What To Wear – and NOT Wear – on Cruises! Can Your Clothing Choices Get You in Trouble?

Is there such a thing as inappropriate attire on a cruise ship? Cruise lines each have their own dress code policies. Having spent many nights at sea, I have seen a LOT of poor choices as well as a LOT of good choices when it comes to cruise clothing. Are there certain things you should definitely leave in your closet at home though? Let’s dive in!

Black Tie

This has for the most part become a thing of the past on most cruise lines that have relaxed dress codes to allow guests to feel more comfortable while dining. You are still welcome to dress up for dinner if you wish, but most cruise lines no longer require this level of formal-wear.

Camouflage

This is the big no-no in many Caribbean nations. This Cruise Hive article pointed out that even smaller items – like purses, face masks, scarves, belts and bags –  in camo are not allowed. The idea is that it generally confuses being able to identify actual military or law enforcement personnel or might even identify you as someone with nefarious plans.

Swimwear

You may think you look just fab-u-lous in your new bathing suit, and you may! Very conservative places like Bermuda, however, will only allow your fabulousness around the pool or beach area. Plan to wear something to cover up if you want to venture to other places.

Footwear

When participating in on-ship tours, like behind the scenes tours, you will likely want to plan on closed toed shoes as opposed to your cutest open-toed sandals. There are other shore excursions that will also require closed shoes like horseback riding and Segway tours. If you’re doing a walking tour you will want to make sure your footwear is appropriate to the activity level of the tour.

Off the Shoulder

Some shore excursions of places like churches or cathedrals will also require modest dress, so skip your short-shorts and mini-skirts and plan to have your shoulders covered as well as a scarf to cover your head in some cases. You will also want to make sure photography is allowed before snapping away. Just remember to be respectful and kind and you will be fine.

Legal Stuff

When you are visiting other countries you are responsible to obey the laws of the place you are in. Even if the laws where you live may be different, you are required to know and obey the laws of the places you visit. Keep this in mind with regard to any CBD products, alcohol and even some over the counter first aid and medical items you may have brought from home.

Summing Up

Everyone wants to have a great cruise adventure. It’s important to be informed and aware so you can plan accordingly and not have anything get in the way of you getting the fun and memorable experience you hoped for. – René