For many people, they wonder what they are supposed to wear on a cruise. From days in port to sitting beside the pool to formal night in the dining room, there are so many different situations to dress for that it can make your head spin.
But what about what you can’t wear on a cruise? While cruises are definitely relaxed when it comes to the dress code, there are certain things that are considered a faux pas to wear, against the cruise line’s rules, or even against the law.
So what do you need to leave at home or cover up? Here’s what to know…
Tank Tops & Ball Caps in the Dining Room
Perhaps no situation causes more indigestion on a cruise than what to wear to dinner in the dining room. On formal nights, you want to dress it up a little, but you don’t have to wear a tux or a ballgown. Just a bit nicer (no shorts and wear something better than a t-shirt) is fine. On casual nights you can even manage with shorts and a t-shirt if you want, though dressing a little nicer than that would be ideal.
One thing you shouldn’t wear, however, are ball caps or tank tops while dining in the main dining room. We’re not talking about a sleeveless blouse, but the casual, baggy tank tops that you’d see by the pool.
Depending on the cruise line, you may be directed to the dining room dress code. There could be some lines that let you in anyway, but just know that it’s generally frowned upon. You don’t have to go all out to dress up (especially on a casual night) but you should at least try to look presentable.
Uncovered Swimsuits in Buffet
Tank tops and baseball caps? Maybe they aren’t welcome in the dining room, but they are 100% fine in the buffet where things are decidedly more casual. But that doesn’t mean anything goes here.
You’ll almost always find the buffet on the ship located next to the pool deck. So you can enjoy yourself poolside and then quickly grab a bite to eat when you’re hungry. One thing you want to do, however, is cover up.
All the cruise lines have rules about covering up swimsuits when going in to eat. So guys, you need to put on a shirt and ladies, you need to have some sort of cover-up or wrap around your swimsuit.
If you eat somewhere poolside (there are often outdoor restaurants by the pool with quick bites), you don’t have to cover up here if you don’t want to.
Camouflage (in Some Ports)
These days, the trend of wearing camo has subsided a bit from the 1990s when it was a fashion statement. Still, if you’re thinking about rocking some camo on your Caribbean cruise, it’s best to leave it at home.
Many countries in this part of the world, including Trinidad, Jamaica, Antigua, and others have laws that specifically outlaw camouflage to be worn by civilians. It’s reserved instead for the military and/or police.
The last thing you want to do is be trying to enjoy a vacation only to be stopped by authorities because of what you packed.
Obscene and/or Sexual Clothing
It’s always hard to define what counts as obscene, but the general rule of thumb is that you know it when you see it. Unfortunately, it seems like we see this more and more in public.
Clothing with obscenities like cussing is a big “no-no” on a cruise. So if your shirt has the “F” word on it, leave it at home. Or better yet, just throw it away. Clothing with sexual innuendos is in the same boat.
Remember that the cruise ship not only has lots of people onboard, but it has lots of people of all ages onboard. Having something vulgar written on your shirt is not a good look in front of anyone, but especially kids.
Nothing at All (Unless You’re in the Cabin)
Your birthday suit? Even if you’re celebrating the milestone, wearing only your birthday suit isn’t going to fly on a cruise. Well, at least on most cruises.
First, every cruise line has specific restrictions against nudity on the ship in public places. If you’re on your balcony and out of view of everyone (including those in port), then it’s not an issue. Otherwise, you will be asked to cover up, including if you decide to go topless beside the pool.
But did you know that on some cruises, passengers are actually allowed to sail nude? In fact, there are nudist cruises as well as adults-only “lifestyle” cruises where nudity is allowed in many places around the ship, including the pool deck.
And no, you don’t have to worry about accidentally booking one of these trips. They are special charters of the ship and not for sale through the traditional channels.
More on what to wear on a cruise:
- Cruise Formal Night: Everything You Need to Know (What to Wear and More)
- What Type of Swimsuit Can I Wear on a Cruise?
- What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise (Complete Guide)
