What to wear on a cruise ship?

by Katie Oldknow November 22, 2025

There’s a particular magic to stepping on board a cruise ship. The air smells faintly of the sea and sunscreen, there’s a low hum of excitement in the atrium, and your suitcase is full of possibilities.

Then comes the question that every stylish traveller asks at least once: what to wear on a cruise ship so you feel comfortable, polished and ready for anything on the itinerary?

A cruise wardrobe has to work hard. It needs to take you from sun-drenched decks to air-conditioned cocktail bars, from poolside loungers to candlelit dinners, from a lazy sea day to an active shore excursion. The key is understanding dress codes, thinking in outfits rather than random items, and packing pieces that mix, match and layer beautifully.

Decoding cruise dress codes

Most major cruise lines use a simple structure: relaxed looks by day, elevated but easygoing styles in the evening, and the occasional formal or “gala” night where you can truly dress up. Within that, though, every ship has its own personality. Some are more laid-back, others lean glamorous. Your wardrobe needs to be ready for both moods.

You’ll usually see three broad categories mentioned in pre-cruise information and daily programmes:

Daytime casual – relaxed, resort-style outfits suitable for exploring the ship, lunching on deck or strolling ashore in port.
Evening smart-casual – a step up from daywear, with polished separates, dresses or shirts that work for main dining rooms, lounges and many speciality restaurants.
Formal or gala evenings – selected nights when guests are invited to dress more glamorously, often for a special menu, photos and events.

Theme nights, white parties and destination-inspired evenings can sit alongside these categories, adding a fun, playful layer to your packing plan. Think of the dress code as the “mood board” of your holiday wardrobe: it doesn’t dictate your exact outfit, but it helps you decide which pieces earn a place in your suitcase.

What to wear on a cruise ship during the day

Daytime on board is all about ease. You’ll be wandering between buffet breakfasts, coffee bars, sun decks, maybe a fitness class or a trivia quiz in a lounge. You want clothes that are cool, breathable and unfussy, but still pulled-together enough to feel confident when you walk into a restaurant or pose for a photo against the horizon.

Build your daytime capsule around these ideas:

Lightweight separates are your best friends. For warm-weather cruises, pack a rotation of tailored shorts, linen or cotton trousers, easy skirts and breezy tops. Think soft T-shirts, relaxed polos, camisoles and lightweight blouses. Choose fabrics that handle heat and humidity gracefully: linen, cotton, viscose and other breathable blends that won’t cling or feel heavy.

Sundresses and shirt dresses are ideal for days when you want a one-and-done outfit. A midi sundress in a pretty print can take you from breakfast to browsing the onboard shops to a casual lunch on deck, and still look charming if you end up in countless photos. Shirt dresses feel chic and slightly tailored, particularly in crisp stripes or solid neutrals.

For cooler itineraries – think Norway, Alaska or transatlantic crossings – daytime looks might lean more towards jeans, chinos and knitwear. A good pair of dark denim, a couple of T-shirts, a fine knit sweater and a light quilted or waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable as you move between bracing outdoor decks and warm indoor spaces.

Remember that air conditioning on board can be surprisingly strong, even in the tropics. Pack at least one layer you can throw over any daytime outfit – a soft cardigan, a cropped denim jacket, a lightweight sweatshirt or a casual blazer. This “ship sweater” will probably become the unsung hero of your cruise wardrobe.

Pool, spa and sun deck style

The pool deck is where cruise style becomes unapologetically relaxed. Swimsuits, bikinis, trunks and flip-flops all belong here – but the moment you step away from the loungers and buffet lines into indoor areas, the dress rules change slightly.

Most ships ask guests to wear a cover-up and shoes when moving inside from the pool. It’s simply about comfort and decorum: no one wants to sit at the café next to a dripping swimsuit.

Pack a couple of options so you don’t feel like you’re wearing the same thing every day:

For women: kaftans, sarongs, beach shirts, pull-on jersey dresses or lightweight co-ords that slip over a swimsuit in seconds.
For men: resort shirts, linen shirts, cotton tees or lightweight polos to throw over swim shorts when you head indoors.

Choose non-slip sandals or flip-flops that can handle wet tiles around the pool and spa. If you’re planning to use hot tubs or the thermal suite, water-resistant footwear is practically essential.

If your cruise includes water parks, private islands or beach stops, consider packing water shoes or reef-safe sandals. They protect your feet during water-based excursions, from rocky shorelines to snorkelling over reefs, and they’re often required for certain activities.

Evenings on board: raising the style dial

Evenings on a cruise ship have their own glamour. The lighting softens, live music begins to float up from lounges, and the whole ship seems to change tempo. This is when your wardrobe shifts from easy daytime pieces to outfits with a little more polish.

Most nights: polished, relaxed eveningwear

On the majority of evenings, the dining rooms and many speciality restaurants call for a neat, smart-but-relaxed look. Think of it as the cruise version of dressing for a favourite restaurant at home – no need for a ball gown, but definitely a step up from beachwear.

For women, that might mean:

Knee-length or midi dresses in breathable fabrics – from simple jersey to sleek satin.
Skirts or tailored trousers paired with a pretty blouse or elevated knit.
Jumpsuits or co-ords that look dressy but feel comfortable enough for long dinners.

For men, consider packing:

Collared shirts – short or long-sleeved – in cotton, linen or a soft blend.
Chinos or lightweight trousers instead of athletic shorts or beachwear.
An optional unstructured blazer or smart jacket for cooler evenings or more formal venues.

The golden rule: avoid anything that feels too gym-like or too scruffy – think football shirts, workout gear, beach flip-flops and very distressed denim. Those are best left for the sun deck or the onboard gym.

Formal and gala nights

Formal or gala evenings are where cruise style truly shines. Not every sailing has them, and the tone can range from “cocktail party” to full black-tie elegance, depending on the ship and itinerary. But if your cruise does include dressier nights, they deserve a little thought when you pack.

For these evenings, aim for outfits that feel special, a touch dramatic and photogenic under the ship’s lights:

Women: cocktail dresses, elegant midi or maxi dresses, a chic jumpsuit, or a tailored trouser suit with statement accessories. Fabric and finishing details – satin, chiffon, lace, metallic threads – do a lot of the work for you.
Men: a suit or jacket and trousers with a shirt; many guests add a tie or bow tie, and some cruises still lean enthusiastically into tuxedos. If that’s not your style, a well-fitted jacket with dark trousers and smart shoes will usually feel perfectly appropriate.

Formal nights are also a wonderful moment to wear national dress or military uniforms if you have them – many cruise lines specifically welcome this. It adds personal flair and makes for memorable photos.

If you prefer to stay casual even on the dressiest nights, most ships offer alternative dining venues where the evening dress code is more relaxed. But packing at least one outfit that makes you feel spectacular is very much part of the fun of cruising.

Theme nights and party looks

Many cruise lines love a themed evening: all-white parties on deck, retro 60s or 70s nights, tropical celebrations, glow parties and more. These events are optional, but they can be delightfully fun if you’ve brought along something that fits the brief.

You don’t need to build half your suitcase around costumes, but consider:

An all-white look – a simple dress, linen shirt and trousers, or a white co-ord can serve double duty as a chic summer outfit and a white-party ensemble.
A touch of sparkle – sequins, metallic sandals, statement earrings or a shimmer clutch instantly “party-ify” a simple outfit for disco or glow nights.
A playful print – tropical florals or bold patterns can nod to island or beach themes without feeling like a costume.

Check your cruise documents or app before you travel; itineraries often list specific themed evenings so you can plan accordingly. Even if you decide not to dress to the theme, it’s helpful to know which nights might feel more festive.

What to wear for shore excursions

Shore days are where your wardrobe has to be most practical. You might be exploring historic towns, hiking to viewpoints, joining wine tastings, ziplining through forests or wandering through artisan markets. Comfort, weather-appropriateness and cultural sensitivity all come into play.

Research your excursions in advance so you understand what’s expected. Then pack accordingly:

City and cultural days

If you’ll be touring churches, temples, mosques or other religious sites, be mindful of local customs. Many places ask visitors to cover shoulders and knees. A lightweight scarf, a floaty midi dress, or linen trousers with a breathable top can be both respectful and chic.

Opt for comfortable walking shoes – trainers, cushioned sandals or loafers – as you may be on your feet for hours over cobblestones or uneven pavements. Save brand-new shoes for another trip; this is the moment for tried-and-tested pairs.

Active and adventure excursions

For hiking, ziplining, kayaking or biking, you’ll want supportive footwear and performance clothes that move with you. Think leggings or shorts, moisture-wicking tops and a light rain jacket or windbreaker if there’s any chance of weather turning.

Water-based excursions – snorkelling, beach days, visits to private islands – call for swimwear, water shoes, a UV shirt or rash vest, and a quick-drying cover-up. A packable hat and sunglasses are non-negotiable under strong sun, and a small backpack or tote keeps everything organised.

Cold-climate cruises

For colder itineraries, layers are everything. Base layers, a warm mid-layer (like a fleece or knit), and a weatherproof outer shell let you adjust to changing conditions without feeling bulky. Add a hat, gloves and scarf for glacier viewing or windy decks – even in late spring, temperatures can dip sharply out at sea.

Packing strategy: your cruise capsule wardrobe

With limited suitcase space, the art of cruise dressing lies in creating a capsule wardrobe: fewer pieces, more outfits. The goal is to have clothes that can be recombined in different ways, taking you from day to night with minimal effort.

Start with your colour story

Choose a simple palette – perhaps one neutral base (navy, black, beige or white) plus two or three accent colours. This makes mixing and matching far easier. A navy skirt can go from daytime casual with a striped tee to dinner-ready with a silky cami and earrings. White linen trousers feel beachy with a bikini and shirt, then quietly glamorous with a metallic sandal and a draped top.

Think in outfits, not items

Rather than throwing in five random tops and three skirts, ask yourself: how will I wear this, and with what? Lay outfits out on your bed: day look, dinner look, excursion look. Aim for each piece to work in at least two different outfits.

A well-edited cruise capsule might include:

3–5 daytime tops (tees, blouses, polos).
2–3 pairs of shorts or casual trousers.
2–3 sundresses or easy dresses.
1–2 slightly dressier dresses or jumpsuits for evenings.
1 pair of jeans or chinos (even for warm cruises, they’re useful for travel days and cool nights).
1 lightweight sweater or cardigan and 1 jacket or blazer.
2–3 swimsuits plus cover-ups.
A small rotation of accessories: belts, jewellery, scarves, a hat and a couple of evening bags or clutches.

Shoes: style meets practicality

Shoes take up space, so be selective. For most cruises, three or four pairs will cover almost every scenario:

Comfortable walking shoes for excursions and exploring.
Smart-casual shoes – loafers, leather sandals, ballet flats or low heels – for dinners and evenings.
Poolside sandals or flip-flops.
Optional: water shoes for water activities or particularly rocky beaches.

Wear your bulkiest pair on travel days to save space in your suitcase.

Layers, always

Even on a Caribbean sailing, you’ll encounter cooler spots: air-conditioned theatres, breezy decks at night, early-morning coffee runs. A light jacket, cardigan or wrap is essential. For chillier climates, add a fleece or insulated layer that compresses easily into your luggage.

The finishing touches

Accessories are the easiest way to shift an outfit from daytime to dinner. A simple tank and wide-leg trousers feel entirely different with flat sandals and a straw bag at lunch, then with strappy heels, statement earrings and a clutch in the evening.

Consider packing:

One or two statement necklaces or pairs of earrings.
A slim belt to define waistlines and change silhouettes.
A scarf that can act as a wrap, headscarf or shoulder cover in religious sites.
Sunglasses that make you feel instantly chic.

What not to forget

Amid all this talk of dresses and dinner jackets, there are a few unglamorous but vital pieces that make life on board more comfortable:

Undergarments and sleepwear – enough to avoid laundry if you prefer, or a small amount if you’re happy to wash on board.
Socks – especially if you’ll be wearing trainers for excursions or using the gym.
Gym clothes if you plan to work out or join fitness classes.
Weather-specific extras like a packable rain jacket, sunhat or warm gloves.

Before you zip up your suitcase, do a final edit. Remove anything that only works in a single outfit or feels fussy and high-maintenance. Cruises are relaxed by nature; your wardrobe should support that sense of ease.

Sailing away in style

The secret to deciding what to wear on a cruise ship isn’t about strict rules or copying other people’s packing lists. It’s about understanding the rhythm of life on board – leisurely days, sociable evenings, the occasional glamorous flourish – and curating a wardrobe that feels like an effortless extension of your personal style.

With comfortable daytime looks, polished yet relaxed evening outfits, one or two special ensembles for formal or gala nights, and practical pieces for shore adventures, you’ll step into every moment of your cruise feeling confident, appropriately dressed and fully present. After all, the best cruise outfit is the one that lets you forget about your clothes entirely as you watch the sun sink into the sea, cocktail in hand, knowing you packed just right.