Do You Have to Dress Up on a Cruise Ship?

By Robert Palmer

When you are going on a cruise, you may wonder if there is a certain dress code that needs to be followed. It is important to note that although there is no strict rule on what you can and cannot wear, there is an unspoken dress code that should be followed when it comes to dressing for the occasion.

When cruising, it is usually considered acceptable to wear casual clothing during the day, such as shorts or jeans with a t-shirt. However, when it comes to evening dress codes, they can vary depending on the cruise line and destination. Most cruises have an ‘elegant casual’ dress code in the evenings which means that you should avoid wearing anything too revealing or overly casual such as flip-flops, tank tops, and swimwear.

For men, this could mean wearing a collared shirt with dressy pants or jeans; for women, this could mean wearing nice slacks or a skirt and blouse. On some cruises there may also be an ‘evening formal’ night which requires more formal attire such as suits and ties for men and cocktail dresses or gowns for women.

Some Tips:

  • It’s always better to be over-dressed than under-dressed.
  • Bring comfortable shoes, especially if your cruise involves extensive walking. You don’t want your feet to hurt after hours of sightseeing!
  • If possible, bring layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly depending on the area you are cruising in.
  • Check the weather beforehand, so you know what kind of clothing items you need to pack.

Conclusion:

Overall, when it comes to dressing for a cruise ship vacation there is no one-size-fits-all answer; it all depends on the type of cruise line and destination that you are visiting. However, by following some basic guidelines and tips outlined above, you can make sure that you look your best while still being comfortable throughout your trip!