Tips on Thursday - Dress Codes by Day and Night

Dress Codes by Day and Night Onboard

Cruising can be a lot of fun, but for many, it can be a bit vexing when the subject of what to pack and wear comes up.  Throughout the daytime hours, shipboard dress is casual.  Even in the dining room, shorts and tasteful T-shirts are acceptable, however, as evening rolls around, and it’s time for dinner, dress codes will vary daily.  Each cruise line is different The most common evening attire includes:

• ·         Casual: Slacks and sport shirt for men (no jeans); slacks and blouse, sundress or pantsuit for women.
• ·         Informal: Jacket with or without tie for men; dress or pantsuit for women.
• ·         Formal: Dark suit or tuxedo for men; evening gown or cocktail dress for women.

Most 3- and 4-night cruises have one formal night; most 7-night cruises have 2 formal nights;  most 10-night cruises have 3 formal nights, etc.  While it’s not a hard fast “rule” per se, in general the longer more expensive cruises (on a daily basis) will be the most formal on formal night, but a dark suit and tie is acceptable attire on even the most exclusive ships.  In other words, there’s truly no need to buy a tuxedo for a single cruise.  However if you truly want to don a tux, go for it if you plan to wear it over and over again – or – if only needing it once, many lines have formal-wear rentals onboard.  Be sure to inquire with your travel consultant about a specific line and itinerary’s evening attire policies.