests from wearing clothing with messages that are derogatory or clearly offensive.

Formal evenings

Most cruise lines host formal receptions at least once during a week-long trip. In the past, this would have meant black tie, but today expectations tend to be more relaxed. Many cruise lines have even stopped using the word "formal" to describe these evenings because of the implication of formal wear.

Regardless of the cruise line, the choice of fashion on board is usually quite varied. Apart from the basic requirements (for example, no shorts at the dinner table), passengers tend to wear what they feel most comfortable in.

Which cruise line has the most relaxed dress code?

Most expedition cruises, such as Lindblad and Hurtigruten, do not require formal (or even particularly elegant) clothing due to the active nature of the trip. Some cruise lines, such as Windstar, have also abandoned formal dress codes. Viking Ocean Cruises also avoids formal evenings.

Virgin Voyages has perhaps the most liberal policy among the major cruise lines, saying: "We encourage you to wear more than a bathing suit if you go to a restaurant, and kindly consider shoes, but your style is your style."

Alternative options

Don't let the dress code scare you away from a cruise, even if you're traveling on a line that has formal nights. Most cruise lines have relaxed their policies enough that most travelers will be able to attend a formal party with the clothes they keep in their closet at home, even if it's a simple request for a collared shirt and a ban on jeans at dinner.