What to Wear on a Cruise: Cruise Attire and Dress Codes Explained
Planning what to pack for a cruise can be tricky, especially if it’s your first time at sea. Each cruise line has its own dress codes, and knowing what to wear will help you avoid those awkward moments of feeling either underdressed or overdressed. Here’s a guide to help you dress comfortably and appropriately on your cruise vacation.
General Cruise Attire Guidelines
Daytime Onboard:
Most cruise days are casual. Think resort casual: khaki pants or shorts paired with short-sleeved button-down shirts or neat T-shirts for men; sundresses, palazzo pants, or nice tops for women. Dark, clean jeans are usually acceptable too.
Evening Dining:
For main dining rooms, resort casual typically works well. Men might choose collared shirts or long-sleeved button-downs, while women can wear slacks with a blouse or a dress. Specialty restaurants often require a dressier look, so consider packing a few smarter outfits.
Formal Nights:
Many cruises include one or two “formal” or “gala” evenings. Men should bring at least a collared shirt and a jacket, or even a suit or tuxedo if they want to go all out. Women often wear cocktail dresses, pantsuits, or even gowns. Jeans, shorts, flip-flops, and baseball caps are generally prohibited in dining rooms, especially on formal nights.
Swimwear & Cover-Ups:
A bathing suit is essential, whether for pool lounging or hot tubs. Remember that most dining areas require a cover-up over swimwear.
Shore Excursions:
For onshore adventures, wear comfortable, casual clothes and sturdy shoes. Pack layers and moisture-wicking fabrics depending on your destination’s climate and activities.
Cruise Line Dress Codes Overview
Carnival:
Casual is king. Daywear includes jeans, T-shirts, tank tops, and shorts. Dinner attire is relaxed; nice jeans and tops work well. Formal nights (“cruise elegant”) offer a range from slacks and shirts to tuxedos and gowns.
Celebrity Cruises:
Chic-casual throughout. More upscale than Carnival; think khakis and button-downs over shorts and tank tops. Formal nights encourage tuxedos and evening gowns, but many opt for jackets without ties.
Disney Cruise Line:
Family-friendly and casual, with jeans and T-shirts common even at dinner. Dress-up nights suggest jackets for men and dresses or pantsuits for women. Don’t forget Pirate Night costumes!
Holland America Line:
Cruise casual with a polished edge. Passengers often wear resort wear or neat jeans. Gala nights require formalwear—ball gowns, suits, or tuxedos.
MSC Cruises:
European cruises tend to be dressier, with elegant daytime and evening attire common. US-based sailings are more casual. Gala dinners are formal, with ball gowns and suits the norm.
Norwegian Cruise Line:
Known for “freestyle cruising,” Norwegian is laid-back. Day and night attire is mostly casual, with smart casual encouraged at dinner. Formal nights are optional, so you can dress up or keep it casual without issue.
Princess Cruises:
Daytime is casual—activewear, beachwear, and jeans are common. Formal nights call for suits or slacks with jackets for men, cocktail dresses or pantsuits for women. Other evenings are smart casual.
Royal Caribbean:
Casual by day and relaxed by night, with some smart casual and formal nights depending on cruise length. Formal nights expect cocktail dresses, gowns, suits, or tuxedos. Jeans aren’t allowed in dining rooms on formal nights.
Final Tips
- Avoid shorts, flip-flops, and hats during dinner, especially on formal nights.
- Check if your cruise has special theme nights like “white parties” or “’80s nights” and pack accordingly.
- When in doubt, err on the side of resort casual — it’s comfortable and widely accepted.
- Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and cover-ups for poolside fun.
- Layer your clothes for excursions, adapting to weather and activity.
With these tips, you’ll be prepared for every occasion on your cruise, from casual pool days to elegant dinners under the stars.
