What NOT to Wear on a Cruise: Dos and Don’ts
When it comes to packing for a cruise, knowing what not to wear on a cruise is just as important as deciding what to bring. Cruise lines have dress codes—I don’t make the rules—and while they vary, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind.
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I’m not here to tell anyone how to dress. Every cruise line has its own policies, and this post is just about helping you avoid being turned away from dinner or told to change—because yes, it happens.
Before you set sail, it’s smart to check your cruise line’s dress code guidelines so you know what to pack. We’ve included links to the dress codes for most mainstream cruise lines below so you can prepare accordingly.
In this article, we’ll dive into what not to wear on a cruise, covering the dos and don’ts so you can pack smart and avoid fashion faux pas.
Let’s Get Into What Not to Wear
Each cruise line has its own policies. Some are more relaxed, while others stick strictly to the rules. If you prefer to keep it casual, that’s fine—but don’t be surprised if you’re turned away from certain venues if you’re not dressed appropriately.
We’ve all seen someone on a cruise who made us do a double-take, wondering, “What were they thinking?” Whether it’s someone ignoring the dress code or just wearing something wildly inappropriate, there are definite dos and don’ts when it comes to cruise attire.
Take formal nights, for example. These “elegant evenings” usually mean no shorts, flip-flops, or beachwear in the main dining room. You’ll see plenty of people dressed up, and while it’s not mandatory, you might feel out of place if you don’t make some effort.
During the day, casual attire is fine—just keep it neat. Think sundresses, shorts with a cute top, or jeans with a polo.
Cruise lines like Norwegian (with their freestyle approach) and Virgin Voyages (“You Do You”) are more relaxed, but even they draw the line at showing up to dinner in your swimsuit.
Skimpy Bathing Suits
Don’ts:
- No judgment here, but remember, when you’re on a cruise, you’re often surrounded by families, including children. Know your audience!
- It might not be the best time to wear a G-string bikini or something that barely covers your body’s upper half—let’s leave a little to the imagination.
- Tiny Speedos for men might not be the best choice either.
- Avoid walking around the ship outside the pool decks in just your bathing suit—cruise guidelines actually discourage this. You could be stopped from entering the buffet. They’ll ask you to throw on a cover-up. Similarly, you shouldn’t walk inside barefoot or without a shirt.
Dos:
- Save the skimpiest bathing suits for private beaches, adult-only sections of the ship, or adult-only cruises.
- It’s perfectly fine to wear a bikini or swimsuit by the pool, but be sure to throw on a cover-up when walking around the ship.
- Consider stylish swimwear cover-ups, which will make it easier to transition from the pool to other areas of the ship.
Revealing Clothing
Let’s leave some things to the imagination.
Don’ts:
- Just like with skimpy bathing suits, this applies to any clothing that might be too revealing or inappropriate. That nearly transparent bodycon dress might be great for a night out clubbing, but it’s not suitable for walking around the ship or going to dinner.
- This also includes short shorts that look more like underwear, crop tops that barely cover anything, and extreme mini skirts.
- Lingerie is not cruise wear—at least not outside your stateroom.
- Men walking around without a shirt outside the pool area is also a no-go—cruise ship guidelines generally frown upon it.
Dos:
- Again, it’s all about balance. You don’t have to wear a turtleneck and long pants, but make sure your outfit isn’t offensive or leaves too little to the imagination.
Au Natural is Not Okay
Don’ts:
- What not to wear on a cruise ship? Nothing. Walking around in the nude is simply not an option.
- If revealing clothing is frowned upon, it goes without saying that you can’t walk around with everything on display.
- Avoid wearing light-colored, see-through clothing, like a white t-shirt without a bra or anything underneath that leaves little to the imagination.
Dos:
- If you’re interested in topless sunbathing, check if your cruise ship has a designated area for it. For instance, Virgin Voyages offers a topless sunbathing spot on the Scarlet Lady in a discreet area of the ship; keep in mind that they are an adult-only cruise line.
- Some European cruise lines may also have areas that allow topless sunbathing, so it’s worth checking before you sail.
Wear Your Pajamas or Robe Outside of Your Cabin
Don’ts:
- Walking around in your PJs or robe is a major no-no unless you’re attending a themed pajama party on a Virgin Voyage Lady Ship. You may be on vacation, but it’s tacky and disrespectful to other passengers and crew.
- You shouldn’t head to the breakfast buffet in your pajamas or robe. Remember, you’re not at home, even if it feels like it.
Dos:
- Save your pajamas and robe for when you’re in your cabin. If you prefer comfort but still want to be presentable, bring a comfortable lounge set to wear around the ship.
- If you prefer to stay in your pajamas for breakfast, you can order room service and enjoy your meal on your balcony—it’s a great way to start the day.
- If you’re visiting the spa, a robe will be provided for you to wear in the common areas.
No Clothing with Offensive Language or Graphics
Don’ts:
- This should be a no-brainer, but avoid wearing clothing with offensive language or graphics. This includes profanity, graphic images, and anything that could be considered racist, sexist, or homophobic.
Dos:
- Be respectful and considerate of the other passengers on board. Choose clothing that won’t offend or make others uncomfortable.
Wear Clothing That is Appropriate for the Weather
Always check the weather forecast before you board your cruise. Even if you’re heading to a Caribbean paradise, there’s always a chance of rain—hopefully not, but it’s good to be prepared!
Don’ts:
- Just because you’re cruising to a tropical destination doesn’t mean you should only pack shorts and tank tops. Consider the forecast and be ready for any weather changes.
- If you’re going to cruise to a colder destination, summer clothes alone won’t cut it – consider bringing some warm layers.
Dos:
- Check the weather forecast before you pack and plan accordingly.
- Rain showers can be common for tropical destinations, so consider bringing an umbrella or a rain jacket.
- Pack a light sweater, cardigan, or jacket. Even in warm climates, evenings on the ship can get chilly.
- If you’re heading to Alaska, pack appropriate clothing you can layer, including a sweater, rain jacket, and long pants. Layering pieces is usually the best option.
Formalwear
Don’ts:
- Not every night is formal or chic on a cruise, but when it is, try to make an effort. This means no shorts, t-shirts, or distressed jeans with holes in them. Even on a regular night, distressed jeans are not allowed in the MDR.
Dos:
- For women, opt for a cocktail dress, a long dress, a chic jumpsuit, a nice blouse, and slacks when dining in the main dining room on a formal or chic night.
- For men, this typically means wearing a suit or blazer with slacks and a dress shirt or polo. You might even get away with a nice pair of dark jeans and a button-down shirt.
Don’t Dress Uncomfortably
Don’ts:
- You’ll be walking often on a cruise and at the ports, so avoid wearing shoes that hurt your feet.
- Leave the fuzzy house slippers at home.
- Avoid clothing that’s too tight, scratchy, hot, unbreathable, or otherwise uncomfortable.
Dos:
- Pack comfortable yet stylish footwear and clothing—comfort is key.
- Make sure your shoes are broken in before the cruise.
- Bring clothes that you feel good in.
- Pack layers so you can easily adjust to temperature changes.
- Bring a small pack of Band-Aids or blister pads for unexpected shoe discomfort during excursions.
Inappropriate Clothing in Certain Destinations
Don’ts:
- Camo Print Clothing: Avoid packing camouflage print clothing, as it is illegal or restricted in several countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Nigeria, Oman, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and in specific cases, Azerbaijan and the Philippines.
- Revealing Outfits: Avoid overly revealing outfits during shore excursions in conservative destinations. For example, when cruising the Mediterranean, shoulders and legs must be covered to enter churches.
Dos:
- Research Local Customs: Before you pack, research the customs and clothing restrictions for the destinations on your itinerary. This can help you avoid any cultural faux pas or legal issues.
- Pack Versatile Cover-Ups: Bring a versatile pashmina or a lightweight, long-sleeve button-down shirt that can easily cover up if needed.
Cruise Line Dress Codes
Is there a dress code on cruise ships?
Yes, cruise lines have dress codes, which can vary. The main dining room typically requires “smart casual” attire, while daytime is more “cruise casual.” It’s important to check the specific guidelines before sailing.
Curious about the dress code guidelines for each cruise line? Click to see what they have to say:
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean
- Celebrity Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- MSC Cruise Line
- Holland America
- Princess Cruises
- Disney Cruise Line
- Virgin Voyages
Quick Answers About Cruise Dress Guidelines
You Can Wear Flip-Flops on a Cruise—Just Not Everywhere
Flip-flops are essential for a cruise, especially if you’re sailing to a Caribbean or warm-weather destination. Just know that most cruise lines don’t allow them in the main dining room or specialty restaurants for dinner. Some onboard activities also require closed-toe shoes, so pack a pair of sneakers if you plan to join in.
You Can Wear Jeans on a Cruise Formal Night—If They’re Dressy Enough
A neat, well-fitted pair of jeans is fine for formal or chic nights on most cruise lines, as long as they aren’t ripped, faded, or overly casual. A darker wash gives a more polished look and blends in better with the evening attire. On more upscale or luxury lines, though, jeans may not be allowed at all. If you’d rather play it safe, go with slacks or dress pants.
Women Can Absolutely Wear Capris to Dinner on a Cruise
Capris are perfectly acceptable in the main dining room on most cruise lines. Pair them with a nice top and sandals or flats, and you’re good to go. They strike the right balance between casual and put-together for dinner without feeling overdressed.
Smart Casual on a Cruise Means Neat but Relaxed
Smart casual on a cruise is all about looking put-together without being overly formal. For women, that might mean a dress, skirt, or nice pants with a blouse. For men, slacks or chinos with a collared shirt work well. Skip the ripped jeans, shorts, and flip-flops, and you’ll fit right in.
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Kathy Ava
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.
so if someone was to wear a elvis suit or bring it on board would that be ok or offensive
You should wear the Elvis suit! Everyone would love it.
Thank you for this read! I’m going on my first cruise in April and this was really helpful. A suggestion I might add.. as someone who is a visual learner, pictures of what to wear would be helpful. I clicked your links to other posts for men’s and women’s cruise clothing and didn’t see many photos. It would be more inclusive if you added them. Just a thought!
Hi Brittany – Appreciate your comment and feedback! We will consider it when we update this post.
In the meantime, you can check out these two blog posts: Cruise Outfits for Women & Cruise Wear for Men.
I hate saying don’t do something, but DO NOT take any camo print clothing. It is illegal to wear camo print in some countries in the Caribbean and else where.
This is a great point! Thanks for sharing.