The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to Celebrity Cruises Dress Code.
Packing for a cruise can be daunting, but understanding the Celebrity Cruises dress code is the first step to a stress-free holiday. Celebrity is known for its "modern luxury" ethos, and its dress code reflects a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This guide covers everything you need to know, from sunny sea days to elegant evenings.
Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening
During the day, the dress code is casual and focused on your comfort, whether you're onboard or exploring in port. Your itinerary is the biggest factor in what you should pack.
- Caribbean, Bahamas & Mexican Riviera: Pack light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Think swimwear, sun hats, sunglasses, shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. A rash guard for sun protection is a great idea.
- Alaska: Layering is essential. Pack waterproof and windproof jackets, warm jumpers or fleeces, long-sleeved tops, comfortable trousers or jeans, and sturdy, waterproof walking shoes. Don't forget a hat, gloves, and scarf for glacier viewing days.
- Mediterranean: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring ancient cities and cobbled streets. Pack lightweight clothing, but also include a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings. A scarf or shawl is useful for ladies needing to cover their shoulders when visiting religious sites.
- Northern Europe & Fjords: Similar to Alaska, layers are key. Expect changeable weather. Pack a mix of sweaters, long-sleeved tops, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable trousers.
General Public Areas (Lounges, Atrium, Cafés)
Casual attire is fine. You can wear shorts, t-shirts, and casual tops. Footwear is required in all indoor public areas.
Pool Decks and Outdoor Spaces
Swimwear is appropriate on the pool decks. However, when leaving the pool area to go indoors, you'll need to wear a cover-up over your swimwear.
Daytime Dining (Main Dining Room & Buffet)
The dress code for daytime dining in all venues, including the Main Dining Room (for breakfast and lunch) and the Oceanview Café (buffet), is casual.
- A cover-up or shirt and shorts/skirt must be worn over swimwear when entering any indoor dining venue.
- Bare feet are not permitted in any dining area. You must wear shoes, flip-flops, or sandals.
Evening Dress Codes Explained
In the evening, the dress code elevates. Celebrity Cruises has simplified its evening wear into two main categories: Smart Casual and Evening Chic. You will be informed of the suggested attire for each evening in your daily program.
Smart Casual Evenings
This is the dress code for most evenings on board. It’s about looking polished and put-together without being overly formal.
- For Women: Skirt or smart trousers with a stylish top, a sundress, or smart jeans (no rips or holes).
- For Men: Trousers or smart jeans (no rips or holes) with a collared shirt or a smart polo shirt. A sports jacket or blazer is optional.
What Not to Wear
In the Main Dining Room and speciality restaurants on Smart Casual nights, the following items are not permitted:
- T-shirts, swimwear, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and pool wear.
- Shorts and flip-flops are not allowed in the evening.
Evening Chic
Evening Chic is Celebrity's modern take on the traditional "Formal Night." It’s your chance to dress up and look your best. Think of it as what you might wear to a stylish restaurant or an upscale wedding.
- For Women: A cocktail dress, an elegant skirt or trouser outfit, or a stylish gown.
- For Men: A suit or a dinner jacket with smart trousers. A tuxedo is welcome but certainly not required.
The number of Evening Chic nights varies by the length of the cruise:
- Up to 6 nights: 1 Evening Chic night
- 7-10 nights: 2 Evening Chic nights
- 11-14 nights: 2 or 3 Evening Chic nights
- 15+ nights: Usually 3 or more Evening Chic nights
Note: This is a general guide and the final schedule is at the ship's discretion.
Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)
The evening dress code applies primarily to the main and speciality dining venues after 6 PM.
- The Main Dining Room(s): Adheres strictly to the ship's designated Smart Casual or Evening Chic dress code for the evening.
- Speciality Dining Restaurants: Venues like Murano, Fine Cut Steakhouse, or Le Petit Chef require at least Smart Casual attire on all evenings. On Evening Chic nights, guests typically dress to that higher standard.
- The Buffet / Oceanview Café: This venue remains casual every evening. If you prefer not to change, you can always dine at the buffet where shorts and casual shirts are acceptable.
- The Main Theatre or Show Lounge: While there is no strict dress code here, most guests will be in their evening attire (Smart Casual or Evening Chic) as they attend shows before or after dinner.
- Bars and Lounges: The dress code is generally relaxed, but most guests will be dressed for the evening's theme. You won't feel out of place in Smart Casual attire in any bar or lounge.
Common Themed Nights & Special Events
Celebrity Cruises sometimes features themed nights or deck parties. These are optional but can be a lot of fun. Availability varies by ship and itinerary.
- White Night / White Sensation Party: Often held on sailings in warmer climates like the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Guests are encouraged to wear all-white outfits for a stylish deck party.
- Silent Disco: Not a dress code theme, but a popular event where guests wear headphones to dance to different channels of music. Wear your evening attire or something comfortable for dancing.
- Pride Party: Celebrity hosts LGBTQ+ Pride parties on many sailings, celebrating diversity and inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Celebrity Cruises Dress Code
Can I wear jeans on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, jeans are acceptable. During the day, they can be worn anywhere. In the evening, smart jeans (dark wash, free of rips, tears, or holes) are perfectly acceptable on Smart Casual nights in most venues, including the Main Dining Room. However, they are not considered appropriate for Evening Chic nights in the main dining and speciality restaurants.
Are shorts allowed in the Main Dining Room in the evening?
No, shorts are not permitted in the Main Dining Room or speciality restaurants during the evening on any night. This rule applies to both Smart Casual and Evening Chic dress codes.
How many formal nights will be on my cruise?
Celebrity Cruises has replaced "Formal Night" with Evening Chic. As mentioned in the guide above, the number of Evening Chic nights depends on your cruise duration, typically ranging from one on a short cruise to three or more on sailings of 15+ nights.
Do I really need a dinner jacket or a gown for an Evening Chic night?
While you will see guests in tuxedos and full-length gowns, they are not required. For men, a suit or a dinner jacket with trousers is perfectly appropriate. For women, a cocktail dress, an elegant skirt or trouser outfit, or a stylish top with smart trousers is sufficient. The goal is to look polished and more dressed up than on a Smart Casual night.
What is the dress code for children and teenagers?
The dress code for children and teenagers generally follows the same guidelines as for adults. On Smart Casual evenings, they should be dressed in smart, clean attire (no shorts in the main dining venues). On Evening Chic nights, they are encouraged to dress up with the rest of the family.
Is the dress code strictly enforced?
Enforcement is most prominent in the Main Dining Room and speciality restaurants in the evenings. Guests who are not dressed appropriately (e.g., wearing shorts or swimwear) may be politely asked to change or dine at the more casual Oceanview Café. In bars, lounges, and the theatre, the dress code is more relaxed.
Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary
A little planning goes a long way. Here are some final tips to ensure you have everything you need.
- For your Alaskan cruise: Don't forget binoculars for wildlife spotting, insect repellent for shore excursions, and a reusable water bottle. Layers are your best friend.
- For the Mediterranean: Pack a light scarf or shawl for visits to religious sites and comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets. A portable power bank is essential for long days of sightseeing and taking photos.
- For the Caribbean: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, after-sun lotion, and a waterproof bag for your phone and valuables on beach days. An insulated cup will keep your drinks cold on the pool deck.
- Universal Packing List: Consider packing a small first-aid kit, any prescription medications, and magnetic hooks for extra hanging space in your stateroom.
Finally, remember that certain items are prohibited on board for safety reasons. These always include personal clothing irons, travel steamers, and surge-protected extension leads.
This information is believed to be correct at the time of publishing, however policies can change at short notice, and may vary in their implementation from ship to ship.
For the most current information, please visit the official Celebrity Cruises FAQ page:
