princess cruise when is formal night

Princess Cruise Formal Nights: Dress Code, Etiquette & More!

Embarking on a Princess Cruise is a ticket to a world filled with majestic experiences, a realm where elegance meets the endless horizon.

Among the bouquet of cherished memories you’ll collect, the cruise formal nights stand as glittering jewels, reflecting an ambiance laced with sophistication and celebratory spirit.

This guide aims to be your companion, unraveling the tapestry of Princess Cruise formal nights. So grab your free cruise planner and let’s go!

Princess Cruises Formal Night Dress Code

Sailing through the gentle waves under a starlit sky, the Princess Cruises formal nights invite you to a realm where elegance is the dress code.

Stepping into this grand affair requires a finesse adorned in attire that resonates with the night’s royal essence.

This section aims to unfurl the fabric of dress code etiquette, ensuring you glide through the evening with grace and ease.

Overview of Princess Cruise Dress Code

Princess Cruises advocates a dress code that balances sophistication with comfort.

The atmosphere on formal nights is one of refined elegance, where every guest is a jewel in the crown of the night. Here’s a glimpse into the attire guidelines:

• Men : Traditionally, a suit or tuxedo encapsulates the desired look. A dark suit paired with a crisp dress shirt and a tie or bow tie is a classic choice.
• Women : Evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pantsuits echo the night’s elegance. The length of dresses can vary, though a knee-length or longer is often preferred.
• Children : While there’s a touch of leniency for the younger guests, dressing them in formal or semi-formal attire complements the evening’s atmosphere.

Men’s Dress Code

Dressing for a formal night is an ode to elegance. Here’s a more detailed insight into men’s attire:

• Suits and Tuxedos : A well-fitted suit or a tuxedo is a timeless choice. While black is a classic, feel free to explore navy or charcoal grey for a touch of uniqueness.
• Dress Shirts and Ties : A crisp dress shirt, coupled with a tie or bow tie, polishes the look. A light-colored shirt contrasting with a dark suit often creates a sharp ensemble.
• Footwear : Leather dress shoes or other formal footwear complete the outfit. Remember, comfort is key as you may find yourself dancing the night away!

Women’s Dress Code

The night beckons women to flaunt their style with an array of attire choices of dresses for cruise formal night :

• Evening Gowns : An evening gown is a quintessential choice for a royal soiree. The flow of the fabric, a tasteful neckline, and a flattering silhouette are elements to consider.
• Cocktail Dresses : For those who prefer a shorter length, cocktail dresses offer a blend of formal with a dash of playful.
• Elegant Pantsuits : A well-tailored, elegant pantsuit is also a fitting choice, embodying a modern yet refined look.
• Accessories : Complement your outfit with subtle accessories. A string of pearls, a delicate bracelet, or a pair of chandelier earrings can be the perfect finishing touches.

Children’s Dress Code

The younger royals are not left behind in this grandiose affair:

• Boys : A suit or a dress shirt with formal trousers reflects the evening’s formal tone. A tie can be a whimsical addition.
• Girls : Dresses or formal skirts paired with a nice top can be delightful choices. The attire can range from semi-formal to formal, allowing room for comfort and movement.

Where to Shop

Preparation for the formal night can commence well before you set sail:

• Online Retailers : Websites like Amazon , Nordstrom , or specialized formal wear outlets are great platforms to explore.
• Rental Services : Consider rental services like The Black Tux or Rent the Runway for a budget-friendly alternative.
• Onboard Shops : Once onboard, the cruise shops also offer a selection of formal wear, though it’s advisable to have your attire sorted out beforehand to avoid last-minute rushes.

Dressing for Princess Cruises formal nights is an invitation to partake in a tradition of elegance.

As you prepare to honor the dress code, remember, the essence of the night is to celebrate together the splendid journey across the seas.

Schedule of Princess Formal Nights

Amidst the tranquil days and gentle evenings of your journey, the Princess Cruise Formal Nights shimmer on the horizon as events steeped in elegance.

Knowing when these special nights occur aids in shaping your cruise experience to its fullest. Let’s delve into how these nights are scheduled and how you can uncover the details specific to your voyage.

Typical Schedule

The formal nights are thoughtfully interspersed through your cruise itinerary. Though the schedule may vary based on the length and nature of your voyage, here’s a general outline:

• Short Cruises (1-4 days) : Typically, one formal night is scheduled.
• Medium Cruises (5-9 days) : Usually, two formal nights are featured.
• Long Cruises (10+ days) : Expect at least two, and possibly more formal nights, spaced out throughout the voyage.

How to Find the Schedule

Being privy to the schedule beforehand allows for impeccable planning. Here’s how you can ascertain the formal night schedule for your cruise:

• Cruise Personalizer : By logging into the Cruise Personalizer on the Princess Cruises website, you can access a detailed itinerary, which includes the schedule for formal nights.
• Daily Patter : Once onboard, the ‘Daily Patter’, a newsletter delivered to your stateroom, will have the schedule for each day’s events, including the formal nights.
• Guest Services : You can also inquire at the guest services desk onboard for the formal night schedule.

Special Themed Formal Nights

Sometimes, Princess Cruises infuses a thematic essence into the formal nights. Here’s a peek into these special editions:

• Themes : Themes such as ‘Black and White Ball’ or ‘Captain’s Gala’ bring a vibrant layer to the formal evenings.
• Attire : While the base dress code remains elegant, the theme may invite additional color schemes or accessories.
• Activities : Themed nights may feature special activities, dance routines, or contests that echo the theme’s spirit.

These themed formal nights are a mélange of creativity and elegance, where tradition waltzes with whimsical fun.

Preparing for Princess Formal Nights

The allure of Princess Cruise Formal Nights blossoms with a touch of preparation.

As the stars align to light up your evenings at sea, a few orchestrated steps can escort you into the heart of these majestic nights with ease and elegance.

Let’s set sail through the pre-cruise and onboard preparations that frame your formal nights in a glow of seamless enjoyment.

Pre-Cruise Preparations

A stitch in time, as they say, here’s how you can weave your preparations into the fabric of an unforgettable formal night:

• Explore sales or rentals for formal attire well ahead of your cruise.
• Pack a blend of options to suit your mood and the potential themes.
• Include comfortable formal shoes, as the night holds promises of dance and delightful wanderings.
• Pre-book hair and makeup appointments if you prefer a professional touch.
• Alternatively, consider packing your favorite beauty products to style yourself.
• Browse through forums, blogs, and Princess Cruises’ official guidelines to gather insights on what to expect.
• Engage with past cruisers to glean tips and recommendations.

Onboard Preparations

As the cruise sails towards the horizon of formal nights, here’s how you can prepare on board:

• The ship’s salon offers hair, makeup, and nail services. It’s advisable to book your appointments early to secure your preferred time slot.
• Check the spa/salon’s opening hours and services offered to plan your day.
• Ensure your formal wear is pressed and ready. The onboard laundry services include pressing services to have your attire looking pristine.
• Assemble your accessories, shoes, and any other items you’ll need.
• Formal nights are photo-worthy moments. Booking a session with the onboard professional photographers ensures you have timeless mementos of the evening.

Your preparation, both pre-cruise and onboard, lays down a red carpet, leading you into the glamour and cheer of Princess Formal Nights. It’s a voyage through a starlit evening, where every detail you’ve orchestrated plays a note in the melody of unforgettable memories.

The Formal Night Experience

The aura of elegance, a gentle breeze, the subtle murmur of waves kissing the hull – the scene is set for a night of majestic experiences.

As the sun casts a golden farewell to the day, the allure of the formal night unfolds, sweeping you into a realm of high-class dining, soulful music, and congenial company.

Let’s voyage through the facets that craft the essence of Princess Cruise Formal Nights.

The Dinner Affair

A culinary voyage lies at the heart of the formal night:

• Your table awaits at the ship’s sophisticated dining rooms. Reserved seating ensures a place amidst the evening’s elegance.
• A menu curated for the formal night promises a gourmet journey through appetizers, entrées, and desserts.
• For a touch of flexibility, Anytime Dining allows you to dine at your leisure between the designated hours.
• Advance reservations at the specialty restaurants usher you into a realm of culinary artistry.

Dancing and Entertainment

As dinner fades into a memory, the night blooms with music and laughter:

• The gentle strains of a live orchestra invite you to the dance floor. Whether a seasoned dancer or stepping to the tune for the first time, the ballroom beckons.
• A schedule of live entertainment ranging from musical shows to magic acts enlivens the night.
• Engage in theme-specific contests or activities, amplifying the joy of the night.

Socializing and Networking

Amidst the sparkle, connections blossom:

• Formal nights often host Captain’s welcome parties or other meet-and-greet events, opening doors to mingle with fellow cruisers and the ship’s crew.
• The professional photographers capture moments as you socialize, leaving you with memories framed in elegance.
• Retire to the sophisticated lounges or bars to continue the conversations over fine wines or crafted cocktails.

The Night’s Closure

As the night matures, the gentle return to your stateroom:

• A stroll on the deck under a starlit sky is a serene closure to the formal night.
• Your stateroom awaits to cocoon you in comfort as you reminisce about the night’s splendors, perhaps with a nightcap delivered via room service.

The orchestrated blend of gourmet dining, engaging entertainment, and congenial company shape the tapestry of Princess Formal Nights.

As the soft strains of music fade into the ocean’s lullaby, the memory of a majestic night at sea finds a harbor in your heart.

Common Mishaps and How to Avoid Them

A voyage into the regal realms of Princess Formal Nights is often smooth sailing. However, unforeseen ripples could attempt to cloud the elegance of your evening.

Awareness and a dash of preparation are your compass and anchor through these minor mishaps. Let’s navigate through common misadventures and how to steer clear of them.

Dress Code Missteps

A misinterpretation of the dress code can lead to discomfort. Here’s how to avoid such a situation:

• Thoroughly read through the dress code guidelines provided by Princess Cruises.
• Seek insights from seasoned cruisers on forums or social media groups.
• Confirm the dress code with guest services once onboard.
• If in doubt, opt for a slightly more formal attire to blend well with the evening’s tone.

Overbooking

A Princess cruise formal night can turn hectic if overbooked with reservations and activities. Balance is key:

• Choose the experiences that matter most to you – be it a special dinner, a show, or dancing.
• Avoid back-to-back reservations to ensure you have enough time to relish each experience.

Missed Reservations

Missing a dining or spa reservation can be disappointing:

• Ensure you check the timings and arrive a bit earlier to avoid any mishaps.
• Use your smartphone or the stateroom’s alarm clock to set reminders for your reservations.

Photographic Faux Pas

An unflattering or missed photo op can be a small regret:

• Have a brief consultation with the onboard photographers about your preferred poses or settings.
• Schedule your photo sessions at a comfortable time, ensuring you are not rushed.

Dietary Restrictions

A smooth dining experience hinges on addressing dietary needs:

• Notify Princess Cruises of any dietary restrictions or allergies before embarking.
• Confirm with the dining staff to ensure your dietary needs are well-addressed.

The voyage through possible mishaps prepares you to circumvent minor bumps, ensuring your evening sails smoothly into the horizon of memorable experiences.

As our guide sails towards the conclusion, the upcoming section encapsulates the quintessence of Princess Formal Nights, rounding off your preparation for an elegant and enjoyable experience under the starlit canopy of the open sea.

With this conclusion, we wrap up the folds of preparation and insight, opening the gateway to the awaiting elegance of Princess Cruise Formal Nights.

This guide aims to be your companion in ensuring that the experience resonates with splendor, joy, and smooth sailing, shaping your cruise into a narrative of unforgettable evenings under the starlit canopy of the vast, tranquil sea.

FAQs on Princess Cruise Formal Nights

In the crescendo towards the elegant evenings of Princess Cruise Formal Nights, several queries may dance across your mind.

This section is tailored to waltz through some of the commonly asked questions, providing a soft landing into the realm of clarity as you prepare for your voyage into elegance.

1. What Exactly Constitutes Formal Attire?

• Formal attire typically refers to suits with ties, or tuxedos for men, and evening dresses or elegant pantsuits for women. It’s the attire you would wear to a very upscale event or a high-end restaurant.

2. How Strict is the Dress Code?

• While Princess Cruises encourages adherence to the dress code to maintain the elegant ambiance, a modest degree of flexibility is often observed. It’s always a good idea to check with guest services for the specific expectations on your cruise.

3. Can I Rent Formal Wear Onboard?

• Yes, Princess Cruises often offers formal wear rental services onboard. It’s advisable to inquire about this service and make your selections early on in the cruise.

4. Are Children Expected to Adhere to the Formal Dress Code?

• While children are welcome to dress formally, the dress code is often more relaxed for young cruisers. Nice, clean, smart casual attire is generally accepted.

5. What if I Prefer Not to Participate in Formal Nights?

• If formal nights aren’t your cup of tea, there are alternative dining venues like the buffet or casual eateries where the dress code is relaxed.

6. Are There Professional Photographers Available?

• Absolutely! Professional photographers are available to capture your elegant moments. It’s a wonderful opportunity for a portrait against the ship’s stunning backdrops.

7. Can I Book a Specialty Restaurant for Formal Night?

• Yes, you can! It’s advisable to make your reservations well in advance as specialty restaurants are quite popular, especially on formal nights.

8. Is There Any Extra Cost Associated with Formal Nights?

• The cost of the formal nights is usually included in your cruise fare. However, certain extras like professional photos, specialty dining, or spa and beauty services would incur additional charges.

9. What Kind of Entertainment Can I Expect?

• Expect a bouquet of entertainment from live orchestral music, ballroom dancing, live shows, to themed activities that resonate with the elegance of the evening.

10. How Can I Find Out About the Theme of Formal Nights?

• Information about themed formal nights can often be found in the daily planner delivered to your stateroom, or by checking with guest services.

11. Are Special Diets Catered For During Formal Nights?

• Absolutely! Princess Cruises takes pride in accommodating a variety of dietary requirements. It’s advisable to notify the cruise line of any special dietary needs before embarking, and confirm with the dining staff once onboard.

12. Will There Be Dance Lessons Available Prior to Formal Nights?

• Often, there are dance lessons available on board in the days leading up to formal nights. It’s a fun way to prepare for the ballroom dancing in the evening.

13. Can I Choose My Dining Companions on Formal Nights?

• While seating arrangements vary, you can certainly request to be seated with particular guests. It’s advisable to speak with the maitre d’ early on to make any special seating arrangements.

14. Is There a Formal Night Every Night?

• No, formal nights are special evenings that occur once or twice during a cruise, depending on the length of the voyage.

15. What is the Typical Schedule for Formal Nights?

• The schedule for formal nights can vary, but it often includes a formal dinner, followed by dancing, live shows, and other themed activities. Check the daily planner delivered to your stateroom for the schedule on your cruise.

16. Are There Any Age Restrictions on Formal Nights?

• Formal nights are a celebration for all ages. However, certain venues or events during the evening may have age restrictions, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance.

17. What Kind of Music Can I Expect?

• The music on formal nights often includes a blend of classic ballroom tunes, contemporary hits, and live orchestral performances, catering to a variety of musical tastes.

18. Is There an Opportunity to Meet the Captain During Formal Nights?

• Indeed, formal nights often include a Captain’s welcome party where you have the opportunity to meet the captain and some other senior officers.

19. Do I Need to Make Reservations for Dinner on Formal Nights?

• It’s a good practice to make dinner reservations especially if you prefer to dine at a specific time or at a specialty restaurant.

20. Where Can I Find More Information About Princess Formal Nights Once Onboard?

• More information can be found in the daily planner, through the interactive TV system in your stateroom, or by checking with guest services.

Princess Cruises Theme Nights: 2024 Schedule for all Ships!

August 1, 2024

Hello cruise lovers, welcome back to another article of our “ Theme Nights ” series. After exploring the theme nights on Royal Caribbean , Carnival , MSC , and Norwegian , it’s finally time to delve into what you can expect on Princess Cruises (a topic someone even requested on Facebook).

I must confess, not many passengers dress up for theme nights on Princess Cruises .

If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you already know how much I enjoy these special nights and that I always make an effort to dress up. So it brings me joy to see other passengers who share my enthusiasm .

However, in my opinion, Princess Cruises doesn’t heavily promote various dress codes , making theme nights not as prominent as on other cruise lines.

Nonetheless, there are still some intriguing theme nights . Let’s dive in and discover what they have to offer.

Table of Contents

Gold and white night

One of the most famous theme nights on Princess Cruises is the gold and white one .

I personally love it. White clothes are really easy to find and everyone has something in their closets .

What I do for the gold and white night is to dress in a full white outfit and use gold for all the accessories .

For example, women can consider white dresses, ranging from cocktail to elegant styles, paired with gold accessories.

Men can simply wear white trousers and a white shirt, paired with gold watches, bracelets, necklaces, or hats.

Formal night (dress to impress)

The other famous one, that we see on almost every ship, is the formal night .

Last time I was on Princess, it was also called the “ Dress to Impress ” night.

What is it about? Well, it’s the traditional cruising one, emphasizing glamour, sophistication, and chic outfits. These evenings often are a showcase of elegance where you can wear your best dresses .

Women can wear floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses, or sophisticated dressy pantsuits. While men can opt for suits or tuxedos, paired with a tie, and polished dress shoes.

NOTE: The number of formal nights varies with the length of the cruise.

• There is no formal night for cruises that are 1 to 4 days long .
• There is one formal night for cruises that are 5 to 6 days long .
• There are two formal nights for cruises that are 7 to 13 days long .
• There are three formal nights for cruises that are 14 to 20 days long .

Holidays and festive theme nights

One thing I particularly enjoy about Princess Cruises is the variety of holiday and festive theme nights .

On board, you can find a theme party for all the major festive occasions like Halloween , Mardi Gras , or Christmas .

If you sail during a festive period, remember to bring something to wear that matches the spirit of the celebration .

I once went on a Halloween cruise and lots of people dressed up!

’60s, ’70s, or ’80s night

These nights are perfect to relive the iconic fashion, music, and vibe of the ’60s, ’70s, or ’80s . These theme nights are usually followed by a party where a lot of people dress in period-specific attire.

As far as I know, the decade depends on the ship . The one that I’ve seen more often is the ’80s night but I have to say that each of them is equally fun.

My advice is to bring bell-bottoms and tie-dye shirts, something with neon colors, or mod dresses and suits.

Cowboy or county western night

I had never heard of a Cowboy Party until a friend of mine traveled with Princess Sky in early 2024 .

I like the idea, even though cowboy-inspired attire could be a bit complicated to find.

I think the best choice would be to opt for a country look with denim skirts or jeans with plaid shirts, complemented by cowboy boots and hats for women.

Western shirts, leather belts with large buckles, and of course, cowboy hats and boots for men.

2024 Schedule for all the ships

Below here you can find the 2024 schedule for the theme nights of all Princess Cruises’ ships .

I update it as often as I can, but please take it as an indication as it may vary depending on the itinerary and the time of year .

Theme Nights on Grand Princess

• Formal Night
• White and Gold Night
• County Western Night
• Rock n Roll Night

Theme Nights on Coral Princess

• ’80s Night

Theme Nights on Island Princess

Theme nights on sapphire princess, theme nights on caribbean princess, theme nights on diamond princess.

• ’80s Party

Theme Nights on Crown Princess

Theme nights on emerald princess.

• island night

Theme Nights on Ruby Princess

Theme nights on royal princess.

• Gold and White Night

Theme Nights on Regal Princess

Theme nights on majestic princess.

• Gold and white Night

Theme Nights on Sky Princess

• Cowboy Night
• Glad Rags Night

Theme Nights on Enchanted Princess

Theme nights on discovery princess.

• Dress to Impress Night

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3 thoughts on “Princess Cruises Theme Nights: 2024 Schedule for all Ships!”

• Pingback: Cruise Checklist: 43 Things People Always Forget to Bring! - Cruise with Leo

I so appreciate this information! Thank you!

Hello Leo, Do you know which days, such as second or third, are the formal nights on the Princess Majestic sailing for Alaska?

Thank you so much!

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Cruise Formal Night Explained: 10 Things to Know (What to Wear and More…)

Formal night on a cruise is a classic tradition, but for many passengers, it can also lead to lots of questions. Do I have to dress up? What can I wear? When are the formal nights?

We’ve taken dozens of cruise and know that for those unfamiliar with formal night, it can feel a bit unnerving trying to figure out the ins and outs of dressing up. No one wants to head to dinner underdressed. At the same time, some people don’t want to dress up at all and prefer to know what other options they have.

Below, we’ve covered some of the most frequent questions about formal night on a cruise.

In This Article...

What Is a Cruise Formal Night?

Just as the name implies, formal night is the evening on the cruise when the dress code goes from the casual style that’s normal around the ship to more elegant. It’s a chance for passengers on the ship to put on their best and have an evening out that feels more special than just going to grab dinner in the dining room.

You’ll find people around the ship dressed up, having drinks, taking formal pictures, and enjoying dinner and a show. Think of it as a special event where many passengers have an elegant “date night” that’s more memorable than just another dinner on the ship.

Do I Have to Dress Up?

Absolutely not. Your cruise is your own. If you don’t want to dress up for the evening, then you certainly don’t have to do so. Many people choose to keep it casual. If you decide that shorts and a t-shirt are as formal as you want to get, you won’t be alone.

However, if you do decide to not dress up, it’s a good idea to dine outside of the main dining room or higher-end specialty restaurants. These are spots that request nicer dress during formal night.

Even if casual dress is allowed in the dining room during formal night, you might feel out of place with others wearing suits or evening gowns.

What Can I Wear to Formal Night? Do I Have to Wear a Tux or an Evening Gown?

Perhaps the biggest question around formal night on a cruise is what to wear. What’s acceptable is wide-ranging. No, you don’t have to go out and get a tuxedo or a formal evening gown unless you want to.

For instance, you can go all out and dress up in your best. And you will see some people around the cruise ship go this route. But you don’t have to wear a suit or tux to enjoy the evening.

Women can simply wear a cocktail dress or a nice blouse with pants. For men, it’s fine to wear a suit, or even a buttoned-down shirt and a pair of slacks if you don’t want to get too fancy. Nice jeans would also be ok, although we’d suggest something slightly more dressy.

That said, not everything goes. There are some clothing items to avoid if you plan to eat in the dining room on formal night. This includes shorts, tank-tops, t-shirts, and swimsuits, as well as flip-flops. If you’d wear it to the pool or the beach, you don’t want to wear it to formal night.

• Ok to Wear for Formal Night (Women): Gowns, dresses, skirts, blouses with pants
• Ok to Wear for Formal Night (Men): Tuxedoes, suits, button-down shirts, slacks, nice jeans
• Avoid Wearing (Men and Women): Shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, flip-flops

Is The Dress Code Strictly Enforced?

Don’t worry, you aren’t likely to be denied entry to the dining room, even if you are dressed casually. It’s not like an exclusive nightclub that bars entry.

While the name might be “formal” or “elegant” night, you won’t be out of place as long as you dress nicer than a t-shirt and shorts. Remember, the cruise lines want you to enjoy yourself and not be worried about if you should be in a tuxedo.

For that reason, as long as you avoid wearing something very casual (e.g. flip flops, shorts, and a tank top), it’s likely to be no issue. Even so, we’d highly recommend dressing up somewhat if you plan on eating in a dining room or a nicer specialty restaurant. Not only will you feel more comfortable around others who are dressed up, but it also adds to the atmosphere of formal night for others.

Where Should I Eat If I Don’t Dress Up?

While the main dining room is the spot for formal eating during the evening, you won’t go hungry if you decide not to take part in dressing up. Every cruise ship offers a number of different places to eat, with many casual dining options for those who aren’t getting fancy for the evening.

For instance, instead of the main dining room you can head to the buffet or one of the 24-hour restaurants around the ship. The restaurant’s atmosphere will give you an idea of if it’s ok to eat there dressed casually or not. The fancy steakhouse? You want to go formal. The spot serving pizza? Shorts and a t-shirt are just fine.

Is Formal Night For Everywhere on the Ship?

While you’ll definitely see people dressed up all around the ship, the only place where you’ll find any sort of suggested or required dress code is in the dining room and/or specialty restaurants.

So if you are just hanging out around the ship — having a drink in a bar, playing in the casino, watching an evening show — then you are perfectly fine dressing down. You won’t be the only one. While many people participate in formal night, a considerable chunk of passengers don’t.

How Many Formal Nights Are There During the Cruise?

The number of formal nights varies based on the length of your cruise. The rule of thumb is that a week-long cruise will have two formal nights during the trip (i.e. Day 2 and Day 5). Shorter trips normally have one.

It may be that if you are on a very short cruise (e.g. three days), there might not even be one formal night. For instance, we’ve been on one short cruise with “Wear Your Best” (i.e. the nicest thing you packed) instead of formal night. 

Does Everyone on the Ship Dress Up?

No. If you decide to not dress up, then you certainly won’t be out of place. Many people choose to dress casually and just eat somewhere else other than the main dining room or higher-end restaurants. Even so, formal nights are popular and when you walk around the ship in the evening on one of these nights, there is no mistaking that it’s dressier than normal.

How Will I Know When it Is Formal Night?

Nothing would stop you in your tracks like heading down to dinner in a pair of shorts and then realizing everyone else is dressed up! Fortunately, you’ll get plenty of notice when it is formal night.

The most obvious spot will be with your daily cruise planner delivered to your cabin each day or through the cruise line’s app. There will be some mention of the dinner attire. It may be referred to as “formal” or “cruise elegant” or some other name. They all mean the same thing: Time to get dressed up!

As well, there are almost always announcements from the cruise director throughout the day sharing what is going on during the day and evening. They will usually mention it when it is formal night, so keep an ear out for announcements.

In the worst case, even if you don’t see any notice at all, you will definitely not miss the fact that many people are dressed up when you head to dinner that evening. That should give you a little time to head back to the room and dress up if you want to join in.

Do I Need to Dress Up at Any Other Time Than Formal Night?

For the most part, the only time you’ll need to dress anything other than casual is if you participate in formal night. That said, there are some spots where some nicer clothes are a good idea even if that evening’s dress code is casual.

Specifically, if you plan to visit any of the higher-end specialty restaurants on the ship, such as the steakhouse, then there may be a dress code.

Even if there is not, dressing up to fit the style of the restaurant is smart. So while it’s ok to dress casually at a burger joint on the ship, you’ll want to dress a little nicer if you go to the formal Italian or seafood spot for dinner.

Bottom Line on Cruise Formal Nights

The formal nights on a cruise are a fun way to do things a little differently. If you’re not someone that gets dressed up often, don’t worry. The rules around what’s formal and what’s not are flexible. As long as you make some sort of effort to dress a little nice, you’ll be fine. And if you want to go all out, you won’t be alone!

If you’re someone who likes to keep things casual, then that’s no issue either. While we’d suggest not eating the main dining room or nicer specialty restaurants on that night, you can wear what you want around the ship.

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I dressed up in an old maxi dress that was really oversized that I found from my daughter’s wedding 9 years ago. It was so flowing and pretty, so heck YEAH I wore it! I wore a nice outfit each night, like a skirt or dress. My embarkation outfit for the first night I modified by taking off the pants and putting on a skirt. I even kept the high boots on, which really worked! The last night I had a long ‘cover up’ dress that I gussied up with a sparkly throw and wedge high sandals.

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Understanding Princess Cruises Dress Code Policy

Princess Cruises offers an exquisite experience at sea, and part of that includes adhering to their dress code policy. As you embark on your voyage, it’s important to understand how strict Princess Cruises’ dress code truly is. From elegant formal nights to casual daytime attire, this article will guide you through the different dress code requirements onboard, ensuring that you are well-prepared and polished for every occasion. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive overview will help you navigate Princess Cruises ‘ dress code policy with ease.

Table of Contents

Princess Cruises Dress Code Policy

Welcome aboard Princess Cruises, where elegance and style are celebrated! Our dress code policy is designed to enhance the overall ambiance of your cruise experience, ensuring that you feel comfortable and appropriately attired for every occasion. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the various dress code requirements, from daytime attire to themed nights, and help you understand the different terms and guidelines. So, let’s dive in and get you acquainted with the Princess Cruises dress code!

Overview of Princess Cruises Dress Code

Importance of dress code on princess cruises.

Princess Cruises places great importance on maintaining an appropriate dress code, as it contributes to the overall atmosphere and creates a sense of elegance and sophistication on board. By adhering to the dress code policy, you can fully immerse yourself in the cruise experience and enjoy the refined ambiance that Princess Cruises is renowned for.

Goal of Dress Code

The dress code policy aboard Princess Cruises aims to strike a balance between formal elegance and relaxed informality. Whether you prefer to dress up or keep it casual, our dress code ensures that everyone can find an appropriate style that suits their personal comfort level.

Princess Cruises’ Dress Code Reputation

Princess Cruises has a well-established reputation for its dress code policy. Known for its refined and upscale atmosphere, Princess Cruises has consistently upheld its dress code standards over the years, ensuring that all guests have a memorable and sophisticated experience.

Daytime Attire

Casual dress code.

During the daytime, Princess Cruises adopts a relaxed and casual dress code. You can dress comfortably in resort-style clothing, such as shorts, sundresses, jeans, and t-shirts. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for walking around the ship and engaging in various activities.

Appropriate Attire for Daytime Activities

While the dress code is casual, there are a few exceptions when it comes to specific activities. If you plan to participate in activities such as yoga, fitness classes, or any athletic pursuits, it is advisable to wear appropriate workout attire. Additionally, when visiting public areas like the dining rooms or lounges, it is recommended to dress slightly more presentably.

Swimwear and Poolside Dress Code

When spending time by the pool, feel free to wear your swimsuit and cover-up. However, we kindly request that you refrain from walking around the ship in your swimwear. To maintain a respectful environment for all guests, please remember to use appropriate attire when leaving the pool area.

Evening Attire

Importance of evening attire.

Evenings aboard Princess Cruises are a special time, bringing a touch of elegance and sophistication to your experience. As such, we have specific dress code guidelines to help you create a stylish evening look.

General Evening Dress Code

In the evenings, a more sophisticated dress code is in effect. Smart casual or formal attire is usually required when visiting the main dining rooms, lounges, and entertainment venues after 6:00 PM. This allows for a more refined atmosphere and adds to the overall elegance of the evening experience.

Appropriate Attire for Dining

When dining in our main dining rooms, the Horizon Court buffet, or other specialty restaurants, it is recommended to dress in smart casual evening attire. This includes slacks or trousers, a collared shirt, and closed-toe shoes for gentlemen, while ladies can opt for dresses, skirts, or dressy pantsuits.

Attire for Entertainment Venues

For shows, theaters, and lounges, it is advisable to follow the smart casual dress code, similar to dining attire. Please note that specific dress code requirements may vary depending on the evening’s events, so it is always a good idea to check the daily schedule for any additional guidelines.

Formal Nights

Definition and purpose of formal nights.

Formal nights on Princess Cruises are an opportunity for guests to showcase their most elegant attire and enjoy a glamorous evening of fine dining and entertainment. These special nights bring an air of sophistication to the ship and are typically held on longer cruises.

Appropriate Formal Attire

For formal nights, gentlemen are expected to dress in traditional formal wear, such as tuxedos, suits, or dinner jackets. Ladies can opt for elegant cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or dressy pantsuits. This is the perfect occasion to bring out your finest attire and create lasting memories.

Gentlemen’s Guidelines

For gentlemen, traditional formal wear is recommended. This includes a tuxedo or a dark suit, a formal shirt, dress shoes, and, if desired, a bow tie or necktie. While tuxedo rentals are available on board, it is advisable to pre-book to ensure availability.

Ladies’ Guidelines

Ladies have the opportunity to showcase their style and grace with elegant evening wear. This can be a formal gown, cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. Accessorize with jewelry, heels, and a clutch to complete your sophisticated look.

Acceptable Alternatives

If you prefer not to dress in formal attire, alternative elegant options are also accepted on formal nights. For gentlemen, a dark suit and tie can be worn, while ladies can opt for a formal dress or pantsuit. The key is to maintain an elegant appearance that aligns with the occasion.

Informal Nights

Definition and expectations of informal nights.

Informal nights offer a slightly less formal dress code compared to formal nights while still maintaining an elegant atmosphere. On these nights, you have more flexibility in your attire while remaining respectful to the occasion.

Recommended Attire

For informal nights, gentlemen can wear a jacket with slacks or trousers, a dress shirt, and dress shoes. Ladies have the option to wear a dressy outfit, such as a skirt or dress pants paired with a blouse or a dressy top. This provides a balance between formal and casual, allowing you to express your personal style.

Dress Code for Children

Children, just like adults, are expected to adhere to the dress code policy during informal nights. It is important to ensure that they are dressed smartly, in appropriate clothing for the occasion.

Smart Casual Nights

Definition and recommendations for smart casual nights.

Smart casual nights offer a more relaxed and contemporary dress code option, allowing for stylish yet comfortable attire. It strikes a balance between formal and casual, resulting in a sophisticated and fashionable look.

Appropriate Attire for Smart Casual Nights

For gentlemen, smart casual attire can include dress pants or khakis, paired with a collared shirt or a sweater. Ladies can opt for a dressy blouse, a skirt or dress pants, and stylish footwear. The focus is on creating a polished appearance without the formality of formal nights.

Children are also expected to adhere to the smart casual dress code during these nights. Encourage them to dress in stylish yet comfortable clothing that fits the occasion.

Themed Nights

Introduction to themed nights.

Themed nights on Princess Cruises add an extra element of fun and excitement to your cruise experience. These nights allow you to showcase your creativity and participate in themed events throughout the ship.

Examples of Themed Nights

Themed nights can vary depending on the itinerary and cruise duration. Some popular examples of themed nights include Tropical Night, 70s Disco Party, or Pirate Night . These nights provide an opportunity for guests to dress up according to the theme and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.

Appropriate Attire for Themed Nights

The dress code for themed nights is generally more relaxed and playful. You are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the theme and dress accordingly. Be sure to check the daily schedule for specific guidelines on costumes and attire related to the theme of the evening.

Understanding the Dress Code Terms

Explanation of dress code terminology.

To ensure clarity and understanding, let’s define the different dress code terms used aboard Princess Cruises.

Formal attire refers to the highest level of elegance on board. It typically includes tuxedos, suits, dinner jackets, and evening gowns.

Informal attire represents a step below formal wear. It allows for more flexibility while maintaining an elegant appearance. Informal attire for gentlemen often includes jackets with slacks or trousers, while ladies can opt for dressy outfits.

Smart Casual

Smart casual attire strikes a balance between formal and casual wear. It focuses on a polished appearance without the rigid formality of formal nights.

Casual attire is appropriate during the daytime and certain casual events on board. It includes comfortable resort-style clothing such as shorts, sundresses, jeans, and t-shirts.

Enforcement of Dress Code

Princess Cruises ensures the enforcement of the dress code policy by its staff members who monitor the appropriate attire in various venues and public areas. While we strive for compliance, our approach is friendly and understanding, recognizing that guests may have varying interpretations of the dress code guidelines. However, we kindly request that all guests make an effort to adhere to the dress code policy to preserve the elegant ambiance for everyone on board.

Dress Code Exceptions

Special occasions.

If you are celebrating a special occasion on board, such as a birthday or anniversary, you may want to dress more formally or elegantly. Princess Cruises understands and accommodates these exceptions, allowing you to create lasting memories in your finest attire.

Medical Conditions

Guests with certain medical conditions that require specific attire or adjustments may be exempt from the dress code policy. We encourage you to contact our Guest Services team in advance to discuss any special requirements or accommodations needed.

Guests with Disabilities

Princess Cruises strives to provide a comfortable and inclusive experience for all guests, including those with disabilities. If you or a member of your party requires specific accommodations in terms of attire, please reach out to our Access Office for further assistance.

We hope this comprehensive article has provided you with a thorough understanding of the Princess Cruises dress code policy. By following the guidelines, you can ensure that you are appropriately attired for each occasion and fully immerse yourself in the elegant and refined atmosphere of your cruise. Enjoy your journey with Princess Cruises!

Hi, I'm Mike, the author of Ocean Bliss Journeys. As the captain of this incredible website, my mission is to provide you with the ultimate sailing experience. Set sail on a journey of discovery with us and indulge in the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Our handpicked cruises offer unparalleled luxury and unforgettable destinations. From romantic getaways to family vacations and hidden gem exploration, I've carefully curated tailored packages to ensure every moment is cherished. So, join me and embark on your dream cruise today. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (and frequently asked questions)

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Wondering what to wear on a cruise formal night? One of the most fun, but surprisingly stressful parts of planning a cruise, is planning your formal wear attire.

You might be wondering what to expect on cruise formal nights, how many there are, and even if you can skip them if you like.

In this post, I’ll answer some questions you may have about formal nights on a cruise and how they work. Plus, I’ll share some  recommendations for cruise formal wear to make it easy.

What is Formal Night on a Cruise?

Formal night is a special evening during the cruise when cruise passengers dress up in fancy or formal attire. However it doesn’t stop there. There is usually a special meal served in the Main Dining Room, where guests might be treated to a choice of menu which includes loster tail or prime rib, or a “surf and turf”. This is often a passenger favorite!

Formal night is sometimes referred to as Captain’s Night, and the Cruise Ship Captain will often make a speech welcoming all guests to his ship. The Captain will often be available for a photo opportunity with one of the cruise ship’s professional photographers.

In addition, there may be other formal night traditions to enjoy. For example, Princess Cruises have a champagne waterfall, where guests can participate and have a photo as well. If there are “welcome back” parties for past passengers, they often occur on formal night as well.

Formal Night Photos

Cruise ship formal nights are a great time to get professional photos taken. Whether you’re cruising as a couple for an anniversary or special occasion, or cruising as a family , there is no better time to capture the memories.

Truthfully, some way wonder if buying photos or a photo package on a cruise ship is worth it. However, at about $25 for an 8 x 10 photo or about $200 for a larger photo package, I think it’s a splurge that may be worth it on a cruise . Professional photo shoots in most cities will cost more than this, and will be much less convenient.

Read more:  10 Cruise “Extras” that Are Totally Worth It

Cruise Formal Night Attire – What to Expect

What’s considered formal wear on a cruise?

On most cruise lines, a tuxedo or suit for men, and an evening gown or cocktail dress for ladies is appropriate formal wear for a cruise. In practice, there will be a wide variety of “formal wear” seen on a cruise. Simply put, some people dress up more, and some less. 

Men can feel comfortable wearing a suit or dress pants and a dress shirt. Ladies can wear a nice dress or nice pant suit. Shorts and other casual wear are best left to the buffet or to other more casual restaurant choices.

How formal are cruise formal nights?

Years ago, formal nights on cruises were very formal. It was common for men to be dressed in tuxedos and ladies in long evening gowns. Nowadays, you’ll see a wide variety of dress on formal nights.

If you want to get a feeling for how formal is formal on a cruise, simply think about what clothing you’ll see at a wedding. On most cruise lines, dressing in formal attire will mean cocktail dresses or elegant pant suits for ladies, and a dark suit or dress pants and sports coat for men.

Remember to check your cruise line dress codes. Cunard is one of the most formal and you’ll want to be prepared with proper formal attire. Norwegian Cruise Line does not have a formal dress code, however do have optional dress up nights.

However, on most cruise ships, ladies can also feel comfortable to wear a nice dress (like a Little Black Dress) and men a pair on black dress pants and a dress shirt, with or without tie.

Read more:   Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise

Cruise Formal Night Recommendations for Cruise Travel Wear

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Life Well Cruised is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

You might be wondering about what outfits are too dressy or not dressy enough for formal nights on a cruise. Here are a few examples and recommendations for formal night cruise wear, to give you a idea. 

These cruise formal wear outfits are all affordable suggestions that you could wear on your cruise. 

Ladies Dresses for Formal Night

Long evening gown cocktail dress.

This flattering long cocktail dress is available in several colors, including black. It’s high neck and beautiful detail along the skirt, make this simple design a winner for any cruise line formal night.

Recommended: Mermaid Evening Gown Cocktail Dress – See on Amazon here

Little Black Dress

If you already own a LBD (little black dress) , you can definitely wear it on a cruise for formal night. If you don’t, it’s a good time to get one, since you can wear it literally for years. I love this flattering pencil style dress (see it on Amazon) .

Recommended: Little black dress (see over 13,000 Amazon reviews here)

Halter Neck Sleeveless Dress

You formal night dress doesn’t have to be super traditional. A flowing halter top dress paired with an evening bag clutch is perfect for an evening on a cruise.

Recommended: Halter neck sleeveless dress (see dress and Amazon reviews here)

Beaded Cocktail Dress with Caplet Sleeves

This plus size dress is flattering and made for real size women. I love this navy color dress with sheer detail, however it’s available in paler colors including pale pink and silver.

Recommended: Beaded cocktails dress with caplet sleeves (see pricing and details on Amazon here)

Off the Shoulder Evening Cocktail Dress

This gorgeous cocktail dress is a good example of a dress that you can wear on any cruise for formal night. It also fits perfectly well on any cruise line, from Princess to Celebrity Cruises and from Carnival to NCL . 

Recommended: Off the shoulder cocktail dress – see colors and pricing here (Amazon)

Read more:   Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women

Men’s Formal Wear Dress Suggestions

Calvin klein slim fit suit separates.

Men’s formal cruise wear is less “complicated” than ladies. Men can wear a dark suit, or even dress pants and a dress shirt. This Calvin Klein suit example comes in separates, so you can mix and match the jacket size and pants. Choose a nice tie and dress shirt and you’re all set.

Don’t forget dress shoes and a belt. I mention it because these are items that cruisers have reported forgetting bringing on a cruise , and regretting.

Recommended: Calvin Klein slim fit suit separates (see affordable options on Amazon)

Tuxedo Style Suit – Men’s Blazer, Vest and Dress Pants

This suit gets amazing reviews on Amazon and is available in smaller and larger sizes. This suit is modern and fashionable, and the separates can be worn at home to restaurants and even the office.

Recommended: 4 piece Suit! This includes a jacket, pants, vest and tie (see options here)

Cruise Formal Night – Frequently Asked Questions (and answers)

Can you skip formal night?

Can you skip formal nights? Of course you can. If you’re not feeling like dressing up or you’ve had a long day and you’re a bit tired, you have alternatives to formal night for evening dinner.

If you want to skip formal night on your cruise, you can always eat in the buffet or one of the other casual restaurants. You might even want to order room service and have dinner on your private balcony .

As well, many cruise lines don’t extend the formal dress code to specialty dining restaurants on “formal night”. If you prefer to be served but would rather dress in smart casual wear, consider making reservations at one of your cruise ship’s specialty restaurants. 

Read more:   25+ Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise

Do all cruise lines have formal nights?

Most popular cruise lines have a formal night, or a version of it by a different name, during each cruise. In recent years, cruises are becoming more casual and dress codes are changing , however, having a special “dress up” night is still very common.

Some cruise line’s formal nights may be called Gala Nights , which are usually quite formal. Other cruise dress codes include Celebrity’s “Evening Chic” and Carnival’s “Cruise Elegant”, which leave more leeway for dressing up with less formality. Norwegian Cruise Line does not have a formal night, however they do have an optional dress up night called “Norwegian Night Out”.

Since cruise lines can really differ on what type of attire is expected on formal nights, it’s important to check your cruise line’s dress codes to make sure you pack the appropriate cruise wear. 

How many formal nights are there on a cruise?

Most cruise lines have 1 formal night on cruises that are 6 days and less, and 2 formal nights on cruises 7 days and more.

In short, if you’re sailing on a 3, 4 or 5 night cruise, there will be one formal or dress up night. Typical 7 night cruises will have 2 formal nights.

Some cruise lines, including Holland America and Princess Cruises, will have 3 formal nights on cruises that are 14 days and longer. 

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Recap: What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night

In this post we’ve gone over what to expect on cruise formal nights, and why they are a special part of many cruises. We’ve also answered many frequently asked questions about formal nights on cruises, the traditions and offored suggestions showing what people might wear on formal nights.

Do you enjoy cruise formal nights and if so, what traditions do you enjoy most? Do you have questions about how formal nights, or “chic evenings”, work? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

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Nice & very informative site. I have enjoyed this reading very interesting. I will use this as a guide to get my packing done.

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What to Wear on Formal Night on a Cruise

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: December 15, 2021  - Last updated: November 27, 2022

Have you booked a cruise that has a formal night or two? Formal night on a cruise can be a highlight of your vacation! But if you don’t know what to wear on formal night, no worries—here’s everything you need to know.

Read on to find out all about cruise formal night—from how to find out how many nights will be formal, what the formal night dress codes are for the major cruise lines, and what to do if the idea of dressing up on a cruise just isn’t your thing.

I’ve even put together some cruise formal night outfit ideas for men, women, and kids to inspire you!

Be sure to read my cruise formal night FAQ at the end for quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about formal night on a cruise.

What is formal night on a cruise?

Formal night on a cruise ship is the evening when passengers don dressy clothing for dinner, photos, and special activities. The main dining rooms usually will serve an elevated menu, with fancier options like filet mignon, prime rib, or lobster tail.

Some cruise lines have the Captain’s welcome party the evening of the first formal night, with the opportunity to meet the captain and mingle with the other guests.

Your cruise line might use an alternate name for formal night, like “Evening Chic”, “Gala Evening”, or “Cruise Elegant”, but it’s essentially the same thing—a night when most passengers dress in their finest clothing for dinner and evening festivities.

Why do cruise lines have formal nights?

During the golden age of ocean liners, guests staying in first class cabins were required to wear formal attire after 6 PM in all public areas of the ship. In the early decades of modern cruise travel, women wore evening gowns and men donned white tie in the evenings.

Learn more: The Story of the First Cruise Ship: SS Prinzessin Victoria Luise

In the 1960s, when standards of dress became less formal in general, cruise lines began to alter their dress codes to appeal to a more modern aesthetic—as well as to the less well-heeled guests who were now able to afford a cruise vacation.

Today, many passengers enjoy having the opportunity to dress up once or twice during a cruise. In an increasingly casual world, this tradition is unique to the cruise industry!

Do all cruise lines have formal night?

If you really don’t like dressing up, you might want to choose one of the cruise lines that doesn’t have formal nights. These cruise lines don’t have a specific formal night with dressy attire required in the main dining rooms:

• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Virgin Voyages
• Oceania Cruises
• Paul Gauguin Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas

However, most of these cruise lines do have “formal optional” evenings, when many passengers do dress up in the evening—but it’s not required.

What should you wear for formal night on a cruise?

When people ask me what to wear for formal night on a cruise, I usually advise them to dress like they would for an elegant evening wedding—a dark suit and tie for men, and a cocktail dress or dressy evening separates for women.

You’ll often see people dressed to both ends of the “formal” spectrum on many ships—some wear tuxedos and full-length gowns, and others will wear chinos and a dress shirt or a more casual dress.

On more traditional cruise lines like Holland America or Cunard, you’ll notice the general level of dressiness to be a bit higher. But as long as you’re within your cruise line’s dress code, feel free to be as dressy or as casual as you prefer.

Where to find the formal night dress code for your cruise line

The idea of “formal night” may conjure up different images to different people, so the cruise lines have come up with guidelines to help cruisers understand the dress code expectations before they pack for vacation.

Here are links to the formal night dress codes for many of the major cruise lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line – look for “Cruise Elegant”
• Celebrity Cruises – look for “Evening Chic”
• Costa Cruises – look for “Formal”
• Cunard Line – look for “Gala Evening”
• Disney Cruise Line – look for “formal” and “semi-formal”
• Holland America Line – look for “Formal”
• MSC Cruises – click on “Gala Evenings”
• Princess Cruises – click on Clothing Recommendations and look for “Formal”
• Royal Caribbean – look for “Formal nights”

Where is formal night attire required on the ship?

If you’re opting out of formal night attire, you don’t need to stay in your stateroom all night! Formal night dress code is generally only required in the main dining room during dinner. (Some cruise lines also require formal attire in specialty restaurants on formal nights).

The buffet’s dress code will always be more casual, and of course no one expects you to lounge on the Lido deck in your suit or cocktail dress!

However, in the central area of the ship, especially after 5 or 6 PM, you’ll see most people dressed up for pre-dinner photos or cocktails. If I’m skipping formal night (or I’m having a late dinner and haven’t changed yet), I tend to avoid the atrium or the busiest part of the ship. You can feel a bit out of place in a t-shirt and shorts when everyone else has changed into their nighttime best!

Cruise formal night outfit ideas

Need some inspiration for your cruise formal night outfit? I’ve included ideas for men, women, and kids—with options ranging from semi-formal to black tie.

Cruise formal night outfit ideas for women

Retro sleeveless pencil dress.

You can’t go wrong with a little black dress, and this one’s extra special with a draped ruffle and flattering pleats at the waist. Add some cross-strap heels and an elegant gold bracelet to complete your evening outfit.

Vintage glam v-neck gown

A floor-length gown in a stunning shade of red brings to mind old-school Hollywood glamour, just right for your elegant evening! (I’m picturing this with a peekaboo wave hairstyle, à la Veronica Lake). Pair it with vintage-style gold stilettoes and a crystal necklace and earrings set for a little sparkle.

Floral lace cocktail dress

This bracelet-sleeve lace cocktail dress features eyelash lace at the scalloped hem and an elegant v-neck at the back, making it perfect for a formal night updo. Add gold chain link earrings and kitten heel pumps for a polished evening ensemble.

Side ruffle slit tailored evening dress

An elegant yet simple long gown would be stunning for formal night, especially in this dark teal hue. A side ruffle and asymmetrical cap sleeves give it extra visual appeal. Just add metallic heels and gold bar drop earrings for a refined evening look.

Jeweled neckline halter sheath dress

This sleek charcoal sheath dress features ruching at the waist and an embellished halter neckline that adds just a hint of sparkle. Add a pair of black strappy heels and a crystal cuff bracelet to complete your formal night look.

Lace overlay fit and flare dress

This pretty knee-length fit and flare dress with lace overlay would be perfect for formal night—and it comes in burgundy and black options as well! Pair it with some neutral sandals and gold-plated drop earrings for a simple yet elegant outfit.

Plus size 3-piece evening ensemble

These lightweight georgette dressy separates make an elegant formal night option. The embellished top pairs with a matching flowy jacket and elastic waist pants—just add some strappy heels and crystal tassel earrings to finish the look!

Cruise formal night outfit ideas for men

Slim-fit classic suiting separates.

I love this classic Calvin Klein suiting in a slim fit—in lightweight wool with a little Lycra for stretch, it’s a good choice for any cruise year-round. It comes in several darker hues including navy, black, and charcoal, and the jacket and trousers are sold separately so he can choose the perfect fit.

Pair it with a classic dress shirt in any color, plus a silk tie (pocket square optional) to look dapper on formal night.

Linen two-piece vest + pant

If your cruise line’s formal night dress code is a bit on the casual side, this beige linen-cotton blend vest and trousers would look amazing for a summertime cruise. Pair it with a classic white dress shirt , fun tie , and loafers for a dressed-up but comfortable look.

Modern fit tuxedo separates

These 100% wool tuxedo separates are perfect for an elegant look on formal night. The slim-fit single-breasted tuxedo jacket and matching trousers look great with a classic tuxedo shirt and black bow tie .

Cruise formal night outfit ideas for kids

Striped box-pleated party dress.

This adorable striped party dress in shades of pink, champagne, light blue and navy is an unfussy formal night choice for a little girl. Pair it with some ankle strap gold flats to match the included belt.

Navy three-piece suit

He’ll look ship-shape for formal night in this navy boys’ three-piece suit! It comes with a shirt and tie, so you’ll just need dress shoes and a matching belt to complete the look.

Chiffon tutu-skirt dress

She’ll feel like a princess on formal night with this long-sleeved tutu dress featuring 3D appliqué flowers. Pair it with sparkly flats and a jeweled headband to amp up the fairytale look.

Nautica Baby Boys’ 4-Piece Set

Your littlest cruiser doesn’t have to miss out on formal night! How cute would this “suit” set be for a dressy family photo? The four-piece set is comfy for fussy little ones with an elastic waistband and spandex for stretchiness.

Style it with some adorable leather dress shoes that come in the tiniest sizes!

Renting formal wear for your cruise

If you’d prefer to rent formal wear for your cruise, some cruise lines do offer tuxedo rentals. You’ll usually need to book this through the cruise line at least a couple of weeks before you sail.

Links and phone numbers for cruise line tux rentals:

• Carnival: Call the Fun Shops at 1-800-522-7648
• Cunard (tuxedo rental on board, no need to pre-order. Type “tuxedo” in FAQ search bar to see pricing)

Some cruise lines, including Disney and HAL, traditionally partnered with a company called Cruiseline Formalwear. Unfortunately, this company closed permanently during the pandemic. Instead, many cruisers have been renting tuxedos from local formal wear shops and carrying them on board.

For cocktail dress or gown rentals, you can check sites like Rent the Runway or Armoire (they’re especially great for maternity formal wear rentals). You’ll be able to rent a formal dress for far less than buying, and they take care of the cleaning for you.

How many formal nights will there be on my cruise?

When you’re deciding what to wear for formal night on a cruise, it’s a good idea to know how many formal nights your sailing will have.

In general, cruise lines that have formal nights will have two each week on a seven-day cruise. On short cruises (less than five days), there often isn’t a formal night.

Check with the cruise line or your travel agent to see how many formal nights are planned for your particular voyage.

Having photos taken on formal night

Once you’re all dressed up for the evening, why not plan to have some formal portraits taken to commemorate your cruise?

On most mainstream cruise lines, the roving photographers are ready to snap your pic in locations around the ship. But during formal night evenings, the photo team is out in full force!

They’ll often set up in the atrium or main public area with professional lighting and backdrops to capture your family or group in your formal night best.

Unlike a photoshoot on land, you won’t need to pay to have your pictures taken (although some cruise lines do have a portrait studio where you can book a photo session for a fee). You’ll only pay for the photos that you like, and prices are reasonable for formal shots.

A single 8″x10″ will run you about $25, and you’ll be able to purchase a discounted photo package if you want several prints to take home.

How to keep your cruise formal wear from wrinkling

Many cruisers worry about their dressy clothes for formal night wrinkling from being stuffed in a suitcase while traveling to the cruise port. You do have some options that will keep your formal wear looking good when you’re ready for that special night!

Although you can’t pack your own clothes iron or steamer (they’re a fire hazard on ships), some cruise lines do have passenger laundry rooms with an iron you can use to touch up your outfits.

But if your formal wear is too delicate for an iron, I have a few tricks you can use to get the wrinkles out:

• Use wrinkle release spray and hang to dry
• Use a home dry clean kit in the laundry room dryer
• Hang your outfits in the bathroom with a hot shower running for a few minutes

Read more: How to Prevent Wrinkled Clothes on a Cruise

Can you skip formal night on a cruise?

If dressing up just isn’t your thing, you can absolutely skip formal night on a cruise! The main dining room will have a formal dress code, but you can always have dinner at the buffet or order room service.

Many cruise lines have a “smart casual” dress code in their specialty restaurants, making them a popular choice on formal nights for those who want to avoid dressing up. But double-check dress codes—some cruise lines (Carnival for example) have the same dress code in their specialty restaurants as in the MDR on formal nights.

Cruise formal night FAQ

Do you have to dress up for formal night on a cruise?

As long as you don’t have dinner in the main dining room or a specialty restaurant with a formal night dress code, you don’t need to dress up for formal night. Instead, you can eat at the buffet, a quick-service restaurant, or order room service.

Do men have to wear a jacket and tie for cruise formal night?

Some cruise lines do require a jacket and tie to enter the main dining room on formal night. Check your cruise line’s  formal night dress code  for details.

Do women have to wear a dress for cruise formal night?

Cruise lines that have formal nights don’t specify that women need to wear a dress on those evenings. Dressy evening separates, like an elegant top paired with a matching skirt or trousers are fine for formal night.

Do kids need to dress up for formal night on a cruise?

If your cruise line has formal nights, kids who are eating in the main dining room with their parents will need to adhere to the formal night dress code.

Which cruise lines don’t have formal nights?

Several cruise lines don’t have formal nights, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, Azamara, Oceania Cruises, Paul Gauguin Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas. However, there may be an optional dress-up night on your sailing.

Can you buy or rent formal wear on the cruise ship?

Many cruise lines offer tuxedo rentals, but you should reserve your tux at least several weeks before you sail.

I’d love to hear your opinions about what to wear for formal night on a cruise! Do you go all out, do the minimum, or skip it altogether? Let me know in the comments below!

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Sunday 13th of March 2022

I was wondering if it would be inappropriate to wear a simple wedding dress during formal night. My fiancé and I are eloping but the cruise is our honeymoon and much of his family will be there! I thought it might be fun! Nothing too poofy, just a lace sheath dress. TIA!

Monday 14th of March 2022

Hi Darby, I think a simple white lace sheath would be perfect for formal night on most cruise lines! As long as it doesn't actually look like a wedding dress, you'll be fine. Congrats on your upcoming wedding!

Friday 17th of December 2021

I always enjoy formal night when we cruise. We don't dress up often at home so this is always special and so much fun!

Thursday 16th of December 2021

What a great idea! I feel like not many people think about needing such a formal outfit for a cruise!

Hi Alex, lots of new cruisers don't know about formal night on their first cruise! Thankfully it's optional - you just need to eat dinner on those nights in a casual-friendly environment. But hopefully lots of first-time cruisers read this post so they know how to join in on the fun! :D

I like the fact you don't have to attend a formal evening if you don't want to - i'd be the one in the buffet or getting room service ;-) Although I may be tempted to bring a cocktail dress for a long cruise!

Hi Hannah! I totally get skipping formal night (I sometimes do if I'm tired)! It's great that it's not mandatory and you're free to do your own thing :D

I love formal nights on the cruise, definitely my favorite theme night

Hi Elyse, I agree! I love a chance to get dressed up and enjoy the fancier meal choices on formal nights. Thanks for stopping by!

What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night: Cruise Line Dress Code

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

For many cruisers, cruise ship formal nights are the elegant highlight of their voyage. And yet, one of the most frequent questions we receive revolves around what to wear on a cruise formal night. You may wonder what to expect from a cruise ship’s formal night, are they mandatory, and how many formal nights are there?

The dress code for cruise formal night consists of tuxedos or suits and ties for men and evening gowns or cocktail dresses for women. Don’t worry if the formal night isn’t your style. It is usually optional, and most cruise ships have alternative dining options.

In this post, I’ll explain everything you need to know about formal nights on a cruise, how they work, and what you will need to wear. Each cruise line is different, so I will help break down the dress code of the major cruise lines. 

Table of Contents

What is a Formal Night on a Cruise Ship?

Formal nights are precisely what the name suggests: they are special evenings during the cruise where passengers dress up in formal attire. On formal nights, passengers dawn fresh-pressed dress shirts, glittering gowns, stunning jewelry, and polished shoes.

The main dining room will often serve lobster, duck a l’orange, prime rib, and other delicacies worth dressing up for to commemorate the special evenings.

The cruise formal night might also be called Captain’s Night, often with photo opportunities with the captain and a speech.

Formal nights are unique to the cruise industry, which may be a change for traditional resort vacationers. The tradition is reminiscent of the golden age of transatlantic cruises when guests were required to dress formally during the evening.

Can you Skip Formal Night?

You can skip formal nights on most mainstream cruise lines. If you’re tired after a long day of cruising or you’re just not feeling in the mood to dress up, there are always alternatives for passengers, and you won’t be alone.

While the formal night is a fun night of elegant dining, photographs with the captain, and a change of pace from the rest of the cruise, you won’t be alone if you decide to skip the occasion. Rather than dine in the main dining room, you can always eat in the buffet or on your balcony via room service.

Many cruise lines don’t extend the formal dress code to their specialty dining restaurants. Consider making a reservation if you prefer to be served and dress comfortably. Keep in mind that many specialty restaurants will cost extra.

Tip: If you skip formal dining, you may be able to find lobster and prime rib served in the buffet.

Formal Night Photographs

Cruise ship formal nights are an excellent time to get professional photos taken – when else will you look this good?

Whether you are cruising to celebrate a special occasion or cruising as a family, you won’t find a better time to get your photo taken. The ship’s photographers will set up in public areas with assorted backdrops or selected backgrounds. Scenes might include an image of the ship, black velvet, or a tropical beach. 

While you will have to pay to bring the photographs home, there is no charge to get your pictures taken. If you want to try each scene or see which photographer captures you best, try them all! The final photos cost less than a professional photographer in most cities would charge, and it’s a lot of fun to be in the spotlight, if only for a moment.

Tip: Photo sessions usually have lineups on formal nights. You can generally get in quickly, about an hour before the first dinner service when the photographer sets up.

How Many Formal Nights are on a Cruise?

Depending on the length of your cruise, there may be one or more formal nights. Each cruise line will have different guidelines on when formal nights will occur, but they will never be held on the first or last night of a cruise due to luggage handling concerns.

Most cruise lines will have one formal night on sailings of less than six days and two formal nights on cruises of 7 days and more. Keep in mind that this is a general approximation. Before sailing, you should check your cruise itinerary to see how many formal nights your cruise will have.

What is Considered Formal Wear?

Now that you know what to expect, we need to discuss what to wear on a formal cruise night. The dress code varies between cruise lines.

Some cruise lines are more relaxed than others, while some do not have formal nights. We’ve broken down the formal night requirements of the major cruise lines below. 

Formal Night Dress Code by Cruise Line

Carnival cruise line.

Dress Code on Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruises’ evening dress code is typically “cruise casual.” Carnival will hold Cruise Elegant evenings with special dress requirements on one or two nights of the voyage. Cruise elegant for men means a dress shirt, dress pants, and the optional sport jacket, suit, tie, or tuxedo. Cocktail dresses, elegant skirts, pantsuits, and blouses are acceptable for women, and evening gowns are an option.

Number of Formal Nights on a Carnival Cruise:

• 1 Day cruise: none
• 2 Day to 5-day cruise: one Cruise Elegant evening
• 6 Day or longer cruise: two Cruise Elegant evenings
• Melbourne Cup cruise: one Cruise Elegant evening

Celebrity Cruises

Dress Code on Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises’ evening dress code is typically “smart casual,” meaning sport shirts and slacks or jeans for men and skirts, pants or jeans, and a casual top for women.

On “Evening Chic” nights, the suggested attire is formal wear. Men should wear pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt, and the optional sport coat or blazer. Suggestions for women include a skirt, pants, cocktail dress, or designer jeans with an elegant top.

Number of Evening Chic Nights on a Celebrity Cruise:

• Cruise length up to 6 days: one Evening Chic night
• Cruise length of 7 or more days: two Evening Chic nights

Costa Cruises

Dress Code on Costa Cruises: Most nights aboard Costa Cruises ships are casual and allow “resort-appropriate wear.”

On formal nights Costa Cruises’ dress code allows for a dark suit or tuxedo for men, an evening gown or cocktail dress for women

Number of Formal Nights on a Costa Cruise: 

• Most 3- and 4-night cruises have one formal night
• Most 7-night cruises have two formal nights
• Most 10-night cruises have three formal nights

Crystal Cruises

Dress Code on Crystal Cruises: Crystal Cruises allows casual attire on its oceangoing cruise ships during the day. After 6:00 pm every night, casual clothing, including robes, baseball hats, swimsuits, cover-ups, and denim shorts, are not appropriate. Crystal Casual attire applies on most evenings, including a collard or button-down shirt paired with dress pants for men, and skirts, blouses, sweaters, and dresses for women. Jeans are also acceptable attire only on these nights.

A Black Tie Optional Evening allows passengers to dress more formally on special evenings. This includes a dark suit and tie or tuxedo for men and a formal cocktail dress or an evening gown for women. It’s requested that men wear a jacket on Black Tie evenings.

Number of Black Tie Optional evenings on a  Crystal Cruise:

• 7-day cruises (or less): Crystal Casual only, no Black Tie Optional evenings
• 8– to 10–day cruises: Up to one Black Tie Optional evening
• 11– to 13–day cruises: Two Black Tie Optional evenings
• World Cruises, Holiday voyages, and Crossings may be scheduled differently

Cunard Line

Dress Code on Cunard Line: Most nights aboard a Cunard cruise ship, request “smart attire.” The dress code goes into effect from 6:00 pm onwards. On these nights, acceptable smart attire simply means a dress shirt and trousers, a skirt and a top, or a cocktail dress.

Gala Evenings aboard Cunard Line cruises are highly anticipated and often themed. When sailing with Cunard, you will find themes such as Roaring 20s, Red and Gold, Black and White, and Masquerade Ball. During Gala Evenings, guests are asked to observe a black-tie dress code. The requested attire is dinner jackets, tuxedos, formal dark suits for men, and cocktail or evening dresses for women.

Number of Gala Evenings on a Cunard Line Cruise:

• Rule of thumb: One Gala Evening for every three days of sailing

Disney Cruise Line

Dress Code on Disney Cruise Line: Most onboard restaurants are “cruise casual,” so casual cruise attire, such as shorts and T-shirts, is allowed, except for swimwear and tank tops. Most cruises have special theme nights that provide opportunities to dress up for a one-of-a-kind family photo.

On some nights aboard a Disney cruise, the ship will hold a special themed night, including a pirate theme, dress-up night, or semi-formal night. During dress-up night, the cruise line recommends dress pants with a jacket or a suit for men and a dress or pantsuit for women during dress-up night.

Number of Formal Nights on a Disney Cruise: 

• One cruise casual night
• One pirate night-themed deck party
• One optional “dress-up night.”
• The first night is cruise casual
• One optional dress-up night
• The final night is cruise casual
• One pirate night or another themed deck party
• Three additional cruise casual nights—no swimwear or tank tops
• One formal and one semi-formal night

Holland America Line

Dress Code on Holland America Line: Most nights aboard a Holland America cruise are “resort casual.” Guests visiting their fine dining restaurants must follow casual resort attire, including a collared shirt and pants for men (jacket and tie preferred) and dresses, shirts, or pants for women. Jeans are allowed on resort casual nights as long as they are not distressed but prohibited on Gala Night.

Gala Night is a time for passengers to dress up and experience fine dining aboard a Holland  America cruise. The formal Gala attire includes dress pants with a jacket or a suit for men and a dress or pantsuit for women

Number of Gala Nights on a Holland America Cruise: 

• 7-day cruises or less: 1 Gala Night
• 8 to 13-day cruises: 2 Gala Nights
• 14 to 20-day cruises: 3 Gala Nights

MSC Cruises

Dress Code on MSC Cruises: In general, casual wear is appropriate aboard an MSC Cruise, except for the formal “Gala evening,” which requires a suit or jacket and tie for men and cocktail dresses for women. The ship’s public areas don’t permit shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear after 6:00 pm. Jeans are acceptable if they are not torn, ripped, or otherwise distressed.

Number of Gala Evenings on an MSC Cruise: 

• 4 to 6-night cruises: 1 Gala Evening
• 7 to 9-night cruises: 2 Gala Evenings
• 10 to 14-night cruises: 3 Gala Evenings
• 15+ night cruises: 4 Gala Evenings 

Norwegian Cruise Line

Dress Code on Norwegian Cruise Line: “ Cruise casual” is usually acceptable aboard a Norwegian cruise. Cruise casual includes jeans, khakis, shorts, and casual shirts for men and summer, and regular or capri pants, casual dresses, skirts, shorts, and tops for women. For dinner in one of the onboard upscale restaurants or the main dining room, collared shirts and pants or “nice” jeans for men, and pants or jeans, dresses, skirts, and tops are standard for women.

Norwegian Cruise Line does not allow passengers to wear tank tops for men, baseball caps, flip-flops, or visors in the main dining room or specialty restaurants.

Number of Formal Nights on a Norwegian Cruise: 

Norwegian Cruise Line does not have an official “formal night;” however, “Norwegian’s Night Out” is the cruise line’s optional version of a ship-wide event. There is no dress code associated with “Norwegians Night Out.”

Princess Cruises

Dress Code on a Princess Cruise: Evening attire aboard Princess Cruises is typically “smart casual,” which includes dresses, skirts, or trousers with a t-shirt or blouse for ladies, trousers and shirt, or polo shirt for gentlemen. Like many cruise lines on this list, the restaurant does not allow swimwear and shorts.

For formal nights on Princess Cruises, acceptable formal wear includes an evening gown, cocktail dress, or pantsuit for ladies and a suit, combination, or dinner jacket for gentlemen.

Number of Formal Nights on a Princess Cruise: 

• 5 to 6-night cruises: 1 formal evening
• 7 to 13-night cruises: 2 formal evening
• 14 to 20-night cruises: 3 formal evening
• 21 to 28-night cruises: 4 formal evening
• 29-night or more cruises: Minimum of 5 formal evening

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Dress Code on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise: Daytime attire aboard a Regent Seven Seas Cruise is typically casual and consists of resort-style clothing. After 6:00 pm, the dress code is almost always “elegant casual,” except for the final evening of each cruise, which allows passengers to dress in casual attire. Elegant casual requests passengers to wear slacks and collared shirts, blouses, sweaters, pantsuits, skirts, or dresses.

After 6:00 pm, t-shirts, jeans, tennis shoes, and shorts are not permitted in public areas of the ship, except for the pool. 

Longer cruises have optional formal or semi-formal nights where passengers can wear elegant attire or a more formal look (dark suits, tuxedos, gowns, or cocktail dresses.)

Number of Formal Nights on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise: 

• 16 or more nights: 2 or more formal nights
• Cruises less than 16 days are always “elegant casual.”

Royal Caribbean International

Dress Code on Royal Caribbean: Most nights aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise are smart-casual, including collared shirts and slacks for men (jackets, blazers, and sports coats are recommended but optional) and skirts, dresses, and blouses or pantsuits for women.

Formal nights on Royal Caribbean consist of suits and ties or tuxedos for men and cocktail dresses and evening gowns for women.

No tank tops, caps, or bathing suits are permitted in the main dining room or specialty restaurants, and footwear is always required.

Number of Formal Nights on a Royal Caribbean Cruise: 

• 3-5 night cruises: 1 formal night
• 6+ night cruises: 2 formal nights

Seabourn Cruise Line

Dress Code on a Seabourn Cruise: The daytime dress code for Seabourn is typically casual attire, and shorts and jeans are acceptable – even in the ship’s restaurants. However, passengers should not wear swimsuits, cover-ups, and gym wear outside the spa, fitness center, and outer decks.

Evenings are typically “elegant casual,” and recommended attire includes slacks with collared dress shirts or sweaters for men, but jackets are optional. Women should choose dresses, pantsuits or skirts, or slacks with nice tops.

On formal nights, men are asked to wear a suit, tuxedo, or slacks with a jacket, while women are requested to wear a cocktail dress, evening gown, or pantsuit.

Number of Formal Nights on a Seabourn Cruise: 

• Cruises up to 13 nights: 1 formal night
• Cruises of 14 to 20 nights: 2 formal nights
• Cruises of 21 nights or more: 3 formal nights

Windstar Cruises

Dress Code on Windstar Cruises: Windstar suggests “casual elegant” attire for dinners and evenings aboard their cruise ships. Slacks and collared shirts for men and sundresses and informal cocktail dresses for women are acceptable attire. At no time are flip-flops, shorts, jeans, hats, or T-shirts prohibited throughout the ship during the evening.

Unlike most cruise lines, there are no formal nights on a Windstar Cruise.

Number of Formal Nights on a Windstar Cruises: 

• There are no formal nights on a Windstar Cruise

Viking Ocean Cruises

Dress Code on a Viking Ocean Cruise: Viking’s daytime dress code is casual and comfortable. The daytime attire includes shorts and jeans, while shorts, swimsuits, cover-ups, and exercise attire should be limited to the poolside, the fitness center, and the sports deck.

For evenings, the recommended onboard attire is “elegant casual.” Suggested clothing for men includes trousers and collared shirts (ties and jackets are optional but not required). For women, acceptable attire includes dresses, a skirt, or slacks with a blouse or sweater.

Number of Formal Nights on a Viking Ocean Cruise:

• There are no formal nights on a Viking Ocean Cruise.

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Must-Have Items for Your Alaska Cruise Packing List

While fantasizing about the taste of fresh-caught Alaska halibut or daydreaming about the glory of the great glaciers, many travelers wonder what to pack for an Alaska cruise . The items you choose to bring can make your dreams an even better reality. You should include everything from clothing and weather coverage — like a raincoat and sunscreen —­­ to accessories and equipment that will complement your every adventure. Here’s what to pack for a cruise to Alaska.

Whether you choose to zipline through forests or kayak through a crystalline fjord, the best attire for your daily affairs is casual, active sportswear. Princess travels to Alaska from late spring to early fall. Temperatures can range anywhere from 30-80 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the port of call and time of year. To make sure you’re prepared for the warmth of the afternoon sun and the gentle touch of the evening sea breeze, pack items that can be layered, including:

• Long-sleeve shirts
• A warm, water-repellent jacket
• A lightweight windbreaker
• Walking shoes or sneakers
• Touchscreen gloves

While your daytime attire may be more relaxed, there are several opportunities to dress up while on board. Formal dinner nights call for cocktail dresses or gowns for women and tuxedos or suits for men. The number of formal evenings will depend on the length of your cruise. To help determine what to pack for dinner wear, visit our FAQ packing page .

Medicine and More

All Princess cruises come equipped with 24-hour medical service. You may still want to include the following items on your Alaska cruise packing list to bring on shore excursions:

• Insect repellent
• Nausea-relief medicine
• Daily medication

Whether admiring monumental glaciers from your stateroom balcony or coming face-to-face with exquisite wildlife, an Alaska cruise offers endless picture-worthy moments. Consider packing the following devices so that you can capture each untouched landscape and every snow-capped summit:

• Waterproof camera
• USB converter
• Portable charger
• Protective phone case
• Memory cards
• Extra batteries

Princess has more balconies and suites than any other cruise line in Alaska, allowing you to maximize your glacier-viewing experience at every turn. You may also want to pack binoculars for an even closer look at all the splendor the Great Land has to offer.

Some of the most awe-inspiring Alaska shore excursions are the scenic hikes that lead you through lush rainforests to snow-capped peaks or scenic, sandy beaches. Since most of these expeditions can last several hours, make sure you have the right gear to keep you moving through Alaska’s unparalleled habitats. Popular items include:

• Packaged snacks from onboard cafes
• Collapsible hiking poles
• An umbrella and/or rain cover

Knowing what to pack for an Alaska cruise can make your journey to new lands even more seamless, allowing you to make the most of your vacation. As you begin crafting your Alaska cruise packing list, allow every item to stir your imagination and spark a sense of excitement for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead.

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• Princess Cruises

Formal nights

By florence11 , June 25, 2022 in Princess Cruises

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We are booked on our 1st Princess cruise in March 2022 to the caribbean. I noticed on the web site that there are 3 formal nights and the rest are smart casual, how formal are theses nights as we have a week booked in Fort Lauderdale before we cruise and we have to be careful about luggage allowance.

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Reina del Mar

I am presuming you mean 2023. ???

We fly to Fort Lauderdale and manage to pack everything we need for a cruise and a few days pre and post cruise in 23kg hold suitcase each and carry on bag each. Be aware Princess has self service laundromats on each deck. Some will tell you to pack for 7 days and use those. As a serial over packer I manage.

We did East/ West Caribbean -14 nights this year.(Emerald Princess) The three formal nights were formal, with most people wearing a suit or cocktail dress. The very least was long trousers and long sleeved shirt for men and possibly black trousers and sparkly top for ladies. We chose not to ‘dress’ for the third formal night and felt under dressed. (Not enough to go back to change but enough to take ourselves to the buffet.)

The smart casual nights were anything from casual to smart with men even being allowed into the MDR (Main Dining Room) in shorts..which is not what Princess’ policy says. We have been on other Princess cruises in the Caribbean where men wearing shorts have been refused entry. (Caribbean Princess) Ladies tended to wear summer dresses.

Although Princess posts a ‘suggested’ dress code, it is not uniformly enforced..depends on the ship and either the hostess /Maitre D’ who is sitting you.

Many people will tell you it’s your holiday, you have paid for it so wear what you want.I personally think if there is a printed dress code, the cruiseline should enforce it, but that is not what happens in reality.

CruizinSusan70

Post Covid, the enforcement of the dress code is very lax.  While on the Discovery in April, there were five "gentlemen" in Sabatini's wearing baseball caps.  My father is turning in his grave.  We never worn them at home let alone in an upgraded venue on a cruise ship.

There is no need to go overboard worrying if what you have packed is good enough.  It will be.  A nice top and black slacks for her and long pants and a nice collared shirt with optional tie for him will suffice, especially since you're cruising in the Caribbean.

29 minutes ago, Reina del Mar said: Many people will tell you it’s your holiday, you have paid for it so wear what you want.I personally think if there is a printed dress code, the cruiseline should enforce it, but that is not what happens in reality.

On our last trip on the Enchanted the "printed dress code" was nowhere to be found. If you hadn't taken the time to find it before leaving, the only information received on the ship was on top of the patter designating it a formal or casual evening. Once arriving at the DR it was also hard to tell the difference between the two by appearance. 

Just dress to compliment your partner and you will be fine.

My wife loves dressing up regardless of the suggested dress code. I try to be smart too and really don’t care what other people wear.

2 hours ago, florence11 said: Hi,   We are booked on our 1st Princess cruise in March 2022 to the Caribbean. I noticed on the web site that there are 3 formal nights and the rest are smart casual, how formal are theses nights as we have a week booked in Fort Lauderdale before we cruise and we have to be careful about luggage allowance.   Tracey

 Note that if you booked a Princess "logical" voyage which is composed of two actual voyages - such as two 7-night cruises also sold as 14 - you will have four formal nights since there are two per week for a 7-nighter. 

You will be fine in Smart Casual every night, but may want to dress it up a bit on the formal nights or can go all the way to black tie.  Caribbean sector tends to be less formal than other areas of the world.

In our experience, formal dress, at least pre-COVID, is generally worn only in the MDRs, though the MDRs will definitely allow anyone in reasonably well, but not formally, dressed. Certainly you wouldn't find anyone in a tux in the buffet, and for those of us who can't bring formal wear anymore, due to increasingly strict airline baggage weight limits, the fallback is to dine in Specialty Restaurants on formal nights.  In the SD venues, "smart casual" is more than acceptable.

2 hours ago, CruizinSusan70 said: Post Covid, the enforcement of the dress code is very lax.  While on the Discovery in April, there were five "gentlemen" in Sabatini's wearing baseball caps.   My father is turning in his grave.  We never worn them at home let alone in an upgraded venue on a cruise ship. There is no need to go overboard worrying if what you have packed is good enough.  It will be.  A nice top and black slacks for her and long pants and a nice collared shirt with optional tie for him will suffice, especially since you're cruising in the Caribbean.

Not just post-COVID. On the Regal just a few years ago, two such "gentlemen" sat down in the Crown Grill in full matching camouflage. Dirty well-worn baseball hats which stayed glued on the entire time, camo jackets and pants, one sporting clip-on suspenders. They literally looked they had just come off a hunting trip.  The wearing of baseball hats indoors has become quite standard in recent years.

Are you looking for different answers than when you posted this same question back in April?

Nobody cares what you wear if it's clean.. We see everything from suits to Hawaiian shirts on formal nights. 

JF - retired RRT

5 hours ago, florence11 said: We are booked on our 1st Princess cruise in March 2022 to the caribbean. I noticed on the web site that there are 3 formal nights and the rest are smart casual, how formal are these nights as we have a week booked in Fort Lauderdale before we cruise and we have to be careful about luggage allowance.

The basic answer to your question is...not very.

Wear what you want: no holey jeans, no shorts, no swimsuits.

On one of our cruises, there was a man who wore a white t-shirt, red suspenders and blue jeans every night (formal or not) and nothing was said.

3 hours ago, MissP22 said: On our last trip on the Enchanted the "printed dress code" was nowhere to be found. If you hadn't taken the time to find it before leaving, the only information received on the ship was on top of the patter designating it a formal or casual evening. Once arriving at the DR it was also hard to tell the difference between the two by appearance. 

I would think the majority would seek out the dress code before deciding what they need to pack.

51 minutes ago, cruzsnooze said: Nobody cares what you wear if it's clean .. We see everything from suits to Hawaiian shirts on formal nights. 

Let's agree to disagree. You may not care if someone wears a clean baseball hat, and/or clean shorts and/or clean flip flops, into an MDR, but I suggest at least a few of us sure do.

59 minutes ago, Kansas Gal said: Are you looking for different answers than when you posted this same question back in April?

Good catch! Had a familiar ring about it. You thought to check. 

1 hour ago, JF - retired RRT said: The basic answer to your question is...not very. Wear what you want: no holey jeans, no shorts, no swimsuits. On one of our cruises, there was a man who wore a white t-shirt, red suspenders and blue jeans every night (formal or not) and nothing was said.

I know that Princess does say shorts aren't to be worn in the DR for dinner but whey you see numerous people (men and women) wearing them on casual evenings it's hard to tell my husband not to put his on also.

1 hour ago, Reina del Mar said: I would think the majority would seek out the dress code before deciding what they need to pack.

True, but what they publish is nothing like you may see aboard the ships. Especially now since the return from Covid things have become more relaxed then ever.

I suppose they don't want to offend any of their customers. 

6 hours ago, CruizinSusan70 said: Post Covid, the enforcement of the dress code is very lax.  While on the Discovery in April, there were five "gentlemen" in Sabatini's wearing baseball caps.  My father is turning in his grave.  We never worn them at home let alone in an upgraded venue on a cruise ship. There is no need to go overboard worrying if what you have packed is good enough.  It will be.  A nice top and black slacks for her and long pants and a nice collared shirt with optional tie for him will suffice, especially since you're cruising in the Caribbean.

You really must be bothered if you actually counted them.  I personally wouldn't wear a cap in the MDR or speciality restnt.  I sure would not let someone else have that kind of influence on my enjoyment.     

4 hours ago, ldubs said:   You really must be bothered if you actually counted them.  I personally wouldn't wear a cap in the MDR or speciality restnt.  I sure would not let someone else have that kind of influence on my enjoyment.     

It's not too difficult to see a party of 14 walk in taking up multiple tables consisting of 7 men and 7 women.  Five of the men were all wearing baseball caps, twenty somethings that were accustomed to it who obviously had bad parenting.  If not, they were just card carrying members of the me society.

9 hours ago, Kansas Gal said: Are you looking for different answers than when you posted this same question back in April?

I do apologise if I have offended anyone but after the past 2 years of working in my local hospital I probably have some brain fog and cannot remember what questions I have asked. I am also trying to organise a cruise, accomodation, flights etc for a group of us which is not easy but I am getting there and thank you to everyone for your replies it is much appreciated ☺️ .

9 hours ago, Reina del Mar said: I would think the majority would seek out the dress code before deciding what they need to pack.

True, but they are recommendations.  Only a minimal documentation sentence on what is NOT accepted.

7 hours ago, CruizinSusan70 said: It's not too difficult to see a party of 14 walk in taking up multiple tables consisting of 7 men and 7 women.  Five of the men were all wearing baseball caps, twenty somethings that were accustomed to it who obviously had bad parenting.  If not, they were just card carrying members of the me society.

No, I didn't mean to imply it would be difficult to count.  I meant, why allow some someone to influence your peace of mind to the extent you needed to count.   For me, if someone is wearing a cap at another table, if I even noticed, I wouldn't care and wouldn't spend any time agonizing about it.  

52 minutes ago, ldubs said:   No, I didn't mean to imply it would be difficult to count.  I meant, why allow some someone to influence your peace of mind to the extent you needed to count.   For me, if someone is wearing a cap at another table, if I even noticed, I wouldn't care and wouldn't spend any time agonizing about it.  

Wasn't agonizing about it, but what others wear does effect the ambiance of an establishment.  A single wearer of a cap is one thing, but when you have 5/7 men wearing them, it's a bit of overkill.   Baseball caps do not belong in the MDR, let alone a specialty establishment, IMHO. 

I eel that if you go on a cruise that has a nice dining restaurant you would not be epected to wear what would NOT be accepted in the RSL clubs or similar in your own country  ie  no caps/hats etc and no shorts after 5.30pm

1 hour ago, windsor26 said: I eel that if you go on a cruise that has a nice dining restaurant you would not be epected to wear what would NOT be accepted in the RSL clubs or similar in your own country  ie  no caps/hats etc and no shorts after 5.30pm

I think you're confusing Princess with Cunard.  😉

On 6/25/2022 at 12:59 PM, lx200gps said:  and for those of us who can't bring formal wear anymore, due to increasingly strict airline baggage weight limits, the fallback is to dine in Specialty Restaurants on formal nights.  In the SD venues, "smart casual" is more than acceptable.

Being a cynic, I doubt very much that if there were no luggage weight limits more people would wear formal attire.

It’s just a lame excuse. Period!

42 minutes ago, Esprit said: Being a cynic, I doubt very much that if there were no luggage weight limits more people would wear formal attire. It’s just a lame excuse. Period!

Don't prevaricate now, tell us what you REALLY think.  I can assure you that we absolutely won't bring heavy suits etc on an airplane any more as it throws me way over the baggage limit.  Were they to start being flexible with baggage limits, I then would start bringing formal attire with me. So no, it's not a lame excuse, it's entirely applicable for some of us.

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