princess cruise lines formal nights

Princess Cruise Dress Code: Your Complete Guide!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Princess Cruises , a name synonymous with luxury and memorable sea adventures, has a rich history of taking passengers on dreamy voyages.

As you anticipate the ocean’s embrace, understanding the onboard Princess cruise dress code can elevate your experience.

This guide will sail you through the intricacies of dressing right with cruise clothes , ensuring your onboard moments are as stylish as they are unforgettable.

Why Does Dress Code Matter on a Cruise?

Cruising with Princess is not just about traversing the vast oceans or basking in exotic locales. It’s an experience, a rite of passage where the journey is as significant as the destination.

And like any grand event, there’s an unwritten decorum that heightens the ambiance. Enter the Princess cruise dress code, a subtle guide ensuring each moment aboard is picture-perfect.

The First Impression & The Onboard Experience

You know what they say about first impressions—they’re lasting. Embarking on your sea voyage, you’ll be greeted by a crew dressed impeccably, setting the tone for your journey.

The Princess cruise dress code is designed not to stifle your style but to elevate the collective experience of all onboard. It’s akin to attending a themed party where the attire, which should be added to your cruise packing list , adds to the event’s charm.

Creating a Sense of Occasion & Atmosphere

Each day on the cruise is unique. From sunbathing mornings to moonlit soirees, different events demand different vibes. Following the Princess Cruise dress code helps set the mood.

Think about it: indulging in a five-course meal feels more luxurious when surrounded by elegantly dressed guests than if it were just another casual evening.

Respecting Other Passengers

Dressing appropriately according to the Princess Cruise dress code is also a nod of respect to fellow passengers. It’s a communal understanding that everyone wants to revel in the cruise’s elegance and sophistication.

Just as you’d dress appropriately when attending a wedding or a theater show, dressing up for specified nights on the cruise acknowledges the effort everyone puts in to make the experience memorable.

Adhering to the Princess Cruises dress code isn’t about rigidity; it’s about harmony. It weaves together the individual styles of passengers, creating a tapestry of elegance that complements the beauty of the oceans and the luxury of the cruise.

And as we delve deeper into this guide, you’ll discover that this dress code offers ample room for personal expression while maintaining the collective charm of the cruising experience.

Overview of Princess Cruise Dress Code Categories

Embarking on a Princess Cruise promises both adventure and elegance. But to truly relish every moment, understanding the different attire expectations can be immensely helpful.

While some might find the concept of a dress code daunting, Princess Cruises gracefully merges comfort with style, ensuring guests feel their best throughout their journey.

Let’s unravel the main categories of the Princess Cruise dress code and help you pack the perfect outfits for every occasion.

Casual Attire: Ease Meets Elegance

The name might suggest laid-back, but “casual” on a Princess Cruise isn’t about those well-worn sweatpants you love. It’s about finding the sweet spot between comfort and style.

Perfect for days filled with sightseeing or lounging on the deck, casual attire emphasizes ease without compromising on elegance.

For Men: Think lightweight shorts, polo shirts, or comfortable tees paired with loafers or sandals.

For Women: Sundresses, capris, blouses, and a comfortable pair of flats or sandals fit the bill.

Smart Casual: Turning the Style Quotient Up a Notch

Picture this: a dinner with a mesmerizing ocean backdrop and soft melodies playing in the background. That’s where smart casual steps in. It’s not overtly formal, but it’s a step above your day-time wear, ensuring you feel just right for those special dinners and events.

For Men: Slacks, chinos, or dark jeans paired with a collared shirt and closed-toe shoes are ideal.

For Women: Dresses, skirts, or trousers paired with a chic top, complemented by accessories, set the tone.

Formal Attire: A Night of Opulence

The highlight of many passengers’ cruising experience, Princess formal nights are all about opulence and glamour. Embrace the ambiance with attire that matches the night’s grandeur.

For Men: A suit with a tie, or even a tuxedo for those who love to go the extra mile.

For Women: Evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and elegant jewelry to complete the look for cruise clothes for women .

Theme Nights: Dive into the Fun

Every so often, Princess Cruises offers a sprinkle of extra fun with theme nights.

From tropical luaus to roaring ’20s parties, these nights allow passengers to step out of the usual Princess Cruise dress code and dive into a world of playful dressing.

Tips: Always check your cruise itinerary for any theme nights. They’re the perfect opportunity to showcase creativity in your outfits!

Each category of the Princess Cruise dress code is designed to enhance a specific part of your cruise journey. Whether it’s a relaxed afternoon by the pool, a picturesque sunset dinner, or a glamorous ballroom dance, dressing appropriately adds to the joy of the experience.

With these categories in mind, planning your cruise wardrobe will be smooth sailing!

Casual Attire Explained

A refreshing cocktail in hand, the soft caress of the ocean breeze, and the gentle hum of life on the ship – this is where the Princess Cruise dress code for casual attire comes into play.

Tailored to ensure comfort while radiating an air of effortless chic, casual wear on the ship is a delightful blend of leisure and style.

When and Where is Casual Attire Appropriate?

Navigating the nuances of ‘casual’ on a Princess Cruise is all about understanding the day’s activities.

Morning and Afternoons: Perfect for those lazy mornings when you head to the buffet for brunch or those active afternoons attending onboard activities.

Port Days: When you’re exploring an enchanting port city or taking in the sights on an excursion, the casual dress code keeps you comfortable and ready for adventure.

Casual Dining: Some onboard eateries, especially during the day, encourage a more relaxed dress sense.

Acceptable Casual Outfits for Men and Women

Dressing casual doesn’t mean compromising on style. The key is to blend comfort with a touch of elegance.

• T-shirts and Polos: Stick to neat, well-fitted options, preferably without any loud graphics or slogans.
• Shorts: Think tailored shorts in solid colors or subtle patterns. Team them up with a casual belt for a touch of sophistication.
• Footwear: While flip-flops are perfect for the pool, opt for loafers, boat shoes, or stylish sandals when wandering around the ship.
• Sundresses: Lightweight and breezy, sundresses are both stylish and comfortable for a day on the ship.
• Blouses and Tops: Paired with skirts or capris, they offer a versatile option that’s both chic and functional.
• Footwear: Closed shoes, comfortable sandals, or stylish flats are the go-to choices. If heading to the pool, a pair of elegant flip-flops can work.

Common Misconceptions and Mistakes

With the term “casual” often being synonymous with “anything goes”, some misconceptions can arise.

• Sportswear: While sporty attire is perfect for the gym, it might not be suitable for other areas, especially dining venues.
• Swimwear: Beachwear is reserved for the pools and sun decks. Always throw on a cover-up or casual dress when moving away from these areas.
• Worn-out Clothing: The idea is relaxed elegance, so that old t-shirt with holes might not be the best choice.

The Princess Cruise dress code for casual attire is all about embracing the laid-back vibes of the sea while looking put-together. It’s the oceanic rendition of the “smart-casual” term we often hear on land, ensuring passengers feel relaxed yet refined throughout their journey.

Smart Casual – Striking the Balance

The beauty of a Princess Cruise journey lies in its dynamic experiences, and the Princess Cruise dress code is meticulously designed to complement each moment.

Enter the realm of ‘Smart Casual’ – a category that’s neither too relaxed nor overly formal, ensuring you’re dressed impeccably for those special evenings when the ship’s ambiance undergoes a subtle, elegant transformation.

The Definition of Smart Casual on Princess Cruises

To demystify, ‘smart casual’ is all about striking the right chord between sophistication and comfort. It’s the attire you’d choose for a dinner at a chic restaurant in town or a cocktail party with close friends.

Ideal Occasions for Wearing Smart Casual

Evening Dinners: While not a formal night, evening dinners, especially in the main dining rooms and specialty restaurants, often encourage this dress code.

Theater Shows: Planning to catch one of the mesmerizing onboard performances? Smart casual ensures you fit right in with the elegant atmosphere.

Special Onboard Events: Certain onboard activities or events, like art auctions or captain’s receptions, might recommend this attire.

Outfit Inspirations for Both Genders

Navigating smart casual is fun, allowing a blend of personal style with a touch of formality.

• Shirts: Collared shirts, whether they’re long-sleeved button-downs or polos, are a staple. Pair them with well-fitted trousers or even dark, unripped jeans.
• Footwear: Leather shoes, loafers, or sleek dark-colored sneakers (avoiding the sporty look) can complete the ensemble.
• Dresses: A knee-length dress or even a stylish maxi can be perfect. The key is to pick something that’s a touch more elevated than your daywear.
• Trousers and Blouses: A sophisticated blouse paired with tailored trousers or a chic skirt can hit the mark.
• Footwear: Pumps, heeled sandals, or elegant flats all work wonderfully.

The Difference Between Casual and Smart Casual

While the boundary might seem blurred, the distinction often lies in the details:

• Material and Fit: Smart casual pieces tend to have a more refined finish, with fabrics that are a tad more luxurious and fits that are more tailored.
• Accessories: The right accessories can instantly elevate an outfit from casual to smart casual. Think statement watches, elegant jewelry, and stylish belts.

The essence of the Princess cruise dress code for smart casual lies in its versatility. It’s about feeling stylishly comfortable, ready for a gourmet meal or a dance, all while gazing at the vast expanse of the ocean.

With smart casual, you’re not just dressed for the occasion; you’re dressed for unforgettable memories.

Dazzling in Formal Attire

The gentle lapping of the waves against the ship’s hull, the shimmering lights of the grand ballroom, and the soft melodies of a classic tune—such are the nights where the Princess Cruise dress code elevates to its pinnacle: Formal Attire.

These nights, sprinkled throughout your journey, are where glamour, sophistication, and timeless elegance take center stage, allowing passengers to revel in the true luxury of cruising.

Significance of Formal Nights on Princess Cruises

Princess cruise formal nights are more than just about dressing up; they’re a celebration. They encapsulate:

• An Evening of Grandeur: With the ship’s venues dressed in their finest, formal nights offer an ambiance unlike any other.
• Memorable Moments: Whether it’s a dance with a loved one, a champagne toast, or even capturing that perfect photo, these nights are designed for memories.
• A Nod to Tradition: Cruising has a rich history, and formal nights pay homage to the golden era of sea travel.

Dress Code Specifics for Men and Women

Formal attire, while grand, isn’t about discomfort or being overly ostentatious. It’s about looking your best and feeling even better.

• Suits and Tuxedos: A well-fitted suit, with or without a tie, is a staple. For those who love to truly indulge, a tuxedo is a perfect choice.
• Shirts: A crisp, clean, preferably white or light-colored dress shirt.
• Footwear: Leather dress shoes, polished to perfection, complete the look.
• Gowns: Floor or cocktail-length dresses in rich materials like silks, satins, or velvets capture the essence.
• Accessories: Statement jewelry, from sparkling necklaces to elegant earrings, can enhance the outfit’s allure.
• Footwear: Heeled shoes or sophisticated flats, preferably in neutral or metallic shades, are ideal.

Tips for Feeling Comfortable While Looking Elegant

• Fit is Key: Ensure your formal attire fits well. Consider tailoring if needed, as comfort is paramount.
• Shoe Choices: While heels might be the go-to, ensure they’re comfortable. There’s no harm in packing a pair of elegant flats as a backup.
• Less is More: When it comes to jewelry and accessories, sometimes opting for fewer, statement pieces can make a bolder impact.

Renting vs. Buying Formalwear for Your Cruise

Not keen on packing a tuxedo or a gown? No worries. Many cruisers opt for onboard rental services.

• Advantages of Renting: Save luggage space, enjoy a variety of options, and leave the cleaning and maintenance to someone else.
• Buying: If cruises or formal events are frequent in your calendar, investing in timeless pieces might be worth it.

Adhering to the formal segment of the Princess Cruise dress code is not about adhering to rigid norms but celebrating the magic of cruising.

As you slip into your formal wear, remember, it’s the confidence and joy you wear with it that truly makes the night shine.

Theme Nights and Specialty Events

The allure of a Princess Cruise is not just in its majestic views or exquisite dining experiences. It’s also in the tapestry of events that add a dash of fun, nostalgia, or even exoticism to the journey.

While the Princess Cruise dress code sets a general guideline for daily wear, theme nights and specialty events offer passengers a delightful opportunity to step out of the box and truly immerse themselves in a vibrant sea of creativity.

Introduction to Popular Theme Nights on Princess Cruises

Over the years, Princess Cruises has sprinkled its itinerary with various themed events. Some of the favorites include:

• Tropical Luau Nights: Think Hawaiian shirts, leis, grass skirts, and an atmosphere reminiscent of a beach party.
• Roaring ’20s Parties: Flapper dresses, pinstripe suits, and an ambiance that takes you back to the age of jazz.
• White Parties: An ethereal night where passengers don pristine white outfits, dancing under the stars.

Dressing for Themed Parties and Events

Part of the excitement of theme nights is the attire. It’s a chance to play, experiment, and even embody a different character or era.

• Research: Check your cruise itinerary or the Princess Cruises website ahead of time to get insights into any upcoming theme nights.
• Creativity Over Accuracy: While it’s fun to be period or theme accurate, the key is to enjoy the process. Don’t stress about getting every detail right.
• Accessorize: Sometimes, it’s the small things—a feathered headband for the ’20s night or a tropical flower for the luau—that make a significant impact.

Tips and Tricks

• Pack Versatile Pieces: A simple black dress can be transformed with accessories for various themes. Similarly, a white shirt for men can be paired differently for multiple events.
• Prop It Up: Sometimes, simple props can be the game-changer. A fedora, a faux pearl necklace, or even a fun inflatable guitar can set the tone.
• Embrace the Community: Engage with fellow cruisers on forums or social media to exchange ideas. Sometimes, group themes can add to the fun!

Theme nights and specialty events are more than just about the outfits. They’re about community, about shared laughter, and about creating memories that last a lifetime.

The Princess Cruise dress code for these nights is not a stringent rulebook but a canvas, waiting for passengers to paint their own unique strokes.

Dress Code for Children and Teens

Cruising is a family affair, and Princess Cruises ensures that every member, from the tiny tots to the spirited teens, has an experience to cherish.

While adults have a clear delineation in the Princess Cruise dress code, it’s essential to understand the nuances when it comes to the younger cruisers.

This guide ensures that your children not only comply with the dress code but also do so while flaunting their youthful style.

Overview of Dress Code Specifics for Younger Cruisers

Just like adults, children and teens on Princess Cruises have casual, smart casual, and formal nights. However, the interpretation is a tad more lenient, keeping in mind their comfort and playful nature.

Casual Attire for Kids

Whether it’s playing on the deck, attending kid-centric activities, or just exploring the ship, comfort is paramount.

• Shorts or jeans paired with t-shirts (preferably without overly loud graphics) work well.
• Closed shoes or sandals for roaming around, and flip-flops for the poolside.
• Sundresses, shorts, skirts, and tees are perfect.
• Sandals, ballet flats, or sneakers can round off the look.

Smart Casual for the Not-so-little Ones

For those special dinners with family or attending a show, a touch of formality adds to the experience.

For Teen Boys:

• Chinos or dark jeans paired with a collared shirt.
• Closed shoes, preferably not sneakers, to elevate the look.

For Teen Girls:

• Dresses, skirts paired with blouses, or even smart trousers with a chic top.
• Heeled sandals, wedges, or elegant flats.

Formal Nights: Miniature Glamour

It’s adorable to see young ones dressed in their best, echoing the grandeur of their parents.

• A suit, or at the very least, dress pants with a shirt and tie.
• Leather shoes to complete the ensemble.
• Evening dresses, ballerina dresses, or even smart jumpsuits.
• Small heels or sparkly flats, along with some fun jewelry.

Striking a Balance Between Comfort and Style for Kids

• Flexibility: The Princess Cruise dress code for children and teens is more flexible. If your child isn’t comfortable in a tie or a dress, it’s okay to tone it down.
• Preparation: Discuss the dress code with your kids or teens beforehand, so they know what to expect. Let them have a say in their outfits—it’s a part of the fun!

Tips for Parents

• Pack Extras: Kids are prone to spills or sudden decisions that today isn’t the day for that particular shirt. Having backup outfits can be a lifesaver.
• Accessorize: Often, accessories can change the entire look. A fun bowtie, a cute hairband, or even a stylish cap can make a difference.
• Comfort First: Especially for younger children, comfort is key. It’s better for them to be slightly underdressed but happy than formally dressed and irritable.

Cruising with children and teens offers a unique blend of experiences, and the Princess cruise dress code ensures they look the part without compromising on their youthful spirit.

Embracing the dress code with a touch of flexibility ensures the entire family sails in style.

Tackling Common Questions and Misconceptions

The intricacies of cruise attire can sometimes lead to confusion or even misconceptions, especially for first-time cruisers.

As one dives into the world of Princess Cruises, questions about the Princess cruise dress code are bound to arise. This section aims to address these common queries, dispelling myths and setting the record straight.

Can I Wear Jeans on a Princess Cruise?

One of the most frequent questions, the answer is: Yes, you can! However, the context matters.

• Casual Days: Jeans are perfect for casual days, especially if paired with a neat top or shirt.
• Smart Casual Evenings: Dark, well-fitted jeans without rips can pass as smart casual when paired appropriately.
• Formal Nights: It’s better to leave the jeans in your cabin on these occasions.

What Happens if I Don’t Adhere to the Dress Code?

Princess Cruises aims for a harmonious onboard experience for all guests. While there aren’t strict “fashion police,” certain venues might have adherence to dress codes.

• Dining Rooms: Main dining rooms and specialty restaurants might request guests to return in more appropriate attire.
• Public Areas: Most public areas, barring the pools and sports facilities, expect a minimum dress code adherence, especially in the evenings.

Are Swimsuits Allowed Outside the Pool Area?

While swimsuits are the go-to attire for pools and sunbathing, they’re not appropriate for other venues.

• Dining Venues: Swimsuits are a no-no. Even at the most casual eateries, a cover-up or casual dress is expected.
• Indoor Areas: If you’re moving from the pool to your cabin or vice versa, it’s acceptable. However, for any other activities or venues, it’s courteous to change.

Clarifying “Optional” Dress Code Nights

On certain nights, the Princess cruise dress code might be mentioned as “optional.” This doesn’t mean anything goes! It usually implies that while a specific dress code (like formal) is recommended and embraced by many, it’s not as strictly enforced, allowing passengers a bit more flexibility.

Do I Need to Pack Different Outfits for Day and Night?

While you don’t need an entirely different wardrobe, the ship’s ambiance does change from day to night. Casual wear dominates the day, but evenings, especially in dining and entertainment venues, lean towards smart casual or formal, depending on the night.

Tips for Navigating the Dress Code

• Daily Schedule: The Princess Cruise daily newsletter, delivered to your cabin, often outlines the day’s dress code. It’s an invaluable resource.
• When in Doubt, Ask: The ship’s crew is always there to help. If ever in doubt about a specific night or event, don’t hesitate to ask.
• Observe and Adapt: Especially for first-time cruisers, observing fellow passengers can provide valuable cues on dressing right.

The Princess Cruise dress code isn’t designed to be a maze of confusion but a roadmap to enhancing the onboard experience.

By addressing common questions and misconceptions, passengers can cruise with confidence, knowing they’re dressed to perfection for every occasion.

Tips for Packing According to the Princess Cruise Dress Code

Packing for a cruise vacation is unlike any other getaway. With multiple occasions wrapped up in one voyage, the challenge lies in ensuring you’re well-prepared without overstuffing your suitcase.

When adhering to the Princess Cruise dress code, the game is about maximizing versatility while not compromising on style. Here are some expert tips to ensure your cruise wardrobe is shipshape!

Starting with Basics and Layering Up

Begin your packing process by focusing on essentials.

• Neutral Foundations: Items like white tees, black trousers, or a classic blue jean can be paired in numerous ways.
• Layering Pieces: Lightweight jackets, cardigans, or shawls can transition a daytime outfit to night effortlessly.

Versatile Pieces that Can Transition from Day to Night

• Maxi Dresses: For women, a maxi dress can be casual with flip-flops during the day and then dressed up with heels and accessories for the evening.
• Collared Shirts: For men, a crisp collared shirt can be worn casually with shorts and then paired with trousers for a smarter look in the evening.

Packing for Unexpected Events or Changes in Itinerary

• One Extra Formal Outfit: Even if you know the number of formal nights, an extra outfit can be a lifesaver if there’s an impromptu invite to a specialty restaurant or event.
• Weather-Appropriate Gear: While cruises are often in balmy climates, it’s wise to pack a lightweight raincoat or an extra sweater just in case.

Shoes: Striking a Balance Between Style and Comfort

• Multipurpose Footwear: Consider packing shoes that can be dressed up or down. Nude or metallic sandals for women or leather loafers for men can be quite versatile.
• Remember Comfort: Especially for excursions or long nights dancing away, ensure some of your footwear prioritizes comfort.

Accessories: The Game-Changers

Often, the same outfit can look dramatically different with a change in cruise accessories .

• Statement Jewelry: For women, packing a few standout pieces can elevate a simple dress to an evening-ready look.
• Belts and Watches for Men: These can add a refined touch to even the most basic outfits.

Don’t Forget Theme Nights

• Compact Costumes: If you’re aware of theme nights, try to pack costumes that aren’t bulky.
• DIY Themes: Sometimes, simple props or DIY additions to your regular outfits can make you theme-ready without needing a complete costume.

Utilizing Onboard Services

• Laundry: Princess Cruises offer laundry services, so consider packing fewer items and getting them laundered if needed.
• Renting: If you don’t want to pack formal wear, look into onboard rental options.

Final Packing Tips

• Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes can save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Packing Cubes: These can help in organizing outfits and ensuring you don’t overpack.
• Check Restrictions: Be aware of luggage restrictions, especially if you’re flying to the cruise departure city.

With a blend of planning and strategic packing, adhering to the Princess cruise dress code can be a breeze.

Remember, the cruise is all about relaxation and rejuvenation. So, while dressing up is part of the fun, always prioritize your comfort and personal style.

Embarking on a Princess Cruise is a voyage into a world of luxury, adventure, and unforgettable moments. The Princess cruise dress code, while providing guidelines, is truly about enhancing the collective experience of every passenger on board.

It’s not just about outfits but about immersing oneself in the ambiance, traditions, and festivities of cruise life.

As you prepare for your journey, remember to pack not just your clothes but also your spirit of adventure, knowing that every sunset over the horizon and every dance under the stars will be a memory to cherish forever.

FAQs on Princess Cruise Dress Code

Embarking on a Princess Cruise is a dream come true for many, and ensuring you’re dressed appropriately only enhances the experience. While we’ve covered the Princess cruise dress code in depth, here are answers to some frequently asked questions that passengers often have.

1. Can I wear shorts to the main dining room?

While shorts are perfect for casual daytime activities, they’re typically not recommended for main dining rooms in the evening. Opt for trousers or a casual dress instead.

2. Are there designated formal nights on every cruise?

Yes, most Princess Cruises have designated formal nights, but their frequency depends on the cruise length. A seven-day cruise, for example, typically has two formal nights.

3. I forgot to pack a formal dress. What should I do?

Don’t worry! Onboard shops often offer a selection of formalwear. Additionally, some ships offer rental services for formal attire.

4. Are children expected to adhere strictly to the dress code?

While children are encouraged to follow the dress code, Princess Cruises understands the need for flexibility. Comfortable, smart attire is generally acceptable for younger cruisers on formal nights.

5. Can I wear a hat in the dining venues?

It’s traditionally considered polite to remove hats in indoor dining venues. However, decorative or formal hats for women can be an exception on certain occasions.

6. Is activewear allowed outside of the gym?

Activewear, while perfect for the fitness center or outdoor activities, is not recommended for main dining areas or specialty restaurants, especially in the evening.

7. Are there any shoe restrictions?

Flip-flops and pool shoes are best reserved for poolside areas. For dining, especially during the evening, closed shoes for men and elegant sandals or shoes for women are preferred.

8. Do I need to dress up for the buffet?

While the buffet is more relaxed than the main dining room, a basic level of neatness—like wearing a cover-up over swimwear—is expected.

9. How do I know the theme nights in advance?

Theme nights or special events are often listed in your pre-cruise documentation or the daily newsletter delivered to your cabin.

10. What if I don’t want to participate in the dress code?

While the dress code enhances the onboard experience, passengers looking for a more relaxed dining option can choose venues like the buffet or order room service on formal nights.

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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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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

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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.

So glad this was helpful! 🙂

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Formal Night on the Emerald Princess

While it’s not required when cruising, it’s nice to be able to dress up a bit. For this trip, Trish and I packed an extra bag with cruise-specific clothes.

Many cruises have one or two designated formal nights. The focus is the main dining room, and passengers get decked out for dinner in suits and cocktail dresses — even tuxes and floor-length gowns. In general, on formal nights the ambience of the ship is upscale, with people dressed to the nines hanging out in the bars, casinos, and other public areas.

Some passengers relish the opportunity to dress up on formal nights. But if you don’t feel like it, it’s fine to dress smart casual — as long as you stay out of the dining room. If unable to meet the dress expectations, you can skip the formal dinners and eat at another restaurant or the buffet, or order room service. (Photos by Trish Feaster, see her blog at The Travephile.com .)

5 Replies to “Formal Night on the Emerald Princess”

Please say you didn’t run around this cruise ship in shorts and black socks!

I didn’t see any photos of Trish. Did she go casual or formal?

der Doppelganger WEDU TAMPA jlrmgp at gmail

So much for packing light.

You certainly caught the essence of formal night on Princess.

Comments are closed.

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.

Marcello De Lio

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Cruises are expensive, but we are generally treated like royalty. We should therefore do our best to act like royalty. I like nothing less than two formal evenings per week. By formal, I mean tuxedo or black suit for men and corresponding attire for women. I fear that cruise lines are allowing dress code to deteriorate to the lowest common denominator. Even Cunard’s dress code is under attack since it has been taken over by Carnival.

I agree that the formal nights are what I look forward to most on the cruise. I enjoy being able to dress up and be pampered. This is why I generally choose the cruise lines that offer the most formal nights, such as Cunard Cruise Line. However, for people such as my father, who would prefer to stay in his swim shorts all day everyday I’m glad there is an option for him to choose the relaxing vacation he deserves, such as what you might find with Norwegian Cruise Lines.

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Formal Nights on Princess Cruises: What to Expect

Embark on a journey of elegance and glamour as you set sail on Princess Cruises, where formal nights set the stage for a truly enchanting experience. From a captivating evening of fine dining to a whirlwind of sparkling ballroom dances, these formal nights are the epitome of sophistication. Throughout your cruise, you can expect to encounter not one, not two, but several formal nights – a delightful chance to put on your most dazzling attire and revel in an atmosphere of timeless charm and indulgence. So, dust off your tuxedo or slip into your most stunning gown, as the nights are about to get formal, and you are about to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

When you embark on a Princess Cruise , you can look forward to exquisite evenings of elegance and sophistication during the ship’s formal nights. These special occasions provide the perfect opportunity for you to dress up, indulge in gourmet dining, and enjoy a variety of activities and events. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or new to the experience, the formal nights on Princess Cruises are sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Formal nights on Princess Cruises come with a dress code that enhances the glamorous ambiance and creates a sense of occasion. For gentlemen, this typically means wearing a tuxedo, formal suit, or dress slacks with a jacket. Ladies often opt for evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pant suits. However, if you prefer a less formal attire, a dark suit or dressy separates are also acceptable. It’s important to note that jeans, shorts, and casual wear are not permitted on these special evenings.

Number of Formal Nights

The number of formal nights on your Princess Cruise will depend on the length of your voyage. Generally, for cruises up to 13 nights, you can expect to have two formal nights. Longer cruises may have three or more formal nights. Princess Cruises maintains a “Princess Patter,” a daily schedule that provides information about the upcoming formal nights and other onboard activities, ensuring that you know when to plan your formal attire.

Booking and Planning

When making your reservation with Princess Cruises, it’s essential to consider the formal nights and plan accordingly. If dressing up isn’t your preference, you may want to select a cruise with fewer formal nights or explore alternative options (which we will discuss later). Additionally, it’s advisable to check the dress code policy when booking, as some cruises may have more relaxed requirements for formal nights.

Activities and Events

On formal nights, Princess Cruises offers a range of activities and events for guests to enjoy. From black-tie optional balls and cocktail parties to Broadway-style shows and live musical performances, the evening entertainment provides ample options to suit every taste. You can dance the night away with live bands or join in themed parties held in various onboard venues. The ship’s social spaces come alive with the glamorous ambiance, making each formal night a night to remember.

Dining Options

During formal nights, the dining experience on Princess Cruises is elevated to new heights. The main dining rooms offer a luxurious atmosphere with impeccable service, exquisite menus featuring gourmet dishes, and a refined ambiance. You can indulge in delicious multi-course meals prepared by talented chefs who strive to create a culinary masterpiece. Alternatively, specialty restaurants onboard Princess Cruises provide an opportunity to savor a variety of cuisines in an intimate setting, perfect for celebrating special occasions.

Photography Services

To capture the memories of your formal nights aboard a Princess Cruise, professional photographers are available to take stunning portraits. You can take advantage of the various photo opportunities on the ship, including elegant backdrops and iconic locations. From solo shots to couples and group portraits, the photography services on Princess Cruises ensure that you have high-quality images to treasure long after your voyage has ended.

Etiquette and Behavior

As with any formal event, there are certain etiquette and behavior guidelines to observe during the formal nights on Princess Cruises. It is essential to treat the evening with respect and follow the dress code appropriately. Polite and courteous behavior is expected when interacting with the crew and other guests. Remember to practice good table manners and be considerate of others’ enjoyment. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure everyone’s experience is enjoyable and memorable.

What to Pack

When preparing for formal nights on Princess Cruises, packing the right clothing is crucial. For gentlemen, tuxedos, formal suits, or dress slacks with a jacket are recommended. Ladies can opt for evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pant suits. Accessories such as ties, bowties, and statement jewelry can complement your outfit. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for dancing the night away or exploring the ship’s grand venues. It’s also useful to pack a shawl or jacket for cooler evenings on deck.

Alternatives to Formal Nights

If formal attire is not your preference or you wish to have a more relaxed experience, Princess Cruises offers alternative options on formal nights. The buffet-style dining venues onboard provide a casual dining atmosphere where you can enjoy a wide selection of delicious food without the need for formal attire. Additionally, certain specialty restaurants may have a more relaxed dress code, allowing you to savor a gourmet meal in a more laid-back setting. These alternatives ensure that everyone can enjoy their evenings on board, regardless of their preferred style.

In conclusion, formal nights on Princess Cruises bring an air of elegance and sophistication to your voyage. With a well-defined dress code, a variety of activities and events, gourmet dining options, and professional photography services, each formal night is a special occasion to remember. By adhering to the etiquette guidelines and packing the appropriate attire, you can fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere and create unforgettable memories. Whether you choose to embrace the formal dress code or opt for alternative options, your Princess Cruise experience is sure to be extraordinary.

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.

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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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Share on other sites, 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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The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Call it the cruise line for people who want a big amenity-filled ship that isn't a floating amusement park.

Princess Cruises operates relatively large, reasonably priced vessels. But unlike many of its competitors in that space — most notably Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises — it doesn't load them up with sprawling water parks, go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and other flashy, family-focused diversions.

Compared to most of its big ship-operating rivals, Princess is known for a more serene, almost old-school style of cruising that isn't about a lot of gee-whiz attractions.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

As Princess executives like to say, the line is all about warm and gracious service in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance designed to spark connections among passengers.

Instead of bustling attractions, the top decks on the typical Princess ships offer lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas where you can enjoy the experience of being at sea without a lot of hustle and bustle. Inside, the experience revolves around dining, classic showroom entertainment and a classy bar and music scene — just as it has on Princess ships for years.

This is, notably, just the way Princess customers like it. Popular with middle-aged couples, retirees and multigenerational families, the "Love Boat" line caters to people who like a more traditional type of cruising than you'll find on the vessels of most other big-ship lines.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

3 things TPG loves about Princess Cruises

• The abundance of outdoor pool and lounge areas on its ships
• Its expansive spas
• Its far-flung itineraries

What we could do without

• The lack of big suites on most of its vessels

The Princess Cruises fleet

Princess has downsized its fleet considerably in recent years with the removal of five vessels, but it's still the world's fifth-biggest cruise line by passenger capacity, with 16 ships that together offer roughly 50,000 berths.

In general, Princess operates big ships, though they're not quite as big as the vessels operated by Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises — the two lines best known for giant ships. The biggest Princess vessel, the line's new Sun Princess , measures around 177,000 tons. That's about 29% smaller than the biggest ship operated by Royal Caribbean. The line's Royal Class vessels are more than 40% smaller than the biggest Royal Caribbean ships.

Sun Princess is, without a doubt, the belle of the ball in the Princess fleet. Newer, bigger and more venue-filled than the line's other ships, it debuted in early 2024 and carries 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

Also relatively new and chock-full of lots of venues are the line's five Royal Class ships, which measure between 142,229 and 145,281 tons. These vessels began rolling out in 2013 and carry about 3,600 passengers apiece at double occupancy.

Still, the biggest cohort of ships in the Princess fleet are its seven Grand Class vessels. Unveiled between 1998 and 2008, the vessels in this class are smaller than Sun Princess and the Royal Class ships at around 107,000 to 116,000 tons in size. This smaller size allows them to operate a wider range of itineraries than the Royal Class ships, but they're still big enough to offer a lot of onboard venues. The Grand Class ships carry between 2,600 to 3,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Rounding out the Princess fleet are its two Coral Class ships, which, at around 92,000 tons, are the smallest of the line's ships. They each carry around 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

The downsizing of the Princess fleet over the past few years had a lot to do with the COVID-19 pandemic. Three ships left the Princess fleet starting in 2020 as part of an effort to cut costs during the line's coronavirus-caused global shutdown. Another two vessels — Golden Princess and Star Princess — had been scheduled to leave the Princess fleet even before the pandemic began. They were transferred to one of the line's sister companies, P&O Cruises Australia.

The line currently has one more vessel on order that will be a sister to the recently unveiled Sun Princess. To be called Star Princess, it's due to debut in August 2025.

Destinations and itineraries

Princess Cruises sails to more than 100 countries on seven continents, from North America and Europe to Asia and Australia, and it offers a wide range of itineraries — around 170 in a typical year. The line's ships visit more than 380 different ports and destinations and take passengers to more than 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Among the line's voyages, you'll find everything from three-day sampler cruises down the Pacific Coast to 116-day around-the-world voyages.

Princess is particularly known for cruises to Alaska , where it dominates the market for cruises along with sister line Holland America . In a typical year, Princess deploys seven or eight ships to Alaska in the summer — far more than most other lines. It also operates its own wilderness lodges in the state, as well as tourist trains and buses. It uses the lodges, trains and buses to offer a range of 10- to 17-night Alaska cruisetours that combine a cruise with land-based touring.

Princess also typically deploys five to seven ships to Europe in the summer, and it has a big presence in Australia, where it can deploy as many as six ships for parts of each year. In recent years, it has also become a major player in cruises around Japan that cater to both American and Japanese travelers, as well as Australians.

In North America, Princess ships sail out of Fort Lauderdale; Los Angeles; San Francisco; San Diego; Seattle; Galveston, Texas; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska. There are also some sailings that depart from New York City, Quebec City and Honolulu.

In Europe, Princess ships mostly sail out of Southampton in the United Kingdom; Copenhagen; Barcelona; Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome).

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Who sails Princess Cruises

Princess appeals to an older demographic than lines such as Carnival and Norwegian. The average age of passengers is around 54, and you'll usually see a lot of couples on board in their 50s, 60s and 70s.

As noted above, these aren't people necessarily craving go-kart tracks and ropes courses at sea. They're people looking to explore the world in a comfortable, classy sort of way that also is relatively affordable. That last part is key. Princess offers a lot of globe-circling itineraries of the sort often available from high-end luxury lines. However, it does so at a much lower price.

While not the biggest line for families with young children, Princess does draw a lot of multigenerational family groups. It's the line you take if you want an affordable ship that'll appeal to your 70-year-old parents as much as your 12-year-old kid.

Princess also draws a lot of passengers celebrating milestones. The line markets heavily to people marking birthdays and anniversaries with special packages and programs. It's also a huge player in the market for destination weddings at sea, with a division that will help you arrange a ceremony on board or at an exotic location on land during a port call.

Princess was, notably, the first cruise line to host modern-day weddings on ships, offering ceremonies officiated by the ships' captains hosted in onboard chapels.

It is, after all, the "Love Boat" line.

Cabins and suites

When it comes to rooms, Princess is sort of the Marriott of the big-ship cruise world. Its rooms are comfortable and functional but a bit bland. Avant-garde style is not a Princess thing.

The vast majority of the accommodations on Princess ships fall into one of three broad categories: windowless inside cabins, oceanview cabins and balcony cabins. Balcony cabins, in particular, are widespread on Princess ships. Among mass-market lines, Princess was the pioneer in adding large numbers of balcony cabins to ships.

While balcony cabins are common on Princess ships, you'll find relatively few suites on them. Just 50 of 2,162 cabins on the line's new Sun Princess are suites, for instance, and that's a lot more suites than you'll find on most other Princess ships.

What this means is there aren't a lot of ways to live large on a Princess ship or to pack a lot of people into a single accommodation. Until the debut of Sky Princess in 2019, the line didn't have a single cabin that could accommodate more than four people.

That said, the Grand Class vessels each offer two Family Suites that can be created by connecting a Mini-Suite with an adjacent inside cabin to form a six- to eight-person complex.

Unveiled five years ago, Sky Princess featured the line's first truly large stand-alone suites, dubbed Sky Suites. Such suites were added to the line's Discovery Princess, too.

There are two of the suites on each of the ships, and they measure a generous 1,800 square feet (though more than half of that space is taken up by a huge wraparound balcony). With two bedrooms plus a living room with a pullout sofa, they're designed for up to five people.

The line's new Sun Princess also has several large suites that measure as much as 1,260 square feet.

Still, even the biggest suites of Sky Princess, Discovery Princess and Sun Princess aren't the truly epic suites with huge interior living spaces that you'll find on the latest Royal Caribbean or Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships. If that's what you're after, Princess isn't your line.

Related: The 7 best cruise ship suites — picked by someone who has seen them all

Restaurants and dining

Every Princess vessel has three main dining rooms where meals are included in the fare, and these dining rooms are at the heart of the dining experience on Princess ships. Many passengers have all or most of their dinners in a main dining room.

As of this year, the three main dining rooms on each Princess ship operate under different formats. At one of the main rooms, you can make a reservation for any time, provided a table at the time you want is available. To ensure the time you want, it's best to reserve a table far in advance of your sailing, which you can do online once you've paid for the cruise in full. You also can make reservations on board ships during your cruise.

At another of the main dining rooms, you can just show up for dinner at any time without a reservation and be seated on a space-available basis.

The third main dining room on every Princess ship offers a fixed-time "traditional" seating option where you can request the same table at the same time with the same waiter every night of a cruise.

Every vessel also has a casual buffet eatery where meals are included in the fare. Near the main pool area on most ships, it's usually called Horizon Court but is also known as the World Fresh Market or Panorama Buffet on some vessels.

Other covered options on at least some Princess ships include poolside pizza outlets and poolside grills serving burgers. Also, on sea days, Princess transforms a bar or dining venue at lunchtime into an included-in-the-fare English-style pub. It serves traditional pub food such as fish and chips and cottage pie, along with Bass Ale or Guinness (for an extra charge).

Every Princess ship also has at least a couple of extra-charge eateries. On most ships, you'll find the line's signature Italian restaurant, Sabatini's. It serves homemade pasta, seafood and other Italian specialties in an elegant setting and comes with a flat fee of $45 per person.

Most Princess ships also have a signature steakhouse. On most vessels, it's called Crown Grill and offers premium beef and seafood cooked to order in an open, theater-style kitchen. On two ships — Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess — it's called Sterling Steakhouse, where passengers choose their cut of steak from a tray presented by their waiter.

On two ships — Coral Princess and Island Princess — the steakhouse has a Cajun and Creole twist. In addition to steak dishes, the menu features New Orleans-style peel-and-eat shrimp, alligator ribs and gumbo. On those vessels, it's called the Bayou Cafe and Steakhouse.

All the steakhouses come with a flat fee of $45 per person.

Princess ships also offer a chef's table experience — a concept the line pioneered in the cruise world. Costing $95 to $115 per person, it includes pre-dinner cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the ship's galley with the executive chef before a main dining experience at a private table in the dining room.

Another dining option that recently began popping up on Princess ships is a seafood eatery called The Catch by Rudi, designed by Princess' head of culinary arts, Rudi Sodamin. (Holland America fans will remember Sodamin as that line's longtime master chef.)

The Catch by Rudi is only on Sun Princess, Enchanted Princess, Sky Princess, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess. Like the Princess steakhouses, it has a $45 per person cover charge.

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The 10 best meals you can have at sea

Entertainment and activities

Princess ships are loaded with entertainment that ranges from Broadway-style theater shows to street entertainers who appear in each vessel's central piazza. That said, they're not floating amusement parks. Unlike some big-ship lines, Princess isn't topping its vessels with waterslides, go-kart tracks, ropes courses and other family-focused attractions.

Theaters and shows

There's no shortage of theater and lounge entertainment on Princess ships. On a typical night, you might find a flashy, fast-paced production show playing in the main theater, a comedian performing in a secondary lounge and live music on offer in several more venues.

In many cases, the main theaters on Princess ships are quite elaborate, with Broadway-show-level lighting and special effects, and the productions housed within the theaters are elaborate, too.

Princess has upped its game with its theater productions in recent years through a partnership with Stephen Schwartz, the Tony Award-winning composer of "Wicked," "Godspell" and "Pippin."

Among new productions that Schwartz has worked on is "The Secret Silk," which features life-size puppetry from Jim Henson's Creature Shop, dancing and special effects. It was created and directed by John Tartaglia, a star of Broadway's "Avenue Q" and "Beauty and the Beast."

Princess is also known for its karaoke nights, and it holds a "The Voice of the Ocean" competition during cruises, which is a spinoff of the TV show. Passengers compete in a live performance after karaoke auditions and rehearsal sessions with the shipboard band and backup singers. A team of coaches sits in giant "I Want You" chairs, just like on the show, and passengers vote to choose the winner.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Princess ships are filled with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a range of bars, lounges and nightspots.

On many ships, the hub of activity is the Piazza, a sprawling, multilevel space that serves as a central gathering place, like a square in Italy. The configuration of the Piazza varies by ship, but the area typically offers several shops, a coffee bar called International Cafe, a wine bar called Vines and (on some vessels) additional bars and eateries. The Piazza is also home to roving street performers.

Every Princess ship also has a casino, often just off the Piazza, and spas are big on Princess ships. The Lotus Spa complexes on the line's Royal Class ships offer nearly two dozen treatment rooms, an extensive beauty salon and a thermal suite with a hydrotherapy pool, heated stone beds, a Turkish-style steam bath and other steam chambers.

Several of the newer Princess ships, including Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess, have jazz clubs called Take 5.

In addition to such venues, Princess offers a lot of enrichment activities on its ships. The line has partnered with Discovery to offer a Discovery at Sea program on vessels that includes activities like stargazing with a specialist from a top deck. The program also brings destination specialists and naturalists on board in places such as Alaska to offer insights.

Inspired by Discovery's popular "Shark Week," Princess has also created Shark Week at Sea programming that runs on select sailings in the summer with activities and games designed to challenge both adults and kids on the myths and interesting facts about sharks.

Culinary demonstrations, wine tastings and dance classes also are popular on Princess ships.

Top-deck attractions

The top decks of most Princess ships are notable for what they don't have: There are no roller coasters or pedal-powered sky rides like you'll find on Carnival ships or the go-kart tracks that top some Norwegian vessels. There are no surfing simulators, sky diving simulators, rock climbing walls or zip lines of the sort found on Royal Caribbean vessels. For the most part, there aren't even waterslides or watery splash zones (two vessels, Caribbean Princess and Sun Princess, do have splash zones).

Princess executives long ago decided not to engage in what they call the "amusement park arms race" taking place among lines operating big resort-like ships.

Instead, the line has mostly stuck to the basics with its top decks. They are covered with relaxing pool and lounge zones — and lots of them.

On the last three Royal Class ships, for instance, there's a main pool area at the center of the top deck with two full pools and three hot tubs, plus a secondary pool area at the back of the ship with another pool. There's also an adults-only pool area toward the front of the vessel, along with an extra-charge, adults-only relaxation area called the Sanctuary.

Between all these pool and lounge areas running along the sides of the ship are additional sunning areas with lounge chairs and four more hot tubs.

In short, there is a ton of space for relaxing on the top deck of these newest Princess vessels — more than you'll find on any other ship of comparable size, save for their earlier sisters in the Royal Class.

The one big attraction that you will find on the top deck of Princess ships, always at the main pool area, is a giant Movies Under the Stars movie screen. A growing number of cruise ships now have movie screens on their pool decks, but Princess pioneered the concept.

The screens show movies, concerts and sporting events during the day, but at night, they really shine. In a longtime Princess tradition, the line turns the main pool areas of its ships into outdoor movie theaters at night by reconfiguring lounge chairs to face the screen and bringing out blankets to ward off the evening chill. They even serve popcorn.

Some ships also feature basketball courts, miniature golf putting courses, shuffleboard games and pingpong tables tucked into corners of their top decks.

Additionally, the new Sun Princess has a family-friendly play zone called Park19 with a hang-gliding-like ride experience, a ropes course and the previously mentioned splash zone — quite a bit more family-fun pizazz than has been the norm at the line. For now, it's the outlier in the Princess fleet when it comes to decktop amusements.

Children's programs

While it doesn't draw as many families with young children as Carnival or Royal Caribbean, Princess offers an extensive children's program that gets high marks from parents.

The Princess Youth and Teen centers were recently rebranded "Camp Discovery" as part of the line's partnership with Discovery Communications and offer free, supervised activities daily for children ages 3 to 17.

The line splits children in the program into three age groups: the Treehouse (ages 3 to 7 years), the Lodge (ages 8 to 12 years) and the Beach House (ages 13 to 17 years). Each age group often has its own separate facilities on ships. On some ships, the age groups may be further divided based on available space.

Each group has its own age-appropriate activities, with newly revamped experiences designed to "help young Princess explorers learn, play and create fun memories."

While the free programming for children ages 3 to 12 ends at 10 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at shipboard Youth and Teen centers from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. During those hours, they're supervised in what is essentially a group child-sitting service.

The Youth and Teen centers also welcome children under the age of 3 if they are accompanied by an adult.

Related: The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up

What to know before you go

Required documents.

A passport is required for all international itineraries, including world cruises and sailings to Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, India, Central and South America, the Panama Canal (partial and full transit), Caribbean voyages that visit Martinique or Guadeloupe, the South Pacific and Tahiti.

If you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a passport for many domestic itineraries (including Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, Caribbean, Hawaii and Mexico sailings). You can instead travel with an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification. A few other forms of identification, such as a passport card, are also acceptable. That said, Princess strongly recommends that all travelers bring a passport.

Passports must be valid for at least six months. The name on your reservation must be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Where can I cruise without a passport?

Princess adds an automatic service gratuity of $16 to $18 per person, per day to final bills, depending on your cabin category. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can adjust this amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking. (You can also increase the tip amount if so desired.) Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bills at bars, dining room wine accounts and spas.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

Princess has rolled out faster Wi-Fi systems with landlike speeds across its fleet in recent years, such that you now can stream video on ships. That's the upside. The downside is that such service costs a lot more than Wi-Fi access did in the past. Pricing changes over time, but the line was recently charging $24.99 per day to hook up a single device. That's an enormous increase from as recently as early 2023, when Wi-Fi access was available for just $9.99.

The faster Princess Wi-Fi system is called MedallionNet, and it's one of several technological upgrades that Princess has made to its ships in recent years under an umbrella called MedallionClass. MedallionClass also brings expedited embarkation, keyless cabin entry, on-demand food and beverage delivery, and the ability to locate friends and family on board — all via an app for mobile devices and a Princess-issued medallion that passengers carry while traveling.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Carry-on drinks policy

Princess allows you to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne per person onto ships at boarding at no charge (for consuming in your room; you'll be charged a $20 corkage fee if you want to bring it to an onboard restaurant or bar to drink). You can bring even more bottles of wine on board, but you will pay a $20 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking policy

On all ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas and in cigar lounges, designated sections within nightclubs and at designated slot machines within casinos (for those who are playing). It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. Passengers caught smoking in their cabins will be charged a $250 fine per occurrence. One exception to the above rule is that e-cigarettes are allowed in cabins (but not on cabin balconies).

Princess ships have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. There's a $3 per load charge to use a washer or dryer. The launderettes also have vending machines that dispense small boxes of detergent and water softener at $1.50 per box. Additionally, vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry cleaning services.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, and some also have European-style, 220-volt outlets and USB ports in cabins.

The currency used on most Princess itineraries is dollars. The exceptions are select sailings on ships based in Australia, where pricing is listed in Australian dollars. All vessels operate on a cashless system, with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a medallion that you can use to make charges. This same card or medallion also is what lets you into your cabin.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on many Princess itineraries. The exceptions include sailings between ports in Europe, China, Australia and New Zealand, and Singapore, where the drinking age is 18. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age is 20.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine.

At night, there is an official dress code that is enforced when entering restaurants. Most nights are designated as "smart casual," which Princess takes to mean pants and an open-neck shirt for men and skirts and dresses or slacks for women.

Beach attire, shorts, baseball caps and casual jeans (think: the fraying kind or those with holes) are not allowed. One or more nights per cruise, depending on the cruise length, will be designated as a "formal" night when men are expected to turn out in dark suits with a tie or even a tuxedo. The suggested attire for women on such nights is evening gowns or cocktail dresses.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Princess Cruises' loyalty program

Princess has a four-tier frequent cruiser program, the Captain's Circle, that is worth joining for the perks — if you're willing to bear with its convoluted tier qualifying structure.

You reach the first tier, Gold, by taking a single cruise. However, from there, you move to each successive tier either by accruing a certain number of "cruise credits" (which aren't necessarily the same as the number of cruises you've taken) or by sailing a certain number of days.

To reach the Ruby level, for instance, requires three cruise credits (more on those in a moment) or 30 days on Princess ships. Platinum status kicks in after five cruise credits or 50 days on ships.

Related: Princess Cruises' Captain's Circle loyalty program: Everything you need to know

In most cases, members earn one cruise credit for every cruise they take. However, members who book a suite or travel solo in a cabin meant for two will receive two cruise credits for the voyage. The number of cruise credits you have earned is thus often the same as the number of cruises you have taken, but not always.

As is typical with cruise line loyalty programs, lower tiers don't bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. You'll receive things like an invite to a private party (at the Gold tier) and a free upgrade for your travel insurance package when buying it through the line (at the Ruby tier). However, higher levels of the program start to be enticing.

The second-to-highest tier, Platinum, brings such perks as priority check-in and boarding, and a free internet package.

The top Elite level (15 cruise credits or 151 cruise days) adds such things as an exclusive window to preview and book new itineraries, priority ship-to-shore water shuttle service, complimentary laundry and a complimentary minibar setup.

Members at all tier levels get access to special pricing on certain cruises. They also receive a monthly newsletter and a membership pin.

Note that, in contrast to airline frequent flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. So, yes, the perks with lower tiers aren't great. However, it's not as difficult as it might at first seem to hit the more rewarding higher-level tiers in just a few years if you're cruising a lot.

A Princess passenger staying in suites will hit the Platinum level after just three cruises. The top Elite level is reachable within just eight cruises for someone staying in suites.

Related: A beginners guide to cruise line loyalty programs

How much does a Princess cruise cost?

Princess ships are very reasonably priced. They're not the least expensive vessels out there, but they're not pricey by any means. It's possible to find Princess voyages to the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Mexico starting under $100 per person, per night, including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

For instance, as of the date of this story's posting, six-night sailings from Galveston, Texas, to the Western Caribbean in February 2025 started at just $418 per person, not including taxes and fees of $138. That works out to just $93 per night, per person, with taxes and fees for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October, November (not including Thanksgiving week) and parts of December.

When you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels. Many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing is often available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Princess ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things — unless you've bought a package for some of these items in advance.

Specifically, the line now offers bundle pricing for extra-charge items such as gratuity fees, Wi-Fi fees and a few other fees for onboard items if passengers pay for them in advance.

The line's Princess Plus plan gives passengers prepaid gratuities, a single-device Wi-Fi plan, a basic beverage package and a few other freebies for a bundled price of $60 per person, per day.

An enhanced version of the above plan called Princess Premier gives you Wi-Fi access on more devices, a premium drinks package and other additional inclusions for $80 per person, per day.

Most onboard activities, such as theater shows, are included in the fare.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to Princess.com to make a booking directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure that Princess is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who understands all the little quirks that are unique to Princess cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see the cabins firsthand.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offers 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual up-to-$300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on dining.

Bottom line

Princess offers big, amenity-filled ships that are comfortable and classy at an affordable price.

If you're looking for a lot of top-deck fun zones — waterslides, go-kart tracks and the like — it's probably not the line for you. However, if you're on the hunt for not-too-expensive vessels that will take you to the farthest corners of the world in comfort, Princess ships should be on your shortlist.

It's also a great line if you're trying to put together a multigenerational trip, as its ships are designed to appeal to a wide range of age groups.

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• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

What to Wear on a Cruise: Daytime, Formal Nights & More

W hen it comes to cruising in style, packing the right attire for every occasion is essential. Including a few key versatile items on your cruise packing list will prevent your suitcase (and the limited closet space in your stateroom) from becoming overcrowded – and keep you looking appropriate for all events.

Although most cruise lines outline their suggested dress codes in the FAQ sections of their websites, be sure to also review the specifics of your cruise itinerary. Not only will the destination and weather factor into what you should wear on your cruise, but you'll also want to know if formal nights require black-tie attire, themed dress parties need costumes or shore excursions necessitate unique clothing or footwear.

Whether you'll be lounging by the pool or attending a glamorous dinner, our list of must-have items and suggestions from industry experts will help you navigate dressing for your next cruise vacation.

For relaxing sea days, prioritize comfort above all else. Depending on your planned activities, any of the following casual options are considered acceptable attire:

• Skirts or skorts
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Breezy lounge pants
• Bathing suits
• Cover-ups 
• Sun hats or baseball caps

Travel writer Jill Schildhouse always packs her VOTEPRETTY sundress . "This is my go-to cruise workhorse," says Schildhouse. "It's light and breezy, and the pockets come in very handy." She adds that the sundress can be worn to casual dinners on the ship or on shore excursions, and it can even double as a swimsuit cover-up. "I've taken it all over the world and it always arrives wrinkle-free," she says. Schildhouse has received many compliments on this classic sundress, which is available in multiple colors.

Sheri Griffiths, host of YouTube series CruiseTipsTV , suggests wearing comfortable, broken-in shoes on a cruise. She recommends avoiding brand-new footwear during your voyage to prevent blisters and daily discomfort. A basic sneaker can be worn for just about any cruise itinerary, from Alaska to the Caribbean . Griffiths says, "We love these Adidas Stan Smiths because they wear in quickly and have a timeless style."

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

In the evening, most cruise ships adopt a dress code in their main dining rooms and specialty restaurants that incorporate smart-casual or resort-wear attire. The following clothing choices will suffice:

• Maxi dresses
• Elegant tops
• Long- or short-sleeved button-down shirts
• Polo shirts
• Blazers and ties (typically optional, unless otherwise stated)
• Shawls or wraps
• Closed-toe dress shoes
• Sandals or heels

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, shares her best advice for cruise footwear. "I always pack my Rothy's shoes for any cruise because they're infinitely comfortable, work as both a formal and [an] informal shoe and can be tossed in the laundry if they get dirty." She notes that she has several pairs, but two of her go-to styles are The Point and The Ballet Flat . McDaniel adds that the shoes work in every occasion, from strolling along the ship decks to perusing cobblestone streets on shore. "I bought both [pairs] 5 years ago, and they look as new today as they did out of the box despite literally hundreds of hours of wear," she says.

Jason Leppert, founder of YouTube channel Popular Cruising , always packs his signature Hawaiian shirts to wear day or night. He says, "I love the RSVLTS collection because they can play casually with shorts or more dressy with slacks for dinner."

Formal Nights

While more casual these days, cruise formal nights still call for a bit more sophistication and style. Appropriate options include:

• Cocktail dresses
• Evening gowns
• Dress shoes

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer for The Points Guy, always packs a gown or a fancy cocktail dress for a formal night. "I work from home and don't have a reason to dress up otherwise, so I look forward to it." Still, Kosciolek is a firm believer that travelers should wear what is most comfortable for them while on vacation. She adds, "My dinner won't taste any better or worse based on what others are wearing."

Mikkel Woodruff, editor of cruise site Sometimes Sailing , always brings her Omega Sailing Bracelet on cruises. She says, "I like to bring jewelry that reminds me of the ocean and being on the sea." Woodruff appreciates the bracelet's versatility, noting how easily it can go from shore excursions to formal evenings to everyday activities.

Explore cruise deals on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Shore Excursions

When heading off the ship for a shore excursion, opt for comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear to make the most of your adventures on land. Consider packing the following items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Mesh water shoes
• T-shirts or tank tops
• A waterproof jacket

Freelance travel writer David Swanson shares his favorite versatile cruise shoes. He discovered a comfortable pair of Danner multitasking shoes that worked for dinners, casual events and multiple days of cycling on a recent European cruise. "I didn't think I'd find something to do dual duty, but I love this comfy pair from Danner, an outdoor brand [that is] new to me but has been around since 1932," says Swanson.

Paul Thornton, host of The Joy of Cruising Podcast , always packs his Coofandy linen shirts and shorts for hot Caribbean days and breezy cruise ship evenings. "I love Coofandy because they enable this senior to look 'youthful' on the beach and excursions," says Thornton. He adds that the brand is also his go-to retailer for White Party-themed nights on board.

Read: Beach Packing List

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Cruise Line Dress Codes

Dress codes can vary significantly from one cruise company to the next, so it's a good idea to check with your specific line before filling up your suitcase. Once you're on board, be sure to read the daily program for reminders about the dress codes required at the events and dining venues during your voyage.

Azamara Dress Code

• Daytime: Fairly casual attire is suitable throughout Azamara 's ships during the day. However, baseball caps, distressed denim, tank tops and bathing suits cannot be worn at Discoveries, Aqualina and Prime C restaurants (and shoes are required).
• Evening: At night, women typically wear casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, blouses and knit tops, while men are welcome to wear collared golf and polo shirts, shorts and pants. Sport coats are optional. Note: There are no official formal nights on Azamara's voyages.
• Themed Nights: Be sure to pack an all-white outfit for Azamara's signature White Night dinner and deck party.

Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Pack casual, comfortable attire to sail with Carnival Cruise Line , such as T-shirts, polo shirts or relaxed tops paired with shorts, capris, khakis or jeans. Athletic wear paired with a lightweight sweater or jacket are suitable for those looking to stay active. 

Evening: After 5:30 p.m., attire ranges from "cruise casual" to "cruise elegant."

• "Cruise casual" attire for men typically suggests longer dress shorts, pants or jeans and a collared polo shirt. Women usually wear sundresses, blouses, skirts, dress shorts and capri pants.
• "Cruise elegant" typically translates to dress slacks, dress shirts and sports coats (suggested) for men, with some wearing suits, ties or tuxedos. Women choose dresses (party or cocktail), pantsuits and elegant skirts with blouses, while some may wear evening gowns. Kids should follow the adult dress code, opting for school dance- or party-appropriate attire. Note: Jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, shorts, T-shirts, sportswear, exercise clothes, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suits are not permitted. The number of "cruise elegant" evenings varies based on the length of the cruise.

Themed Nights:

• Carnival Journeys cruises feature a "Throwback Sea Day," where guests can relive the '80s by day (outfits included) and dress up for a themed Captain's Cocktail Party by night. 
• Cruises between early December and Christmas Day feature an "Ugly Sweater Contest."
• Costumes are suggested for Halloween cruises between the end of September and October. However, when choosing a costume, keep in mind that full masks are prohibited (masks covering half of the face are allowed).

Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, smart casual resort wear is suitable throughout Celebrity Cruises ' ships. (Think: sundresses, shorts, polos and button-down shirts paired with sandals, low heels and loafers.) Bathing suits with cover-ups, T-shirts, tank tops, hats and sunglasses are only appropriate poolside. Cruisers should avoid wearing these items in the dining areas.
• Evening: Most evenings, guests are expected to wear comfortable yet tasteful attire. This entails dresses, skirts, long pants or jeans, stylish tops and button-down shirts. Shorts and flip-flops do not meet the evening dress code. Depending on your voyage, there will be one or two formal nights that require "evening chic" wear. Passengers can dress to impress in formal gowns, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, dressy jeans or blazers.

Costa Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, Costa Cruises ' passengers may wear casual clothing like T-shirts, shorts and sundresses. Beach clothing and flip-flops are not permitted in ship restaurants. Depending on the itinerary, some shore excursions may have specific dress codes.
• Evening: Most nights require resort attire; however, Costa hosts one or two Elegant Evenings per cruise, when men may wear dark suits or tuxedos and women can wear evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
• Themed Nights: Costa recommends that guests pack white clothing for its White Night events and white, red and green clothing and accessories for its Italy-themed evenings.

Cunard Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Shorts, T-shirts and sundresses are appropriate daytime wardrobe options on sailings with Cunard Line . Swimwear is acceptable by the pool but should not be worn in indoor dining areas.
• Evening: In the evenings, passengers are asked to wear smart attire, which includes dress shirts and trousers for men, and cocktail dresses or sophisticated tops and skirts for women – similar to what you'd choose for dinner at a trendy restaurant or a special occasion. Voyages lasting seven nights host at least two Gala Evenings, during which guests are requested to adhere to a more formal dress code. 
• Themed Nights: Gala Evenings employ themes ranging from specific colors (such as black and white or red and gold outfits) to the roaring '20s to masquerade balls.

Disney Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: On Disney Cruise Line sailings, cruise casual attire is acceptable during the day; outfit options include sundresses and shorts and tees. Swimwear and tank tops are not permitted in dining venues.
• Evening: After the sun sets, polished attire like collared shirts and jeans without rips are acceptable. Bathing suits, tees, tank tops and sports attire are not allowed. Adult-exclusive dining venues on Disney ships call for elegance; formal or semiformal wear is recommended.
• Themed Nights: On three- and four-night sailings, there is typically a pirate-themed deck party and one optional dress-up night for guests of all ages. Sailings lasting seven nights or longer add one formal and one semiformal night, when women may wear a formal dress or pantsuit and men can opt for a suit or dress pants with a jacket.

Holland America Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Plan on wearing casual attire aboard Holland America Line 's ships during the day. When indoors, guests must wear shirts, cover-ups and footwear.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual clothing is acceptable. However, in table service restaurants, shorts, bathing suits, distressed jeans and tank tops are prohibited. Grand Voyages cruises host formal nights, when suits and dresses are appropriate.
• Themed Nights: Once per cruise, Holland America hosts an Orange Party in celebration of King's Day. Pack your favorite orange clothing and accessories for this event, which honors the cruise line's Dutch heritage.

MSC Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Guests of MSC Cruises dress fairly casual during the day in T-shirts and shorts.
• Evening: Collared shirts, dresses and tailored pants are expected at night in the main dining rooms, specialty restaurants and entertainment venues. There is one optional Gala Night, when varying levels of elegance are acceptable. Guests should wear what makes them feel comfortable, ranging from tuxedos or ball gowns to dressy jeans and polo shirts.
• Themed Nights: MSC hosts a White Night Party (where guests wear all white) and a Sunshine Party, where guests don cheerful colors.

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, plan to wear cruise casual attire like summer dresses, jeans, khakis, shorts and casual shirts on Norwegian Cruise Line voyages. At the buffet and outdoor restaurants, swimwear can be worn with a cover-up and footwear. In dining rooms and specialty restaurants, Norwegian does not permit tank tops for men, jeans with rips or tears, flip-flops, baseball caps or visors.
• Evening: In Norwegian's upscale specialty restaurants, smart casual attire is the norm. Women can wear slacks, jeans, dresses, skirts and tops, while men should opt for jeans or slacks, a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes. Children ages 12 and younger may wear shorts in all restaurants. On each cruise, there is one particular "Dress-Up or Not Night," when guests can wear fancier clothing (if they choose).
• Themed Nights: Pack an all-white outfit for the White Hot Party and formal attire for Norwegian's Night Out.

Princess Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: In Princess Cruises ' restaurants and public spaces, casual resort wear is required. Shoes must be worn in the dining areas, and pool or beach attire, ball caps and frayed jeans are prohibited in restaurants.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual attire is acceptable in restaurants. However, on formal evenings, women may wear evening gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits; while men may opt for tuxedos, dark suits or dinner jackets with slacks. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Elevated resort wear, including jeans, shorts, T-shirts and tennis shoes, is appropriate before 6 p.m. on Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: At night, elegant casual attire is recommended. Women typically dresses, pantsuits or slacks paired with blouses or sweaters; a collared shirt and dress pants for men is the norm, with the option for sport jackets and ties. On cruises lasting 16 nights or longer, there are two evenings when guests can choose to wear formal or semiformal attire. Wardrobe choices include dark suits and cocktail dresses or tuxedos and gowns. Note: On the last night of every voyage, the dinner dress code is "relaxed casual" to accommodate guests packing for early morning flights.

Royal Caribbean International Dress Code

• Daytime: A relaxed, casual style is acceptable during the day on cruises with Royal Caribbean International . However, swimwear should be limited to the pool deck. 
• Evening: On most nights, guests wear smart casual attire, which includes collared or button-up shirts, dresses, skirts, blouses and pantsuits. Jackets, sports coats and blazers are encouraged but not required. On formal evenings and for the Chef's Table dining experience, cruisers are expected to wear black-tie attire, which includes tuxedos, suits with ties, cocktail dresses and evening gowns. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.
• Themed Nights: Offered on cruises lasting four nights or longer, themed nights may include toga parties, masquerade balls, decade themes and black and white nights.

Silversea Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual attire akin to what you'd wear at a five-star resort is suitable during the day aboard Silversea Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: Evening attire is categorized into three groups: casual, informal and formal. On casual evenings, women wear pants, blouses, skirts, and casual dresses, while men wear open-neck shirts and slacks. On informal evenings, ladies often choose dresses or pantsuits, and gentlemen typically wear jackets (ties are optional). Formal night is always optional; if you choose to participate, outfits may include cocktail dresses, gowns, tuxedos and suits. The number of formal nights per cruise varies by voyage length.

Seabourn Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual resort wear like jeans and shorts are welcome in all lounges and dining venues on Seabourn Cruise Lines ' ships. Athletic apparel and swimwear should only be worn in the pool area, on the deck or at the spa and fitness center.
• Evening: After 6 p.m., the dress code is "elegant casual." Men are expected to wear slacks with collared shirts or sweaters (jackets are optional), while women can choose pants, skirts, pantsuits or dresses. Elegant jeans are allowed in all dining venues except The Restaurant. On formal evenings in The Restaurant, men may wear tuxedos, suits or slacks and jackets, while women can opt for evening gowns and cocktail dresses.

Viking Ocean Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: On Viking Ocean Cruises ' ships, casual daytime clothing such as shorts, pants, jeans and comfortable walking shoes are acceptable. Athletic wear including exercise clothing, swimsuits and cover-ups may only be worn in the fitness center, pool zones and sports deck.
• Evening: While there are no dedicated formal nights, the dress code after 6 p.m. calls for elegant casual attire for all dining venues, lounges, bars and theaters. Jeans are not permitted (with the exception of the World Cafe, where the dress code remains casual in the evenings). For women, wardrobe options include dresses, jumpsuits, skirts or slacks paired with elegant tops. Jackets and ties are optional for men, but trousers and collared shirts should be worn in the evenings.

Virgin Voyages Dress Code

• Day or night, cruisers on Virgin Voyages ' ships are encouraged to wear attire that expresses their personal style. Just note: In restaurants, bathing suits are not permitted, and shoes are necessary. There are no formal nights; guests can dress up or down, depending on what makes them feel their best.
• Themed Nights: Pack something scarlet red for the Scarlet Night Party, which occurs once per voyage.

Why Trust U.S. News

Dana Freeman is a highly experienced cruise writer who embarked on her first cruise with her grandmother when she was just 12 years old, and she hasn't stopped since. Having sailed on more than 20 different cruise lines and completed over 30 voyages, Freeman's cruise expertise spans from small ships accommodating only eight passengers to massive ones accommodating over 5,000. To curate this article, she leveraged her extensive knowledge of the cruise ship industry, combined with her strong research skills.

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Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Caribbean Princess has hidden gems that should not be missed

By cristine struble | may 9, 2024.

From the couple looking to make that love connection to the family hoping to make lasting memories, Princess Cruises' Caribbean Princess offers a memorable vacation. While the ship offers a plethora of food, entertainment, and relaxation options, these experiences are the hidden gems that should never be overlooked.

Cruise vacations come in many forms. Some people want high adventure at sea . Others prefer quiet moments that exude soothing relaxation. Guests should set the expectations on what the ambiance and experience that they want prior to pushing the purchase button.

For guests on Princess Cruises, in particular the Caribbean Princess, the experience captures the hospitality that this particular cruise brand celebrates . From the bartender knowing your preferred drink when you arrive for that afternoon happy hour stop to your room steward ensuring the bed is turned down for a blissful night of rest, every aspect is considered, met, and even exceeded throughout the entire vacation.

Since there are a plethora of activities, dining options, and experiences on board, it can be difficult to fit everything into a finite amount of time. Some guests choose to book back to back itineraries on the ship. Although that concept might not necessarily be plausible for some people, it shows that the ship, and Princess Cruises, excels in providing a warm, welcoming experience on board.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cristine Struble (@strublepublications)

Favorite spaces and activities on board Caribbean Princess

As the cruise brand’s many commercials tout, Princess Cruises is the original Love Boat . While episodes of the 70s television series can be streamed on the cabin’s televisions, no one is stuck in a time warp on board. But, the sentiment of connection, whether it is romantic love or another kind, is felt at every turn. It is at the heart of the company’s hospitality goals.

For example, one delightful way to start at day at sea is to have breakfast on the balcony, for guests with a balcony room. As the ship parts the waves, the eye is drawn to the seemingly never-ending water. Even as the white caps offer a break to the crystal blue waters, it is easy to look at the view versus stare at a screen.

Breakfast can be ordered and set up on the balcony. Whether it is a simple breakfast sandwich and coffee or something more substantial, the moment is a reminder to stop, be in the moment, and appreciate the quiet.

While breakfast might start the day, another hidden gem on board is the Princess Vines Wine Bar. Although some people might use the spot as an opportunity to order a glass of bubbles before dinner, it is also a wonderful place to enjoy wine and charcuterie. Whether sitting at a high top or enjoying a quiet table for two, it offers a simple meal that invites guests to linger a little longer. It is easy to say yes to that second glass of wine.

Wine is often flowing on the Caribbean Princess. As part of its formal night, the classic Princess Cruises Champagne Tower is a must experience. While it is important to get a spot early to see the pour up close, the gathering is a reminder that moments are meant to celebrate. Even though many people might pop bubbles to toast a momentous event, there is always an excuse to make an occasion special.

For guests who prefer a more laid back moment, the best spot on board is the Outriggers Bar. Many people might hope for a coveted chaise lounge in The Sanctuary, but the Outriggers Bar and the space around it on the back of the ship is the hidden gem that some guests might wish people never find.

From the bartenders who know your drink order on the second visit to the cool breeze that keeps the heat away, it is the exquisite space to let all the cares or worries fade away. Whether people strike up a conversation around the bar or have their own quiet moment sitting at one of the tables, it captures what it means to escape on a cruise ship.

And, for those who get a little hungry while enjoying that libation, Princess Cruises offers OceanNow. The on-demand, location-based delivery service can satisfy that French fry craving at the push of a button. There is no need to leave the chair or pause reading that book. This food option is another example of Princess Cruises' commitment to exceptional hospitality.

While every guest will have their own opinion on the best hidden gems on board the Caribbean Princess, the Princess Cruises ship will have everyone falling in love with the overall travel experience.

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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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