p&o cruises celebration night dress code

• Aug 11, 2022

Do you really have to dress up for a P&O Celebration Night?

Short answer... no.

On a P&O cruise you can normally expect 1 Celebration Night and 1 Black Tie for a 7 night cruise. There may be additional Black Tie nights for cruises longer than 7 nights.

So what does P&O advise?

For both Celebration Night and Black Tie P&O advise the following dress code: Get dressed to the nines in glamourous evening wear. Don a cocktail dress, tuxedo, ball gown or dinner jacket, or a dark business suit and tie. You may also wear formal national dress or military uniform.

Where do you have to wear Black Tie?

P&O will communicate the locations that require Black Tie via the daily Horizon newsletter.

Examples from Britannia and Ventura are below which state that Black Tie is required in all the Main Dining Rooms, Epicurean, as well as some bars.

What do we do?

Before we embark we will make a decision if we are attending the Celebration Night or similar. We base this on the itinerary of the trip. For example, for our Norwegian Fjords trip we decided not to dress up as the trip is packed full of excursions and we expect to be tired throughout.

Similarly on Ventura we did not dress up and instead visited The Beach House. The buffet, Glass House, Sindhu and Limelight Club also do not require black tie.

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What to Wear on a P&O Cruise – 39 Examples and Enforcement

Before I took my first P&O cruise, I was aware that they had dress codes and formal nights, but had no idea what the dress code actually entailed.  In this post, you’ll find dress code guidelines for all parts of a P&O cruise, including the following:

• Daytime Wear – Onboard the ship
• Daytime Wear – On Shore
• Casual Nights
• ‘Formal’ (Celebration/Black Tie) Nights

We will also look into if the dress codes are actually enforced.

This post is based on my personal experiences cruising with P&O Cruises.

Is There a Daytime Dress Code When on a P&O Cruise Ship?

There is no daytime dress code on P&O cruises.

When within the ship guests do have to wear a T-shirt of some sort and shoes but I don’t think this can really be classed as a dress code. When on the pool deck it’s fine to walk around in just your swimwear. More about this later in the post.

Below are examples of everyday dress:

The dress code during the day is just your typical holiday wardrobe. T-shirts, shorts and sundresses are all fine.

It can be chilly on deck and breezy in the evening, so be sure to pack plenty of light layers even if you are going somewhere warm.

I always recommend flat shoes for strolling the decks.

This is pretty standard within the cruising industry, even the cruise lines with the strictest evening dress codes do not have dress codes during the day.

Dress Restrictions on P&O Cruises (At All Times)

P&O do have some dress code restrictions

• Away from the pool area, they ask for shoes to be worn.
• No pool wear in the ship’s lounges, inside bars, restaurants or reception.
• No fancy dress! (Costume dress)
• Clothing that features inappropriate or offensive language, including novelty clothing with printed images or slogans, will not be allowed on board. 

P&O’s Infamous Fancy Dress (Costume Dress) Clown Incident

Reportedly, a passenger dressed as a clown sparked a mass brawl on a P&O cruise ship.  A passenger on the cruise said he heard the trouble started when another passenger appeared dressed as a clown.

“This upset one of their party because they’d specifically booked a cruise with no fancy dress. It led to a violent confrontation.” 

Allegedly, families fled as a group of passengers used furniture and plates as weapons on board the ship. 

No wonder fancy dress is now banned on board all P&O ships!

P&O Do Have Theme Nights, on Occasion

The only exception to the no fancy dress rule is on the official P&O Cruises theme nights – for example, 70s disco, 80s pop, colourful tropical, black and white nights, or seasonal events such as Halloween and Christmas. 

We did have a Christmas jumper day on our Christmas cruise. Interestingly it was the day after Christmas and we were definitely in the minority wearing our Christmas jumpers.

Dressing up for these theme nights is not compulsory!

Set up and log in to your P&O online account to see details of theme nights before your cruise so that you can prepare. 

Whilst on board you can check the P&O “my holiday” digital pocket planner to keep up with daily dress codes.

Do P&O Provide Dress Code Guidelines For The Ports?

Some countries’ cultures may require you to cover up more than you normally would on holiday and if this is the case, P&O will usually remind guests and let them know in the daily schedule.

It’s always important to be aware of the traditions in the countries you are visiting. 

In some countries modesty in clothing is expected and P&O suggest you pack plenty of light and loose clothing that covered the tops of your arms and legs.

They advise ladies to avoid wearing any shorts or tight-fitting clothes and to take a head covering ashore.

If unsure about the countries you are visiting, P&O suggest you visit a Government foreign travel advice website for further advice regarding dress codes.

Asides from this there are no dress codes.

The moment you step off the ship, you are just like any other tourist.

Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring ports of call, especially if the paths are uneven. It’s always sensible to take a light jumper or layer up, so you will be prepared for all eventualities. 

Take the weather forecast into account before you leave the ship – sunglasses, hats or even rainproof jackets may be needed.

What is The ‘Evening Casual’ Dress Code?

“Stylish resort or leisurewear is ideal for Evening Casual nights, for example casual separates or dresses for ladies and open-neck polo shirts and casual trousers for men.” P&O Cruises

Shorts usually aren’t allowed in the main dining room.

A jacket and smart trousers can be worn but are not compulsory. Smart dark denim is also fine, but not trainers or sneakers, football shirts or tracksuits. 

In reality, if you are wearing dark trainers/denim this is fine, they just don’t want guests in ripped blue jeans and bright white trainers.

Do P&O Have Formal Nights?

P&O cruises do have ‘formal’ nights and these are usually referred to as Celebration Nights or Black Tie nights .

“Our Celebration Nights and Black Tie nights offer a chance to get dressed to the nines in glamorous evening wear. Don your favourite cocktail dress, tuxedo, ball gown or dinner jacket, or alternatively a dark business suit and tie. You may also wear formal national dress or military uniform.” P&O Cruises

It is always possible to avoid the formal night dress codes, if that is something that may be of interest. Check out this post: You Can Skip Formal Nights on a Cruise – Here’s How

What is The ‘Formal/Celebration/Black Tie’ Dress Code?

Celebration Nights and Black Tie nights offer a chance to get dressed up in your poshest evening wear. Wear your favourite cocktail dress, tuxedo, ball gown or dinner jacket, or alternatively a dark business suit and tie.

You may also wear formal national dress or military uniform.

How Many Black Tie Nights Will There Be?

P&O say to expect at least one black tie night on a 7-night cruise and between two and four on cruises of 9-14 nights.

If you are lucky enough to be cruising for longer, there is likely to be one black tie night per every 7 nights so pack accordingly.

On shorter cruises, there may be one Black Tie night on a 2-4 night cruise and one or two on cruises of 5-7 nights.

Does The Dress Code Vary by Ship?

When we took a Christmas Cruise on P&O Ventura, we had two formal nights each week.  This could be due to the fact it was over the Christmas holidays, or because older P&O ships are more formal than newer ships, such as Iona. 

Certainly, passengers who have travelled on Iona have reported back that the dress code is more informal than on ships such as Azura and Ventura. 

You can expect only one formal night whilst on a week’s cruise on Iona or Arvia.

Is Dressing up Compulsory on Formal/Celebration/Black Tie nights?

Whilst not compulsory, it is recommended that guests follow the evening’s dress code in restaurants and bars from 6 pm.

It’s unlikely that you’d be prevented entry or refused service, but you might feel uncomfortably under-dressed or face the disapproval of fellow guests who have dressed up and made an effort! 

If you really prefer casual dress you can dine in the buffet on Black Tie nights, where it is more relaxed, or take advantage of room service. 

Below are examples of black tie dress:

Do P&O Cruises Enforce Their Dress Codes?

76% of P&O cruisers said that they didn’t feel as though P&O’s dress codes were enforced.  P&O’s dress codes are just recommended.

The survey conducted in our Facebook group – 130 people voted for no, 41 for yes.

Guests are reminded in the daily Horizon or the “my holiday” planner what the dress code is for that particular evening, however, if dressed within reason (as in not overtly casual/scruffy) it is unlikely that staff will want to offend guests by reprimanding them on improper dress.

That said, it is policy and therefore they are quite within their right to do so.

Does the Dress Code Apply to Everyone?

The dress codes apply to everyone over 18 years of age. 

For children aged 17 years and under, the dress code in the evening is always Evening Casual, regardless of the adult dress code.

They do ask, however, that no denim is worn on Black Tie nights.

For boys:  Generally speaking, boys would probably be fine to wear a polo shirt and chinos on the formal/smart casual nights. 

For girls:  Any dress/skirt or smart trousers/top would be fine. The main thing is to look presentable and like an effort has been made. This doesn’t have to be expensive!

Some families love the opportunity to dress up and I’ve seen small children wearing full tuxedos and bow ties which are adorable. On casual nights anything goes for kids.

What Should Teenagers Wear on Formal Night?

The formal night dress code doesn’t apply to those under 18 but many teenagers do enjoy dressing up for formal nights. Most teenagers will either wear a dress or a shirt/trousers, some with a tie or jacket. A more relaxed option like a casual shirt with a collar may be a good option too.

It really is up to the teenager.

If your teenagers don’t want to take part in formal night but you do, that’s no problem.

I used to cruise as a teenager and I loved being able to go to the buffet with my cousins rather than go to the main dining room with my parents. Cruising as a teen gave me a lot of freedom and I loved it.

Does the Dress Code Apply When Visiting Speciality Restaurants?

The dress code on P&O cruises does apply to the majority of speciality restaurants.

Some speciality restaurants, like the beach house which is located in the buffet, may have a different or more relaxed dress code.

During my Christmas cruise on Ventura, some of us dined in the beachhouse on formal night to avoid the dress code.

Check on the daily planner before you book to see if the dress code applies to your chosen speciality restaurant.

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Understanding the p&o cruises dress code – what to wear on your cruise.

Take the stress out of packing with my guide to what to wear when cruising with P&O.

What to wear on a cruise is a dilemma many cruisers face. It can even put people off taking a cruise. However, it needn’t be that way.

These days dress codes on cruise ships are a little more relaxed than they used to be. During the day your usual holiday wear will be generally be fine, while in the evening it is very much the same as if you were going out for the night at home.

That said, for a first timer cruiser it can be difficult to know where to start when packing. I know I had no idea.

Before doing some research on the P&O Cruises dress code I wondered if I would have to dress up every night, if I could wear my jeans and trainers without getting strange looks and if I’d packed the right type of clothes for evening casual…whatever that meant.

However, the thing that gave me the most anxiety was the formal night, what on earth do people wear and can I get out of it if I want to were just some of the questions I asked myself.

Thankfully P&O Cruises make it easy for you with a clear and easy to follow dress code that allows you to show of your sense of style.

At a Glance: P&O Dress Code

• Comfortable casual clothing for day wear
• Smart casual attire for evening wear
• Black Tie for Celebration Night
• Celebration night is not compulsory – a few venues are not Black Tie
• Always wear footwear around the ship
• Keep swimwear for the pool area only, not the bars, lounges or restaurants

What to wear on a P&O Cruise

Daywear – onboard and onshore.

During the day, there is no official dress code as such. P&O suggest comfortable clothing that is right for you. So you can expect things to be casual and relaxed. When packing, you should take clothes you would normally wear on holiday.

However, do keep in mind the region you are cruising around.

If you are heading to sunny hotspots like the Caribbean or the Mediterranean think along the lines of T-shirts, shorts and summer dresses.

For colder destinations, such as Northern Europe in the winter, you’ll want clothes to keep warm in. Jeans, long-sleeved jumpers and a jacket will help to keep you toasty whatever the weather.

If you are going to the Norwegian Fjords you’ll probably want to pack a bit of everything. The weather can be VERY changeable in this region. You can get four seasons in one day depending on how your luck plays out.

Read more | What to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise

Wherever you are cruising it is worth taking some clothes you can layer up and down. It can get chilly on deck, even in the hot destinations. The sea breeze can be a bit harsh at times.

The photos below were both taken on deck. The first is as we were sailing into the Norwegian Fjords one June morning at 4 am (very breezy and very cold) while the second is from a UK cruise where the silent disco was held on deck in August (a bit chilly even though the day was warm hence the hoodie).

The only dress code restrictions that P&O ask you to follow during the day are

• that footwear is always worn around the ship (unless you are by the swimming pool)
• that swimwear is not worn in the bars, restaurants or lounges onboard.

Should you feel peckish or would like a drink when by the pool there are a few bars and food stands in the area. So, you can grab a bite to eat without worrying about being in your swimwear.

If you would like to go to the buffet or main dining from the pool area, you should take something you can change into. There are changing rooms nearby. Alternatively, you can pop back to your cabin and have a quick freshen up.

If you are heading on shore when in port it is worth packing some comfortable shoes. It is easy to rack up the steps without realising when wandering around exploring.

You should also be mindful of any local culture and customs. For example, some regions and attractions may require you to cover up various parts of the body. So, make sure you pop a shawl, light jacket or jumper into your suitcase.

It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast in the days leading up to your departure. If rain is forecast at your cruise destination then you’ll want to pack a rain jacket and umbrella. If it is looking like being hot and sunny, pop in some light clothes, sunglasses and of course some sunscreen.

Evening Dress Code

When thinking what to wear on a cruise in the evening, ballgowns, cocktail dresses and tuxedo’s may spring to mind. While they are great options for formal nights, most evenings on a cruise are not that traditional.

On P&O’s ships, there are two evening dress codes.

Evening casual

The majority of nights on your cruise will be evening casual with up to four black tie nights depending on which ship you are cruising on and the length of your cruise.

The evening the dress code is always evening casual for those under 17. Even if it is black tie for adults. Of course, that is not to say they can’t dress up too. On the cruises I’ve been on many of the little kids did dress up and they looked fabulous.

The dress code on evening casual nights is fairly relaxed. If you think along the lines of a nice evening out at home you won’t go far wrong.

So, for ladies that includes dresses, skirts or trousers with stylish top. For men, smart casual trousers and open neck shirts are a great option. You can also wear jeans but they should be smart dark denim and not ripped or torn. I’ve often worn my black jeans and had no issues.

If you are cruising in the Caribbean, tailored shorts may be worn in the bars on deck and in the buffet.

The only types of clothing you are asked not to wear are tracksuits, football shirts or trainers.

Celebration Night

Celebration Night is P&O’s take on the traditional formal night.

It is a night of glitz and glamour but a little more modern and less stuffy than you might expect. That said it is still the night you get to dress up in your most chic outfit or tuxedo or smartest suit.

For ladies, it is a chance to wear a cocktail dress, ballgown or some smart trousers and a sparkly top. Or in my case a rare opportunity to wear some sparkly shoes!

While for men, tuxedos or a suit, jacket and tie are suitable for this night. Military uniforms or formal national dress may also be worn. Although you’ll need to leave any ceremonial blades or swords at home. So, that will save you some space in your luggage!

How many Black Tie nights on P&O Cruises?

The number of Celebration Nights, where the dress code is black tie, depends on the length of your cruise.

On the family-friendly ships, Arvia and Iona , you can expect one black tie night on cruises up to 13 nights in duration. For cruises that are 14 nights long, there will usually be two black tie nights.

The rest of the fleet has more Celebration Nights, again depending on how long your cruise is.

• 2-6 nights usually have one black tie evening
• 7-13 nights have two black tie evenings
• 14 nights have four black tie evenings

When does each dress code apply?

Keep an eye on Horizon, the daily planner that is delivered to your cabin each evening, for details of which dress code applies for the following evening.

You’ll find this information on the front page just under the header. Below are two examples of how the information is displayed.

You can also see which dress code to follow on the My Holiday web page once onboard.

The dress code on P&O Cruises comes into effect at 6pm across their ships. If you are out and about around the ship, be prepared for the crew to let you know about the change. You may also receive a strange look or two from fellow passengers if you are in a venue where black tie is required around this time.

When I was last on Iona, I spent one afternoon in the Crow’s Nest. I was wearing jeans and a light jumper. Around 5.30 ish one of the bar staff wandered over to let me know that the dress code was changing at 6pm.

I left when I finished my drink however, people were already gathering for early evening meals in The Epicurean and I did overhear someone make a comment about me as I left.

It was a bit unnecessary as the dress code was only just about to come into effect but is an example of how seriously some people take it and are not afraid to let you know if they think you are not adhering to it.

What bars and restaurants does the dress code apply to?

While the dress code is generally ship wide, it is only enforced in certain venues. If you turn up items of clothing that don’t fit the dress code be prepared that you might be turned away from those venues.

Below is a guide to what venues the P&O evening dress codes apply to.

Do you have to dress up for Celebration Night?

Formal nights on a cruise ship can be a bit like marmite. Some people love them while others hate them. Whichever camp you fall into, you can have a enjoyable – and comfortable – night.

If you like the opportunity to dress up in your finest outfit, you’ll find plenty of others will be getting out the glitz and glamour too. You’ll be able to dine in the main dining room and many of the speciality restaurants.

However, if dressing up isn’t your thing don’t worry. You won’t have to spend the night locked away in your cabin or sneaking around the ship trying not to be seen.

A few venues, such as the Horizon Restaurant and most of the bars still have an evening casual dress code even on Celebration Night.

There is also the option of room service (or should that be cabin service) if you really want to avoid it all!

It is worth giving it a go though. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it. I usually cruise solo so feel bit of a twit dressing up just to eat alone. However, on the occasions I have joined in, it’s been a great evening so I was glad I didn’t miss out.

The Last Word

P&O Cruises make it super easy to navigate the dress code on board their ships.

If you pack like you would for a resort holiday with some comfortable clothes for the day and a few nice outfits for the evening you will be fine. Just remember to pack your most glamorous outfit for Celebration Night.

Also don’t forget to check the weather forecast for the destination you are cruising to and pack accordingly.

You may also like…

• Cruising the Norwegian Fjords on Iona
• What to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise
• P&O drink packages, are they worth it?

10 thoughts on “ Understanding the P&O Cruises Dress Code – What to wear on your cruise ”

I know you’re allowed to take a litre of spirits/wine and unlimited soft drink onboard Iona. Is beer not permitted? Does the allowance include children as a ‘per person’? Thanks again for all info.

Hi Debbie, if you take a look at P&O’s policies it looks like beer is included. And it applies to guests over 18. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Just booked Britannia for 2025 have been told by travel agent can take on board 1 litre of spirts to drink in our cabin is this per person and is this true

Hi Gail, Looking at P&O’s policies, it seems to apply for each guest as they embark the ship. Enjoy your cruise when it arrives. Emma

We ate not ones for rassle dazzle dressing up.we do however dress.smartish. but qe dont do black tie nughts. Is there other forms of eating places on board where we can eat on formal nights without being confined to our room.

Hi Denise, I was a bit worried about that too but it was fine. You can eat in the Horizon Restaurant (buffet),The Quays and I think the Olive Grove (if you can get a reservation). I ate in the buffet on one my Iona cruises on celebration night (wearing jeans) and it was fine. Enjoy your cruise (and don’t worry about the dress code too much). Emma

Are men able to wear chino shorts at night? Of course black tie would be a full tuxedo. Thanks!

Hi Megan, I think shorts are ok if you are eating in Horizon (the buffet) or if you are on a fly-cruise, to the Caribbean for example. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Are you allowed to take 1 litre of alcohol on board Iona from Southampton On embarkation.

Hi Patricia, yes you can. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

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• Mar 31, 2023

P&O Cruises - Dress Code Guide

Updated: Oct 22, 2023

If you spend a lot of time on various cruise groups on the internet, you'll know that dress codes are always a bit of a contentious topic. Making sure you stick with the dress codes onboard can feel quite daunting if you haven't cruised before, as some peoples interpretation of those dress codes will be different to others. However on P&O, the dress codes are the same across the fleet and they do not apply during the daytime.

We think that P&O is a relatively formal cruise line. If you've cruised on some of the American cruise lines before, such as Princess or Carnival, you'll probably find P&O a more formal experience. We've found that the majority of people tend to stick to the dress code and even though it doesn't apply to under 18's, you'll see lots of children getting involved too.

There are two main evening dress codes on a P&O Cruise, so we'll take you through what they are and show you some examples of what we've worn for each of them.

Evening Casual

This is P&O's main evening dress code and guests are encouraged to "dress as you would for dinner in a nice restaurant". Quite a vague description, which is open to interpretation as one person's idea of a nice restaurant would be different to another's. For us, the point of this dress code is to interpret it how you'd like to. We've all got a different style and that's fine! There are some rules to adhere to, including no tracksuits, football shirts or trainers. Shorts are also prohibited in the dining rooms, and in most bars with the exception of on some ships when in the Caribbean. Recently, guests onboard Arvia have shared that on evening casual nights tailored shorts can be worn anywhere other than in Anderson's, Sindhu, Epicurean and The Crow's Nest. Exceptions like this, will always be detailed in the Horizon.

We tend to wear dresses or skirts, the type of thing we'd wear to go to a bar, or eat out on an evening at home. We only wear dresses because that's our preference, not because that's what's expected. We've seen plenty of women onboard wearing smart trousers and dark denim with nice tops that look great too. Footwear wise, we wear sandals or a smarter flip flop, regardless of the weather it always feels appropriate to wear sandals on holiday. We've also seen others onboard wear ballet pumps, court shoes and loafer style shoes.

For men, it would usually be smart jeans or trousers (chinos seem to be a popular choice) and a shirt. We've seen polo shirts worn onboard too without any objections. There are some rules around denim. P&O will only allow dark denim, and nothing that's ripped. This rule is rarely enforced, but you never know when someone might decide to!

This is the dress code that applies to P&O's Celebration night. It appears to be the dress code that causes the most debate and we've seen many people worry about what to wear.

We don't have many black tie events at home, so we love the opportunity to dress up and for us, its part of what makes cruising special. If it's not for you, there are plenty of bars that you can go to onboard where you don't need to follow the dress code. The buffet is always dress code free, (apart from no pool wear) and you can also enjoy an evening meal from any of the casual dining venues such as Taste 360 and The Quays on Iona/Arvia, as well as The Beach House, the poolside grills and pizzerias across the fleet.

We have a few dresses that we alternate between for P&O's Celebration Night. We've been lucky finding some great deals and have also repurposed dresses that we've purchased for other events such as weddings. P&O suggest a cocktail dress or ball gown and we've definitely seen a wide range of both onboard. We've also seen some lovely jumpsuits, and smart trousers with sparkly tops. If you aren't comfortable in a dress there's nothing to worry about, you won't be alone in wearing an alternative.

For men the guidance is either a tuxedo, DJ or suit that includes a jacket and tie. The jacket is definitely the important part and we have heard of people being turned away from the main dining room when they haven't been wearing one. On our February 2023 Azura cruise, there was actually a collection of jackets that the maître d' would be able to give to men who had arrived without one.

How many black tie/celebration nights will we have?

The number of black tie nights will vary slightly depending on which ship you're on and if there are any special occasions during your cruise. As a general rule onboard Iona and Arvia, you will have 1 black tie or celebration night for every 7 days of the cruise. On every other ship in the P&O fleet, it will be 2 black tie nights for every 7 days. If you're on a cruise that's shorter than 7 days, you will still have 1 celebration night.

When and where do the dress codes apply?

Dress codes apply after 6pm and they are usually enforced in the majority of bars and restaurants on P&O ships. If you're not sure, you'll see signage outside the bar explaining what the dress code for that venue is, so you won't be caught out. The venues differ on each ship. The list below showing which venues adopt the evening dress code, was taken from the P&O website -

Arcadia Main Dining Restaurant, Intermezzo, The Crow's Nest, Meridian, Sindhu and Ocean Grill restaurants.

Aurora Main Dining Restaurant, Anderson’s, The Crow's Nest, Alexandria, Medina, Sindhu and The Glass House restaurants.

Arvia Main Dining Restaurant, The Crow's Nest, Meridian, Zenith, The Epicurian, The Chef's table, Green &Co and Sindhu restaurants.

Azura Main Dining Restaurant, Blue Bar, Planet Bar, Meridian, Peninsular, Oriental, Sindhu, The Glass House and The Epicurean restaurants.

Britannia Main Dining Restaurant, The Crow’s Nest, The Epicurean, Meridian, Peninsular, Oriental, Sindhu restaurants.

Iona Main Dining Restaurant, The Crow's Nest, Opal, Pearl, Coral, Aqua, The Epicurian, The Chef's table and Sindhu restaurants.

Ventura Main Dining Restaurant, Red Bar, Metropolis, Cinnamon, Saffron, Bay Tree, Sindhu, The Glass House and The Epicurean restaurants.

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• P&O Cruises ( UK )

Celebration night dress code vs formal night?

By Goosebear Mum , January 22, 2023 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

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Goosebear Mum

I have tried to do a search, but nothing quite relevant returns…

What is a P&O celebration night? Never saw these pre covid… Our forthcoming Aurora cruise has 3 formal nights listed AND one celebration night. When I click on it, it just lists dress codes for formal nights and evening casual.  What on earth is the difference between a celebration night and a formal night?!   

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yorkshirephil

You usually get a voucher for a free drink on celebration night, but dress is formal.

Thanks both 🙂  

Yup! As the lad from Yorkshire writes, the difference is the voucher for a meagre (less than half full) glass of sparkling wine. 🙄

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P&O Dress Code

If you’re anything like me, you’ve perhaps been flummoxed a time or two by the somewhat mystifying concept of cruise ship attire. Are we talking James Bond at the casino, or a relaxing evening in front of the telly in your comfiest joggers? Well, if you’re planning on taking the scenic Norwegian Fjords route with P&O Iona (which, by the way, is an absolute treat – just ask my wife Kim!), we’re here to provide a bit of clarity on the whole dressing-up hullabaloo.

Evening Elegance: The Basic Drill

Now, the lion’s share of your sartorial stress, if you’re like most, is likely centered around evening dos. The good news? It’s simpler than you might think. At the core, P&O leans towards ‘smart casual’. Think dark blue jeans, perhaps a polo or shirt for the gents. You won’t get any side-eyes for sporting trainers, either.

That said, from our own experience onboard, many choose to go that extra nautical mile. Swapping those trainers for dress shoes, or those comfy jeans for smarter trousers. But remember, while it might have a tad more premium feel when you dress up, there’s no rulebook etched in stone.

Celebration Night: Dressing to the Nines

A standout in our week-long escapade was definitely the celebration night, which for us, took place on the second night (remember, this was DAY 2 of our sea adventure). This evening was all about pulling out all the stops. I was decked in a snazzy blue suit, complete with a green tie and crisp white shirt. Kim, my better half, looked every bit the diva in her blue, ball-gown-esque dress.

And let me tell you, the ship transformed. Nearly everyone was donning their finest, looking as though they were off to a glitzy Hollywood soirée. It was an atmosphere of sheer elation – everyone at their best, feeling their best.

But What If Gowns and Suits Aren’t My Cup of Tea?

Fear not! If dressing up isn’t your jam, the Iona’s got you covered. There are spots like the Horizon Café where casual is the word. It’s a cruise, after all – and comfort is king (or queen).

In Conclusion: Dress As You Like, Enjoy the Night

The Norwegian Fjords cruise aboard Iona is about the stunning vistas, the onboard experiences, and the joy of the journey. Dress codes, while a part of the experience, shouldn’t overshadow the adventure. Wear what makes you feel splendid, be it a tuxedo or a t-shirt.

So, here’s to nights filled with fun, flair, and fabulous fashion (or lack thereof)!

Paul Hadley

Paul Hadley is a Birmingham-based writer with a passion for cars, travel, and cruises. As a key contributor to Motor Verso, he combines his love for automotive journalism with an insatiable wanderlust. Whether test-driving the latest vehicles or exploring new cruise destinations, Paul's articles offer a unique blend of expert reviews and personal experiences. With a keen eye for detail and a love for all things on wheels and water, he's your go-to guide for the modern automotive and cruising landscapes.

The Unmissable 710 Club on Iona: A Symphony on the Sea

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The Comprehensive Guide to Moscow Nightlife

• Posted on April 14, 2018 July 26, 2018
• by Kings of Russia
• 8 minute read

Moscow’s nightlife scene is thriving, and arguably one of the best the world has to offer – top-notch Russian women, coupled with a never-ending list of venues, Moscow has a little bit of something for everyone’s taste. Moscow nightlife is not for the faint of heart – and if you’re coming, you better be ready to go Friday and Saturday night into the early morning.

This comprehensive guide to Moscow nightlife will run you through the nuts and bolts of all you need to know about Moscow’s nightclubs and give you a solid blueprint to operate with during your time in Moscow.

What you need to know before hitting Moscow nightclubs

Prices in moscow nightlife.

Before you head out and start gaming all the sexy Moscow girls , we have to talk money first. Bring plenty because in Moscow you can never bring a big enough bankroll. Remember, you’re the man so making a fuzz of not paying a drink here or there will not go down well.

Luckily most Moscow clubs don’t do cover fees. Some electro clubs will charge 15-20$, depending on their lineup. There’s the odd club with a minimum spend of 20-30$, which you’ll drop on drinks easily. By and large, you can scope out the venues for free, which is a big plus.

Bottle service is a great deal in Moscow. At top-tier clubs, it starts at 1,000$. That’ll go a long way with premium vodka at 250$, especially if you have three or four guys chipping in. Not to mention that it’s a massive status boost for getting girls, especially at high-end clubs.

Without bottle service, you should estimate a budget of 100-150$ per night. That is if you drink a lot and hit the top clubs with the hottest girls. Scale down for less alcohol and more basic places.

Dress code & Face control

Door policy in Moscow is called “face control” and it’s always the guy behind the two gorillas that gives the green light if you’re in or out.

In Moscow nightlife there’s only one rule when it comes to dress codes:

You can never be underdressed.

People dress A LOT sharper than, say, in the US and that goes for both sexes. For high-end clubs, you definitely want to roll with a sharp blazer and a pocket square, not to mention dress shoes in tip-top condition. Those are the minimum requirements to level the playing field vis a vis with other sharply dressed guys that have a lot more money than you do. Unless you plan to hit explicit electro or underground clubs, which have their own dress code, you are always on the money with that style.

Getting in a Moscow club isn’t as hard as it seems: dress sharp, speak English at the door and look like you’re in the mood to spend all that money that you supposedly have (even if you don’t). That will open almost any door in Moscow’s nightlife for you.

Types of Moscow Nightclubs

In Moscow there are four types of clubs with the accompanying female clientele:

High-end clubs:

These are often crossovers between restaurants and clubs with lots of tables and very little space to dance. Heavy accent on bottle service most of the time but you can work the room from the bar as well. The hottest and most expensive girls in Moscow go there. Bring deep pockets and lots of self-confidence and you have a shot at swooping them.

Regular Mid-level clubs:

They probably resemble more what you’re used to in a nightclub: big dancefloors, stages and more space to roam around. Bottle service will make you stand out more but you can also do well without. You can find all types of girls but most will be in the 6-8 range. Your targets should always be the girls drinking and ideally in pairs. It’s impossible not to swoop if your game is at least half-decent.

Basic clubs/dive bars:

Usually spots with very cheap booze and lax face control. If you’re dressed too sharp and speak no Russian, you might attract the wrong type of attention so be vigilant. If you know the local scene you can swoop 6s and 7s almost at will. Usually students and girls from the suburbs.

Electro/underground clubs:

Home of the hipsters and creatives. Parties there don’t mean meeting girls and getting drunk but doing pills and spacing out to the music. Lots of attractive hipster girls if that is your niche. That is its own scene with a different dress code as well.

What time to go out in Moscow

Moscow nightlife starts late. Don’t show up at bars and preparty spots before 11pm because you’ll feel fairly alone. Peak time is between 1am and 3am. That is also the time of Moscow nightlife’s biggest nuisance: concerts by artists you won’t know and who only distract your girls from drinking and being gamed. From 4am to 6am the regular clubs are emptying out but plenty of people, women included, still hit up one of the many afterparty clubs. Those last till well past 10am.

As far as days go: Fridays and Saturdays are peak days. Thursday is an OK day, all other days are fairly weak and you have to know the right venues.

The Ultimate Moscow Nightclub List

Short disclaimer: I didn’t add basic and electro clubs since you’re coming for the girls, not for the music. This list will give you more options than you’ll be able to handle on a weekend.

Preparty – start here at 11PM

Classic restaurant club with lots of tables and a smallish bar and dancefloor. Come here between 11pm and 12am when the concert is over and they start with the actual party. Even early in the night tons of sexy women here, who lean slightly older (25 and up).

The second floor of the Ugolek restaurant is an extra bar with dim lights and house music tunes. Very small and cozy with a slight hipster vibe but generally draws plenty of attractive women too. A bit slower vibe than Valenok.

Very cool, spread-out venue that has a modern library theme. Not always full with people but when it is, it’s brimming with top-tier women. Slow vibe here and better for grabbing contacts and moving on.

High-end: err on the side of being too early rather than too late because of face control.

Secret Room

Probably the top venue at the moment in Moscow . Very small but wildly popular club, which is crammed with tables but always packed. They do parties on Thursdays and Sundays as well. This club has a hip-hop/high-end theme, meaning most girls are gold diggers, IG models, and tattooed hip hop chicks. Very unfavorable logistics because there is almost no room no move inside the club but the party vibe makes it worth it. Strict face control.

Close to Secret Room and with a much more favorable and spacious three-part layout. This place attracts very hot women but also lots of ball busters and fakes that will leave you blue-balled. Come early because after 4am it starts getting empty fast. Electronic music.

A slightly kitsch restaurant club that plays Russian pop and is full of gold diggers, semi-pros, and men from the Caucasus republics. Thursday is the strongest night but that dynamic might be changing since Secret Room opened its doors. You can swoop here but it will be a struggle.

Mid-level: your sweet spot in terms of ease and attractiveness of girls for an average budget.

Started going downwards in 2018 due to lax face control and this might get even worse with the World Cup. In terms of layout one of the best Moscow nightclubs because it’s very big and bottle service gives you a good edge here. Still attracts lots of cute girls with loose morals but plenty of provincial girls (and guys) as well. Swooping is fairly easy here.

I haven’t been at this place in over a year, ever since it started becoming ground zero for drunken teenagers. Similar clientele to Icon but less chic, younger and drunker. Decent mainstream music that attracts plenty of tourists. Girls are easy here as well.

Sort of a Coyote Ugly (the real one in Moscow sucks) with party music and lots of drunken people licking each others’ faces. Very entertaining with the right amount of alcohol and very easy to pull in there. Don’t think about staying sober in here, you’ll hate it.

Artel Bessonitsa/Shakti Terrace

Electronic music club that is sort of a high-end place with an underground clientele and located between the teenager clubs Icon and Gipsy. Very good music but a bit all over the place with their vibe and their branding. You can swoop almost any type of girl here from high-heeled beauty to coked-up hipsters, provided they’re not too sober.

Afterparty: if by 5AM  you haven’t pulled, it’s time to move here.

Best afterparty spot in terms of trying to get girls. Pretty much no one is sober in there and savage gorilla game goes a long way. Lots of very hot and slutty-looking girls but it can be hard to tell apart who is looking for dick and who is just on drugs but not interested. If by 9-10am you haven’t pulled, it is probably better to surrender.

The hipster alternative for afterparties, where even more drugs are in play. Plenty of attractive girls there but you have to know how to work this type of club. A nicer atmosphere and better music but if you’re desperate to pull, you’ll probably go to Miks.

Weekday jokers: if you’re on the hunt for some sexy Russian girls during the week, here are two tips to make your life easier.

Chesterfield

Ladies night on Wednesdays means this place gets pretty packed with smashed teenagers and 6s and 7s. Don’t pull out the three-piece suit in here because it’s a “simpler” crowd. Definitely your best shot on Wednesdays.

If you haven’t pulled at Chesterfield, you can throw a Hail Mary and hit up Garage’s Black Music Wednesdays. Fills up really late but there are some cute Black Music groupies in here. Very small club. Thursday through Saturday they do afterparties and you have an excellent shot and swooping girls that are probably high.

Shishas Sferum

This is pretty much your only shot on Mondays and Tuesdays because they offer free or almost free drinks for women. A fairly low-class club where you should watch your drinks. As always the case in Moscow, there will be cute girls here on any day of the week but it’s nowhere near as good as on the weekend.

In a nutshell, that is all you need to know about where to meet Moscow girls in nightlife. There are tons of options, and it all depends on what best fits your style, based on the type of girls that you’re looking for.

Related Topics

• moscow girls
• moscow nightlife

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Moscow in Winter: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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Travelers who enjoy bundling up for a snowy climate will appreciate all that Moscow has to offer, come winter. This ornamental Russian city shows its vibrant cultural heritage when temperatures plummet and the snow starts falling on Red Square. Unlike other cities, whose residents scurry away to hibernate in December, the people of Moscow embrace their sub-zero climate in style. They don their furs and ushanka hats (traditional hats with earflaps) to peruse Christmas markets, dine out at restaurants, and attend the opera.

In winter, Moscow's scenery looks awe-inspiring under a dusting of snow. There's something undeniably charming about seeing historic sites like the colorful, tented rooftops of Saint Basil's Cathedral capped with a layer of icy frost. The food here is warm and comforting, and the cultural winter events are not to be missed. Plus, it's cheaper to visit Moscow during the winter and it's far less crowded with tourists.

Moscow is not where you go to get a suntan over the holidays. In fact, the Moscow winter is enough to chill any hearty tourist to the bone—but that's all part of the fun. The average high for December, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is 27 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 2.7 degrees Celsius); for January, it's 23 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 5 degrees Celsius); and for February, it's 26 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 3.3 degrees Celsius). Take these average temperatures with a grain of salt, however, as it certainly isn't abnormal for the air to dip into the teens.

The Moscow cold is often accompanied by generous amounts of ice and snow deposited by frequent winter storms. The city goes unfazed by these storms—cars still drive around and people in boots trod through the snowpack. You'll see thick icicles growing on roof overhangs, so be sure not to linger underneath them while you're out touring the area's magnificent cathedrals.

Lastly, don't be surprised if your flights in or out get canceled or delayed. This can be one of the drawbacks to traveling in the winter, in general.

What to Pack

Stuffing your suitcase with bulky (and heavy) winter clothing can be frustrating and expensive, which tends to deter Moscow winter travel altogether. A trip to the city between early December and late February requires enough accessories to cover the extremities: wooly hats, cold-weather socks, knit scarves, and a good pair of gloves. Also pack a coat that falls below the hips, weatherproof boots, and ski pants, if you have them. Remember, fashion is second only to avoiding hypothermia in this polar city.

The Moscow winter calendar is brimming with cultural events for travelers to attend each winter. Many events take place during the Christmas holiday; then, the city caps off the winter with a farewell festival, come February.

• The annual Russian Winter Festival , which spans an entire month starting mid-December, takes place in several locations throughout the city. Head to Izmailovo Park or Revolution Square to see everything from over-the-top ice sculptures to traditional dance performances. Watch the professional ice skaters and visit food trucks that serve traditional fare.
• Moscow's New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the city's biggest events of the year. Tens of thousands of people spend it in Kremlin—Moscow's central complex—watching the Kremlin tower strike midnight, while fireworks crack in the background. Others attend the Christmas tree light show at Red Square.
• Christmas in Russia falls on January 7, and the week between New Year’s Eve and Christmas Day is a time for Russians to relax. Families focus on spending time together at home, preparing traditional foods like ukha (fish soup) and sauerkraut. Tourists can use this uncrowded time wisely by seeking out the city's culinary gems. Make sure to check the hours of operations on restaurants, shops, and other businesses before visiting them during this week. While much of the city's businesses might be closed, you might get special treatment at the places that stay open.
• Maslenitsa , Russia’s farewell-to-winter festival, occurs in late February or early March. This pagan celebration is marked by games, contests, and cultural traditions. It’s held in the Red Square area every year and draws crowds of Muscovites and visitors alike.

Winter Travel Tips

• In order to obtain a Russian travel visa, you'll need to be invited by a relative or friend who is a citizen or a hosting tour company.
• Traveling to Moscow in the winter helps you avoid the summer crowds; however, flight delays due to weather are common. Plan an extra day on either end of your trip in case you get held up.
• If you plan to visit a Russian banya, a Slavic steam bathhouse, take note that most people bathe in the buff. However, most bathhouses are separated by sex.
• Plan alternating indoor and outdoor activities so that you don't get too cold. A visit to the Tretyakov Gallery, the State Armory Museum, or the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts provides a nice respite from the frigid temperatures.

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