Freephone
9am - 9pm
Our sales team are here to help 7 days a week. For international Callers call 02072064176
Freephone
9am - 9pm
Packing for a cruise can feel a bit like preparing for several holidays at once. You’ll have days spent lounging in the sunshine, evenings enjoying dinner and entertainment, and the chance to explore new places ashore. The key to feeling comfortable and confident throughout is to pack a mix of practical, versatile clothing that suits each part of your journey. We’ve put together a simple guide with a little help from our friends at Klass to help you decide what to wear on a cruise, from formal nights to lazy afternoons on deck.
During the day, comfort is your priority. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen are ideal for warmer climates. Think T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, or casual skirts. If you plan to spend time by the pool or sunbathing, pack swimsuits and a cover-up, such as a kaftan or sarong, for walking around the deck or heading to the buffet. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Decks can be breezy, so a light jumper or cardigan is useful for cooler mornings or evenings. Footwear should be practical—sandals, trainers, or deck shoes are good options. Avoid high heels or slippery soles as decks can get wet.
Sarah Cormack, Occasion Wear Designer at Klass reveals the one item she couldn’t head on a trip without: “An often overlooked must-have for your cruise capsule wardrobe is a cardigan, shawl, or some sort of cover-up for those breezier evenings onboard. It can be easy to forget the evening chill or even the ship's air-con when you’re in ‘holiday mode’, but it's essential to have that extra layer on standby.”
Most cruises include at least one or two formal evenings, when guests are encouraged to dress up for dinner. This doesn’t mean you need to go overboard, but it’s an opportunity to look polished. For men, a dark suit, collared shirt, and tie will usually be appropriate, though some may prefer a jacket and smart trousers without a tie if the ship’s dress code allows. Women might opt for a cocktail dress, a long skirt with a smart top, or a stylish jumpsuit. Comfortable dress shoes are a must, as there may be some walking between venues. A light shawl or wrap is useful for air-conditioned dining rooms or breezy decks.
Sarah says: “A ‘formal’ dress code doesn't stop at floor-length gowns. Cocktail dresses, jumpsuits or a well-styled skirt work perfectly under a formal dress code. Think flowing fabrics, soft shimmers and elegant accessories to enhance your evening look whilst staying within the rules on board.
If your cruise offers themed evenings—such as a “black and white” night or a tropical party—it’s worth packing something suitable, but there’s no need to bring an elaborate costume. Simple accessories or a colourful shirt can fit the theme without taking up much suitcase space.
When going ashore, practicality is key. What you wear will depend on the activities you’ve planned. For sightseeing or city tours, casual and comfortable clothing works best—light trousers or shorts, breathable tops, and sturdy shoes for walking. A small rucksack is handy for carrying essentials such as a water bottle, sun cream, a camera, and local currency.
For more adventurous excursions—like hiking, cycling, or visiting historical sites—consider packing activewear, a waterproof jacket, and a hat. In some destinations, modest clothing may be required for visiting religious or cultural sites, so it’s wise to pack a scarf or lightweight long-sleeved top.
Sarah advises: “For day-to-day cruising, you’ll be either enjoying onboard activities or exploring new destinations. Focus on lighter fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which are more breathable, ensuring your items suit your chosen destination and climate. For example, a pair of cotton pull-on shorts would be perfect for exploring the Caribbean, but you may want to switch these out with some cropped cotton trousers for cooler locations.
Not every evening will be formal. Most nights, smart casual is the norm. For men, this might mean chinos or dark jeans with a polo or button-down shirt. For women, casual dresses, skirts, or trousers with a blouse work well. Trainers are often fine, but some dining venues prefer closed shoes.
A neutral colour palette helps you create different outfits from fewer pieces. Include a foldable raincoat, even for warm destinations, as weather at sea can change quickly.
With a bit of planning, you can enjoy your cruise feeling comfortable and appropriately dressed for every part of the journey.
Fancy winning a free cruise and a holiday wardrobe to go with it? Enter our prize draw for your chance to Sail In Style
-large_thumb.jpg)
