Loving Cruise Ship Formal Nights

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It used to be that every night was “formal night” on a cruise ship; passengers routinely changed from their daytime clothes into elegant dresses, gowns, suits, and tuxedos for dinner. Many cruise fans welcomed the modern shift to more casual dressing for dinner, but some still love the opportunity to really glam up for an onboard formal night.

So, which cruise lines still have official  formal nights (or “elegant,” “dressy,” “glam” or “gala” nights)? If you love to dress up in elegant evening wear, look to lines like Cunard, Holland America, Princess, Seabourn, and Silversea. Their ships usually have at least one formal night on their itineraries.

Note that on formal nights, formal attire may be required only in the main dining venue, while other areas of the ship accept “elegant casual” attire (generally defined as tailored slacks or skirts with collared shirts, sweaters or jackets, as well as dresses and pantsuits). And on some ships, formal attire may be encouraged for evening, but is completely optional.

If your cruise includes an official formal night or two, expect the dress code to be observed politely but strictly by the crew. If you show up at the main dining venue in shorts and a t-shirt, you may be asked to come back after changing your clothes, or to enjoy dinner in a more casual spot. When packing, don’t forget to bring shoes to go with your formal attire, along with accessories to complete your look.

You can expect formal night dinner menus to be glammed up, too. Cruise lines often serve premium items – think filet steaks, prime ribs, lobster tails or ahi tuna – on formal nights.

If you’re not sure that a formal night is for you, give it a try! A side benefit is that you can capture great photos of yourself and your companions looking fantastic. And even if you’re on a cruise with no official formal night, you can certainly glam up for the evening whenever you like. You might even inspire other passengers to do the same.

If you’re absolutely sure that a formal night is not for you, remember that there are always other options for onboard dining, including room service. Also, some cruise lines, such as Norwegian, and some types of cruises, such as expedition cruises, rarely – or never – have formal nights.

For more information and guidance about cruise ship formal nights, talk with Anita,  your professional travel advisor.

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