Formal night is a classic cruising tradition that many cruisers look forward to, and some might even dread. In reality, these days cruise “formal nights” are a fun evening, where in most cases dress codes are suggestions, not strictly enforced.
That said, you’ll want to have the best formal evening possible. Whether your cruise line refers to this night as a “gala evening”, “dressy night”, or “chic evening” the experience is quite similar.
However, beyond cruise line dress codes there are some do’s and don’ts to know. In this post, I share what to expect and some ideas for how you can make the most of this special evening on a cruise.
Just for fun, I’ve included some of our own formal night photos and outfits from past cruises.
Formal Night Do’s and Don’ts for the Best Evening on a Cruise
1. Do Dress Up
Formal night is the perfect occasion to dress up. Whether you wear a suit or a dress, looking your best is a great way to make a formal night extra special.
This cruise tradition has been going on for years, and many cruisers enjoy it. It’s nice to walk around the cruise ship and see other passengers look their best.
By dressing up, you’re not just participating in the fun, but also creating unforgettable memories.
2. Don’t Overthink What to Wear
At one time, cruise passengers wore tuxedos to the main dining room on formal nights. However, that is no longer the case.
In recent years, mainstream cruise lines have become more lenient than ever regarding formal night attire. Many cruise lines call it a “dress your best night,” meaning passengers can wear the clothing they feel most comfortable in.
Typically, guys will wear a collared shirt, pants, and a nice pair of shoes. While ladies will may wear a cocktail dress, summer dress, or pants and a nice top.
It’s not worth stressing over what to wear because cruise lines are not strict about what people wear on formal nights.
3. Do Take Pictures
If you’ve spent time getting ready and looking your best, you’ll want to take some pictures. Taking pictures is a great way to remember your wonderful cruise experience, and if you get them printed, they will serve as a memento.
During formal night, several photo stations will be located around the cruise ship. At the photo stations, you can get amazing professional photos.
I was recently on a multi-generational cruise with my parents and grandparents, and we took photos on formal night to remember the occasion. I’m so grateful that we took these photos, as they will serve as an amazing memory from my cruise vacation.
4. Don’t Arrive Late
Since the formal night is extremely busy in the main dining room, arriving early or on time is a good idea. Arriving late will inconvenience the cruise staff, and you may need to wait for a table.
By sticking to your reservation time, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable formal night, free from any potential inconveniences.
5. Do Plan Extra Time to Get Ready
Since formal night is an occasion where you’ll want to look your best, it’s a good idea to take the extra time to get ready. Some cruise passengers will even go the extra mile and get their hair and nails done at the spa.
When you’re getting ready for formal night, plan and expect it to take a little longer to get ready. This way, you’re not rushing to finish your hair or wear your formal night dress!
Another thing to consider is that you may want to take some photos. If that’s the case, leave your cabin 15-30 minutes early so you have enough time to take pictures.
Related: What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (and frequently asked questions)
6. Don’t Forget to Compliment Other Cruise Passengers
Many new cruisers may not realize that other cruisers are really friendly!
On formal nights, feel free to compliment other cruise passengers on the way they look. Giving a compliment is a nice gesture, especially since many people put in the extra effort to look their best during the formal night.
By complimenting others, you’ll make someone else’s evening!
7. Do Enjoy an Enhanced Dining Menu
Typically, there is an enhanced menu in the main dining room on formal nights. Depending on the cruise line, dishes can range from beef Wellington to lamb chops, surf, and turf.
On formal nights, we always eat in the main dining room to enjoy the delicious dining room. Whether you prefer to eat in the buffet, specialty dining, or casual restaurants, eating in the main dining room on formal night is always worth eating in the main dining room.
Related & Popular Posts:
- 50 Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
- 50 Cheap Cruise Travel Hacks You Need
- 60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know
- Is Norwegian Cruise Line Worth It? Pros & Cons
- 10 Ways to Get Treated Like a VIP on a Cruise Ship
- 13 Hidden Features You’ll Find in a Cruise Ship Cabin
- 30 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
- Are Balcony Cabins Worth it on a Cruise? 10 Pros & 4 Cons
- 15 Best Inside Cruise Cabin Hacks & Tips
- 12 Smart Ways to Escape the Crowds on a Cruise Ship
Final Thoughts On Formal Night Do’s and Don’ts Every Cruise Should Know
Cruise ship formal nights are a great opportunity for passengers to enjoy an elegant and enjoyable evening at sea. Formal nights are a long-standing cruise tradition, so understanding the do’s and don’ts is important!
Do you enjoy formal night on a cruise? Please let me know your tips and questions in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!
Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.