If you’ve booked yourself onto a cruise - or are considering one - you may already be wondering what you’ll be expected to wear. There’s something uniquely appealing about life at sea: the unhurried pace, the civility of it all. But the question of dress codes tends to hang over landlubbers who are about to set out on their maiden voyage, especially for those more accustomed to solid land than open water.
The good news? The rules are far less onerous than you might expect - and a well-dressed gentleman will find himself perfectly at home with little more than a sensible packing list and an eye for fit.
Daywear should be casual
During daylight hours, life aboard is relaxed. Most days, you’ll be in and out of deckchairs, cafés, perhaps even venturing ashore. Comfort is key - but so is presentability.
You’ll want cotton or linen shirts, well-cut shorts or lightweight chinos, and something appropriate to slip over your shoulders if there’s a breeze. You might choose to leave t-shirts and bright prints to other passengers, or you could browse our selection of Vilebrequin shorts, which feature a selection of designer patterns that are perfect for strolling the deck.
Vilebrequin - Bleu Marine Tropical Flowers 'Moorise' Swim Shorts
If you prefer a lower-key approach, a classic polo shirt, woven leather belt, and decent pair of boat shoes will always look the part.
Yellow Piqué Cotton Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
Sperry - Brown Leather Gold Cup Boat Shoe
As for swimwear, do bring a couple of pairs - but remember that the swimming pool dress code is just that - a towelling polo or crisp overshirt is well worth packing for walking to and from the pool.
Eveningwear is a formal affair
Evenings aboard ship are very much part of the experience. They’re not stiff or formal for the sake of it - but they do offer a welcome chance to dress with a little more intent.
Most nights fall under the umbrella of “smart casual,” which translates simply to a collared shirt, long trousers, and shoes, not trainers or sandals. A linen jacket or lightweight blazer wouldn’t go amiss, and if you prefer a tie, you won’t look out of place - though it’s rarely required.
If you're intending to wear a shirt and jacket, we'd suggest:
Belvest - Blue Houndstooth 100% Linen Jacket
Orange Pure Italian Linen Short-Sleeve Shirt
If you'd prefer to wear a shirt and no jacket, this striped blue shirt has a subtle nautical influence:
Navy Blue Stripe Italian Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
Importantly, the smart casual dress code does mean no shorts, sandals or baseball caps in the main dining rooms, and certainly nothing that looks like gym wear. It’s about making an effort, and why wouldn’t you? You’re on holiday, after all.
Gala Evenings: Black Tie (Or Close Enough)
Many cruises include one or two formal evenings - often referred to as “Gala Nights” or “Captain’s Dinner.” These are the high watermark of cruise dress codes, and for some passengers, the highlight of the voyage.
While black tie is encouraged, it isn’t compulsory. If you’re not inclined to pack a dinner jacket, a dark suit and tie is more than acceptable. That said, there is something undeniably pleasing about donning a well-cut tuxedo and joining your fellow passengers in rising to the occasion.
The effect isn’t theatrical, it’s celebratory, and you’ll find there’s a feeling of camaraderie among those who’ve made the effort.
Black Loro Piana Super 130's Wool Tuxedo Suit
Theme Nights and Other Diversions
Some cruises feature optional themed evenings - a “white night,” perhaps, or a Caribbean-inspired party. Going all-out isn’t necessary, and you’re not obliged to attend if you’d prefer not to, but a simple white shirt or a dash of colour in the form of a pocket square or scarf can help you nod to the theme without going overboard, no pun intended.
Fuchsia Pink Silk Pocket Square
A Few Packing Notes
When preparing your wardrobe, think in terms of versatility. Neutrals and muted tones work best, and garments that travel well - linen blends, tropical-weight wools, technical cottons, even lightweight cashmere - will keep you looking presentable without recourse to a steam iron.
You needn’t overpack. A couple of jackets, a few shirts, trousers in varying weights, and two or three pairs of shoes will cover most eventualities. A soft jumper or shawl-collar cardigan is worth including for cooler evenings on deck.
And don’t forget the details: a decent watch, a pocket square, proper socks and a pair of sunglasses you wouldn’t be embarrassed to leave on the table.
Cruises offer a rare combination of ease and elegance. The sea, the service, the civility of it all - it’s a world away from budget airlines and high-street chaos. Dressing appropriately is part of the pleasure.
With a little forethought and a modest investment in the right pieces, you’ll step aboard looking the part, and spend your voyage comfortable, confident, and suitably attired from breakfast through to bedtime.
