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Cruise Outfits to Wear on Your Next Cruise Vacation (2024)

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links, which at no cost to you I may earn a small commission.

Cruise Outfits for Women

Having trouble figuring out what exactly to wear on a cruise? You’ve come to the right place. In this post, I’ll share cruise outfits for women that I’ve worn on my past cruises as a Millennial cruiser, and give you inspiration on your cruise wardrobe.

In the past few years, I’ve been on 8+ cruises, and each time I’ve perfected all the outfits you’d need to pack for your cruise.

I’ve been on all kinds of itineraries from shorter Caribbean cruises to long Mediterranean cruises, and from my experience, the cruise outfits generally stay the same.

You’ll need to consider what you’ll wear on the ship during the day, what you’ll wear on port days, and evening attire- which I’ll cover in this post.

So whether this is your first cruise or if you are a seasoned cruiser, I hope you find some new inspiration for your upcoming cruise with these new cruise outfits.

Read More: – For a more comprehensive list of what to pack for a cruise, read my ultimate cruise packing list that covers everything you’d need to bring (plus things you wouldn’t even think about but make a HUGE difference)

Daytime Cruise Outfits

Embarkation day cruise outfits.

The first day of your cruise is exciting! You’re getting accustomed to your new home at sea with lots of exploring and finding a delicious cocktail.

Now before the fun of exploring, keep in mind you’ll be doing a lot of waiting around to get on the ship, plus going through security, and perhaps waiting for your room to be ready.

For embarkation day I would plan on wearing a casual outfit with lighter materials with layers- or even your airplane outfit . Something lightweight, yet appropriate to wear wandering around the ship.

I wouldn’t worry too much about what to wear on Embarkation day, but having a swimsuit ready to go is a great idea.

Pro Tip: Wear a swimsuit underneath your clothing with a stylish coverup and take advantage of the resort deck pool while everyone gets settled or hits up the buffet. It will feel like you’ve added an extra day on to your cruise!

What to wear on a Cruise Sea Day

Stick to casual clothing during the day on a cruise. A typical sea day on a cruise begins with breakfast, you can wear casual items like t-shirts, jean shorts, etc.

I like to wear cute sets, or shorts and a cute top that’s easy to throw on when heading to the breakfast buffet. This is the least formal part of your cruise, but I would avoid walking around in your pajamas .

After that, you’ll probably walk around the ship or head to the resort deck which you’ll need to bring a bathing suit and beach coverup .

I always like to bring a larger tote bag so I can stick in all my essentials that I would need for a full pool day like sunscreen, a book, a water bottle, and extra clothes if I decide to swim.

Just think about wearing classic resort casual wear for the daytime.

Not sure what resort casual wear is? I have a full post that explains it. Read What is resort casual wear & how to wear it .

Now in the early evening after lounging on the resort deck, I like to wear a nice sundress or something a little dressy to have a sunset cocktail in. Thankfully for us ladies, I can usually wear the same dress to dinner without a problem.

What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise Excursion

I find a lot of Caribbean shore excursions involve lots of water activities like swimming & snorkeling, or boat excursions.

For a Caribbean cruise excursion, I would wear a swimsuit plus a coverup , and additional dry clothes if you want to change into something more comfortable after your day in the water, especially for warm destinations.

If you are not headed on a water excursion, wear casual clothing like sundresses , shirts, and shorts in light breathable materials like linen, cotton, or jersey.

Plus a comfortable pair of shoes you can easily walk around in for different terrain.

I took a cooking class in St. Kitts on a cruise excursion. I wore a casual top and shorts and everyone else wore something similar. Keep in mind that Caribbean islands are hot and humid.

What to Wear on a Mediterranean Cruise Excursion

Here are some Cruise outfit ideas I wore on my Mediterranean cruise excursions in Italy, Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro.

If you are going on a Mediterranean cruise, your ports of call and excursions tend to be a bit different than a Caribbean Cruise.

Instead of mostly swim & snorkel excursions you’d find on a Caribbean cruise, Mediterranean cruises have more city sightseeing excursions that involve a lot of walking , touring, and being in a city center.

For example, if you stop in Naples Itay, you could explore the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Naples, and even Pompei which all involve different kinds of daytime outfits.

I like to wear lightweight breathable dresses and comfortable walking shoes with a larger day bag to keep all my essentials inside.

Surprisingly my Birkenstock Arizona sandals were my go-to shoe on all my excursions. I even climbed a mountain in Kotor Montenegro in them and they were still comfortable afterward.

Evening Cruise Outfits

To be honest, I think that the ladies have an easier time with evening cruise outfits because mostly anything goes as long as it’s dressy. Darker-colored sundresses , cocktail dresses , or even pants with a dressy top will work.

Men on the other hand have more rules like long pants and collared shirts.

Like I previously mentioned, after lounging at the pool deck, I like to get dressed up in a nice sundress to have a sunset cocktail before dinner. I usually head straight to dinner in the same dress and never had any problems.

Casual Dinner Outfits

I find that a lot more cruises are ditching formal dinners and instead have an “evening chic” dress code which can mean dressing elegant and sophisticated in your way.

Here are some examples of “casual” dinner cruise outfits. Keep in mind that I like to dress up no matter what the dress code is.

Here is a great example of a casual dinner outfit that doesn’t involve a dress. A pair of nice dark pants and a dressy top and flats will do the job for casual nights.

Formal Dinner Outfits

Here are some examples of formal dinner cruise outfits for the main dining room I’ve worn on recent cruises:

Some cruise lines have “ formal ” nights, but even in recent years the strictness of the dress code has become more lax . Formal dress codes for ladies include cocktail dresses, elegant skirts, and evening-wear blouses.

But if you still want to wear a formal evening gown, it’s welcome. It’s a great excuse to dress up a little.

Double-check which cruise line you are cruising with to see the exact evening dress code.

What to wear on a cruise

No matter if you are going on a Caribbean Cruise or a Mediterranean cruise, here are things you should pack for your next cruise.

Pack sundresses to wear during the day, early evening, and perhaps dinner. These can be flowy maxi dresses or shorter styles. My favorite Amazon Maxi dress looks more expensive than it is and works great on a cruise.

Bonus tip: find dresses in non-wrinkle materials such as jersey material so you won’t have to worry about trying to get the wrinkles out.

Swimwear & Cover-ups:

You will be living in a swimsuit & coverup on your cruise, so be sure you bring your favorites. I love this one piece from Amazon . It’s flattering on any body type, comes in multiple colors, and looks expensive.

This beach coverup from Amazon is also one of my favorites. It’s in a nice cotton gauze-like material and looks so sophisticated.

Lightweight Jacket / Scarf

No matter when or where your cruise is, a lightweight jacket is a good idea for added warmth on cooler nights or heavy inside air conditioning. This could be a denim jacket, a lightweight sweater, or shall.

I’d recommend going for an extra-large scarf or sweater that still can be worn over your shoulders during the evening. It’s not too casual and looks dressy, while still keeping you warm.

Dark Pants / Jeans:

Be sure to bring a dark pair of pants or jeans if you don’t want to wear dresses to dinner. Dark pant goes with any dressy top, and it’s a basic you can wear more than once on your cruise.

Evening Dress

A nice evening dress is essential for any cruise. I find that a little black dress is a perfect item to bring because it’s dressy and easy to pack.

Some of my favorite evening dresses from Amazon .

A pair of sandals that you can easily slip on and off are a must. Ideally, bring a pair that you don’t mind getting wet – especially if you plan on going to the resort pool deck or any water excursion.

You can bring heels, but keep in mind that you’ll be doing plenty of walking on cruise ships, and most of the time they are carpeted. If your heels are uncomfortable on land, they will be uncomfortable at sea.

A great compromise is a shorter kitten heel, a wedge, or a dressy flat.

A pair of white sneakers go with everything and are comfortable to put on after wearing sandals for so many days. These are great to have for strenuous activities, adventurous excursions, and exploring ports of call.

Read next :  23 Best White Sneakers For Women You Can Wear All Day

Sun Hat & Pair of Sunglasses

Don’t forget your accessories like a sun hat and a pair of sunglasses. To avoid your hat getting blown away by the wind, find one with a chin strap.

You’d be surprised at how many things you need to bring with you when you leave your cruise cabin.

I love bringing a stylish tote bag to throw all my essentials for the day inside like sunscreen, book, phone or tablet, an extra change of clothes, towel, etc.

I recommend this stylish tote from Amazon that I wore on my recent cruise. Or I love a sturdy canvas tote that goes with any outfit.

Mens Cruise Outfits

I can’t leave the men hanging, so here are some men’s cruise outfit ideas:

Men’s Day Outfits

During the day, men can wear casual clothing like swim trunks and a neutral shirt that is acceptable for the breakfast buffet and the resort deck.

Men’s Evening Cruise Outfits

Now unfortunately for the men, the evening cruise line dress code applies mostly to men.

Cruises suggest men wear in general long pants or nice jeans, a collared dress shirt, and dress shoes.

For Formal Nights : Men should wear dress slacks, a collared shirt, and a sports coat. A tux or suit is optional, but double-check the specifics from your cruise line.

@danaberez Some outfits i packed for my cruise vacation #cruiseoutfits #vacationoutfitinspo #cruiseoutfitideas ♬ BLING BLING – ALTÉGO

Cruise Outfits FAQ:

How many outfits to pack per day on a cruise.

I would pack two outfits per day on a cruise- something to wear during the day either on board or at a port of call, and something a bit dressier for the evening. Now you can wear a swimsuit & coverup more than once on your vacation, so keep that in mind when you’re packing.

Do you dress up for dinner on a cruise?

Generally yes, you do dress up for dinner on a cruise. However, a lot of cruises are dropping the mandatory “formal” night where you had to dress to the nines in black tie attire. Instead, you’ll find smart casual, or evening chic dress codes in place for dinner.

What are the best clothes to wear on a cruise?

You’ll want to wear something comfortable and casual during the day. Don’t forget your swimsuit for excursions or lounging at the resort deck. And add something a bit dressy for the evening.

What NOT to wear on a cruise?

Now there are a few things not to wear on a cruise that pertain mostly to the evening. Flip flops, swimsuits tank tops, and shorts are generally not allowed inside restaurants during dinner.

Another thing to keep in mind is your footwear. Cruise ships are huge and you’ll be doing a surprising amount of walking (especially if your cabin is on the opposite of the buffet) Don’t wear shoes you can’t walk in like super high heels , etc.

Let’s Sum it up on Cruise Outfits

I hope you found this post helpful for packing for your next cruise vacation. To sum it up here are things you need to think about when packing for cruise outfits.

• During the day you’ll want to bring something to wear around the cruise ship. Think comfortable and casual.
• Bring a swimsuit + coverup for days on the resort deck.
• I always recommend bringing something easy to throw on for quick runs to the buffet, especially in the morning for coffee!

Pro tip: bring a reusable insulated water bottle to fill up with coffee, water (or cocktails) to keep warm or cold throughout your cruise.

• During the evening pack something a bit dressier. For ladies that can be dark pants and a dressy top or a nice dress. Men should bring long pants and a collared shirt for dinner time.

Headed on a Cruise? – Read these posts next:

The Ultimate Cruise Packing List

Amazon Travel Essentials

What is resort Casual Wear?

Cruise Reviews:

Virgin Voyages Review

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Dana Berez is a fashion and travel blogger with a focus on affordable style and outfit ideas, especially when traveling. Dana Berez has been featured on the Wall Street Journal, CNN Underscored, Apartment Therapy and more! Plus , you can also watch Dana on Youtube for fashion hauls and travel guides that has over 9 million views.

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If you’re going on a cruise with your family, it’s time to stock up on cruise clothes. Since it will be warm during the cruise, it's important to pack maxi dresses, shorts, halter tops, and more summer clothing. Wearing stylish  clothing  will look fabulous on you throughout all the fun events on the cruise.

Stopping at a few places while on the cruise? Pack  shorts  that will feel comfortable while spending time on dry land. Wear the shorts with an adorable tee-shirt and a fun necklace and the look will work well for traveling. Don’t forget to bring along comfortable shoes to wear with your nice shorts. Wearing the right kind of shoes will help get rid of any discomfort while spending a lot of time on your feet.

Look your best during fun events on the ship by wearing a  maxi dress  that’s trendy and pretty with its fun colors. RACHEL Rachel Roy offers fun dresses that will look lovely while you are enjoying a worthwhile vacation. A maxi dress with an elastic waistband and pockets at the side seams will be extremely comfortable to wear while on a ship. Plus, when it is gets cooler outside, the longer skirt will keep the legs warm when it is breezy.

An everyday  tank top  is another article of clothing to bring along on a trip. It will keep you cool and will look great with many other pieces of clothing. Cruise clothes that keep a body cool will feel nice to wear during warm occasions. Plus, the sleeveless styling will be the perfect feature on a tank top that's stylish. Wear a tank top with a pair of shorts or a skirt and feel cool throughout the day.

Add extra style to an ensemble and wear a  spaghetti-strap tank  that will feel comfortable and look very fashionable. In particular, a ruffled tank will bring the right amount of feminine details to an outfit and paired with a pair of cute flip-flops, the outfit will be complete.

Now it’s time to enjoy a wonderful trip and have fun while wearing nice looking clothing. Find cruise clothes that suit your style at Macy’s.

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What To Wear On A Cruise: Dressing For The Vacation Of Your Dreams

By Taylor Fuller | Published on January 24, 2024

So you've booked your dream vacation sailing on the open seas, but you're not sure what to wear on a cruise. Don't worry — cruise vacations take the stress out of travel, and your wardrobe should reflect the laid-back vibes you'll feel as you sail through paradise. The quintessential cruise style is easy to pull off; think vibrant colors, tropical prints and lightweight fabrics.

When you're planning a weekend away, it's important to pack smart. Whether your plan is to cruise through islands, posting up on stunning beaches and swimming in warm, crystal-clear waters, or to hike ancient ruins and wander through medeival cities, this guide will help you pick out the best cruise wear for your trip.

1. What To Wear On A Weekend Getaway Cruise

Packing outfits for vacation can be overwhelming, especially if you're one to overpack for a trip. If that's you, a weekend getaway  can be the perfect challenge for you to curb your bad habits and stick to packing for versatility. The best advice I can give is to pack for the vacation you want to have. Weekend cruises are a great way to unwind and explore another world in a short amount of time, so pack for busy days where you'll be going from the beach to a museum, out to lunch and then back to the beach. For example, pack a swimsuit and some chic sunglasses for the relaxing beach day you're craving, and bring along a breezy cover-up and sandals or comfortable shoes, so you can check out the cool town during lunchtime.

If you're new to cruising, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that there are activities and events that happen onboard the ship in the evenings and on sea days. Most cruise vacations include at least one formal night where everyone dresses their best for a special dinner. Cruise formal wear still embraces the relaxed energy of sailing, so outfits like a lightweight sport coat, chinos, a colorful dress or a jumpsuit will fit right in. You'll also want to include some smart casual looks, which means something that's a step up from sneakers and sweatpants for your other evening meals.

For sea days when traveling in a warmer climate, you'll definitely want a swimsuit if you plan to take advantage of the onboard water park. However, if you're cruising through a colder region like Canada, you'll want a jacket and some warm layers, so you can stay comfortable on deck.

2. Packing For Your Vacation Plans

Planning ahead for your cruise vacation will help you pack for every moment. Most onshore excursions require reservations, so discuss with your family or travel buddies what kind of activities you cannot miss on your trip ahead of time. If you book an excursion that requires physical activity, opt for comfortable clothing you can move around in like leggings, shorts, sneakers, hiking boots if you're hitting trails, a light jacket (depending on the region you're exploring) and a sturdy backpack. Though hiking boots can take up precious suitcase space, they're essential for exploring a tropical jungle or mountainous terrain, and can double as comfortable shoes for long days spent sightseeing. If you have whale-watching on your agenda, pack a jacket in case it's cold or misty, a hat so you don't get sunburnt, and binoculars.

A quick weekend cruise can take you to some amazing places. I recommend using your time wisely and trying to see as much as you can. For example, a two-night Cyprus cruise  is all about beaches, history and incredible cuisine. Pack outfits that you'll be comfortable in even when the sun is scorching hot, so you don't have to worry about going back to the ship to get changed midday. Effortless flowy skirts and airy linen shirts make great cover-ups for swimwear that will protect your skin from the sun as you explore ancient sites. Comfortable shoes are a must for a trip like this, whether that's a flat sandal with straps or sneakers. Just make sure you're wearing something that won't get caught in the cobblestone streets of Cyprus. Add some fun accessories like a hat or sunglasses and a tote bag to carry all of your souvenirs, and voila  — you have an all-day outfit mapped out.

If cooler climes and rugged mountains call to you, consider a cruise to Canada . Of course, British Columbia requires a different packing strategy than a trip to The Bahamas or the Mediterranean. Even when cruising in the summer months, be sure to dress for the destination, not the season — layers are your friend here. Pack some thin thermals you can layer under your clothes if necessary, so you can spend the day comfortably strolling along the Inner Harbour and checking out Victoria's most notable landmarks. Don't forget a hat and gloves and some wool socks to keep your toes warm, too! When you're hanging out onboard, a thin, packable windbreaker or jacket will come in handy, so you can sit out on the deck with a cup of coffee, admiring the breathtaking scenery.

Still unsure about what to wear on a cruise? Whether you're packing cruisewear for women, men or non-binary people, I recommend getting creative. My favorite part of going on a vacation is that I get to wear things I wouldn't normally wear in my day-to-day. I love putting together patterns and colors that may feel a little funky and wearing sunglasses the size of my face. Take risks with your wardrobe! Your dream vacation will only be that much more memorable.

No matter what type of cruise you're looking for, you're sure to have a blast when you pack the perfect cruise wardrobe. Whether you're interested in history and want to explore ruins or would rather relax on the beach with a cold beverage in hand, there's a cruise getaway waiting for you. So what are you waiting for? Start searching for your next weekend adventure.

Get away this weekend on a cruise .

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What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Editor's Note

Have you ever had that nightmare where you're at work, in school or giving an important presentation only to look down to discover you're only wearing underwear (or worse, nothing at all)? If you're new to vacationing at sea, knowing how to dress for a cruise can be confusing and just as potentially embarrassing if you're not prepared.

Packing acceptable attire for a cruise is simple if you remember a few general rules. Here, I'll break down some safe options if you're unsure, and I'll give an overview of the cruise dress codes for each of the "big eight" cruise lines.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What do people wear on a cruise?

You can't go wrong with resort-casual clothing for sea days when you'll remain on board your ship. Although some lines will be more or less casual than that, it's a good baseline. What is "resort casual" though?

Khaki pants or shorts with loose-fitting, short-sleeved button-down shirts or even nice, plain T-shirts work well for men. Women might opt for khaki shorts or palazzo pants with a nice top or a sundress. In most cases, nice jeans (dark wash with no holes) will also work well.

On most ships, this clothing will also be acceptable at night in the main dining rooms. For extra-fee restaurants, you might choose to dress up a bit more. Collared shirts or long-sleeved button-downs are acceptable for men, and slacks with a blouse or a dress for women are acceptable.

For formal nights, which are optional on many lines' ships, men will want to bring a collared, button-down shirt at the bare minimum. For something a little more snazzy, bring a jacket to wear over your shirt, with or without a tie. Some men opt for suits or tuxes. For women, pantsuits and dressy pants outfits are a great choice, as are party dresses or even ball gowns.

Although most lines have eased dress codes on formal or "elegant" nights, jeans are generally not allowed in the main dining rooms. Cut-off shorts, baseball caps and flip-flops are banned at all times — not just on formal nights — during dinner in the main dining rooms.

Related: 7 cruise ship packing mistakes you want to avoid at all costs

Another key piece of clothing to bring is a bathing suit. Whether you're headed to a warm-weather destination and plan to laze by the pool or on the beach, or you're visiting somewhere chilly but want to take advantage of your vessel's hot tubs, it's an item you won't want to forget. Note that cover-ups are required for entry at all restaurants and dining rooms, with the exception of walk-up poolside window-service venues.

For shore excursions — particularly those in more rugged or active destinations that require a lot of walking — comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy footwear are a must. Bring layers for cold climates and moisture-wicking fabrics for places where it's warm or where you expect to work up a sweat.

Finally, check to see if your cruise line has any special theme nights planned. If so, you might want to pack an outfit for the white party or '80s night.

Carnival cruise dress code

Carnival is one line where casual is the name of the game. Passengers will be fine in jeans, T-shirts, tank tops, shorts and bathing suits for their days on board or ashore.

At night, nice jeans and nice tops are perfect for eating in the main dining rooms.

On Carnival cruise formal nights, known as "cruise elegant" nights, cruisers wear everything from slacks with nice shirts to tuxes and ball gowns. However, most passengers stick to clothes that fall somewhere in the middle.

Voyages of six nights or longer will have two "cruise elegant" nights, while those five nights or shorter will see only one.

Celebrity Cruises dress code

Celebrity Cruises maintains a dress code that's best described as chic-casual. The demographic on board tends to be a bit more upscale than what you'll find on Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian. That means khaki shorts with nice button-downs are more common than jean shorts and tank tops, although you won't be out of place in the latter.

For dinner, you'll want to dress it up even more, as the line has a smart-casual dress code at night in most restaurants, including the main dining room. Anything from unripped jeans to dress pants with nice blouses or button-downs is acceptable.

Related: 20 must-have items I won't cruise without

Are there formal nights on Celebrity cruises? Yes, the line holds one "evening chic" night on every sailing of six nights or fewer and two on voyages of a week or more. The dress code encourages passengers to go all-out with tuxes and evening gowns. However, most men choose slacks with collared or button-down shirts and jackets, sans ties. Most women choose slacks and nice blouses, sundresses or party dresses.

Disney Cruise Line dress code

Disney Cruise Line is synonymous with children, and children like to be comfortable. With that in mind, just about anything goes in terms of dress on The Mouse's ships. These cruises tend toward casual in spite of their stellar service and high price point.

It's not uncommon to see jeans, shorts, T-shirts or bathing suits during the day. Unlike most other lines, the same goes at dinnertime, with jeans and T-shirts just as common as dressier attire like slacks and button-downs.

Exceptions are the line's "dress-up" nights — two on sailings of a week or more and one on shorter voyages. For those, DCL suggests that men avoid jeans and wear jackets. Women should go with dresses, skirts and blouses, or pantsuits.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Some of Disney Cruise Line's added-fee restaurants, such as Remy — one of the most expensive alternative eateries at sea — require jackets for men and don't allow jeans.

Each Disney sailing features a Pirate Night; cruisers wishing to participate should pack their best swashbuckling gear. As is standard at Disney parks, you're also likely to see large numbers of costumes and mouse ears at all hours of the day.

Holland America Line dress code

Although the dress code on Holland America ships is technically "cruise casual," you'll rarely spot anyone looking disheveled or like they just rolled out of bed. Most passengers tend toward resortwear or, at the bare minimum, nice jeans with pressed T-shirts.

The casual dress code carries through to dinner, but HAL cruisers often dress up a bit more. This includes collared shirts or button-downs (sometimes with jackets) and slacks for men and slacks with nice tops or dresses for women.

As for Holland America formal nights, on sailings shorter than a week, there will be one "gala night," during which travelers don evening or ball gowns, suits or tuxedos. Voyages of eight to 13 nights will see two gala nights, while any cruises of two weeks or longer will have three chances to dress to the nines.

MSC Cruises dress code

What to wear on MSC cruises largely depends on the crowd with whom you're sailing. On European cruises, your fellow passengers are likely to dress up more often — even during the day; skimpy resortwear and designer bathing suits often grace the pool deck as far as the eye can see. On those voyages, dinner is an even more fancy affair, with elegance as the norm. Expect to see glittering dresses and stylish pants and button-downs with dress shoes, even when it's not a formal night.

On cruises that depart from the U.S., expect a more casual vibe, with jeans, T-shirts and bathing suits ruling the day. At night, you'll be fine with nice jeans and a collared shirt or a sundress, although you might want to dress up a bit more to match the ship's ambience.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Are there formal nights on MSC cruises? Absolutely. They're called "gala dinners," and they appear at least once per voyage, but the number can vary by itinerary. The dress code is strict, with the buffet the only place that will allow T-shirts and shorts. You'll fit in best in a ball gown, cocktail dress, suit or tuxedo.

Norwegian Cruise Line dress code

Norwegian , which pioneered the concept of "freestyle cruising," prides itself on allowing cruisers to dress as they please, providing a "come as you are" atmosphere during the day and at night. The most popular clothing is cruise casual, and passengers are free to wear whatever they'd like with an emphasis on comfort.

The only exception is at dinner, when a smart-casual vibe encourages travelers to avoid torn clothes or suggestive or skimpy outfits.

In a nod to Norwegian's laid-back style, NCL formal nights — dubbed "Dress Up or Not" nights — provide a chance for you to get dolled up. However, it's not required, and you won't be turned away from the main dining rooms if you choose not to participate. Passengers have been spotted wearing everything from jeans and T-shirts to ball gowns and tuxes, and all coexist in perfect harmony.

Princess Cruises dress code

Princess ' casual daytime mindset means you can wear the same types of clothing on board as you would during a day ashore — activewear, beachwear and jeans or T-shirts are totally fine.

Princess' formal nights are special because the line is one of the few industry holdouts in that it still has an official formal night. Its passengers enjoy a more traditional cruise experience, and they relish the romantic vibe that a formal night can provide. With that in mind, the line doesn't mention super-fancy garb like ball gowns or tuxes; instead, it advises suits or slacks with jackets for men and cocktail dresses or pantsuits for the ladies.

On voyages of less than a week, passengers should plan for one formal night, while sailings of a week to 13 days will have two, and cruises two weeks or longer will have three.

All other nights are listed as "smart casual." This means sundresses or pants with flowy tops for women and nice jeans or slacks with collared shirts for men will suffice.

Royal Caribbean dress code

As is the case with Carnival and Norwegian, Royal Caribbean is a casual line during the day. Like Disney Cruise Line, it caters to a lot of families. Translation: Wear what allows you to have the most fun in the most comfort. Expect to see shorts or jeans with T-shirts or tank tops and bathing suits or beachwear almost exclusively during the daytime.

At night, you might want to put on something a little less comfortable, but it's certainly not required unless it's a formal night. (Like Princess, Royal still has those.) The confusing part is that the line has three different dress codes, all of which are loosely enforced: casual, smart casual and formal. The ones that show up on your voyage will depend on the length of the cruise.

The only difference between the first two is that smart casual recommends pantsuits for ladies and jackets for the guys, but skirts or trousers with blouses or collared shirts are fine in both cases. Smart casual also strongly discourages jeans — even nice ones.

Royal Caribbean formal nights have the highest expectations for passengers, urging them to wear their finest cocktail dresses, evening gowns, suits or tuxes. As with the line's smart-casual dress code, jeans are not allowed in the main dining rooms on formal nights.

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Beautiful Dresses for a Cruise Vacation (resort wear & cocktail dresses)

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Are you going on a cruise and looking for beautiful dresses for day and evening? These resort wear dresses are perfect for a cruise vacation!

If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking to add a pretty dress or two to your cruise wardrobe. In this post you’ll find casual dresses and fancier dresses that are appropriate for a cruise.

While most of these dresses are best for warm weather tropical cruises, I’ve included some long sleeve dresses that would work well for cooler weather itineraries as well.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Pretty Dresses for a Cruise Vacation

1. long halter top dress.

This long halter top maxi dress is gorgeous in both a floral print and in solid colors. It can be worn equally well walking in port on a Mediterranean cruise or to the main dining room on a Caribbean cruise vacation.

Recommended: Halter top dress (check price & 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

2. Sleeveless Tank Style Dress

This sleeveless tank style dress is perfect for a tropical cruise, both for a sightseeing shore excursion and evening deck party.

Recommended: Sleeveless sundress (see other patterns & colors on Amazon here)

3. Casual Sundress

I love this pretty sundress with a bright floral pattern! It made a great embarkation day outfit, but can also be worn day or evening on a cruise.

Recommended: Casual summer dress with ruffle bottom (check price & color & style options on Amazon here)

Related: What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise – Cruise Outfit Ideas

4. Halter Top Summer Dress

This halter top style dress is so flattering and can be paired with a light sweater or cardigan for the dining room if it gets cool.

Recommended: Halter top style summer dress (check prcie & 4000 reviews with photos on Amazon)

5. Off the Shoulder Maxi Dress

This off the shoulder maxi dress is perfect for both casual and dressy evenings on a cruise. The ruffle detail and high low bottom makes this dress extra special.

Recommended: Off the shoulder maxi dress (also available in long sleeve version)

6. Bodycon Sleeveless Cocktail Dress

Less formal than a traditional cocktail dress, this mid length ruffle bottom dress is perfect for cruise chic , galas or formal night dress codes .

Recommended: Sleeveless midi bodycon cocktail dress (check price & 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

7. Sleeveless Long Cocktail Dress

This long cocktail dress with a slit will look great on formal or elegant nights on a cruise. Pair it with a light shawl if your shoulders tend to feel cool in the main dining room.

Recommended: Long v neck cocktail dress (a best seller)

Related: What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (day, evening & formal night)

8. Floral Wrap Maxi Dess

This pretty floral v neck dress is nice and loose, but has a very flattering in a wrap style.

Recommended: Floral maxi dress (check price & different colors & patterns on Amazon)

9. T-shirt Sundress

This tshirt style sundress is comfy and easy to wear on a Bahamas cruise, or any other warm weather cruise.

Recommended: tshirt style dress (check price & over 8000 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

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10. Strapless Beach Dress Cover Up

This strapless beach dress makes a great swimsuit cover up for a cruise vacation!

Recommended: Strapless beach dress cover up (see price & 8000+ Amazon reviews)

Related: 25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Cruise

11. Short Sleeve Maxi Dress with Pockets

A long maxi dress is great for casual port days, sea days, and even evenings on your cruise. This long dress can be worn as a cover up as well.

Recommended: Maxi dress with pockets (see different colors & 10,000+ Amazon reviews here)

12. Short Sleeve V Neck Dress

This knee length short sleeve dress looks great in different colors and patterns. This dress is always great to pack, as it stays pretty wrinkle free .

Recommended: Short sleeve dress (check the solid & floral patterns)

13. Boho Style Sundress

This boho style sundress is one of my favorites (I wear it on most cruises!).

Recommended: Boho sundress with pockets

Related: What to Wear on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Related: My Favorite Best Cruise Dresses I’m Wearing Right Now

14. Bohemian Tunic Dress

If you like a boho style dress, but prefer a longer sleeve tunic style , this one is so cute!

Recommended: Tunic dress (check price & different styles on Amazon here)

Related: What to Wear on a Cruise for Ladies Over 60 (by request cruise clothing not sleeveless)

15. Sleeveless Maxi Dress

This sleeveless maxi dress cinches loosely at the waist, with a flowing ruffled bottom. I have this dress is black and it works equally well during the day with flat sandals and in the evening with dressier shoes.

Recommended: Sleeveless maxi dress (see price, reviews & gorgeous color options)

16. Knee Length Wrap Style Dress

This knee length wrap style dresses is one of the most comfortable and flattering dresses I’ve ever owned. It also doesn’t seem to wrinkle!

I have it in black, but love the red color for Holiday cruises or Christmas or New Year’s parties at home!

Recommended: Wrap style dress (with sleeves)

Related: 25 Cruise Gift Bag Ideas that Are Fun to Make, Give and Receive

17. Nautical Stripe Dress

This nautical stripe dress by Nautica is one of my all time favorites! It just says “I’m on a cruise!”, doesn’t it?

Recommended: Navy & white stripe dress (check price & 3000+ 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

18. Long Maxi Dress with Waist

If you like a flattering maxi dress with sleeves , this is it! A very popular and well reviewed dress, it comes in several colors, in sizes small through 6X.

Recommended: Maxi dress with sleeves (see price, color on size options including plus size here)

19. Short Sleeve T-shirt Dress with Tie Waist

One of Amazon’s best selling dresses (with over 24,000 reviews), this short sleeve dress is perfect for sightseeing on a Caribbean or Mediterranean cruise!

Recommended: Short sleeve tshirt dress (check price & Amazon reviews here)

20. Cocktail Party Dress

This cocktail party dress looks dressed up without being overly formal. For dress codes these days, it’s a perfect look if you enjoy formal and chic nights on your cruise vacation.

Recommended: Cocktail party dress (check price & great reviews on Amazon here)

Related & Popular Posts

• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women
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• What Shoes to Bring for a Cruise
• What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise – Cruise Outfit Ideas
• 25+ Affordable Cruise Outfits for Ladies
• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise (full packing list included)
• Cruise Wear for Men: Men’s Packing List for a Cruise
• 50 Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• How to Pack Light for a Cruise (or Carry-on Only)
• 25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Cruise
• 27 Cruise Packing Mistakes You Might be Making

Final Thoughts on Dresses for a Cruise Vacation

In this post I shared 20 Amazon dresses that are perfect for cruise vacations! Whether you prefer longer or shorter styles, these are looks that are flattering, comfortable and affordable.

Happy Cruising!

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What to Wear on a Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

Last updated: June 5th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

If you’re having trouble figuring out what to wear on a cruise, don’t worry, we’re here to help. Packing a suitcase for your upcoming vacation onboard shouldn’t be difficult—in fact, it’s all part of the fun.

The key is to know exactly what to expect onboard and to familiarize yourself with Celebrity Cruises. Here are some tips that will help you decide what to wear on a cruise to get ready for smooth, stylish sailing.

What clothes should you wear on a cruise?

What to wear on a cruise depends on where you’re sailing. While many of our cruises sail to warm beach destinations such as The Bahamas and the Caribbean , we do offer cooler weather cruises to places like Alaska and the Mediterranean during shoulder season that require warmer clothes like jackets and waterproof wear.

If you’re traveling to a warm and sunny destination, here are some things you should wear on your cruise:

While onboard, you’ll be spending a lot of your time in the pool or lounging nearby on the sun deck. You’ll also be sporting swimwear at many of the ports you visit  during your trip. Therefore, it’s a good idea to pack a handful of swimsuits in your bag. Aim to bring at least three if you’re going on a seven-day cruise.

Swim coverups

While it’s perfectly acceptable to stay in your swimsuit while lounging beside the pool, you’ll need a cover-up to walk from your stateroom to the pool, and vice-versa. Keep in mind, depending on where your stateroom or suite is located, you may go through other common areas of the ship (in addition to the elevators) on your way to the pool. Make sure your swim cover-up is something you will feel comfortable in while walking around others.

Read: What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Sweater or fleece

Even if you’re taking a cruise around the Caribbean , it’s smart to take a light sweater or fleece to wear at night when the temperature tends to cool down. After all, you won’t want to get chilly while enjoying the starry sky from your stateroom veranda or on one of the ship’s decks.

Scarf or pashmina

This is an easy clothing item you can drape over your shoulders to dress up an outfit, or to warm you up if you’re outside and there is a chill in the air. You may also be required to cover your head and shoulders if entering a mosque, or bare arms if visiting a church, so pack something that enables you to respect the local culture.

Bring some fun pieces to accessorize your outfit. You may also want to buy some new items while shopping in the ship’s boutiques, so remember to leave a little extra room in your suitcase just in case.

Sunglasses and sun hats

Aside from lathering up on the SPF, protect yourself from all that sunshine by bringing a sun visor, baseball cap, or wide-brimmed straw hat on your cruise—ideally, one that won’t blow away in a sea breeze. You should also bring at least one pair of sunglasses on board.

Read: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Even if you typically use your phone as a clock, bringing a watch on board will help you keep a more accurate eye on the time throughout the day. You’ll want to get to all of the ship’s daily activities on time, and a watch can be extra helpful during your port stops to make sure you get back to the ship on time before it departs.

Casual, comfortable attire

T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and skirts are all perfectly fine clothes to wear on a cruise ship to have lunch in the Oceanview Cafe and other restaurants with a casual dress code. You can also dine in casual pool clothes at the snack bar located next to the pool deck.

Dinner or “smart casual” attire

If you’re having dinner in the main restaurant or any meal at one of the specialty restaurants , you’ll follow a “smart casual” dress code on most nights. This means long pants, jeans, a dress or skirt, a stylish top, or a button-down.

We want our guests to feel comfortable, so Celebrity Cruises’ dress code for smart casual is fairly flexible, though there are some restrictions. T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurants at any time. In addition, shorts and flip-flops are not permitted during the evening hours.

The smart casual dress code works for all areas of the ship in the evening, including in bars and lounges and during shows and events at the ship’s theater.

If you’re headed for Alaska or northern Europe, or the Mediterranean in the cooler months, think about packing these items:

Wicking tops, lightweight fleeces, and even pants that zip off into shorts are all a good idea for Alaska, especially if you’re out hiking.

Waterproofs

Some of the world’s most beautiful scenery gets that lush shade of green for a reason; the occasional rain shower. Bring a waterproof that folds down small, and a waterproof cover for your camera.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

What kind of shoes should you wear on a cruise?

Footwear should not be an afterthought when packing your suitcase for a cruise. While you might have the urge to throw in a pair of flip flops and call it a day, there are a few other essential shoes you’ll need to bring along on your trip.

Flip flops, sandals, or waterproof slides

These shoes will take you back and forth from your stateroom to the pool and vice versa. They also come in handy if you choose to visit the onboard spa . Lightweight water shoes are great for some ports in the Mediterranean, where beaches tend to be pebbly.

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking around the ship during days at sea, it’s a good idea to pack a pair of sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers will also be useful if you try out a fitness class or use the gym equipment in the ship’s state-of-the-art fitness center.

If you’re headed somewhere like Norway or Alaska where hiking is one of the most popular activities, it’s worth packing a good pair of walking boots.

Shoes or sandals for dinner

Since flip flops are not allowed in the evening, make sure to bring comfortable shoes or sandals to wear during dinner in the main room.

Do you have to dress up on a cruise?

While of course you’re welcome to stay in your swimsuit almost all day long on a cruise, there are certain occasions when Celebrity Cruises dress code requests otherwise.

If you’re wondering what to wear on a cruise during dinner in the main dining room, meals at specialty restaurants, or shows in the theater, the Celebrity Cruises dress code for these occasions is usually “smart casual”. This means a dress or skirt, stylish pants, smart jeans, a stylish top or button-down. We’d prefer that shorts, tank tops and flip flops were kept for the pool.

What do you wear on a dressier night on a cruise?

Our more formal nights are called “Evening Chic” nights because they’re all about guests looking their absolute best—and loving it. These are the nights when you want to dress up in your most fashion-forward and stylish clothes, while also being elegant and sophisticated.

The Celebrity Cruises dress code for Evening Chic nights is cocktail dresses, skirts, pants, or designer jeans with an elegant top, or dress shirt, button-down shirt, or sweater, and an optional blazer. There’s no need to wear a tie unless you want to.

Our Evening Chic dress code leaves a lot of room for you to show off your personal style, although we’d ask you to leave your ripped jeans or favorite college sweatshirt in your stateroom. You can wear anything from designer denim paired with a blazer to a cocktail dress with a killer set of heels.

If you were looking forward to wearing a tuxedo or formal gown on Evening Chic nights, you can absolutely do that as well. There is no such thing as being overdressed on Evening Chic nights.

All cruises that are seven nights or longer will feature two Evening Chic nights. Shorter cruises feature one Evening Chic night. On all other nights of the cruise, guests are asked to wear smart casual attire.

If for whatever reason you choose to skip Evening Chic nights, you can always dine in one of the specialty restaurants (in smart casual attire) or at the snack bar located next to the pool deck.

What do you wear on cruises during the day?

On Celebrity Cruises, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible while onboard. During the day, we encourage you to wear casual attire such as t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and skirts.

If you’re spending the day at the pool, you can also have lunch or dine in casual pool clothes at the Mast Grill located next to the pool deck.

Just remember that while walking from your stateroom to the pool and vice versa, you’ll need to wear a swim cover up.

You’ll also be required to wear appropriate clothing in the Fitness Center; suitable shoes for the treadmills and exercise bikes, for example, just as you would in the gym at home.

If you plan to use the spa, which we would encourage, don’t worry about bringing a robe; these are provided for you.

Now that you know how effortless and stress-free it is to choose what to wear on a cruise, book your cruise and start planning out your perfect cruise vacation outfits. Browse itineraries on our website and book your next luxury getaway with Celebrity Cruises.

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Designer Cruise Dresses

If you’re going on your first cruise, figuring out what to wear for the formal events can feel like a daunting task. There’s the Captain's dinner, dinner in the main dining room, and other snazzy cruise events you want to stand out for.  

To avoid sticking out among the crowd, it’s important that you find the right cruise formal wear to bring with you on your exciting vacation. Understanding the different cruise events and the cruise line’s dress code is key before stocking up on garments.

Nevertheless, participating in formal events on cruise ships is fun! For most people, it allows them to dress up and wear designer cruise dresses they wouldn’t typically wear.

Formal Cruise Event Attire

Before you buy clothes to wear, it’s best to look at the dress code your particular cruise line has set. Cruise ships have hundreds of events happening every night and certain events may have different codes than others. Some dress codes can be “resort casual,” “smart casual,” or “formal” for certain events or daytime wear.

Typically, there are one or two dinners aboard the ship that require formal wear, mainly dinners. Depending on how long your cruise is, there will be somewhere between one and three dinner nights where formal wear is the dress code. Other events that may require you to dress up formally could be the casino or shows.

When a cruise line has a “formal” dress code requirement, it typically means men wear suits or tuxedos and women wear  gala dresses and  evening gowns .

Styles To Bring On a Cruise

Cruise lines and luxury cruise lines are your place to make a statement with the type of designer cruise gowns and styles you bring along with you. Staying on top of the trends is another factor to consider when finding the right cruise ship dresses.

For spring or summer colors, the trending tones seem to be pastel colors, specifically  soft pink and  blue tones . Colors to stay away from onboard a cruise ship are  brown or warm tones relating to this color.  Black , however, is an exception.

Navy , white, and lighter colors are the perfect tones to choose for your nautical voyage. When it comes to patterns and styles, off-the-shoulder dresses, halter tops, spaghetti straps, and sequins can add beauty to your sophisticated look.

Why Buy From NYD?

NewYorkDress is a company that keeps up with the trending fashion for any kind of sophisticated, formal event. We feature exclusive designers that offer the best formal and gala dresses to bring as your formal cruise dinner dresses. Our selection of styles is perfect for cruise formal wear, and we love to make sure our customers look fabulous and elegant wherever they go. We like to make our dresses affordable for every woman who’s going to steal the show in the selection of their choice. Get ready for your voyage by shopping from our designer cruise gowns today!

LaDivine CH135 Dress

Terani 1912E9202 Dress

Andrea and Leo 5024 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS1986 Dress

Cecilia Couture 1409 Dress

La Femme 28176 Dress

MNM Couture M0042 Dress

Clarisse 4852 Dress

Terani 1921M0473 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS22666 Dress

Andrea and Leo A5007 Dress

Terani 2011M2159 Dress

Marsoni M140 Dress

Lucci Lu 1196 Dress

LaDivine CD989 Dress

MNM Fouad Sarkis 2284 Dress

Portia and Scarlett PS6110 Dress

LaDivine CM327 Dress

Terani 1911E9128 Dress

Mac Duggal 5615 Dress

Cecilia Couture 1405 Dress

Janique K7031 Dress

LaDivine CD233C Dress

Marsoni M286 Dress

La Femme 28206 Dress

LaDivine CH135CL Dress

Lara 29618 Dress

Cinderella Divine CD937W Dress

Terani 1913M9414 Dress

Chvmpayne Collection 10323 Dress

Mac Duggal 26612 Dress

Terani 2111M5289 Dress

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I Just Went on a 3-week Adventure Cruise, and These Are the 15 Hiking Items I Used Every Day — From $5

Here’s what you need for your extended adventure at sea.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As someone who tends toward action and adventure, I was thrilled to join two back-to-back cruises with Adventure Canada recently. The first was a 10-day Circumnavigation of Newfoundland , and the next was an Atlantic Island journey that included Sable Island , known for its legendary wild horses and the world’s largest colony of grey seals. Both were active trips that included hiking through dense forests and along rugged coastlines in several National Parks, so I leaned into gear suitable for hiking. However, I also wanted to bring outfits that would allow me to look presentable at dinner, along with options to hit up the sauna and hot tub.

My final cruise packing list was streamlined and very efficient since I wanted it all to fit into a single suitcase and carry-on backpack. In addition to my hiking and eveningwear, I also threw in some swimsuits , cover-ups , comfy walking sandals , and a Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap Bar so I could hand-wash some of my clothes in my bathroom sink instead of paying sky-high laundry fees.

If you’re heading on an extended cruise that involves more adventurous activities, I put together this foolproof cruise packing list that will keep you comfortable and carefree so you can enjoy the sail.

Osprey Tempest Pro 30 

Even if you’re not a hiker, you may appreciate a hiking backpack simply because they are more comfortable than most traditional travel packs. As they are designed to carry a lot of weight all day long, they tend to have good weight distribution and suspension, which is the case with this new Osprey backpack, the Tempest Pro 30. I’ve worn it on hundreds of miles of hikes (including several epic hikes on the Adventure Canada cruises), but I also use it as my carry-on bag. It can fit my laptop, headphones, books, and everything I need on the flight, and then it doubles as a daypack and hiking pack during the trip. I also love how much it expands — I wound up buying a ton of glacier water soaps, sea salt, Labrador tea, and wild berry jams in Canada that I needed to find room for in my luggage. Of course, the jam went in my checked Away Trunk suitcase , but everything else fit in this backpack in the overhead compartment.

Thule Compression Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can help you stay organized, but many of them can also compress extra air out of the cubes to save space. These Thule packing cubes do just that, so I can fit more clothes into less space, which is crucial on a three-week cruise since I’m bringing so much extra stuff. (Just be sure not to start your trip with a fully stuffed suitcase, as you won’t have any room for souvenirs!) My strategy is to start the trip without relying on the compression feature, but then use it at the end when I need a bit more space for any fun foods or goodies I like to bring home.

Knockaround Sport Polarized Sunglasses

Good sunglasses are a must for any trip, particularly if you plan on being outside a lot. And because the glare off of water is especially bright and blinding, sunglasses are essential for cruising. These polarized Knockaround glasses are cute, affordable, and durable, so they’re a great choice if you’re on a budget. Their non-slip frames with rubber pads will never slide down your nose (or off your face), and they don’t steam up. 

Lululemon Wunder Train High-rise Short

Though I’ve been practicing yoga for years, I only just discovered yoga shorts this year in an attempt to sweat less in Pilates class. Lululemon’s Wunder Train shorts are perfect for yoga, pilates, and any type of workout because they are comfortable, super-stretchy, and dry quickly. As such, I wore them during these cruises for guided on-board yoga, stretch classes, and hiking. I also wore them into the on-board sauna, so these shorts may have gotten more use than any other item I packed. Because they dry quickly, I easily washed them in my cabin sink and re-wore them throughout the trip. I like the 8-inch version because it prevents my thighs from rubbing together, but they also come in shorter lengths.

Smartwool Classic All-season Merino T-shirt

I love Merino wool because it’s soft, comfortable, and versatile enough to be worn in any temperature or season. Moisture wicks away and dries quickly, so you don’t overheat in summer or freeze in winter. I’ve worn this shirt on hot and sweaty hikes in Tucson and Mesa, Arizona, and through chilly fall hikes in New York’s Adirondacks, so I knew I had to pack it for my cruise. Though it’s designed for hiking, I sometimes pair it with khaki shorts or jeans because of the fun, bright colors it comes in (hello, pink and yellow!) that make it a cute all-around top. Because it dries quickly, I washed it in my bathroom sink a couple of times and re-wore it during the trip. I also love that Smartwool is one of few outdoor brands that is using sustainably-sourced wool and has inclusive sizing (up to a 4X).

Smartwool Active Women’s Leggings

These leggings are phenomenal. I originally got them for hiking because, as I mentioned, I’m a big fan of Smartwool’s sustainable sourcing of high-quality materials and prioritizing all-around comfort. The leggings are intended for active women like myself, but I’ve also worn them with cute tops and hoodies. For my cruise, I sometimes wore the leggings for hiking, but I also paired them with pretty blouses for on-board activities. Because I have the all-black pair, they match with just about anything, and the side pockets were perfect for keeping my room and ship key cards nearby.

Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoes

I’ve been wearing these Altra shoes (or a previous iteration of them) for several years, and they’re my absolute favorite all-around shoe. They have great grip for light hikes, and the extra-wide toe box makes them comfortable and aids with stability and balance. I also brought these sturdy Vasque hiking boots on the trip, which I wore for several super steep eight-mile hikes, but I mostly wore the Altra shoes for light hikes, exploring cities, and when flying to and from Canada.

MiracleSuit Swim Shorts

I have always been and will always be a swim shorts girl. In my opinion, shorts are far more practical and comfortable than bikini bottoms, and they can work for kayaking, paddle boarding, and other water sports. What I love about these is that they have shapewear built into them to help with shaping and support. MiracleSuit also makes cute tankini tops to pair with them, but I usually just wear my swim shorts with whatever sports bra I had on that day. This way, I get some support from the bra, and I don’t have to wash two tops.

Coolibar UPF 50+ Women's Shoreside Swim Cover-up Dress

I’m a huge fan of Coolibar because they exclusively make sun-protective clothing, from hats and swimsuits to dresses and leggings. This sun-protective cover-up dress is one of my favorites that I’ve owned for about four years, and it’s still in great shape. I wear it over my swimsuit as a cover-up, but I also wear it on its own with leggings and a sweater, or use it as a nightgown. It works triple duty and is unbelievably light and breezy, so it’s perfect for warm climates. 

Waterproof Otterbox Fre Phone Case for MagSafe

As expensive as phones are these days, I don’t dare leave my house without a sturdy case. I love this Otterbox Fre phone case because it’s sturdy and waterproof without being too big and bulky. Because I’m not a huge fan of waterproof pouches (which often distort the quality of pictures), I rely on the waterproofness of this case should it drop in the pool or get splashed while kayaking. And because it’s MagSafe compatible, I just bring my wireless power bank off the ship to charge my phone if needed. 

Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap Bar

Dr. Bronner’s is one of the most trusted names in the soap game and I’ve been using some variation of their products for nearly 15 years. These handy little bars are solid so they don’t count toward your carry-on liquid count, and because they get used up during your trip, you wind up with more space in your toiletries bag than you started with. Not only do I use this soap to wash my body, but I also use it to scrub my clothes clean in the sink, as mentioned before. (Note that it can also be used for hair, but it leaves it a bit dry.) These natural, organic, and biodegradable bars are also ideal for use on a ship because the water from sinks and showers gets dumped directly into the ocean, which means that any artificial colors, smells, or chemicals in your toiletries also end up in there (which is obviously hugely problematic for the ocean’s plants and animals). Adventure Canada is a sustainably-minded company, so all of the shampoo and soap on board is biodegradable, unlike most cruise companies. 

Keen Rose Sandals

Because I don’t want to be stuck in hiking shoes and boots every day, I always pack a pair of sandals. I love the Keen Rose sandals because they work double duty: these adventure sandals have a grippy sole that allows me to do light hikes in them, but they’re still stylish enough cute to wear with dresses, skirts, and leggings. They offer way more support than most sandals, which means I can wear them through a full day of activities and then to dinner without my feet feeling sore or worn down.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Insulated Water Bottle

Bottled water is an environmental catastrophe worldwide, and, unfortunately, some behind-the-times cruise ships are still handing out thousands of plastic bottles per day, even in destinations where the local tap water is potable (like Europe). Adventure Canada is ahead of the curve, so they have on-board water filtration and numerous water refill stations around the ship. They even provide each passenger with a free, high-quality metal water bottle, but I love mine so much that I turned it down.

I’ve used this Hydro Flask bottle for several years because it’s rugged, lightweight, and insulated (which I appreciated during several exceptionally hot hiking days). I usually stuff the bottle into the side pocket of my daypack, but because it has a handle, I can also clip it to a kayak or raft with a carabiner. 

Arc’Teryx Women’s Beta LT Jacket

This is my all-time favorite jacket and it’s 100-percent worth its price tag. It’s ultra-lightweight and breathable, so you can wear it on its own or layer it over a fleece and bottom layer to use it year-round. I’ve hiked hundreds of miles in it, including frigid treks in Yellowstone this winter and a wet and wild 96-mile hike in the Scottish Highlands last summer. During this three-week cruise, we were mostly blessed with sunny skies, but I was happy to have the jacket to keep me dry during a few rainy city walks and to keep me warm on some windy hikes.

Image Skincare Daily SPF 50 Face Sunscreen Lotion

Sunscreen is an absolute must for any vacation, any time of year, as it’s possible to get sunburn (and to suffer sun damage) even in the winter. My aesthetician put me on to Image years ago, and I’ve been using this facial sunscreen for at least two years. I love how light and clean it feels, versus full-body sunscreens that tend to feel heavy and pore-clogging. I always go with the SPF 50 for max protection, and I buy a big bottle to keep at home. I then transfer into leak-proof travel containers for my trips.

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