Dress Codes for Major Cruise Lines

September 27, 2022

Two people packing a suitcase in a bedroom, one reflected in a mirror.

Planning what to wear on a cruise can make a big difference in how comfortable and prepared you feel. Most cruise lines maintain a casual dress code during the day, while evenings may call for smarter attire in the main and specialty dining areas. Buffets and casual dining areas generally remain relaxed even in the evenings.

To help travelers prepare, we’ve summarized the typical dress codes for major cruise lines. These recommendations are intended for dinners in the main and specialty restaurants and may vary by ship or itinerary.

Carnival Cruise Line

Overall: Casual by day; smart casual in the evening.
Specialty Dining (e.g., Fahrenheit 555): Cruise Elegant attire may be suggested; jeans may be allowed on Cruise Casual evenings.
Suggested for Women: Casual dresses, skirts or pants with blouses, summer dresses, capris, or jeans. Cocktail dresses or elegant outfits on Cruise Elegant nights.
Suggested for Men: Casual pants, jeans, dress shorts, collared shirts. Dress trousers and shirts, jackets, or suits for Cruise Elegant nights.
Guidelines: Avoid offensive graphics, nudity, profanity, or messages promoting hate or violence.

Disney Cruise Line

Overall: Cruise casual; dress-up nights are optional.
Adults-Only Restaurants: “Polished” attire recommended, including dress pants, collared shirts, or designer jeans.
Suggested for Women: Shorts, t-shirts, summer dresses, capris; optional dress-up nights: dresses or pantsuits.
Suggested for Men: Shorts, t-shirts, jeans, polo shirts; optional dress-up nights: trousers with collared shirt and jacket.
Guidelines: Swimwear and tank tops are not generally appropriate for adults-only dining areas.

Holland America Line

Overall: Smart casual, with Dressy Nights offering semi-formal options.
Suggested for Women: Capris, slacks, skirts with blouse, summer dresses; semi-formal evenings: dresses, skirts, or slacks with blouse.
Suggested for Men: Designer jeans, slacks, polo shirts; dress trousers and collared shirts on Dressy Nights. Jackets and ties optional.
Guidelines: Avoid shorts, t-shirts, pool/beachwear, distressed jeans, or tank tops for men.

Princess Cruises

Overall: Resort casual; Formal Nights available.
Suggested for Women: Skirts/dresses, slacks with blouses or sweaters; gowns, cocktail dresses, or pantsuits on Formal Nights.
Suggested for Men: Trousers and collared shirts; jackets or ties optional on Formal Nights.
Guidelines: Pool/beach attire, shorts, ball caps, and ripped jeans are generally discouraged in restaurants.

Royal Caribbean International

Overall: Casual by day; smart casual in the evening. Formal attire for Chef’s Table dining.
Suggested for Women: Jeans, sundresses, skirts, pantsuits, blouses; cocktail dresses or gowns on Formal Nights.
Suggested for Men: Trousers, polos, collared shirts; jackets or blazers optional; full suit or tuxedo for Formal Nights (tie optional).
Guidelines: Applies to children; avoid swimwear, bare feet, flip-flops, baseball caps, and tank tops in dining areas.

Viking Cruises

Overall: Casual by day; elegant casual by night.
Suggested for Women: Dresses, skirts, or slacks with blouse or sweater.
Suggested for Men: Trousers and collared shirt; jacket and tie optional.
Guidelines: Swimwear is generally limited to pool or beach areas.

Virgin Voyages

Overall: Flexible; personal style is emphasized.
Guidelines: Be respectful in dining areas; cover-ups and shoes are encouraged but not required.
Source: TravelMarketReport.com

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