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

By TravelWiseFeb 13, 2024 11:26 AMLite
Share:
Traveling on a cruise ship. Source: Freepik

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.

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

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 Interestingly, many do not publish specific requirements for women, although it can be assumed that the same clothing is not recommended for women either.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.

Top Articles

Three zodiac signs will have an opportunity for professional development: horoscope for April 13

Apr 13, 2024 03:03 AM

Good mood and emotional balance will accompany three zodiac signs: horoscope for April 12

Apr 12, 2024 01:10 AM

Romantic relationships await three zodiac signs: Chinese horoscope for April 12

Apr 11, 2024 23:45 PM

A day to express your emotions awaits three zodiac signs: horoscope for April 11

Apr 11, 2024 05:06 AM
More News

Positive changes are expected in life: Chinese horoscope for April 11

Apr 11, 2024 03:03 AM

April 11 will turn the lives of four zodiac signs upside down: here's who's on the list

Apr 11, 2024 01:13 AM

Three pairs of zodiac signs that are not compatible with each other in love

Apr 10, 2024 05:21 AM

These zodiac signs will be the most money-minded this week

Apr 10, 2024 03:48 AM

Three zodiac signs should expect changes in finances: horoscope for the year 2024

Apr 10, 2024 01:50 AM

Positive surprises await three zodiac signs: horoscope for April 9

Apr 9, 2024 03:30 AM

These zodiac signs will be the most impulsive this week

Apr 8, 2024 23:55 PM

These zodiac signs will be the most hardworking this week

Apr 8, 2024 15:44 PM

These zodiac signs will be the luckiest this week

Apr 8, 2024 07:13 AM

Three zodiac signs will take risks for personal growth: horoscope for April 8-14

Apr 8, 2024 05:30 AM

Three zodiac signs are expected to experience changes in their financial situation: horoscope for April 8-14

Apr 8, 2024 03:30 AM

Three zodiac signs will achieve significant success in personal growth: horoscope for 2024

Apr 7, 2024 19:17 PM

Three zodiac signs will be able to establish strong professional connections: horoscope for April

Apr 7, 2024 09:04 AM

Things to do in Porto: top 10 unforgettable experiences

Apr 7, 2024 06:03 AM

Luck and opportunities for self-improvement await three zodiac signs: horoscope for April 7

Apr 7, 2024 05:30 AM

Three zodiac signs will experience a period of happiness and success: the horoscope for the year 2024

Apr 7, 2024 03:26 AM

Taurus will feel a strong desire for change, while Leos should pay attention to their health: horoscope for all zodiac signs on April 7

Apr 7, 2024 01:24 AM

5 cultural festivals in India worth visiting in 2024

Apr 6, 2024 23:30 PM

Expect an influx of confidence and energy: Chinese horoscope for April 7

Apr 6, 2024 18:25 PM

Etiquette during the flight: do's and don'ts on board the plane

Apr 6, 2024 11:17 AM

10 unforgettable things to do in London this year

Apr 6, 2024 11:02 AM

They can charm at first sight: men are named by zodiac sign who easily conquer hearts

Apr 6, 2024 10:41 AM

Typical mistakes tourists should avoid in France

Apr 6, 2024 10:01 AM

What is the best day and time to book flights?

Apr 6, 2024 09:01 AM

Emirates flight attendants share tips for solo travel

Apr 6, 2024 06:02 AM

These zodiac signs will be able to achieve success in finances: horoscope for 2024

Apr 6, 2024 05:31 AM