A Caribbean cruise means sun-soaked adventures, fine dining and plenty of activities. So it’s important to head out with the right wardrobe. Well, if you plan to take a Royal Caribbean cruise from Athens, or possibly visit some tropical islands, your clothes needs to be fashionable, comfy and cruise-appropriate.
But, indeed, this is not unlike the myriad of royal Caribbean dress code on land, because Royal Caribbean has one day for your casual days, formal nights, and everything in between. This guide will help pack the ultimate Caribbean cruise outfits while keeping in line with the Royal Caribbean dress code.
Daytime Attire: Casual and Comfortable
For Women:
In the day, the sensory comfort meets the style. Whether you are by the pool or out in port, lightweight, breathable pieces are perfect.
- Swimsuits and Cover-Ups: For lounging, pack a chic swimsuit with a stylish sarong, kaftan or sundress.
- Shorts and Tank Tops; A set of linen shorts and a breezy tank top or t-shirt makes for a fancy outfit.
- Sundresses and Rompers: Easy and cute, these are great for sightseeing and beach days.
- Footwear: Flip-flops or sandals for the beach, and sneakers for outings.
For Men:
Men should choose breezy, cool fabrics in order to avoid sweating under the Caribbean sun.
- Swim Trunks and Rash Guards: Ideal for a day by the pool or a fun snorkeling adventure.
- Shorts and T-Shirts: A cotton t-shirt goes with chino or linen shorts for a terrific daytime option.
- Polo Shirts and Lightweight Button-Ups: Perfect mid-level casual.
- Comfortable Shoes: Sandals or loafers for walks, and sneakers for excursions.
Royal Caribbean Dining Room Dress Code: Smart Casual Evenings
The cruise has a royal Caribbean dinner dress code that is followed during dinner service. Casual wear on a Caribbean cruise is acceptable in buffets, but guests should wear smart casual royal Caribbean dining room dress code in the main dining rooms.
For Women:
- Chic dresses: A flowy maxi dress or knee-length cocktail dress is an elegant option.
- Blouses and Dress Pants: A chic blouse with tailored trousers or a midi skirt works fine.
- Jumpsuits: A comfortable, but fashionable alternative to a dress.
- Elegant sandals or heels: No flip-flops; go for fashionable flats or heels.
For Men:
- Collared Shirts: Polo shirt or a button down with tailored shorts or slacks.
- Chinos and Dark Jeans: Smart, but comfortable for dinner.
- Loafers or Dress Shoes: Leave the flip-flops and sneakers behind when visiting formal dining areas.
Royal Caribbean Formal Night Dress Code
Almost all 7-night Royal Caribbean cruises feature two formal nights where guests get the chance to dress up for dinner. Consider this an opportunity to flaunt your best outfit!
For Women:
- Dressy Evening Wear: A long, flowing gown or cocktail dress.
- Accessories: Statement jewelry, a clutch, and elegant heels complete the look.
- Glam Hair and Make-Up: A sleek hair-do and subtle glam makeup give a high end feel.
For Men:
- Suits and Tuxedos: A classic suit with tie or bowtie is welcome; a tuxedo is not necessary.
- Dress Shirts and Blazers: White or pastel button down shirt with a blazer and dress pants.
- Shoes: Oxfords or loafers round out the outfit.
Pro Tip: If you’d rather spare yourself from royal Caribbean formal night dress code wear, certain ships provide tuxedo or formal attire rentals.
Themed Nights and Special Events
Royal Caribbean commonly does themed nights like White Night, Tropical Night, or 70s Disco Parties. Here’s what to pack:
- White Night: All white, think a white maxi dress for women or linen pants with a white button shirt down for men.
- Tropical Night: Think floral dresses, Hawaiian shirts and bright colors.
- 70s Night: Go retro with bell-bottom pants, jacket, and platform shoes.
What to Wear on Excursions and Port Days
From beach escapes to cultural trips to adventurous activities, excursions cover them all. Pack accordingly:
For Beach Excursions:
- Swimsuits and cover-ups: Quick-drying and stylish.
- Sun Hats and Sunglasses: Offers protection from the Caribbean sun.
- Water Shoes: Helpful for rocky beaches or snorkeling excursions.
For Adventure Excursions:
- Athletic Clothes: Get moisture-wicking leggings or shorts and breathable tops.
- Hiking Shoes or Sneakers: Important for comfort and safety.
- Backpack and Water Bottle: Cruise around with them to stay hydrated.
For Cultural Tours:
- Lightweight Dresses or Linen Pants: They are modest but chic.
- Comfortable Flats or Sandals: Perfect for walking tours.
- Scarves or Shawls: Useful for covering shoulders when going to religious sites.
Packing Tips for a Royal Caribbean Cruise
- Mix and Match: Choose clothes that can be worn in different styles by pairing them with different accessories, shoes or layering them with others, which will help to create variety while maximizing your suitcase.
- Wrinkle-Free Fabrics: Choose jersey, polyester blends or linen with a wrinkle-resistant treatment so your clothes will stay crisp and smooth for your whole trip, eliminating the need to iron or steam them on the cruise.
- Accessories Matter: Bring along some eye-catching jewellery, trendy shades, oversized sun hats or light-weight scarves that can add an additional glam to your outfits without taking away much space in your bag. So this is a good tip if you are wondering what to wear on a Caribbean cruise.
- Layering is Key: Pack thin cardigans, shawls, or a blazer that can be worn over casual. Or go for snooty dressy clothes to keep you warm in air conditioned spaces and be ready if the temp on the ship suddenly changes.
- Shoes Should Be Practical: Rather than overstuffing the shoe section of your luggage with multiple pairs of heels, bring comfortable walking sandals for excursions, clothes-savvy slip-on flats for everyday days, cute heels for dressy nights. For active adventures wear sneakers so that you are completely equipped for every scenario.
- Plan for Themed Nights: Some cruises often have special event nights such as a White Night or a Tropical Night. So, check your itinerary in advance, and pack a nice white dress or bloomers so you can participate in the fun.
- Use Packing Cubes: Pack up all your casual wear, evening outfits, swimwear and accessories in the respective packing cubes. This means you will be able to easily find the ones you need when you need them, and it will keep your clothes in a fold during your trip without unnecessary rummaging.
- Laundry Options Are Available: The ships provide washing services or self-service laundromats onboard. So if you want to travel light, you can rewash select pieces and wear them again, meaning you have clean outfits without having to overstuff your suitcase with clothes you won’t use.
- Don’t Forget Sun Protection: With many Caribbean destinations having extreme sun exposure, it’s essential to bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses and lightweight UV-protection cream to shield your skin and eyes from harmful rays while exploring outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sitting poolside, dining out or going on an excursion, your clothing choices should be functional and stylish. With some careful consideration of the itinerary, dress code, and themed nights, you can have a worry-free, stylish cruise experience without unsettling your outfit.
