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Other countries may have more conservative ideas about dress than you're accustomed. Attention is drawn to this matter so as not to offend. Cruise lines suggest when visiting places of worship (cathedrals), you dress conservatively, avoiding shorts or sundresses. Attend the port lectures for guidance.
Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes at all times. When visiting ruins or walking on cobblestone streets, wear rubber-soled shoes. It's also smart to wear a sun hat. |
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Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. On a formal dining night or at the Captain’s Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more dressy, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a tuxedo or gown. (If you don't own a tuxedo--most people don't--you can usually rent one onboard.) |
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What is proper dining attire? |
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Most cruise ships have one or two formal nights per cruise, when men are encouraged to wear tuxedoes or nice suits, and women cocktail dresses or evening gowns. Other nights are casual or semi-formal, when men can get by with khakis/dress pants, collared shirt and sports jacket (semi-formal), and women skirts, dresses, or pantsuits.
Lunch and breakfast are casual, and if you don’t relish the idea of formal night, alternative dining options are always available. |
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What's there to do at night? |
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At night, life aboard a cruise ship really turns on. There's dancing; live entertainment in nightclubs, discos and lounges; feature films; and parties with all your new friends. Most ships even have casinos. There are also many special events like the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night, the Masquerade Parade, the Late Night Buffet (just for one last bite to tide you over 'til breakfast). And the night can go on as long as you want. Even until the spectacle of sunrise at sea. |
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Should I book air through the cruise line? |
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Booking air through the cruise line protects you if your flight is delayed and you either miss your cruise or are running late. If you are running late for your cruise, cruise line representatives will make every effort to get you to the ship before departure. If you miss your cruise altogether, the cruise line will reimburse you up to $500 in costs incurred while catching up with your ship at its next port of call.
In addition, air rates offered by the cruise lines are often less expensive than those available to the general public--especially on holidays and during high seasons--and the departure times and dates ensure that you will reach your departure port on time, barring any prolonged delays. |
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Cruising FAQs
