Formal or Informal – What to Wear on a Cruise Ship

Knowing what to wear on a cruise ship is one of those little dilemmas we all face when we holiday on the seven seas. Wondering exactly which outfits you’ll need can make knowing what to pack for a cruise a challenge, and with cruise lines offering unique experiences, there are more varied dress code rules to follow now than ever before.

It can be a lot to deal with, and that’s why Bolsover Cruise Club is here to help you understand what to wear on your cruise and to pack everything you’ll need to look good and feel comfortable throughout your entire itinerary.

Dress Codes

Generally speaking, there are three types of dress code on a cruise ship: smart casual, semi-formal, and formal. These styles are standard across many cruise lines, and they generally apply to the public areas on board during the evenings.

If you’re unsure what to pack for a cruise, we strongly recommend consulting your cruise line, as they will be best placed to inform you what to wear with respect to their itineraries and destinations. However, to provide a general idea, here are our quick guides to each dress code.

Smart Casual

This dress code encourages guests to wear clothing that’s smart without being overly formal. The goal is to present yourself well without overdressing, finding that classy middle ground. Smart casual attire includes polo shirts, collared shirts, blouses, sundresses, and skirts.

Semi-Formal

Similar to smart casual, semi-formal attire seeks to strike a balance between formal and informal. Slightly more polished than smart casual, this dress code is to be considered a step up, requiring attire such as shirt-and-tie combinations, sport coats, pantsuits, and cocktail dresses.

Formal

On selected evenings on each cruise (explained below), guests are invited to dress formally, requiring the very highest standard of attire. This dress code requires an element of glamour and sophistication, meaning suits and evening gowns.

Formal or “Black-Tie” Nights

For a typical two-week cruise, there are typically four black tie evenings (though this number may be reduced in hotter destinations like the Mediterranean). These evenings provide an opportunity for ladies to wear glamorous evening wear – including cocktail dresses, ball gowns, or smart trouser suits – and for men to sport a suit, dinner jacket, or tuxedo.

Knowing what to wear on a cruise ship formal night needn’t be a concern, as your cruise line will have plenty of information and recommendations available to guide you in the right direction. Attire for black-tie nights may also be available for purchase or hire on board, and guests in the military are also permitted to wear their uniform. 

Appropriate attire is essential for entry to many of the ship’s bars and restaurants on these formal nights.

What if I Want to Avoid Formal Nights?

Guests who prefer not to attend these formal nights or feel uncomfortable dressing up do not need to do so. The traditions surrounding cruise formal nights have long been in flux, meaning that cruise lines are more accommodating of those who aren’t as interested in these formal or black-tie evenings.

Those who do not wish to attend formal nights can usually find a buffet restaurant as an alternative dining venue for the evening. This experience doesn’t require guests to meet such strict dress codes and is also a good option for those dining with children.

Evening Casual

In addition to traditional formal evenings, guests can expect around 10 Evening Casual nights included in many cruise itineraries. Stylish resort or leisurewear is ideal for these evenings, with suitable clothing including casual separates or dresses for ladies and open-neck polo shirts and casual trousers (not shorts) for men. A jacket and smart trousers can be worn but are not compulsory. Smart, dark denim is also fine, but not trainers, football shirts or tracksuits.

Remember to Relax!

The final thing to remember when trying to determine what to wear on your holiday is not to worry! You’re on holiday after all, and while formal dress codes are a core part of many itineraries, they are intended to be fun and there are alternative options if they aren’t right for you.

It is also worth remembering that the primary influence on the dress codes that different cruise lines enforce is the itinerary that the ship follows. Naturally, guests are restricted in what they can wear by weather conditions (thermals aren’t needed in the Caribbean, for example) and activities, so take a quick look at the cruise details when deciding what to pack for a cruise, as this will help you plan appropriately.

Discover Your Perfect Cruise Getaway with Bolsover Cruise Club

Get ready to book your next cruise getaway with all of the major cruise lines available here at Bolsover Cruise Club. If you need help booking a cruise, please don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our Cruise Experts will be happy to assist you.