Every cruise is different, from destinations and impressive themes onboard, to diverse dining options and fun-packed entertainment. So when it comes to packing, it can be tricky to navigate whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or not. 

Luckily, one expert is on hand to help, and has revealed there are two dress codes everyone should pack for, no matter what ship or itinerary they’ve chosen.

Aside from everyday wear and essentials on the packing list, the majority of cruises require passengers to adhere to a “evening casual” or “black tie” dress code for dining in the restaurants. Cruise expert Tim, who goes by cruiseshiptipsandchat on TikTok, shared a video outlining the rules.

Tim explained that for men, evening casual means full-length trousers and a collared or polo shirt, while women should expect to wear a cocktail dress or something similar. In a long-standing tradition on board, many cruise lines host black-tie events for their passengers, offering a night of celebration and elegance.

During this evening, men are expected to wear tuxedos or suits, while women don evening gowns or floor-length dresses. On some cruises, the dress code is enforced, while others are more relaxed, as they view it as an option rather than a requirement.

Additionally, Tim said that “most nights” onboard will be smart casual. “Evening casual is most of the nights on your cruise if you’re going to certain venues. One or two nights per week, there’ll be black tie nights. I quite like them personally, I like to dress up for the evening,” he explained in the clip.

Before embarking on your travels, it’s best to check directly with the cruise line to see if they have any dress codes in place. However, Tim explained that there will be areas on the ship where no dress code is required, including for a buffet dinner.

Sharing their own experiences, one traveller commented on Tim’s video: “They should be more strict in the day, going to the buffet in PJs or a bikini is not great. We were on Royal Caribbean, and this was happening – you go up a floor level, and it’s very dressy.”

Another asked: “Can ladies wear a pantsuit for black tie? Don’t do cocktail frocks.” To which Tim replied: “Absolutely yes.”

There are always plenty of dining options available for holidaymakers on board, whether you’re looking to dress up for an evening or take a more relaxed approach. That being said, even if you’re dining at the buffet, there are still some etiquette rules you should be aware of.

The founder of Panache Cruises, James Cole said: “Although you may be hungry and eager to head to the buffet, remember that your fellow passengers are likely feeling the same way, and your wants and needs don’t supersede theirs.

“Be patient and wait for your turn, and if you really can’t wait to tuck into your food, then make sure to have a snack in between meal times.”

Another no-go when it comes to the buffet is eating while you’re still standing in the queue, no matter how tempting your food is. Instead, passengers are advised to only eat when seated at a table.