The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to Holland America Line's Dress Code.
Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening
During the day, comfort and practicality are key. The dress code is relaxed across the ship, but your packing list should be tailored to your destination.
- Caribbean, Bahamas & Mexican Riviera: Pack light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and jersey. Sundresses, shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts, and swimwear are staples. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Alaska & Northern Europe/Fjords: Layering is essential. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved tops, sweaters or fleeces, comfortable trousers, and a waterproof, windproof jacket. A warm hat, gloves, and scarf are crucial for glacier viewing days.
- Mediterranean: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient ruins and cobblestone streets. Light layers, including long trousers or skirts and a light scarf or shawl, are necessary for visiting religious sites that require modest dress.
General Public Areas (Lounges, Atrium, Cafés)
Casual wear is the norm. You can comfortably wear shorts, casual tops, jeans, or sundresses in any of the indoor public spaces during the day.
Pool Decks and Outdoor Spaces
Swimwear is appropriate for the pool decks, but it's not permitted in any indoor venues. Always have a cover-up, t-shirt, or sundress handy to put on over your swimsuit when leaving the pool area.
Daytime Dining (Main Dining Room & Buffet)
The dress code for daytime dining is very relaxed. The Lido Market (buffet) is always casual. You can even dine in the Main Dining Room for breakfast or lunch in casual attire, such as shorts and a t-shirt.
- You must wear a cover-up over your swimwear to enter any indoor dining venue, including the Lido Market.
- Footwear is required at all times in all indoor areas of the ship.
Evening Dress Codes Explained
In the evening, the dress code is elevated slightly. Holland America Line has two main evening dress codes, which apply after 6:00 PM. The specific code for the evening will be listed in your daily onboard program.
Smart Casual Evenings
This is the most common evening dress code on a Holland America cruise. It's best described as polished and relaxed.
- For Women: Skirts, trousers, or smart jeans with a casual but elegant top; casual dresses or pantsuits.
- For Men: Trousers or smart jeans with a collared shirt or polo shirt. A jacket or sports coat is optional but not required.
What Not to Wear (in the Main Dining Room and Specialty Restaurants)
- Shorts
- T-shirts and sleeveless tops for men
- Swimwear
- Distressed jeans (jeans with holes or tears)
- Baseball caps
- Flip-flops
Formal Night / Gala Evening
Holland America refers to its formal nights as Gala Nights. These are special evenings dedicated to fine dining and celebration, offering a chance to dress in your finest attire. The menu often features premium items like lobster or steak.
- For Women: Cocktail dresses, elegant pantsuits, gowns, or formal skirt and blouse ensembles.
- For Men: A suit and tie, a tuxedo, or a dinner jacket with trousers.
The number of Gala Nights depends on the length of your cruise:
- Cruises up to 6 nights: Typically 1 Gala Night.
- Cruises 7-10 nights: Typically 2 Gala Nights.
- Cruises 11-14 nights: Typically 2 or 3 Gala Nights.
- Cruises 15 nights or longer: Varies, but generally 3 or 4 Gala Nights.
Note: This is a general guide, and the final schedule is at the ship's discretion.
Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)
The evening's designated dress code (Smart Casual or Formal Attire) applies to most public venues after 6:00 PM.
- The Main Dining Room(s): Strictly adheres to the evening's dress code.
- Speciality Dining Restaurants: Venues like Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, and Tamarind also follow the evening's dress code.
- The Buffet / Lido Marketplace: This venue remains casual every evening. It is the perfect alternative for those who prefer not to dress up.
- The Main Theatre or Show Lounge: Guests typically attend shows in the attire they wore to dinner, so the evening's dress code is standard here.
- Bars and Lounges: The dress code is generally followed, though enforcement may be slightly more relaxed than in the dining rooms.
Common Themed Nights & Special Events
Holland America Line hosts several themed events, which are a fun opportunity to participate. While dressing up is always optional, many guests enjoy it. Availability varies by ship and itinerary.
- Orange Party: A signature event celebrating the cruise line's Dutch heritage. Guests are encouraged to wear orange attire for a lively party on deck.
- Masquerade Ball: On some longer voyages, a formal Masquerade Ball is held on a Gala Night, where guests can don elegant masks.
- Caribbean/Tropical Night: Common on Caribbean sailings, guests wear floral shirts, sundresses, and festive tropical attire.
- Alaskan Night: On Alaskan itineraries, there is often a special "On Deck for a Cause" walk and a special menu, sometimes with a casual "Flannel & Frost" theme.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Holland America Line Dress Code
Can I wear jeans on Holland America Line?
Yes, jeans are acceptable. During the day, they are welcome anywhere. In the evenings, smart, well-kept jeans (no rips, frays, or holes) are permitted in all venues, including the Main Dining Room, on nights designated as Smart Casual.
Are shorts allowed in the Main Dining Room in the evening?
No, shorts are not permitted in the Main Dining Room or specialty dining restaurants in the evening. While acceptable during the day, evening attire calls for long trousers, slacks, or smart jeans for men, and equivalent attire for women.
How many formal nights will be on my cruise?
Holland America Line calls its formal nights Gala Nights. The frequency is based on your cruise length, as detailed in the "Formal Night / Gala Evening" section above. Generally, expect one or two Gala Nights on a 7 to 10-night cruise.
Do I really need a dinner jacket or a gown for a formal night?
While tuxedos and ball gowns are welcome, they are not mandatory. For men, a suit or a dinner jacket with trousers is perfectly acceptable for a Gala Night. For women, a cocktail dress, elegant pantsuit, or a formal skirt and blouse ensemble is appropriate. The goal is to look polished and celebratory.
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 Gala Nights, they are encouraged to dress up in their best outfits, such as dresses, skirts, or smart trousers and a polo shirt.
Is the dress code strictly enforced?
Yes, Holland America Line generally enforces the evening dress code, particularly in the Main Dining Room and specialty restaurants. Staff at the entrance may politely ask guests who are not appropriately dressed to change. For those who prefer to remain casual, the Lido Market (buffet) is always an option.
Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary
A little planning goes a long way. Use this checklist to ensure you have everything you need.
- For your Alaskan cruise: Don't forget a waterproof jacket, binoculars for wildlife spotting, comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions, and insect repellent.
- For the Caribbean: Pack multiple swimsuits, a high-quality reef-safe sunscreen, aloe vera gel, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- For the Mediterranean: Pack a light scarf or shawl for visits to religious sites, very comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets, and an anti-theft bag for peace of mind in crowded areas.
- For any cruise: Pack a small medical kit with basics like pain relievers, seasickness medication, and plasters. A portable power bank is also a great idea for charging devices on the go.
Remember that certain items are prohibited on board for safety reasons. These typically include:
- Clothing irons and travel steamers
- Surge-protected extension leads (power strips without surge protection are usually allowed)
- Heating pads or electric blankets
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 Holland America Line website:
