What Is Resort Attire on a Cruise Ship?

By Anna Duncan

Cruise ships offer a variety of experiences, and part of the fun of cruising is getting dressed up in your favorite resort attire. Resort attire on a cruise ship is typically smart-casual, meaning it should be fashionable but still comfortable.

For men on a cruise ship, resort attire typically includes khaki or dark-colored trousers, dress shoes or boat shoes, and a polo shirt or button-down shirt with either long or short sleeves. If the weather is warm, lightweight linen trousers and shirts are also acceptable.

Jeans are usually accepted on most cruise ships, but they should be in good condition and not overly distressed. Jackets and ties are only necessary for formal events such as dinners in the main dining room.

Women have more options when it comes to resort attire on a cruise ship. Dresses or skirts with blouses are always appropriate, as well as dressy pantsuits.

For evening events such as dinner in the main dining room, cocktail dresses or evening gowns are usually expected. Shoes should be dressy but comfortable enough to wear all day; sandals and flats are often seen on board cruise ships.

Swimwear

When spending time at the pool or beach during your cruise vacation, swimwear is obviously necessary. However, remember that swimwear should be modest and appropriate; revealing bikinis may be frowned upon by other passengers. In addition to swimsuits, cover-ups such as shorts and sarongs should also be worn when moving around the ship.

Resort attire on a cruise ship is ultimately about comfort and looking presentable without being overly formal. When packing for your upcoming cruise vacation, consider what activities you will be participating in so you can choose clothes that will fit the occasion.

Conclusion

Resort attire on a cruise ship generally ranges from smart-casual to formal depending on the occasion. Men should wear khakis or dark-colored trousers with dress shoes or boat shoes along with either a polo shirt or button-down shirt while women can choose from dresses, skirts with blouses, dressy pantsuits and cocktail dresses for evening events like dinner in the main dining room. Swimwear should also be modest and appropriate while cover-ups like shorts and sarongs should be worn when moving around the ship.