The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to Celestyal Cruises Dress Code.

Packing for a cruise to the sun-drenched Greek Islands and Eastern Mediterranean is exciting, and understanding the Celestyal Cruises dress code will ensure you feel comfortable and appropriate for every occasion. Celestyal is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and its dress code reflects this, blending casual comfort with opportunities to dress up for special evenings.

Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening

During the day, both on the ship and ashore, the dress code is all about casual comfort. Given that Celestyal specialises in warm-weather itineraries through the Greek Isles and Mediterranean, your packing should focus on light, breathable fabrics.

General Public Areas (Lounges, Atrium, Cafés)

Comfortable and casual is the way to go. Think shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts, sundresses, and capri pants. The ship's interior is air-conditioned, so you might want to carry a light cardigan or wrap with you.

Pool Decks and Outdoor Spaces

Swimwear is perfect for the pool deck, sunbathing, and taking a dip. However, when leaving the pool area to go inside, you will need to put on a cover-up or a shirt and shorts.

Daytime Dining (Main Dining Room & Buffet)

For breakfast or lunch in any dining venue, the dress code is casual. However, a few basic rules apply to maintain a comfortable environment for all guests.

• A cover-up or t-shirt must be worn over swimwear in all indoor dining venues, including the buffet.
• Footwear is required at all times inside the ship.
• Bare feet and wet swimwear are not permitted in any indoor restaurant or lounge.

Evening Dress Codes Explained

As the sun sets, the dress code becomes a little more defined, with three main categories you can expect during your cruise. The daily programme delivered to your stateroom will always state the suggested attire for the evening.

Casual Evenings

On most nights, the dress code is simply casual. This is a relaxed code, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring ancient ruins and beautiful beaches.

• For Women: Casual dresses, skirts, capris, trousers, or smart jeans with a nice top or blouse.
• For Men: Shorts, chinos, or smart jeans with a casual shirt or polo shirt.

Smart Casual / Evening Chic

This is a step up from daytime casual and is the most common evening dress code. It strikes a balance between being relaxed and looking smart for dinner.

• For Women: A dress, a stylish jumpsuit, or elegant separates such as a skirt or trousers with a chic top.
• For Men: Chinos or smart trousers with a collared shirt (a polo shirt or button-down). A blazer or sports coat is optional but always looks smart.

What Not to Wear

On Smart Casual evenings, the following items are not permitted in the Main Dining Room or speciality restaurants:

• Shorts
• Swimwear
• Casual t-shirts with large logos or slogans
• Flip-flops or sliders
• Baseball caps

Formal Night / Gala Evening

Celestyal's formal night is called the Gala Evening. This is your chance to dress in your finest outfits, meet the Captain, and enjoy a special celebratory dinner. The atmosphere is festive and elegant.

• For Women: Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, elegant trouser suits, or sophisticated separates.
• For Men: A suit and tie, a dinner jacket (tuxedo) or a dark blazer with smart trousers and a collared shirt. A tie is recommended but not always mandatory.

The frequency of Gala Nights depends on your cruise duration:

• 3 & 4-night cruises: Typically do not feature a Gala Night but will have Smart Casual evenings.
• 7-night cruises: You can expect one Gala Evening during your sailing.

Please note this is a general guide, and the schedule can vary by itinerary.

Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)

The Main Dining Room(s)

The Main Dining Room follows the ship's official dress code for the evening, as listed in your daily programme. This will be either Casual, Smart Casual, or Gala Evening attire.

Speciality Dining Restaurants

On ships with speciality dining venues, the dress code is always at least Smart Casual, even on designated casual nights. It is best to avoid shorts and casual t-shirts here on any evening.

The Buffet / Lido Marketplace

The buffet restaurant maintains a Casual dress code every evening. This is the perfect option if you prefer not to change from your daywear or want a more relaxed dinner.

The Main Theatre or Show Lounge

Most guests attend theatre shows in the attire they wore to dinner. You will see a mix of Smart Casual and Gala Evening wear depending on the night's theme.

Bars and Lounges

Attire in the bars and lounges generally mirrors the overall evening dress code. The vibe is relaxed, but you'll feel most comfortable in at least smart jeans and a nice top or shirt.

Common Themed Nights & Special Events

Celestyal is renowned for its immersive Greek hospitality, which extends to its themed events. While these can vary, you can often expect:

• Greek Night: This is a signature event on nearly every Celestyal cruise. Guests are encouraged to dress in blue and white to match the Greek flag. It’s a fun, relaxed evening celebrating Greek food, music, and dancing.
• White Night: A popular theme on many cruise lines, guests are invited to wear all-white for an evening party, often held on the open deck under the stars.

Participation is always optional, but joining in adds to the fun and festive atmosphere on board.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Celestyal Cruises Dress Code

Can I wear jeans on Celestyal Cruises?

Yes, smart jeans (dark, no rips or tears) are generally acceptable in most venues on Smart Casual evenings. They are not recommended for the Gala Night and are not permitted if they are overly casual (e.g., ripped, faded, or baggy).

Are shorts allowed in the Main Dining Room in the evening?

No, shorts (including smart tailored shorts) are not permitted in the Main Dining Room or speciality restaurants for dinner. They are perfectly acceptable during the day and in the buffet restaurant in the evening.

How many formal nights will be on my cruise?

Celestyal Cruises refers to formal nights as 'Gala Nights'. On a typical 7-night cruise, you can expect one Gala Night. On shorter 3 and 4-night cruises, there is usually no Gala Night, but there will be Smart Casual evenings.

Do I really need a dinner jacket or a gown for a formal night?

While you will see guests in dinner jackets and gowns on Gala Night, it is not strictly required. The dress code is more 'elegantly smart' than black-tie. For men, a suit or a blazer/sports coat with smart trousers is perfectly acceptable. For women, a cocktail dress, elegant jumpsuit, or smart separates are ideal.

What is the dress code for children and teenagers?

The dress code for children and teenagers generally mirrors the adult guidelines but in a more relaxed way. On Gala Night, they are encouraged to dress up, but smart holiday attire is fine. Ripped jeans, shorts, and casual t-shirts are not permitted in the Main Dining Room in the evenings.

Is the dress code strictly enforced?

Celestyal maintains a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, but the evening dress code, particularly in the Main Dining Room and speciality restaurants, is generally enforced. You will likely be politely asked to change if you arrive in swimwear, shorts, or flip-flops for dinner. Adhering to the suggested attire ensures a pleasant dining experience for everyone.

Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary

Celestyal focuses on destination-intensive cruises, so packing smart is key. Here are some final tips tailored to a typical Eastern Mediterranean itinerary:

• Comfortable Walking Shoes are Essential: You'll be exploring ancient archaeological sites like Ephesus and walking on cobbled streets in picturesque villages. Prioritise comfort for your feet.
• Respectful Attire for Shore Excursions: For visits to monasteries, mosques, or other religious sites, pack a light scarf, shawl, or pashmina to cover your shoulders. Both men and women may be required to have their knees covered as well, so consider packing light trousers or a longer skirt for these days.
• Sun Protection: The Mediterranean sun is strong. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable.
• Layers for the Evening: Even on warm days, the sea breeze can make evenings on deck feel cool. A light jacket, cardigan, or pashmina is a must-have.
• European Power Adapter: The onboard sockets are typically European 2-pin (Type C/F). Pack at least one adapter to charge your devices.

Finally, remember that certain items are prohibited on board for safety reasons. These commonly include clothing irons, travel steamers, and surge-protected extension leads. Check the cruise line's official policy before you pack.

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.

Visit the official Celestyal Cruises FAQ page for the most current information.