The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to Explora Journeys Dress Code.
Welcome to your complete guide to the dress code on Explora Journeys. As an ultra-luxury cruise line, Explora Journeys cultivates an atmosphere of relaxed, sophisticated elegance, which they call the "Ocean State of Mind". Packing is simple once you understand their straightforward approach to onboard attire. This guide will ensure you feel comfortable and perfectly dressed for every occasion, from sun-drenched days by the pool to glamorous evenings at sea.
Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening
During the day, the dress code is relaxed and casual across the ship. The key is to dress for your destination and comfort. Think stylish resort wear.
- Caribbean & Bahamas / Mexican Riviera: Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics. Linen shorts, sundresses, high-quality t-shirts, polo shirts, and swimwear are essential. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Mediterranean: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring historic ports with cobbled streets. Light layers, such as a pashmina or light cardigan, are useful for cooler evenings or visits to religious sites that require covered shoulders. Smart shorts, capris, and summer dresses are perfect.
- Alaska / Northern Europe & Fjords: Layering is crucial. Pack a mix of long-sleeved tops, fleece jackets, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes or boots are essential for excursions. Bring a hat, gloves, and a scarf, even in summer, as conditions can change quickly.
General Public Areas (Lounges, Atrium, Cafés)
Casual and comfortable is the rule. You can relax in the ship's beautiful indoor spaces in your daytime attire without any issue. It's perfectly acceptable to wear shorts, casual tops, and comfortable shoes while enjoying a coffee or reading a book in a lounge.
Pool Decks and Outdoor Spaces
Swimwear is appropriate for all pool areas and the sun decks. For your comfort and the consideration of other guests, a cover-up is recommended when you're not swimming or sunbathing, especially if you're walking through the ship or grabbing a drink from an outdoor bar.
Daytime Dining (Main Dining Room & Buffet)
Casual attire is welcome for breakfast and lunch in all dining venues, including the main restaurants and the Emporium Marketplace buffet. However, there are a few simple rules:
- A cover-up or shirt and shorts/skirt must be worn over swimwear when entering any indoor dining venue.
- Footwear is required at all times inside the ship. Bare feet are only acceptable right beside the swimming pools.
- Tank tops for men are generally discouraged in the main dining rooms, even during the day.
Evening Dress Codes Explained
After 6:00 PM, the ship transitions to a more refined atmosphere. Explora Journeys keeps it simple with two main evening dress codes, focusing on chic comfort rather than stuffy formality.
Casual Evenings (or the cruise line's equivalent term)
Explora Journeys does not have a "Casual" evening dress code. The standard evening attire from 6:00 PM onwards is always Elegant Casual.
Smart Casual / Evening Chic (or the cruise line's equivalent term)
Explora Journeys refers to its standard evening dress code as Elegant Casual. This applies on most nights in all indoor public areas after 6:00 PM. It strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined.
- For Women: Skirts, trousers, or smart jeans paired with a stylish top; dresses; or elegant jumpsuits.
- For Men: Long trousers or smart jeans with a collared shirt, polo shirt, or sweater. A jacket or blazer is optional but always a great choice.
What Not to Wear
In the evenings, the following items are not permitted in the dining venues and indoor bars/lounges:
- Shorts
- Flip-flops and pool sliders
- Baseball caps
- Swimwear
- Sleeveless shirts for men
Formal Night / Gala Evening (or the cruise line's equivalent term)
In place of a traditional "Formal Night," Explora Journeys hosts optional Gala Evenings. These are special occasions where guests are invited to wear their most elegant attire. It’s an opportunity to dress up, but it's not mandatory. If you choose not to participate, the standard Elegant Casual dress code is still acceptable in most venues.
- For Women: Cocktail dresses, elegant pantsuits, gowns, or other formal evening wear.
- For Men: A dark suit with a tie, a dinner jacket (tuxedo), or a stylish blazer.
Frequency of Gala Evenings:
- Journeys of 7 nights or longer: You can expect at least one Gala Evening.
- Shorter Journeys (less than 7 nights): A Gala Evening is less likely but can vary by itinerary.
- The exact night is at the ship's discretion and will be announced in your daily program.
Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)
After 6:00 PM, all indoor venues adhere to the Elegant Casual dress code at a minimum.
- The Main Dining Room(s): Venues like Fil Rouge (French) and Med Yacht Club (Mediterranean) require Elegant Casual attire every evening.
- Speciality Dining Restaurants: The signature restaurants, such as the Pan-Asian Sakura and the steakhouse Marble & Co. Grill, require Elegant Casual attire. The exclusive Anthology restaurant often inspires guests to dress up a bit more, leaning towards the smarter end of the code.
- The Buffet / Lido Marketplace: The Emporium Marketplace maintains the Elegant Casual dress code for dinner.
- The Main Theatre or Show Lounge: Guests attending shows in the evening should be dressed in Elegant Casual attire.
- Bars and Lounges: All indoor bars and lounges, such as the Explora Lounge and Malt Whisky Bar, require Elegant Casual dress after 6:00 PM.
Common Themed Nights & Special Events
Explora Journeys focuses on sophisticated events rather than costume parties. You may encounter themed evenings where you're invited to participate, but it's always optional.
- White Night: A classic event on many luxury cruises, often held in warmer climates like the Caribbean or Mediterranean. Guests are invited to dress in all-white for an elegant deck party.
- Nautical Chic: Often the suggested attire for the Captain's Welcome Reception. Think navy, white, and classic stripes.
- Midnight Way Party: An elegant evening celebration where guests often dress in their finest evening wear to enjoy music and cocktails.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Explora Journeys Dress Code
Can I wear jeans on Explora Journeys?
Yes, you can wear jeans. During the day, all types of jeans are acceptable. In the evening, for the Elegant Casual dress code, smart and well-kept jeans (free of rips or holes) are perfectly fine when paired with a stylish top, collared shirt, or blazer. They are generally not recommended for Gala Evenings.
Are shorts allowed in the Main Dining Room in the evening?
No, shorts are not permitted in any of the dining venues or indoor bars and lounges in the evening. The dress code transitions to Elegant Casual after 6 pm, which requires long trousers for men and equivalent attire for women.
How many formal nights will be on my cruise?
Explora Journeys does not have traditional 'formal nights'. Instead, they host optional Gala Evenings. On sailings of 7 nights or longer, you can typically expect at least one Gala Evening. Participation is encouraged but not mandatory. This offers a chance to dress up in your finest attire, but there is no strict requirement.
Do I really need a dinner jacket or a gown for a formal night?
For a Gala Evening on Explora Journeys, a dinner jacket (tuxedo) or a full-length gown is not strictly required, but many guests enjoy dressing to this level. A dark suit and tie for men, or an elegant cocktail dress or pantsuit for women, is also perfectly appropriate. The emphasis is on elegant celebration, not rigid rules.
What is the dress code for children and teenagers?
The dress code for children and teenagers mirrors that of the adults. During the day, casual resort wear is fine. In the evenings, they are also expected to adhere to the Elegant Casual dress code in dining venues and lounges, meaning no shorts, flip-flops, or casual t-shirts after 6 pm.
Is the dress code strictly enforced?
Yes, the evening dress code on Explora Journeys is generally enforced, particularly in the main dining venues and speciality restaurants. The crew maintains the ship's elegant atmosphere in a polite and discreet manner. You may be kindly reminded of the policy or asked to change if your attire is not appropriate for a specific venue, such as trying to enter a restaurant in swimwear or shorts in the evening.
Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary
A smart packing strategy will ensure you have everything you need without over-packing. Here are some final tips:
- For any itinerary: Pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. A few elegant accessories can transform a simple outfit. Don't forget swimwear, workout gear if you plan to use the fitness facilities, and comfortable loungewear for your suite.
- For your Alaskan cruise: Don't forget a waterproof jacket, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and insect repellent for shore excursions. Waterproof pants are also highly recommended.
- For the Mediterranean: Pack a light scarf or shawl for visits to religious sites and comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets. A reusable water bottle is also a great idea for staying hydrated on long sightseeing days.
- For the Caribbean: High-factor reef-safe sunscreen is essential to protect both your skin and the marine environment. A waterproof bag for your phone and essentials is perfect for beach days.
Finally, remember that certain items are prohibited on board for safety reasons. Commonly prohibited items include 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 up-to-date information, please visit the official Explora Journeys website:
