men's cruise wear

Caribbean Cruise Outfits For Men & Detailed Packing List

This men’s cruise packing guide includes ideas for cruise outfits for men that will help guide you in what to pack and wear on your trip.

Packing for a cruise can be such a struggle. On cruises, you will easily wear three outfits a day which makes choosing what to bring even more difficult.

As I mentioned, it’s easy to wear three outfits each day on a cruise. On a typical port day, I’ll wear a casual outfit for exploring, swimwear for the pool, then a nicer outfit for dinner. The trick is packing items that you can wear for multiple occasions.

As a women, I always pack my own bag for a cruise vacation, but end up helping my boyfriend pack as well. After taking 5 cruises together, I have cruise wear for men down to a science.

Keep reading for this simple guide to cruise outfits for men to learn what to wear when and other packing tips. Learn the best mens cruise outfits for every cruising occasion from the pool to formal dining room.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Packing for a Cruise

Before you decide what to pack, let’s talk about how to pack it. I recommend bringing one checked luggage per person and one backpack carry on.

When you arrive at the embarkation terminal, you will pass off your checked luggage to be delivered directly to your stateroom. From when you board the ship until staterooms are open (usually a few hours), you will only have access to what’s in your carry on.

I recommend keeping the following items in your carry on, then packing the rest in your suitcase.

• Wallet/Passport/Documents
• Simple Outfit for Dinner (in case your luggage isn’t delivered in time)

Throughout this guide you will notice some items are included in multiple collages. This is intentional to show that versatile items can be worn throughout the day by pairing them with different clothes.

For example, you can wear a button down shirt to dinner with khakis and loafers then around port with shorts and sandals. Packing versatile clothing items is the best way to fit all you cruise clothing items in one checked bag.

Port Day Outfits for Men

During the day in port, you will likely be doing any of the following three activities: exploring the local town, sightseeing the port, or spending time at the beach. For either of the first two, focus on comfortable footwear for walking and a casual, but nice looking outfit.

For a beach day or water excursion, I love these swim trunks because they look like shorts. Throw on a shirt and you can walk around port or town before visiting the beach.

Shop these casual cruise clothes for men

Cruise Pool Fashion for Men

For the pool, don’t overthink it! Bring at least two swimsuits so you can always have a dry one. A good, comfortable pair of sandals can be worn to the pool and port. Finally, don’t forget sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the intense Caribbean sun.

Shop this collage of men’s swimwear

Dinner Outfit Ideas for a Cruise

On a cruise, there will be formal nights and casual nights. Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines will outline the attire for dinner each night in your cruise compass. For a typical 7-night cruise, there are typically two formal nights and five casual nights.

On a casual night, a wide variety of outfits are appropriate. Some clothing items to avoid are tank tops, swimwear, hats, and sports gear.

The above collage shows a range of outfits to wear to dinner on a cruise. A nicer outfit is a button down shirt, slacks, and dress shoes. On the more casual end, sandals, shorts, and a collared shirt is also appropriate.

Shop this dinnertime cruise attire for men

What to Wear to Formal Night for Men

When packing for a cruise, formal night is often what brings people the most stress. If formal night does not sound appealing to you, you can easily avoid the main dining room on these nights.

I personally love formal night! Its fun to dress a little fancy and experience a nice dinner. As with casual dinners on board, you will see a wide variety of outfits on formal night. Some people will be in tuxedos and others in shorts.

While you technically won’t be turned away for casual clothes, I recommend dressing up a bit. On the casual end, I recommend slacks and a collared shirt with dress shoes. On the fancier end, a suit is always a great decision.

Shop this formal night cruise mens fashion

Cruise Shirts

On boarding day of a cruise, you are guaranteed to see groups of friend and families wearing matching cruise shirts. If I’m being honest, these shirts tend to be a bit tacky, but are a great way to kick-off a group cruise.

In the above collage, I share some cruising shirts and sweatshirts that are actually cute. They are great to wear on the first day of a cruise, matching with your travel party, or as a gift for someone heading on a cruise.

Shop these cruise shirts and sweatshirts

Other Cruise Essentials

In addition to all the outfit ideas shared above, don’t forget to pack these cruise essentials :

Sunscreen – The sun is intense, so protect yourself. Supergoop is my favorite for a lightweight formula and high SPF. Portable charger – There’s nothing worse than running out of battery when you are relying on your phone for navigation and photos. This portable charger with built in cords will help with that! Hat – A hat is another great way to protect yourself from the sun or hide crazy beach hair. Bug spray – Bug spray is a great item to have on hand for any jungle excursions. Good book – Don’t forget a book for the plane and poolside. People You Meet on Vacation is one of my favorite travel-inspired books that is an easy-read. Imodium – In case you have any stomach issues, you will thank yourself for having this on hand. Reusable water bottle – Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up on board to take with you on port days. Its great to have a reliable source of water throughout the day. Waterproof phone case – Pack a waterproof phone case so you can safely take photos on or in the water. Towel Clips – The pool deck gets very windy on sea days. These towel clips will keep your towel from blowing away.

Cruise Packing List for Men for a 7 day cruise

• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of casual sneakers
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 5 short sleeve collared shirts
• 2 long sleeve dress shirts
• 4 pairs casual shorts
• 2 pairs slacks or dress pants
• 4 swimsuits

Summary of the best mens cruise outfits and packing list

To summarize mens cruise wear in a few words, it’s all about being comfortable, tropical, and appropriate for every occasion. Your suitcase should be full of shorts, Hawaiian shirts, sandals, and swimwear.

While there are no strict dress codes on cruises like there used to be, there are still a few occasions to dress up. For more dinners, smart casual is the way to go with a collared shirt or polo shirts being the perfect thing to wear. On formal night, step it up a bit with a long sleeve dress shirt and pants.

Remember, clothes to wear on a cruise are meant to enhance your experience. This means dressing for the occasion for also wearing what’s comfortable.

Yes, it is ok to wear jeans on a cruise. In fact, they are a great thing to wear to dinner on a non-formal night. For formal night, jeans are too casual to adhere to the dress code.

There is no dress code on a cruise outside of the dining room and restaurants. The dress code for the dining room varies each night depending on the theme. On casual nights, resort wear such as a collared shirt and shorts are appropriate. For formal night, wear long pants and a long sleeve collared shirt. You can also wear a suit to be on the dressier side. On any night, swimwear is prohibited in the dining room.

Some people get dressed up on cruises and others prefer to stay casual. If you don’t want to dress up, simply avoid the dining room on formal night. Other people enjoy dressing up and will wear a suit or tux on formal nights.

No, you do not need a suit on a cruise. Some people will wear a suit on formal night but it is not required buy the dress code.

Related Posts:

• What To Pack For A Caribbean Cruise | Cruise Outfit Ideas For Women
• Guide to a Western Caribbean Cruise
• Southern Caribbean Cruise Travel Guide

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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Cruisewear for men: What guys should pack for a cruise

Perhaps one of the most understated joys of cruising is that you only have to unpack once. The challenge lies in what to pack in the first place. While some may say that guys have it easier than women, choosing the right cruisewear for men can be just as tricky.

No matter the destination, men will need certain clothing essentials for a cruise that they might not need for other vacations. This can range from attire for formal or themed nights to the right outfits for a range of activities in port.

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

If you're wondering exactly what you need to wear on a cruise — or need to assist your husband, father, son, partner or male friend — we've got you covered with helpful specifics on the perfect cruisewear for men. Read on to discover what guys should pack for their next cruise.

What should men wear during the day on a cruise?

Most cruises are casual getaways during the day. Pack and dress for the kind of activities you'll enjoy on board, whether it's lounging at the pool (a rash guard, swim trunks, flip-flops and a hat), sweating it out in the gym (athleticwear and sneakers) or hanging out with a book or card game in a lounge (shorts or jeans and a comfortable top).

Daytime dress can be a bit more elevated on Europe cruises, as well as ships with older or wealthier clientele. This more refined style can best be described as resort casual, where you'll find mostly polos and collared shirts during the day. Linen or khaki pants or Bermuda shorts complete the look.

Don't forget to pack appropriate clothing for activities in port. You'll want to dress in layers, bring a hat for sun protection, a jacket or vest for cool mornings or windy afternoons, and wear sturdy shoes for hikes or sneakers for exploring a town. Tote around beach flip-flops for a quick change if you're mixing up beach time with excursions that require more walking.

What's acceptable attire for men for dinner on casual evenings?

Across all cruise lines, table service dinners will always feel more elevated, often the only time of day when a dress code is clearly communicated. That said, casual evenings have become more casual, especially on the big-ship lines – which can be a relief to men who don't want to schlep their workweek suits on vacation with them.

As a general guideline, if you're at a table service restaurant for dinner (whether it be the main dining room or a specialty restaurant on board), men should dress in a collared shirt and long pants. Jeans tend to be acceptable on casual evenings, as long as they're not riddled with holes, and on some lines, like always-relaxed Norwegian Cruise Line, a nice T-shirt is fine. (A fitted T-shirt with a jacket over it is never a problem.)

What you can't wear, according to the dinner dress code on most lines, are bathing suits, cutoff jeans, sleeveless shirts and baseball hats.

Shorts are an ambiguous, often frowned upon, option for evening attire. Most dress codes won't specifically prohibit shorts, leaving it up to the individual. A pair of chino, pleated or linen shorts can suffice for a more refined look, especially when paired with a collared shirt. Cutoffs, denim, cargo shorts and sports shorts at any seated, table service dinner are a no-go.

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

As for shoes, sneakers can be permissible on nonformal nights, but footwear like beach flip-flops are often prohibited.

While teens should emulate the grown-ups for dinnerwear, most cruise lines don't fuss about the dress code for younger boys. If you can't get your kid into a polo shirt and khakis, a clean shirt and nonathletic shorts will suffice.

If you'd rather spend your evening in gym shorts and flip-flops, the buffet and other fast casual or counter-service venues will have more relaxed dress codes at night. Or, you can order room service and enjoy dinner in your bathrobe.

Are formal nights still a thing? Will I need to bring a tuxedo?

Most major cruise lines hold formal nights, usually twice on a weeklong sailing. These days, the theme is more "dress your best" or "elegant" than strictly formal. Even on big-ship cruise lines, guests find it fun to don a more upscale look, pose for a professional photo shoot and enjoy dinner, drinks and perhaps a show in style.

Formal nights on most lines don't mean black tie. On casual lines, such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean, men can get away with a button-down, long-sleeve shirt, khakis, nice shoes and no tie. On more upscale lines, guys should pack a suit or at least a sports coat and slacks. Ties are usually optional.

When in doubt, pack a jacket you can always take off if no one else is wearing one.

Some cruise lines, however, skew a bit fancier. Cunard features black-tie galas on its sailings that are often themed (think Roaring '20s and Masquerade Ball). P&O Cruises typically has signature black-tie evenings, and many smaller luxury lines (including Silversea, Seabourn and Regent) will host black-tie evenings throughout extended sailings.

While full tuxedo regalia on black-tie evenings is encouraged (satin lapel, pocket trim, satin side stripe down the leg of the trousers), a dark suit and necktie pass muster.

Related: Bow ties and ballgowns: 5 reasons I always dress up on cruise ship formal nights

Also, culturally appropriate formal attire is always an option, such as Scottish kilt suits or military dress uniforms.

If you're traveling with family, boys and teenagers are required to dress in accordance with the guidelines for dining at table service restaurants on formal nights as well, but the stakes are lower. The minimum requirement for kids is nice slacks and a collared shirt. Teens should opt for dress shoes, but younger boys can get away with sneakers.

If you're taking family photos, tuxedos, suits, blazers and ties are not required but add flare and personality to a look. Get creative with kids who prefer comfort; put babies in a tuxedo-print onesie and young boys in an adorable sweater vest on formal evenings.

On some lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Line , elegant night is always optional.

Do guys need to dress up on theme nights?

Many cruise lines will have themed evenings or parties where you might want to dress the part. If you're attending a themed cruise (such as a gay cruise or music cruise ), be prepared for costume parties on multiple nights.

Popular theme nights are wide-ranging, though the most recurring are tropical parties (Hawaiian shirts encouraged), '80s nights and white nights (all-white attire).

Disney Cruise Line passengers regularly dress up for its hallmark Pirate Night. Virgin Voyages ' Scarlet Night encourages guests to don red attire.

Themed attire on theme nights is not required for dining and is opt-in fun. If you're traveling with a group, organizing matching costumes or outfits can enhance the fun and make for great vacation photos. Check with your cruise line about which theme nights you should expect.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

What are the best cruise clothing and accessories for men?

Need to add a few new pieces to your wardrobe before your cruise vacation? Here are our picks of cruisewear staples for men.

A classic Hawaiian shirt

If you're sailing on a tropical itinerary, you're going to want to make sure you pack at least one Hawaiian floral shirt. The Columbia Men's Tamiami Short-sleeve Shirt is a top choice, with SPF 40 sun protection and nice ventilation.

A shirt for hot days in port

At sea, you've got the benefit of the ocean breezes, but tropical ports can get sweltering hot, especially in the summer months. Opt for the Vineyard Vines Men's Destin Stripe Sankaty Performance Polo for its moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric, along with its SPF 30 sun protection.

A pair of travel pants

The best pair of travel pants balance comfort and function and are acceptable on board and in port. The 33,000ft Men's Waterproof Pants are surprisingly comfortable, breathable and have a nice flexible give to them. They also feature a commendable 10,000mm waterproof rating, great for coverage if you get stuck exploring in the rain.

A pair of sandals for most occasions

From the pool deck to the streets of a port, the right pair of sandals signify vacation. The sophisticated yet practical Ecco Men's Flowt Luxe Slide Sandals are an ideal match for days spent walking, yet have an elegant design that can fit well into a smart, casual dinner on board. If the dinner dress code has a strict no-sandals policy, the Cole Haan Men's 2.Zerogrand Penny Loafers are a great nautical alternative.

The ideal layer for windy nights on deck

When you're out at sea it can get windy, especially at night. Pack The North Face Men's Cyclone Windbreaker Jacket , which features a compact, lightweight and durable design. The jacket is windproof, water-repellent and has UPF 40+.

Water shoes to protect your feet

If you're planning for any water-based adventures on your cruise, a high-quality pair of water shoes will help protect your feet. Merrell Men's Wildwood Aerosport Water Shoes are light, comfortable and breathable. They also offer great traction on slippery rocks, shell-ridden beaches and the ship's decks.

The best men's cruise travel accessories

• Accessory storage: Keep your neckties crisp with this sturdy case for storage and travel. Or, fit all your formal night accouterments in this men's accessories storage and travel case .
• A compact on-the-go bag: The Bellroy Mini Sling Bag is great for roving both the ship and port with enough room to store your cellphone, ship pass and a few essentials such as lip balm, sunscreen and hand sanitizer.
• Shoe maintenance: These quality shoe bags keep your street and deck-worn shoes separate from your clothes. SneakErasers are a great travel accessory to buff out any scuff marks you may pick up on your journey.
• Staying hydrated: A reusable water bottle is essential on a cruise, especially while in port. The Hydro Flask water bottle is a favorite for its durable design and temperature retention. Cruise lines allow reusable bottles, though they must be empty when boarding.
• Express yourself: Stretch beyond your normal style — you're on a ship! Cruise life gives you the freedom to add some character and flair to your look, so pack some fun accessories like these nautical cuff links , colorful lapel pins or a flashy hat .

Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

Bottom line

It's not "anything goes," but you'll find more flexibility than ever when it comes to cruise line dress codes. When in doubt, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed, especially when arriving for a seated dinner. Better to pack the tie and jacket and ditch them if no one else is wearing them than to risk awkward conversations with the crew or side-eye from other diners if you're not in compliance with the attire policy.

And if casual is the only way you wish to dress on vacation, know you can always go to the buffet or order room service, and you won't go hungry for want of khakis and a button-down shirt.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Cruise Wear for Men: Men’s Packing List for a Cruise

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There are so many cruise packing lists for women, but men need cruise packing advice as well. If you’re looking for suggestions for cruise wear for men, along with a men’s packing list for a cruise, I’ve got you covered.

In my household, my husband often struggles with what to pack when we cruise. We use a cruise packing list to keep organized and to make sure that nothing is forgotten at home. Yes, this has happened in the past (dress shoes!).

In this post I share what to wear for men on a Caribbean or warm weather cruise, along with some cruise items that will make both packing and cruising easier.

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

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Wear on a Cruise for Men

When planning what to wear on a cruise for men, consider the cruise line dress code as a starting point to help you plan what to wear in the evening. These days, most cruises are less formal than just a few years ago.

However many cruise lines will have one or two formal nights , or dress- up evenings, where suits or dress pants and a dress shirt are appropriate. Make sure to pack dress shoes, dress socks and a belt.

The other evenings will be a casual or smart casual dress code. Most men will be wearing beige chinos or dark pants or jeans, with a polo style shirt. What you’d wear to a nice restaurant is perfect for dining rooms and restaurants on board.

Caribbean and other warm weather cruises (Mexico, Bahamas, Bermuda ) call for casual cruise wear during the day. When planning what to wear on a cruise , pack bathing suits for sea days and beach shore excursions, and shorts and t-shirts. 

Remember comfortable walking shoes and sandals or flip flops for the pool.

Related:  What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Men’s Packing List for a Cruise

Here’s a men’s packing list for a 7 day cruise to use as a guide. Bring more or less, depending on if you plan to do laundry and how often you’ll change clothes.

• 3-4 pairs of shorts
• 2-3 bathing suits
• sport & dress socks
• work-out clothes
• 1-2 pairs jeans
• 3-4 polo style shirts
• 1-2 buttoned or Hawaiian shirts
• 2 dress shirts
• 1 sweatshirt or light jacket
• sandals or flip flops
• running or walking shoes
• dress shoes
• casual shoes 
• baseball cap or hat

Related: What Not to Wear on a Cruise

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Cruise Wear for Men

Here are a few suggested men’s clothing items to pack for a cruise.

As we were getting ready for a recent cruise, my husband had a hard time finding resort wear and cruise attire for men in stores. We were pleasantly surprised at the stylish and affordable items we found on Amazon.

Classic Polo Shirt

Solid color classic polo shirts are perfect worn with shorts for sightseeing during the day in a cruise port. However, this is also great to wear for dinner in the evening with a pair of khakis or dark jeans.

Nautica is one of my husband and son’s favorite brands for casual men’s cruisewear for quality and comfort at a reasonable price.

Recommended: Nautica classic polo (dual tipped collar)

Classic Fit Shorts

Classic fit tan or beige shorts will go with t-shirts and polo shirts on a cruise, and always look nice.

Recommended: Dockers classic fit shorts (check price & style options on Amazon)

Comfortable Jersey Shorts

Lightweight casual jersey shorts with pockets are great to wear by the pool and around the cruise ship and ports. The material isn’t heavy and is great for warm weather cruises.

These men’s shorts are available in classic grey, navy blue, black and other colors.

Recommended: Champion jersey shorts (see price & over 40,000 Amazon reviews)

Sports t-shirts

Even if you aren’t working out, sports style short sleeve t-shirts will keep you cooler in the sun and heat on a Caribbean cruise . These shirts also look great when worn casually on a cruise.

Recommended: Underarmour sports t-shirt (see reviews & price on Amazon)

Men’s Hawaiian shirt

If you’re going on a Caribbean or any other tropical weather cruise, a Hawaiian shirt could come in handy for day and evening. Many cruise lines have a Caribbean deck party and Hawaiian shirts are perfect. 

Men’s Hawaiian shirt (see other styles & reviews on Amazon here)

Men’s swimsuit.

Bring along at least 2 swim suits for a cruise. These men’s swim shorts are quick drying and comfortable, and great for beach and catamaran snorkeling excursions.

Recommended: Men’s swimsuit (quick dry & comfortable)

Classic Fit Men’s Khakis

Classic khakis are perfect for smart casual evenings on a cruise, especially worn in main dining rooms and restaurants. Pack one or two pairs of these classic pants and pair them with a buttoned shirt or polo.

Recommended: Docker’s mens khakis (available in standard & big & tall sizes)

Men’s Dress Shirt

If you’ll be participating in formal or chic night, a white men’s dress shirt is great to have. This Calvin Klein dress shirt is non-iron, making it a good choice to pack for cruising.

Recommended: Calvin Klein non-iron dress shirt (see price & amazon reviews here)

Men’s Suit

A dark well fitting suit is great to have if you plan on dressing for chic evenings (on Celebrity Cruises) or formal nights on any cruise line (even Cunard). If you’re packing a suit, dress shirt and any other items that are best kept wrinkle free, consider using a garment bag.

Recommended: Black or dark suit (sold as separates on Amazon)

Garment bag for travel.

A rolling garment bag for travel is a good idea if you’re packing suits and other dressy clothes.

Recommended: Rolling garment bag (see Amazon reviews here)

Cruise Gear

Here are a few items that are useful to pack and bring on a cruise.

Lightweight travel backpack

Packing cubes

Men’s large hanging shaving/toiletry bag

RFID Travel Passport wallet

Neck passport wallet

Cruise power strip (Non-surge protected power bar with USBs)

Electronics and charger wire case

Portable power bank

Waterproof phone case on lanyard

Electronic portable travel luggage scale

Magnet hooks

Motion sensor night light

Travel binoculars

Snorkel gear

Waterproof dry bag

Water shoes

Reef safe sunscreen

Video: What to Pack for Men on a Cruise

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• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women
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• 75 Genius Cruise Hacks and Tips: Get Organized, Save Money, Cruise Better

Final Thoughts on Cruise Wear for Men

I hope this men’s cruise packing list was helpful as you plan and get ready for your cruise. While this men’s packing list was geared for a Caribbean cruise, it can be adapted for Alaska cruises by adding warm clothes to layer, along with an outdoor waterproof jacket and waterproof shoes.

What items do you pack for a cruise that we can add to his list? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

Ilana 

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Cruise Wear for Men Guide: Packing Tips and List

Planning your cruise wear for men wardrobe? Wondering what to pack for a stylish and comfortable cruise vacation? Our top tip: stick to basics, focus on the essentials, and mix and match.

Unlike the myriad choices for women’s cruise wear , men can streamline their packing. Prioritize comfort with basics like tees, polos, jeans, pants, and shorts. Consider versatile footwear—perhaps one pair of nice shoes/sneakers and flip-flops, especially for a Freestyle Cruise on NCL .

They can effortlessly create multiple outfits by creating a capsule wardrobe to mix and match cruise outfits. Factor in the cruise activities , events, and cruise ship dress codes , and don’t forget to check the climate at your port destinations.

Explore the world of men’s cruise wear and men’s cruise packing lists in this guide, covering daytime and evening activities, formal nights, and efficient packing tips.

What do men wear on a cruise? Dive into our men’s packing list and guide for tips on packing versatile outfits for your upcoming cruise.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Table of Contents

Cruise Wear for Men

I love shopping for my husband’s clothes—it’s more fun and easier than shopping for myself, which he appreciates given his hectic schedule. Right before our trips, shopping for cruise clothes is an enjoyable ritual for him, often adding new items to his wardrobe before we go.

StitchFix has been a game-changer, creating a versatile capsule wardrobe for various occasions. Despite using the service, we still enjoy picking up additional pieces to complete his cruise attire because dressing for work isn’t the same as dressing for a cruise! He’s my playful “StitchFix model.”

Cruise Clothes for Men for Daytime Activities

• For casual daytime activities like poolside relaxation or ship exploration, choose comfy and breathable options: shorts, tees, polos, sandals, or sneakers.
• Opt for athletic wear, such as shorts and a moisture-wicking tee, for activities like rock climbing or zip-lining.
• Dress comfortably and respectfully for port visits, adjusting to the destination. In the Caribbean, wear swimwear and light clothing. In the Mediterranean, opt for pants or jeans with a polo shirt.
• For visiting European churches, cover your knees and shoulders—no shorts or tank tops.
• In hot weather, lighter colors keep you cool under the sun.
• Always check the dress code for restaurants or lounges you plan to visit during the day.

T-shirts are a must-have in your cruise clothes for men’s ensembles—versatile, comfortable, and suitable for any occasion. Pack 4-5, including basic plain ones and those with fun graphics, but avoid anything offensive. Consider bringing shirts that are dry-quick

They pair well with swimwear, shorts, jeans, khakis, and linen pants. For a dressier dinner look, a high-quality t-shirt can be combined with a button-down shirt, blazer, or jacket for a stylish vibe.

Include 1-2 plain dark-colored T-shirts for versatility. My brother opts for multi-pack cotton shirts, keeping things easy and functional for his travels—it works for him.

Fun Cruise T-Shirts for Men

For a hot and sunny destination, include shorts in your men’s cruise wardrobe—they’re comfortable, practical, and ideal for staying cool in the heat.

When selecting shorts, consider the length and fit. Cargo or quick-drying shorts offer a casual look for a day out in port, while linen or golf shorts can be dressed up for a more formal appearance.

Create a laid-back daytime look by pairing your shorts with a comfortable t-shirt or polo shirt. For a chic appearance, dress them up with a button-down shirt.

My husband loves his cargo shorts for their comfort and casual style, plus the convenient pockets for small items. Quick-drying shorts are another favorite—they can double as swimwear if the occasion arises. You never know!

Sea days revolve around the lido deck and pool, while port days are for beach and water activities if in the Caribbean. Pack swimwear even for an Alaskan cruise —you might find a hot tub and indoor pool or be surprised by warm sunny days.

By the pool, my husband goes for swim shorts and a T-shirt. Beach-hopping in the Caribbean means swim shorts and an SPF swim tee for swimming and sunbathing. His favorite is an Amazon Essentials Swim Tee , that we’ve purchased him in multiple colors, and they’ve lasted for years.

Comfortable Footwear

Comfortable footwear is a crucial part of your cruise wardrobe, considering the amount of walking around the cruise ship and in port.

Flip-flops are great for pool or beach days. Just be mindful of walking in them. Crocs and Keens are popular choices among cruisers.

Certain sneakers may be acceptable for dinner on non-formal nights in the main dining room. My husband vouches for the Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers as the most comfortable ever, and I had to get my own pair—now I’m obsessed!

Pack a hat to shield your head and face from the sun, and consider one that covers your neck to prevent sunburn (learned this the hard way once—it wasn’t pretty).

Don’t forget to slather on sunscreen for added protection.

Men’s Cruise Outfits for Evening Activities

• We suggest more than just a swimsuit as evening approaches, even in a freestyle setting.
• For men’s cruise attire, my husband’s decades-old advice stands strong: jeans and a polo shirt. It’s collared, casual yet not too formal—a practical and timeless choice for ship activities.
• On casual nights, go for a sharp pair of jeans or pants, a basic top, and some dressy sneakers or shoes. Aim for smart casual, and you’re good to go.

Jeans and Pants

Opt for breathable cotton jeans and wrinkle-resistant chinos for cruise ship evenings. Jeans are versatile for multiple wear, while chinos can be dressed up or down—pair them with a button-down and blazer for a chic night.

My husband swears by his travel pants—super comfy and suitable for various occasions. They’ve become a staple in his cruise attire.

Polos and Button-Down Shirts

Level up from a t-shirt with a polo or button-down shirt—it instantly elevates your outfit.

With various fits, colors, and fabrics available, opt for breathable and comfortable materials to avoid feeling itchy and sweaty. Choosing a collared shirt doesn’t mean you should be ready to take it off at any moment.

A linen button-down is a nice piece to add to your men’s cruise wear, as it’s light to wear, and you don’t have to worry about it being overly wrinkled.

Since you’re on a cruise vacation, bring 1-2 Hawaiian shirts that scream vacation time.

Bring a hoodie, light jacket, or rain jacket for added comfort. Whether cruising the Caribbean or Mexican Riviera, nights on the ship can get chilly and windy outside. Always be prepared for unexpected rain.

Men’s Formal Chic Night Cruise Wear

What do men wear on cruises for formal nights?

The days of formal nights when men used to dress up in tuxedos no longer exist, at least not on mainstream cruise lines. The guidelines have been relaxed, and it’s now more of a night where they ask that you dress up – a chic night. You have to be slightly more polished than usual.

You can mix and match for chic nights with these ideas:

• A pair of chinos, a long-sleeved or short-sleeved button-down collared shirt, a belt, nice shoes, and an optional tie.
• A dressy sweater , chinos, belt, and nice shoes.
• A blazer, sportscoat , or nice button-down cardigan sweater with chinos, a button-down or polo shirt, and nice shoes.
• A blazer or a sportscoat is an article of clothing that every man should have in their closet. It’s one item that easily transforms your casual look into a dressier one.
• A suit with a button-down collared shirt, belt, nice shoes, and an optional tie.
• On some cruises, a classic pair of jeans can pass as chic; make sure they are not distressed. Darker colored jeans work best.

Dressy Sweater, Blazer or Sports Coat

A dressy sweater, blazer, or sports coat goes well with a nice pair of pants for a chic night.

Paired with Chinos, Dress Pants, or Dark Jeans

A pair of chinos or dressy pants, and sometimes, even a pair of nice dark jeans, will work well for a chic night. Just pair it with a nice shirt, blazer, or a dressy sweater (if the jacket is required). You don’t want to wear jeans if it’s a full-on formal night on the cruise.

Button Downs or Polo Shirts

Button-downs can be as dressy and as casual as you want them to be. They are versatile and can be worn more than once during the cruise. You are set for a chic night once you pair this with a blazer and nice pants.

The Optional Suit

A nice suit covers you well for a formal or chic night. It’s an option if you want to pack it with you. Wear it with a tie, button down, or no tie, and even a polo shirt.

Dress Shoes

Pack dress shoes or even dressy sneakers to complete your men’s cruise outfits for chic or elegant evening nights on the cruise.

While adding another pair of shoes for limited wear can be frustrating, the enjoyment of dining at main and specialty restaurants makes it worthwhile. With NCL, there’s no need to worry about specific shoes for evening chic.

Accessories

• Nice Belt : Start with a stylish belt as a chic accessory.
• Classic Watch: Add a classic watch for a touch of sophistication.
• Subtle Cufflinks: Consider subtle cufflinks to enhance the refined look.
• Sophisticated Pocket Square: Complete the ensemble with a sophisticated pocket square.
• A tie: Include a tie to elevate the outfit.
• Coordinate Colors and Style: Ensure accessories complement your outfit’s overall color scheme and style for a polished appearance.

Men’s Cruise Packing List

The exact quantities will depend on your personal preferences, activities planned, and whether you plan to do laundry during the cruise. However, here’s a suggested quantity for a 7-day cruise:

• (5-7) T-shirts
• (2) Button Downs
• (3) Polo Shirts
• (2) Swim trunks
• (1-2) Chinos/Dressy Pants
• (1-2) Jeans
• (1-2 pairs) Gym Clothes
• (1) Suit or Blazer (if planning a formal or chic night)
• Underwear and socks – Enough for each day, plus 1-2 extra days just in case
• (1) Light jacket, sweater or hoodie
• (1) Rain jacket or windbreaker
• (1) Hat with brim
• (1) Sunglasses
• (1 pair) Comfortable walking shoes/sneakers
• (1 pair) Dress shoes (if planning formal or chic nights)
• (1 pair) Flip Flops / Sandals

AcCessories

• Tie (optional)
• Cufflinks (if needed for formal night)
• Pocket Square (if needed for suit or blazer)

Miscellaneous

• Travel documents (passport, cruise documents, ID)
• Travel-sized Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
• Medications – As needed
• Travel-sized laundry detergent
• Power strip/adapter
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Camera/phone and chargers, including portable charger
• Travel Backpack
• Snorkel Gear
• Reading material (book or Kindle)

Feel free to adjust these quantities based on your specific needs and preferences. Keep in mind if you plan to reuse some items or if you plan to do laundry throughout the cruise.

Tips for Packing Men’s Cruise Wardrobe Efficiently

• Pack versatile pieces in complementary colors that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. You want to create a capsule wardrobe. This can help you save space in your luggage and ensure that you have enough clothing options without overpacking.
• Learn to roll or fold your clothes to save space.
• Buy compression packing cubes .
• Check the weather forecast for your itinerary and pack accordingly. Bring lightweight clothing for warmer climates and layering pieces for cooler temperatures.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring in port and dress shoes for formal dining nights.
• Don’t forget swimwear (we have done this): Pack swim trunks or board shorts for pool and beach days.
• Pack accessories: belt, ties, watch…etc.
• Pack clothing that meets the dress code for each venue on board, including casual, smart casual, and formal attire.
• Bring laundry detergent sheets to wash some items yourself in the cabin and consider your other options: Do they have laundry on the ship? (Princess, Carnival, and Disney cruise ships sometimes do) Are there mid-week specials for laundry? Sometimes, the cruise has a special promotion.
• Don’t forget to add wrinkle-release spray to your packing list. It will come in handy.

Read more: What Are Must-Haves to Pack for a Cruise

Cruise Attire for Men: FAQs

How much clothing should I pack for a cruise?

As a general rule, you should plan to bring enough clothing to last for the duration of your cruise and include a few extra items in case of unexpected events or changes in weather. Of course, you should also consider whether you can do laundry.

Do you have to dress up every night on a cruise?

Dressing up every night on a cruise isn’t necessary. Most cruise lines have varying dress codes, allowing casual attire during the day and a more casual or “smart casual” look in the evening. Save the swim trunks for the daytime and wear nice pants at night.

Do you bring a suit on a cruise?

Bringing a suite on a cruise is optional. Dress codes on cruises vary by line and occasion. Mainstream cruise lines have shifted from formal to chic nights, permitting chinos, a button-down shirt, and dress shoes. Check your cruise line’s specific dress codes before packing.

What do men wear on a cruise for dinner?

Wear casual daytime cruise attire for buffet dinner—shorts and a t-shirt. If dining in the main or specialty restaurant, switch to long pants and a nice shirt based on the dress code policy.

Are jeans okay on a cruise?

YES. You can wear jeans on a cruise. We suggest leaning towards darker-colored jeans with no rips or holes in them.

Can I wear shorts to dinner on a cruise?

Men’s shorts are typically not permitted in main dining or specialty restaurants. If worn, you may be turned away and asked to change. Some exceptions may apply, such as on the first or last day of the cruise.

Is it okay if men wear Speedo on a cruise ship pool?

The acceptability of men wearing Speedos in a cruise ship pool depends on the specific cruise line’s dress code and policies. Some may restrict revealing swimwear, while others have more relaxed rules. If allowed, be mindful of fellow passengers, especially around children, and respect their comfort levels.

We hope this guide for packing men’s cruise outfits helps with your cruise attire.

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Women’s Cruise Attire Guide
• What NOT to Pack on a Cruise
• Cruise Essentials Not to Forget to Pack
• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Pack Items
• How Not to Dress on a Cruise

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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Best Cruise Wear for Men (Outfits + Tips)

Are you looking for the best cruise wear for men? In this guide we give you plenty of inspiration for the best men’s cruise wear outfits alongside our tips for how to pack for a cruise for men.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

Whenever we put together a cruise packing list, we recommend packing light and using a cruise capsule wardrobe where possible.

In this guide we will give you an overview of the best things to pack for a cruise for men without overpacking no matter the destination. However if you would like more regionally specific cruise packing lists then do check out the below posts:

Our specific location packing lists for cruises include:

• What to wear on a South Pacific Cruise for men
• What to wear on an Alaska cruise for men
• what to wear on a Caribbean Cruise .
• What to wear on a European River Cruise for men
• How to make a river cruise capsule wardrobe for men 
• World Cruise Packing List for men 

Table of Contents

Considerations for What to Wear on cruise for men

For those of you who are first time cruisers it it worth pointing out that cruise cabin staterooms are not renowned for being large. You want to not overpack so your luggage and packing will take up less space in your cabin.

One way of ensuring you pack lightly for a cruise is to pack a cruise capsule wardrobe. We like to use either the sudoku packing method or the 54321 packing technique to put together our men’s cruise capsule wardrobes.

Click here for what we think men’s travel essentials are.

Cruise Line

The cruise line you are traveling on will greatly influence the essential items on your men’s cruise packing list.

For instance, Cunard is renowned for being a much more formal line, and therefore you will see people wearing more formal and smart casual attire in the dining room.

Whereas, Norwegian Cruise Line on the other hand operates free style dining. This means that you are not set to a set dining room time and there are not formal nights or formal dinner to worry about.

Some cruises such as Disney also run theme nights, which require specific packing items.

Be sure to check out our cruise line specific dress code posts for information.

• Carnival Dress Code
• Celebrity Dress Code
• Cunard Dress code
• Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code
• Royal Caribbean Dress Code

Cruise Itinerary Length

The length of your cruise ship itinerary will greatly impact your packing depending on whether there are laundry facilities on your ship, and whether you are happy to do laundry on your cruise vacation.

We have packing lists for specific cruise lengths below to help guide you on the quantities you need to pack.

• 4 day cruise packing list
• 5 day cruise packing list
• 7 day cruise packing list
• 14 day cruise packing list

Formal Nights

As I mentioned above cruise formal nights take place in the main dining room but it depends on the length of your cruise and the line you are sailing with as to how many you can expect.

Although some lines still recommend formalwear such as black tie tuxedos for formal nights, many places now will see men wearing chinos and a sports jacket instead.

If you have 2 or more formal nights we recommend packing just one jacket and trousers and using different button-down shirts and ties to style them differently.

Destination/

Whether you are traveling on warm weather cruises such as to the Caribbean, Mexico, French Polynesia or Fiji or a cold weather cruise i.e. Alaska, Iceland or the Baltics will affect how many layers you need.

However we always recommend packing a top layer for on the cruise ship where the air conditioning can be very strong.

Shore Excursions

The type of shore excursion you plan on doing will also affect the type of clothes you will need to pack. If you plan to do a lot of snorkelling and water activities then you will need more swimwear and snorkeling equipment with you.

Whereas if you are traveling to just cities, then comfortable walking shoes will need to be top of your list.

How to Put Together a Men’s Cruise Capsule wardrobe

Now capsule wardrobes are great not only for cruises but for other types of travel and for those who want to minimise their wardrobe more generally.

As such there are a few main capsule wardrobe rules or principles that you should try to abide by when putting together your cruise capsule wardrobe

The main rules for putting together a cruise capsule wardrobe are:

Only take beloved items

By this I mean only take items that you are absolutely 100% sure that you want to wear.

If you don’t wear it at home it is unlikely it will be come a go to item on a cruise ship.

Everything must work in more than one outfit

Don’t pack anything that can only be worn in one way.

Color schemes

Now this isn’t necessary in all capsule wardrobes but picking a color pallete so that everything complements each other is a great idea.

So now we have discussed why you should pack a capsule wardrobe and the basics about packing capsule rules we will turn our attention to how to put together a cruise capsule wardrobe and the best men’s wear for cruises.

In this section of the guide we will look at the best cruise wear for men, and put together some men’s cruise outfit ideas for your to give you inspiration for what to wear as a man on a cruise.

Note : although this aims to be a universal guide for the best cruise wear for men we have indicated the optional items which are weather dependent.

Casual Cruise Outfits for Men

For a week’s cruise you will likely need around 3-4 casual outfits. These can be used on the day on the ship both on port days and sea days and can also be used on shore excursions and days in port.

Therefore we recommend packing the following items as part of your men’s cruise capsule wardrobe.

No matter the destination you are traveling to a t shirt is a great pick for a man on a cruise. These work no matter the destination and can be used in port and on shore excursions as well as on the cruise ship during the day.

Also if you have a casual night in the main dining room, then t shirts will be appropraite attite.

And plain smart t shirts or even polo shirts will work on smart casual nights in the main dining room. Note: in the buffet restaurant on cruise ships you can wear t shirts for both lunch and dinner any day of your cruise.

Click here to shop men’s t shirts on Amazon

If you decide to wear tank tops these will not be permitted in the main dining room at night.

Note : I often find that people tend to have a bit more humor on a cruise ship than they do on land. Therefore you will often find people especially men wearing comedy cruise related t shirts.

Click cruise pun shirts here .

Shorts are an essential on any hot weather cruise. If you plan on heading to any beaches or sticking poolside, then we recommend packing quick dry shorts.

It can be hard to dry shorts in humid conditions so we recommend quick dry ones in the Caribbean and Mexico etc.

Click here to shop quick dry shorts for men.

However it is also worth bringing smarter chino shorts or classic fit shorts with you like the ones below for in European cities for instance, and for using on casual nights on the cruise ship.

If you are traveling to Europe we also recommend avoiding cargo shorts where possible. This is because they will likely mark you as a tourist.

Click here to shop smart cruise shorts for men.

Even if you are traveling to a cold weather destination, such as going on a Baltic or an Alaskan cruise we recommend taking swimwear with you.

That is because even if the swimming pools aren’t heated (although many are heated on Alaskan cruises) , there are still lots of hot tubs for you to enjoy.

The only exception to this may be if you are traveling on a river cruise in Europe as most but not all of these have hot tubs. It is worth checking before travel so you know what to pack.

Also the good thing about cruises is that you will see all sorts of swimwear. On my cruises from America you will find most men wear swimming trunks. However on cruises with more European passengers you will also find that some men wear speedos.

Click here to shop men’s swimwear for cruises.

Rash Vest (optional)

A rash vest is an optional for most but is something that my husband always has on his cruise packing list. He likes to wear it out on the pool deck but I know not all men do.

However if you are traveling to a location where you plan to snorkel and do water sports it is good to have as extra protection from the sun.

Click here to shop men’s rash vests.

Sun hat (optional)

Only required if you plan to go on hot weather cruises. When I have cruised in the Caribbean the most common type of hat I see being worn by men is a baseball cap.

Required on cruises no matter the destination in my opinion.

Smart Casual Men’s Cruise Wear for Men

Smart casual will be what you see most men wearing on a cruise at night. The best smart casual cruise wear for men in our opinion are:

Polo Shirts

If you don’t like wearing shirts then polo shirts are a great compromise for smart casual wear on cruises.

Click here to buy polo shirts.

Shirt (long or short-sleeve shirts)

Shirts both long and short sleeve will commonly be seen in the restuarants on cruise ships.

In hot weather destinations you tend to see more short sleeve shirts however it is worth noting that the air conditioning in the dining rooms can make you feel chilly.

On top of regular shirts you will also see many men wearing on cruise ships is

Hawaiian shirts

Hawaiian shirts are very popular on hot weather cruises, not just on a Hawaiian cruise.

Click here to shop Hawaiian shirts for cruises

Note : on many cruises shorts are not allowed in the main dining room so even on a hot weather cruise you will need a longer length pant if you want to eat in a main dining room or a specialty restaurant.

Chinos are a great choice for smart casual cruise wear for men, and can also be used as part of a formal cruise outfit on most cruise lines.

Linen pants are another great pick for men’s smart casual cruise outfits.

Click here to shop men’s chinos.

Smart Jeans

We are most commonly asked “Are jeans OK on a cruise?” And on most cruise lines smart jeans are acceptable for the main dining room.

However if you are not allowed jeans in the main dining room on your cruise it is still worth packing jeans for cooler days.

Reversible Belt

To ensure you have a belt for various colored chinos, shorts and jeans we recommend packing a reversible belt. This way you will only need one belt with you.

Click here to shop reversible belts.

Formal Cruise Wear for Men

Formal nights are not as common as they once were on cruises and the formal night dress codes are not as strict anymore.

It is worth checking your cruise lines policy regarding formal attire before packing but generally speaking the below will meet most (but not all) cruise formal night dress codes.

Note : Norwegian Cruise Line does not have formal lines and Cunard still tends to be the most formal.

Sports Jacket

My husband tends to find a sports jacket the perfect cruise outfit for formal nights.

Other good jacket choices for cruise formal nights include linen jackets. If you are worried about traveling with linen because of creases check out this post.

Click here to shop sports jackets.

As we mentioned above. These transition from smart casual to formal outfits depending on how you style them.

Tie (optional)

My husband hates wearing a tie, and a tie is not required on most cruises. Therefore it really depends on whether or not you wear ties as to whether you should pack one.

Tuxedo and dress shirt (optional)

A tuxedo and dress shirt shirt are really optional on most cruise lines (check your cruise line before travel). Therefore you would only need to pack this on a few cruise lines. However if you want to wear one then feel free to pack one.

Best men’s shoes for cruises

When I create any of my packing lists I recommend trying to limit the number of shoes you pack to 2 -3 pairs.

No matter where you are traveling you should pack:

These work no matter the destination you are traveling to whether cities, beaches or countryside. Great sneaker brands for cruises are Hoka and All Birds.

Depending on the time of year and destination you are traveling to you may need to buy a pair that has some water resistant qualities or that are light weight to cope with the heat.

Smarter Shoes

Sneakers often allowed in main dining rooms so you will need smarter shoes or dress shoes for smart casual evenings or formal nights on cruise ships.

Although I don’t recommend wearing these for walking around European cities, they are an essental on cruises for the pool deck and on beach excursions.

Hiking Shoes (optional)

These will only be required if you are doing lots of walking on excursions.

Water shoes (optional)

Only required if you plan on doing excursions involving snorkelling or water sports.

Click here to shop water shoes.

Men’s Cruise Packing List checklist

• Passport and Identification
• Documentation (including Covid 19 paperwork, test results and insurance to name but a few)
• Medication 
• Sea Sickness Remedies 
• Waterproof phone case for in the pool and on shore excursions.
• Luggage Tags
• Toiletries – for a full toiletries packing list click here.
• reusable water bottle
• Lip Balm with SPF
• Razor / Shaving Kit
• Hair Brush / Comb
• Cufflinks 
• Universal Travel Adaptor 
• 1 Formal Outfit per person.
• 3 Smart Casual Outfits (can be made up of repeat pieces that make 3 looks). 
• 3 Casual Outfits (can be made up of repeat pieces that make 3 looks). 
• 2 items of Swimwear
• Coat (optional)
• Sandals – (or ankle boots in cold weather places)
• Hiking boots (optional depending on the destination and itinerary).
• Smarter Shoes – optional depending if you want to dress up for formal nights.

FAQS about men’s cruise wear

Hopefully we should have answered your main questions about men’s cruise wear however here are some of your frequently asked questions. And please let us know in the comments below if you still have a questions as we would be happy to answer.

What should a man wear to dinner on a cruise?

What a man should wear to dinner on a cruise will depending on whether it is casual, smart casual or formal night.

Casual nights tend to be on embarkation day. And it will depend on the length of cruise you are on as to how many formal nights you have.

We have outlined what each of these dress codes constituent on a cruise above.

Should I take a suit on a cruise?

There are very few cruise lines where suits are a requirement. Therefore it is not essential to take a suit on most lines. However if you like to wear a suit there is nothing stopping you.

What do men wear on a Mediterranean cruise?

It really depends on the month you are traveling as to what men should wear on a Mediterranean cruise. Please check out our dedicated post for more information.

Do men wear Speedos on cruises?

On most American ships men tend to wear trunks on cruise ships. However on most European cruises you will see men wearing speedos.

Can men wear shorts on a cruise?

Yes men can wear shorts on a cruise, however some ships will not permit shorts in the main dining room at night. Therefore it is essential to have shorts and some longer length pants with you too.

What’s your favorite cruise wear for men? We’d love to hear in the comments below.

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Men’s Capsule Wardrobe for a Cruise Vacation

Things to Consider

• Your clothing choices will depend on your ports of call and the likely weather conditions.
• For cruising in hotter climes opt for shorts and short-sleeved shirts in light natural fabrics.
• In cooler destinations you'll prefer trousers, long-sleeved shirts and jackets in thicker weights.
• Clever layering is the best way to cope with changeable weather conditions – e.g. wear a jacket over a fleece, over a t-shirt.
• Consider the activities you plan to do off ship – will you need particular clothing or footwear?
• Check the evening dress codes – these vary between cruise line and ship and may be strictly enforced. Sports and beach wear is generally not allowed in the evenings, and jackets and ties may be required on formal nights.
• The amount of food you can eat on a cruise is all part of the appeal; we recommend you pack clothes with comfortable waistbands!
• Pick a simple colour scheme of neutrals plus one or two statement shades if you like. Make sure all your clothes co-ordinate so they can be mixed and matched.
• Remember you will need an outfit to travel in! Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes where possible.
• Download our complete packing list below for all quantities and a checklist of items.
• Also see our Cruise Capsule Wardrobe for Women

What We Would Pack For A Cruise

Casual Tops

Pack simple tops in your favourite colours that will match your trousers and shorts. Collared t-shirts or shirts can be worn for casual evenings, then wear by day for sightseeing. Depending on the climate choose from long or short-sleeved, or a mixture.

Suggested buy : Calvin Klein Men's Polo with Uv Protection on Amazon

Smart Shirts

Choose smart shirts that can be dressed down with jeans or up with trousers. Short sleeved are fine in warmer weather, but don't forget a dress shirt or similar if you're taking a dinner jacket or suit (see below).

Suggested buy : Russell Long Sleeve Fitted Shirt by Amazon

Packaway Jacket

A light packaway raincoat is a good idea to carry with you on day trips – it's ideal in case the weather changes quickly or you experience a sudden downpour. You can layer up underneath for warmth if necessary, or opt for a more substantial jacket in cooler climes.

Check out : Result Waterproof Jacket by Amazon

Essential for sun protection in hot weather or to keep out the cold and wet in cooler regions. It's usually windy at sea, so choose a style that stays on securely – our Breezy Sun Hat features a chin strap, so it's great for outdoor pursuits.

Suggested Buy : Dorfman Pacific Men's Safari Hat on Amazon

Smart Shoes

Pack one formal pair to go with your suit. We love Hotter shoes which are really lightweight and comfy, even on warm evenings.

Suggested buy : Lance Shoes by Hotter

Take some non-slip comfy flats for daytime on deck, easy exploring off ship, and casual evenings.

Suggested buy : Marine Deck Shoes by Hotter

Walking Shoes or Trainers

If you plan to do lots of walking on shore you'll need some active shoes. Closed-toe are best on dusty roads, and if you're heading off the beaten track do make sure you have something sturdy and supportive that are suited to the terrain.

These are comfy : Logan Sneakers by Hotter

Tailored Shorts

For warmer weather add in another pair of shorts. Make them tailored as an option for casual evening wear where permitted.

Suggested buy : RVCA Flat Front Twill Shorts by Nordstrom

It's extremely bright at sea when the sun's out as the rays reflect off the water. If you want to admire the views then sunglasses are essential.

We love : Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer by Amazon

Good sunscreen is essential in hotter climes, and don't get caught out on cloudy days either – you can still get burnt. Remember that water will reflect the sun's rays too. Choose a product with a high SPF (protects from UVB rays) and also look for the star or PA rating which indicates protection from UVA.

Suggested buy : SPF 30 PA+++ Water Resistant Sunscreen by Murad

Essential for lazy days of sun-bathing, by the ship's pool or in beach destinations.

Suggested buy : Sandbar Swim Trunks by MaddaFella

Casual Trousers or Shorts

These should be practical for days out. Consider the type of activities you will do – are they city-based or more rural/active? Choose fabrics that dry quickly in case of rain. Styles with detachable legs are a good option for varied temperatures. You might opt for shorts in hotter climes, but trousers are good protection against sun and insects.

Suggested buy : Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pant by Amazon

Some cruise lines have a ‘smart' dress code between casual and formal. On these nights a jacket may be required (with or without a tie). Team it with your smart-casual trousers and deck shoes. You may opt for this look on ‘casual' nights too.

Try these : Trim Fit Graph Print Blazer by Nordstrom

Smart-Casual Trousers

Choose a pair that are comfy for day wear (team with a t-shirt and walking shoes) but can also be worn to dinner with smart shoes and a shirt. Smart dark jeans would work well, or try a lighter Chino style in warmer weather. On some ships men are required to wear long trousers (not shorts) in the evenings.

This bag is handy : AG 'Protégé' Straight Leg Twill Pants by Nordstrom

You'll need a lightweight bag for all your sightseeing essentials. Our packaway day sack folds up into itself and fits easily in your suitcase when not in use. It's surprisingly roomy, showerproof and light to carry – even in hot weather.

Suggested Buy! : Fold Away Day Sack on Amazon

Dinner Jacket or Suit

For formal nights a dinner jacket is the norm – these can usually be hired on board if you don't want to pack one. Any dark suit would also be acceptable. You can eat in the buffet restaurants if you prefer not to get dressed up, but be aware you may turned away from other parts of the ship. It varies by cruise line, so do check before you go if you don't want to miss out on anything.

We love : 2 Button Eveningwear Jacket by Marks & Spencer

Fleece or Light Sweater

Even in hot weather the breezes can make it feel cool when sailing, whilst inside the air-con can also be chilly. A fleece is light, cosy and packs well – or opt for a smart sweater if that's more your style.

Suggested buy: : The North Face Glacier 1/4 Zip Fleece by Amazon

Tie & Cufflinks

If you're packing your suit and formal shirt, don't forget a tie or bow tie, cufflinks and any other accessories you wish to go with it. A regular tie is always handy to pack for other evenings too – just in case.

Suggested buy: : Chuvora 925 Sterling Silver Cuff Links on Amazon

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Preparing for an upcoming cruise can be stressful, and you must consider what you will wear. Selecting the right clothes for a cruise is more than just filling up your suitcase—it’s about curating a wardrobe that sails smoothly from the sun-soaked deck to the main dining room. As the choices in cruise dress-up evolve, gone are the days of mandatory tuxedos and evening gowns. Today’s cruise ship clothes offer a delicate balance between elegance and ease.

What to Wear on a Cruise

Key Takeaways

• Understand the shift from traditional to modern cruise attire, allowing for sophistication and comfort.
• Learn how to perfectly blend in or stand out with the right clothes for various cruise ship activities.
• Ascertain the importance of balancing the cruise line’s dress code with your style preferences.
• Recognize how the proper attire can enhance your cruising experience and match themes and onboard events.
• Discover the essentials for looking chic and comfortable on deck, during dinners, and at special events.
• Grasp the nuances of dressing for a cruise with practical wardrobe choices tailored to your travel plans.

Do you have to dress up on a cruise?

The dress code on a cruise ship can vary depending on the cruise line and specific sailing. While some cruise lines have formal nights where dressing up is recommended, others have more relaxed dress codes. You must check the dress code guidelines provided by your cruise line and plan your attire accordingly.

Some cruises may have specific dress code requirements for certain events or venues onboard. For example, formal or gala evenings may call for more elegant attire, such as cocktail dresses, evening gowns, tuxedos, or suits. These dressier nights allow you to celebrate and showcase your sophisticated style while enjoying a special evening onboard.

On the other hand, many cruise lines also offer more casual dining options where you can dress comfortably. Various clothing options are essential to accommodate different activities and dress codes onboard. This can include casual, comfortable outfits for daytime activities and more formal attire for special events or evenings.

Dressing up on a cruise is not mandatory, but it can enhance the overall experience and add to the festive atmosphere onboard. Whether you embrace formal nights or opt for a more relaxed dress code, the key is to feel comfortable and confident in what you wear.

What do you wear on a dressier night on a cruise?

Dressier nights on a cruise, known as formal or gala evenings, allow one to dress up and celebrate. Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, tuxedos, or suits are appropriate for these occasions. It’s a chance to showcase more elegant and sophisticated attire while enjoying a special evening onboard.

On dressier nights, you can embrace a more glamorous and refined look. Ladies can opt for a stunning cocktail dress or an elegant evening gown that complements the occasion. Choose fabrics like chiffon or silk to add a touch of luxury to your ensemble. Complete your look with stylish heels and statement jewelry to enhance your overall appearance.

Gentlemen can dress to impress with a tailored tuxedo or a well-fitted suit. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt, a tie, and polished dress shoes for a sophisticated look. Consider adding a pocket square or cufflinks to elevate your outfit further. Remember to ensure your attire is well-pressed and the details are well-groomed.

What do you wear on cruises during the day?

Casual and comfortable attire is essential during a cruise. Whether you’re planning to lounge by the pool, explore the ports of call, or participate in fun onboard activities, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather and the activities planned for the day.

Shorts and T-shirts are popular for men and women, providing a relaxed and breezy look. Sundresses are also an excellent option for women, offering a stylish yet comfortable outfit. To keep cool under the sun, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics.

Comfortable shoes are key when it comes to footwear. Sneakers or sandals with cushioned soles are ideal for long walks or excursions, while flip-flops or water-resistant slides are perfect for poolside relaxation. Remember to pack a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and a hat for added sun protection.

Remember that the daytime dress code on a cruise is generally laid-back and relaxed. So, embrace the casual nature of your cruise vacation and enjoy the freedom to dress comfortably while you explore and unwind during the day.

What clothes should you be sure to pack for a cruise?

When preparing for a cruise, it’s essential to pack various clothing to suit different activities and occasions. Below are some essential items you should consider including in your cruise wardrobe:

Don’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuits for fun-filled days by the pool or at the beach. Whether you prefer a one-piece or a bikini, bring enough options to enjoy the sun and water.

Swim coverups

Stay stylish and comfortable with swim coverups. They provide coverage when you’re away from the water and can be a fashionable accessory for your poolside or beachside looks.

Sweater or fleece

A lightweight sweater or fleece with air conditioning is essential, especially for cooler evenings or areas of the ship. A cozy layer is always a good idea to keep warm and comfortable.

Sunglasses and sun hats

Protect your eyes and skin from the sun’s rays with sunglasses and sun hats. These accessories shield you from harmful UV rays and add a touch of style to your cruise outfits.

Wear a watch to keep track of time on your cruise adventure. This practical accessory ensures you won’t miss any planned activities or dining reservations. Many cruisers might use a phone, which can be tricky when traveling. So a standard watch can help you stay on “ships time” throughout your cruise easier. It’s not uncommon during a cruise for the ship’s time to change once or more as you travel great distances.

Casual, comfortable attire

Opt for casual and comfortable attire for daytime activities onboard or during port excursions. T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and sneakers are perfect options for exploring, lounging, and participating in onboard activities.

Dinner or “smart casual” attire

Regarding evening dining or “smart casual” dress codes, bring a selection of pants, jeans, a dress or skirt, blouses, a nice top, or a button-down shirt. These outfits are perfect for a delicious dinner while looking stylish and put-together.

Layering is essential to adjusting to changing temperatures throughout the day. Bring lightweight cardigans, wraps, or jackets that can easily be added or removed to accommodate different environments, both onboard and ashore.

What kind of shoes should you wear on a cruise?

Choosing the proper footwear for a cruise is vital for comfort and style. Here are some options to consider:

Flip flops, sandals, or waterproof slides

Flip-flops, sandals, or waterproof slides are a must for pool days and beach excursions. They are easy to slip on and off and perfect for lounging by the pool or exploring sandy shores. Many of the beaches in the Caribbean are beautiful, but they can also be rocky, and I often wear strap-on water sandals to protect my feet from any sharp rocks or debris. Many cruise line pool decks can get extremely hot, so water shoes are vital for kids who want to ride the slides. Shoes often have to be removed before sliding down, so consider this. Kids should always have water shoes for the beach as the sand can also be hot and rocky.

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

If you plan to go on shore excursions or explore the cruise ship extensively, opt for sneakers or comfortable walking shoes. These will provide the support and comfort needed for long walks and ensure you can enjoy your adventures without discomfort.

Boots are an excellent option for colder weather destinations or activities like hiking. They provide extra warmth and protection, making them suitable for outdoor pursuits.

Shoes or sandals for dinner

When going to dinner on a cruise, bringing dressier shoes to elevate your outfit is a good idea. Whether it’s a formal night or a casual evening, having the right shoes can add a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

Understanding Cruise Dress Codes

Embarking on a cruise entails knowing the nuances of cruise attire. As passengers, we navigate a sea of clothing options divided into distinct categories, each tailored to a specific part of the cruise experience. Casual dress cruises have reshaped our views on sea travel, offering comfort without compromising charm. Yet, the essence of cruise elegance remains an inviting prospect for those who relish the opportunity to dress up. Much of this depends on the cruise line and the type of cruise experience it offers its guests.

Packing for Daytime Adventures Onboard and Ashore

Selecting the right cruise ship clothes  transforms your daytime experiences into comfortable, memorable adventures. Whether lounging poolside or exploring exotic locales, understanding  what to wear on a cruise during the day is essential to enjoy every moment. Below is a guide to the crucial items in your suitcase.

• Lightweight dresses or polo shirts for a versatile, comfortable look suitable for dining or daytime entertainment onboard.
• Quality swimwear that provides style and functionality for those refreshing dips in the pool or ocean snorkeling adventures.
• Comfortable t-shirts and shorts for strolling on the deck or engaging in onshore activities.
• Wear protective sun hats and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield you from the sun’s intense glare at sea or on the beach.
• Durable water shoes that safeguard your feet during water-based excursions or on sandy shores.

When considering things to wear on a cruise , it’s not just about clothing. Accessories and footwear are pivotal in ensuring comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here’s a breakdown of essential daytime cruise attire categorized by activity:

Remember that daytime cruise attire should suit the diverse activities available onboard and ashore. By packing smartly, you blend in with the cruising culture while prioritizing your comfort and readiness for any adventure that calls your name.

What to Wear on a Cruise During the Day

When sunlight graces the decks of your cruise ship, your attire should blend comfort and style suitable for many activities. From breakfast on the balcony to exploring exotic destinations, choosing the right day wear is essential. This section will guide you through the essentials for comfort and style, ensuring your cruise wardrobe is on point from dawn to dusk.

Comfort Meets Style: Day Wear Essentials

Day wear on a cruise encapsulates casual and functional elegance. For the women, think of the breezy women’s cruise wear, such as flowy dresses and lightweight tops perfect for strolling the ship or a local market. Men can opt for casual cruise wear for men, including relaxed button-up shirts and breathable shorts, making transitions from onboard leisure to shore excursions seamless. Remember comfortable footwear; supportive sneakers are ideal for daytime exploration, while sandals work well for casual hangouts.

Poolside Fashion: Swimsuits to Sun Hats

When it’s time to unwind by the pool or hit the shores, what to wear on a cruise ship during the day includes swim-ready attire. Women can bask in the sun in one-piece suits or trendy bikinis, complimented by a chic cover-up. Men can wear stylish swim trunks with a casual shirt, epitomizing the cruise for men’s attire. Protective gear like sun hats and UV-filter sunglasses are more than fashion statements; they’re necessities to shield you from the midday glare. Below is a table highlighting essential day wear for your next cruise.

The key to perfecting your cruise wardrobe is anticipating your needs for the day ahead. Whether participating in onboard activities or venturing ashore, the proper attire will enhance your comfort and overall cruise experience. Please remember to make your clothing choices for the cruise’s destinations and anticipated weather conditions. This way, whether you’re soaking up rays on the deck or discovering new cultures on land, you’ll always be adequately dressed for the occasion.

Cruise Wear for Sophisticated Evenings at Sea

When the sun dips below the horizon and the evening lights begin to twinkle on deck, cruise guests delight in the opportunity to showcase their style with cruise evening wear. As the ambiance onboard shifts to a more elegant setting, passengers are faced with the delightful decision of what to wear to encapsulate the sophistication of the sea at night.

Non-Formal Night Outfit Ideas

For those evenings when the dress code is relaxed yet chic, passengers seek attire that balances comfort and fashion. Women might opt for women’s cruise evening wear that includes flowy dresses or sleek jumpsuits paired with delicate jewelry, while men can don men’s cruise wear clothing such as lightweight blazers over casual shirts paired with chinos. These versatile outfits resonate with the laid-back luxury of a cruise and ensure a memorable dinner under the stars or a serene walk along the promenade deck.

‘Dress Your Best’ – Selecting Attire for Cruise Elegant Evenings

Evening dresses for cruise ships can include dazzling gowns with tasteful cuts or sophisticated cocktail dresses that reflect a timeless cruise cocktail attire . Men are encouraged to don suits or sports coats, adding a touch of suavity with a tie or a pocket square, capturing the essence of cruise line clothing . The tradition of “dressing your best” remains intrinsic to the cruise experience, inviting all aboard to indulge in the night’s festivities with style and grace.

Gala Nights and Special Themes

Themed evenings and gala nights are the hallmarks of cruise entertainment, demanding a wardrobe that elevates your style to match the night’s festivities. From the lively spirit of a themed party to the sophisticated ambiance of a gala, every event presents an opportunity to showcase your fashion while adhering to the cruise party dress code .

The Glamour of Gala Night: A Guide to Upscale Attire

When it comes to gala nights at sea, envision a red-carpet event where everyone is a celebrity. These nights are synonymous with gala night attire , where sequins, ties, and flowing gowns become the norm. The key to mastering cruise formal night attire is understanding the event’s tone:

For a traditional ‘Captain’s Gala,’ think timeless elegance with a modern twist – a tailored suit for men and an evening gown or a chic cocktail dress for women. But don’t fret if your closet isn’t brimming with tuxedos and ball gowns – a dark suit and a sophisticated little black dress can go a long way.

Preparing for Themed Parties: Costume Ideas and Tips

Themed cruise events vary widely from nautical nuances to roaring twenties extravaganzas. For instance, a white night on a cruise suggests guests don all shades of white, turning the deck into a sea of elegance and purity. To ensure you’re prepared, research the kind of parties planned on your cruise and consider these ideas:

• Luminous white attire for “White Night” events, from sundresses to smart-casual shirts.
• Pirate-themed accessories for a buccaneer bash, including eye patches and bandanas.
• 70s disco gear for retro dancing featuring colorful jumpsuits and flared pants.

Remember, while dressing up is part of the fun, comfort shouldn’t take a backseat. Opt for themed cruise attire that allows you to enjoy the party from dusk till dawn.

Adapting Cruise Wardrobe to Varied Climates

When planning your wardrobe for a cruise, considering the climate is paramount. For those setting sail on a Caribbean cruise, you’re likely heading to tropical locations with a hot and humid forecast. Here, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential. Consider packing items like linen shirts, flowy dresses, and shorts. Plus, don’t forget swimwear for those beach excursions and comfortable sandals that tackle sand and deck.

Layering is critical if your destination is a bit cooler or you’re planning what to wear on a cruise to Hawaii in the breezier months. Start with a base of moisture-wicking fabrics and add layers such as cardigans, pullovers, or light jackets that you can remove or add as needed. This approach allows for seamless transitions from the calm wind on the deck to the warmer interior spaces of the ship.

• April Showers: Waterproof jackets and hoodies for unexpected rain
• Summer Sun: Extra sun protection, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses
• Tropical Nights: Light cardigans or wraps for evenings on the deck
• Shore Excursions: Comfortable walking shoes plus a small backpack for day trip

Final Thoughts

As your voyage draws near, remember that the key to a seamless and enjoyable cruise experience is finding that perfect balance between practicality and sophistication in your wardrobe. Thoughtfully curated cruise ship outfits ensure adherence to the cruise line dress code and give you the confidence to partake in every activity easily. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on deck or indulging in a gourmet dinner under the stars, the right outfits to wear on a cruise can significantly enhance your overall enjoyment.

What To Wear On A Cruise – FAQ

What is the dress code for formal nights on a cruise?

The dress code for formal nights on a cruise typically requires guests to wear formal attire, such as a suit and tie for men and a cocktail dress or gown for women.

Do all cruise lines have formal nights?

Not all cruise lines have formal nights, but many do. Please check with your specific cruise line to see if they have formal night requirements.

What should I wear during casual nights on a cruise?

During casual nights on a cruise, resort wear or casual attire is usually appropriate. This can include nice slacks, a blouse for women, khakis, and a polo shirt for men.

Can I wear jeans on a cruise?

While some cruise lines may allow jeans in specific dining venues, it’s best to avoid them on formal nights. Please check with your cruise line’s specific dress code to make sure you follow their guidelines.

What is evening chic attire on a cruise?

Evening chic attire on a cruise is a step below formal wear but still requires guests to dress up. This may include a dressy skirt or pants with a nice blouse for women and a jacket with dress pants for men.

Should I pack a formal gown for a cruise?

Packing a formal gown for a cruise is recommended if you plan to attend formal nights. However, a cocktail dress or dressy outfit will also be good enough to avoid bringing a gown.

Are there specific dress codes for activities during the day on a cruise?

During the day on a cruise, resort wear or casual attire is usually acceptable for most activities. However, if extraordinary events or excursions are planned, you may need to pack specific attire

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Effortless Gent

What Clothes To Pack For A Cruise: A Concise Packing List (For Men)

Heading out into the open seas soon, and want to make sure you’re dressed right? Look no further. We’re gonna cover exactly what clothes to pack for a cruise in this article.

And yes, you’re on a menswear website, so our focus is on tackling that cruise packing list for men. There seem to be more guides out there designed for ladies when it comes to packing for trips. This, unfortunately, doesn’t mean that men’s suitcases are a straight-forward endeavor.

This is true when it comes to packing for a cruise, and especially when figuring out what to include in your vacation wardrobe.

Not all boat holidays are the same. Different parts of the ship have different temperature situations to consider, not to mention the range of programming and points of disembarking—sometimes it feels like you’re packing for every season. Keep reading to get the details!

Jump To Any Section

A Quick Cruise Packing List (For Men)

If you just need a checklist to start packing, to check over what you’ve already packed, or to jog your memory for things you might’ve forgotten, I’ve listed everything right in this section (we’ll get into each item further down in this article):

What to Pack for Every Cruise

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Regardless of whether you’re on a cruise in the Caribbean or a multi-stop European voyage, you’re definitely going to need a few style basics that can be used to create several outfits.

In general, you’ll want to follow the basics and guidelines we outline in our men’s summer fashion article.

We’re assuming a 7-day cruise for this packing list, but if you’re taking a longer 10- or 14-day cruise, you may have to double up on some of these.

Men’s Swimsuit

When going on a cruise, you should bring at least two different swimsuits. You have the option of buying various quick-drying swim shorts that are comfortable and excellent for catamaran snorkeling trips and beach outings.

Obviously, you’ll go for your favorite colors to wear, though if you’re on a tropical cruise, it’s a good time to experiment with brighter hues and lively patterns if it’s something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the opportunity.

If you know the programming will have a white party or a deck cocktail, and if you’re more of a sunbather and feet-dipper, rather than a full-on swimmer, here’s a trick to help you pack more efficiently.

Go for fitted, above-the-knee shorts, in white or cream. If you aren’t planning on getting wet, it’ll serve all of the above purposes.

Last but not least Like its socks or boxer briefs, Mack Weldon has turned its penchant for design and performance into some must-buy swim trunks. These feature four-way stretch fabric and zip front and back pockets to protect your EDC from wind and waves.

Which leads us to our next cruise essential…

Classic Fit Shorts

When choosing what clothes to pack for a cruise, remember that you’ll always look great in beige or tan shorts with a classic fit . 

Again, depending on your poolside preferences, jersey or linen shorts will get a ton of mileage on a cruise.

Wearing shorts made of jersey material with pockets is ideal when you’re lounging by the pool, walking around the cruise ship, or visiting the ports, since it’s lightweight and made for comfort and warm weather.

Unless there’s a non-neutral color that you really love and want to wear a lot, shades like gray, navy blue, black, and olive will be the easiest to partner shirts with (in addition to the prior mentioned white or cream ).

Classic Fit Men’s Chinos

Khaki pants should always be on your list of what to pack for a cruise. In general, cruises are mostly resort-casual during the day, and chinos are a perfect, elegant approach to a relaxed on-vacation look. Plus, they’re super versatile.

Chinos are ideal for a variety of occasions, including smart casual evenings and events that take place in the ship’s main dining rooms and restaurants . 

BR has a variety of chinos in different fits and fabric styles, some 100% cotton, others with a bit of stretch for comfort.

Bring along at least one or two pairs of classic pants that you can wear with a button-down shirt or a polo top—a pair of maroon pants might be a fun option .

Long-sleeve Linen Shirt

Long-sleeve linen shirts are worth mentioning. They’re lightweight and look cruise-appropriate, with or without a collar.

Again, because of the casual-leaning nature of cruises, they may not be as versatile as their short-sleeve, collared counterparts (which are perfectly appropriate by the pool and walking around during the day).

But to be honest, I’d recommend a linen shirt for your everyday, walk-around outfit because they look so great in tropical locales (and on ships). They’re flowy and cool, as well, and are easily dressed up or down.

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If you opt to bring a long-sleeve linen shirt , you can pair it with chinos and leather loafers for an elegantly casual dinner look . If you don’t bring one, just replace with a short-sleeve collared shirt and a blazer.

Short-Sleeve Collared Shirts

Polo shirts and short-sleeve button-ups, like khaki or linen shorts, can do double and triple duty on basically any kind of cruise.

How Should Polos and Short Sleeve Button Up Shirts Fit?

In fact, unless there is formal programming on the boat, you can likely get away with just packing a polo a day in different colors, since you can wear them with shorts or pants, and with or without a blazer or jacket.

Short-sleeve button-ups are even more versatile since they can sometimes pass as more formal shirts when paired with a sport jacket .

Speaking of jackets, you should probably bring a sport coat. They’re the cherry on top for the resort casual or smart casual outfits you’ll be wearing on the ship.

The one exception is if you’re packing a full suit. If you are strategic with your suit selection, you can skip bringing a sport coat and just wear the suit trousers and jacket separately as needed. (See below for our thoughts on bringing a suit.)

A luxurious, open weave wool silk blend fabric from Italian mill Lanificio di Pray. This perfect relaxed, versatile, warm weather jacket features an unstructured cut with no padding or canvassing.

So what kind of sport coat? I’d recommend a lightweight, unstructured navy jacket made from cotton, linen, silk, wool, or some combination of those. That’s gonna be your most versatile and comfortable jacket. It’ll go with stone chinos, white denim, light grey linen trousers, light khaki chino shorts, everything.

For shoes, you’ll need: One sharp pair of loafers , one pair of white / neutral low-profile leather or canvas sneakers , and a pair of flip-flops or slides for the pool or beach. 

A leather boat shoe ( worn with or without socks ) could replace both flip flops and sneakers, though if they get scuffed up on the beach or wash away with the waves, you won’t have a backup casual shoe option.

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Most likely, your loafers will see the most use. That’s because they’re a great option for your resort casual outfits. Minimal canvas or white leather sneakers (or boat shoes) are fine too, but how often do we get to step up our style in a fun, OK-to-show-out situation such as a fancy cruise?

Loafers are the most balanced way to approach effortless formality, perfect for a cruise. They can be worn with shorts and they’re great traveling shoes too, since they’re easy to slip on and off.

Accessories

When it comes to accessories, consider bringing a leather belt , one or two watches , a pair of sunglasses , and one to two hats . You may need one or two ties , too, if you have any formal dinners to attend.

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For ties , you’re certainly welcome to pack just one, if you’re okay with not mixing it up. And, you can also pack several if you know you’ll be wearing a tie often, and it doesn’t take up packing space from the essentials. Some cruises do have more than one semi-formal in its duration.

For watches , you can bring one, as long as it’s a versatile, luxury sport watch . Most luxury sport watches can be paired with a suit. And if there’s a truly formal, tuxedo-appropriate event, you can just go watchless, per old traditions. Otherwise, bring one dress watch and one casual watch .

To protect yourself from the sun, bring hats and sunglasses —two of each in case you lose one.

Specific Clothes for Specific Cruises

Now that we’ve covered the essentials you’ll need on every cruise, here are some pieces you may need to consider for more specialized situations.

A lot of these can actually take the place of some of the above essentials, if you like, though they aren’t as easily multi-use. Read on to see what I mean!

A Summer-Weight Suit

While you won’t always need a fully formal/black-tie optional situation, you may need at least one proper suit.

If a particular program or time of evening at a ship’s dining hall is truly black tie, you’ll know because the cruise line will fully communicate that to you. However, in the semi-formal or cocktail realm, it’s best to avoid landmines and just bring a suit. 

The perfect suit to have, if you only have one suit. Available in classic colors and a variety of cuts.

When you’re on the boat, you’ll never be that far away from your room, and if you don’t end up wearing the jacket and the pants together, they’ll be effective separates for dinner or drinks .

Even if you don’t wear a dress shirt , you can wear a short-sleeve button-up, camp collar shirt , or ribbed hem polo shirt in its place. Plus, the jacket can serve as a piece of outerwear for places on the boat that are air-conditioned.

If, and only if, there’s formal programming at any point in the cruise, will you need a tuxedo plus all its accoutrement. And typically, the cruise line will be pretty blatant about it in their messaging.

In fact, most cruise lines won’t have anything that formal , and you’ll more likely run into this situation if you’re on a private cruise. Meaning, perhaps the social club you’re in or the company you work for is throwing a special event.

That being the case, there might be a formal dinner with a presentation, maybe there’s a Bond-like casino theme going on, or sometimes one of your stops includes a banquet hall situation. 

These days, you can often wear a crisp black suit to formal events. You’ll just need a different suit, maybe in gray or navy, if there’s a cocktail on another day, so that you can differentiate your formal and cocktail attire.

Dress Shirt

Similar to a tuxedo, you won’t often need a dress shirt at most resort-style cruises. Naturally, you’ll need at least one or two , if any of the above formal situations are expected.

Otherwise, it’s a matter of how much you want to spruce it up at semi-formals, at dinner, and at cocktail events.

Dress shirts aren’t as versatile as short-sleeve button-ups, when it comes to what goes on during a cruise, but they also don’t take up that much room. 

As always, feel free to pack one or two, if you like, as long as it doesn’t take up the space of an essential.

Dress Shoes

If you have a nice pair of leather or suede loafers such as what I’ve mentioned above, you can probably get away with that for most resort casual and formal dress codes.

Again, pay attention to the cruise’s schedule of events. If you’re attending a particularly high-end cruise trip, then you may need specific dress shoes like oxfords or bluchers, which are a step above loafers in terms of formality .

Sports- & Activity-Specific Gear

If you’re going on a cruise built around a specific hobby or activity, like golfing or hiking, you’ll obviously need to pack accordingly.

You might do some hiking during general travel cruises, in which case your sneakers will do just fine. However, if it’s an actual hiking tour, you’ll need your trail shoes or hiking boots .

Make sure your boots are fully broken in, or you’ll be in a lot of pain during the activities !

Other possible sports clothes and gear you might need include golf cleats, since golf tour cruises are common among hobbyists, and possibly even wetsuits, if you go on a diving cruise. 

Diving cruises typically provide all of the gear though, so it really depends on the cruise line. It’s the same situation with golf gear.

Which leads us to our next topic…

Non-Clothing Items to Pack for a Cruise

Toiletries and medicine.

You’ll probably find soap and shampoo in your stateroom on cruise ships just as you would in a hotel. But, the onboard items might not work well for your hair and skin , or you might not like the scent .

If that sounds like you, then it’s best to bring your own toiletries whenever possible—especially if you have allergies.

Since you’ll be under the sun a lot, sunscreen is also very important!

Pack more than you believe you’ll require because it might be challenging to get your preferred brands in ports outside of the country and cruise liners often charge exorbitant fees for the sale of necessities.

Travel Gear

Not all of us have the good fortune to live within a couple of hours drive of a major seaport. The majority of cruise passengers must either fly or drive to their embarkation port, which means they must pack for both modes of transportation. 

Accessories for the airplane, such as a neck cushion, eye mask, or noise-canceling headphones, should be included for lengthy flights and overnight flights leading up to a cruise vacation. 

If you have a pre-cruise hotel stay planned, you might want to think about packing the essentials for that extended stay in a separate bag so that you won’t have to unpack as well as repack your primary suitcase .

This will save you time and energy.

You’re going to want to bring your tablet computer or an electronic book reader with you for both the pre-cruise travel and if you want to relax with a good book , or audio book , under the sun while you’re on the boat. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should a man wear on a cruise .

• a) a classic linen shirt or b) a camp collar shirt , with
• a) chino shorts or b) chino pants, and
• a) white minimalist sneakers or b) brown loafers.

Choosing one option from each line is a simple outfit option that would cover a wide range of cruise dress codes (or lack of dress codes).

Of course, if you’re attending a formal event or lounging by the pool, you’ll need something a bit different. See the above article for all our suggestions.

How many outfits do I need for a 7-day cruise? 

If you follow the Lean Wardrobe philosophy , most / all of your individual items can be mixed and matched into a number of wardrobes, so you don’t have to bring tons of stuff.

In general, you should carry enough clothing to make at least 6-7 outfits (individual items can be repeated in several of these outfits, of course). Depending on the cruise program, you will need a mix of formal / semi-formal outfits and resort casual outfits .

You’ll also need pool and loungewear, and practical attire for adventures on dry land.

What should I wear during the day on a cruise ship?

The goal here is to be casual, yet put together and stylish. Try tailored shorts, linen shirts , and minimal canvas or leather sneakers, for starters. This will take you from the deck to the dock, throughout the towns you’re exploring, and back again.

Don’t forget your accessories, like a straw panama hat, a handkerchief or bandana (to wipe your hands or sweaty brow) and classically shaped sunglasses for a bit of sun protection.

Are jeans OK on a cruise?

Yes, jeans are generally OK on a cruise, particularly during the day or in casual settings. For max versatility, bring a pair of clean, dark wash, straight leg jeans with minimal distressing and fading. These can easily be dressed up or down.

It’s best to avoid distressed or overly casual jeans. They’re not as versatile and may not be suitable for some dining venues or formal events on board.

Can I wear shorts to dinner on a cruise?

Shorts are perfectly fine for daytime activities, though they are most likely not appropriate for the cruise ship’s formal dining settings and events. To be safe, wear trousers or chinos paired with a collared shirt for a more polished, dinner-appropriate look .

The more casual dining venues or buffet-style restaurants may be more lenient with their dress code, allowing shorts during meal times.

What is smart casual attire for a cruise ship?

Smart casual attire for men on a cruise ship might include dress chinos or tailored trousers, a crisp button-down shirt or ribbed hem polo shirt , and a lightweight sport coat. Finish the look with loafers or dress shoes, a clean dress belt, and a refined watch .

The smart casual dress code allows for a more relaxed vibe while still maintaining a refined appearance, perfect for most cruise ship events and dining venues.

Are there any items I should avoid packing for a cruise?

You can probably leave these things at home:

• Overly casual items like distressed jeans or offensive / corny graphic tees (not appropriate for a classy cruise ship)
• Heavy coats or bulky sweaters (not needed in a tropical cruise climate)
• Basic toiletries (unless you need them for a specific reason) such as soap and shampoo, towels, a hair dryer, etc. The cruise ship will provide these for you

Bon Voyage!

When traveling on a cruise, it’s common to bring too many clothes and forget everything else.

When you take your luggage out of the closet and start packing for your next trip, refer to this list so that you can make sure you have everything you need, not only in terms of clothing but also the accessories and toiletries you’ll need. 

Most importantly, loosen up and enjoy yourself. You’re going on a cruise! If you have any more questions on what to pack for a one or two week cruise, you can DM us on Instagram anytime.

Published on March 28, 2023 , Updated on August 17, 2023

Category: Smart Casual

Tags: Outfit Ideas , Travel

About Us @ EG

Effortless Gent helps elder millennial men dress better by focusing on effortless, obtainable, everyday style. Effortless Gent has practical style advice for 40+ year old guys who can’t relate to Gen-Z style on social media, newish dads who wanna shed their comfy clothes, and seasoned, established men looking to level up their look.

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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

Raw HTML : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Gay Cruises
• The Most Festive Christmas Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2023 U.S. News & World Report

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We are Sergey and Simon, a Russian and a Frenchman, both  passionate about Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and classic cars. Together, we have created Put-in tours. Our goal is to help you experience Russian culture off the beaten path. Join us onboard our classic Soviet van and let’s get rolling!

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