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

Welcome to your complete guide to the MSC Cruises dress code. Knowing what to pack can make your holiday much more enjoyable, ensuring you're comfortable and appropriately dressed for every occasion, from sun-drenched days by the pool to elegant evenings in the main dining room. This guide covers everything you need to know for any MSC itinerary.

Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening

During the day, the dress code across the entire MSC fleet is relaxed and casual. The key is to dress for comfort and the climate of your destination.

• Caribbean, Bahamas & Mexican Riviera: Pack lightweight and breathable fabrics. T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and loose-fitting linen trousers are ideal. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Alaska: Layering is essential. Pack thermal tops, fleeces, and a waterproof and windproof jacket. Comfortable jeans or walking trousers are perfect for excursions. Remember to bring gloves, a warm hat, and sturdy, waterproof walking shoes.
• Mediterranean: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring historic ports with cobbled streets. Light layers, such as a cardigan or light jacket, are useful for cooler evenings or air-conditioned interiors. When visiting religious sites, men and women should pack clothing that covers the shoulders and knees, like a shawl, scarf, or zip-off trousers.
• Northern Europe & Fjords: Similar to Alaska, pack layers. A mix of sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and a waterproof jacket will serve you well. Weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for both sunshine and showers.

General Public Areas (Lounges, Atrium, Cafés)

Casual wear like shorts, t-shirts, and jeans is perfectly acceptable in all indoor public areas during the day. The ship is climate-controlled, so a light sweater or cardigan can be useful.

Pool Decks and Outdoor Spaces

Swimwear is the standard attire for the pool decks. You'll see everything from bikinis and one-pieces to swimming trunks and board shorts. A cover-up is highly recommended for walking to and from the pool area.

Daytime Dining (Main Dining Room & Buffet)

The dress code for daytime dining is very casual. However, there are a few key rules to remember, especially when moving from the pool deck to an indoor dining venue.

• Swimwear is not permitted in any indoor dining venue, including the buffet. You must wear a cover-up or shirt over your swimwear.
• Footwear is required in all dining venues. Flip-flops and sandals are acceptable during the day.
• Bare chests are not permitted in any indoor venue.

Evening Dress Codes Explained

In the evening, the dress code becomes more defined. MSC generally has two main types of evening attire mentioned in the daily program: Casual/Informal and the more formal Gala Evening.

Casual / Informal Evenings

Most evenings on board will have a casual or informal dress code. This simply means dressing as you would for a nice dinner out at home. It's relaxed but presentable.

• For Women: Summer dresses, skirts or smart trousers with a stylish top, or smart jeans are all great options.
• For Men: Polo shirts or buttoned shirts with trousers or smart jeans. A blazer or sports coat is optional but not required.

What Not to Wear

In the Main Dining Room and speciality restaurants on any evening, the following items are not considered appropriate:

• Shorts
• Flip-flops
• T-shirts with slogans or offensive images
• Swimwear
• Bare feet or baseball caps

Gala Evening

The Gala Evening is MSC's version of a formal night. It's your chance to dress in your finest and enjoy a special celebratory atmosphere, often with an enhanced menu in the dining room. The number of Gala Evenings depends on the length of your cruise:

• 3-4 night cruises: Typically 1 Gala Evening.
• 7-night cruises: Typically 2 Gala Evenings.
• 10-14 night cruises: Typically 3 Gala Evenings.

Please note, this is a general guide and the final schedule is at the ship's discretion.

• For Women: Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or elegant trouser suits are recommended.
• For Men: A tuxedo, dinner jacket, or a dark suit with a tie or bow tie.

Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)

The evening's designated dress code is primarily for the main dining areas, but here is a quick breakdown by venue.

• The Main Dining Room(s): Strictly adheres to the evening's published dress code (Casual or Gala). Guests wearing shorts or swimwear will be turned away.
• Speciality Dining Restaurants: These venues always require at least a smart casual dress code. On Gala Evenings, guests often dress up, but a suit is generally not required if you prefer not to. Shorts are never permitted.
• The Buffet / Lido Marketplace: The buffet remains casual every evening. It is the perfect alternative if you do not wish to participate in the Gala Evening dress code.
• The Main Theatre or Show Lounge: There is no strict dress code for the theatre. You will see a mix of attire depending on what guests are doing before or after the show. However, most people will be in their evening wear.
• Bars and Lounges: The dress code in the bars and lounges is generally relaxed. However, on Gala Evenings, many of the indoor lounges will have a more formal atmosphere as guests enjoy pre-dinner drinks in their elegant attire.

Common Themed Nights & Special Events

MSC is famous for its lively themed parties. While dressing up is always optional, participating is part of the fun! These are often held on deck (weather permitting) or in a main lounge. Keep an eye on your daily program for details.

• White Party: One of MSC's most famous events. Pack an all-white outfit to join in the fun.
• Flower Glory Party: A throwback to the 70s. Think floral patterns, flares, and colourful hippie-style clothing.
• Tropical/Caribbean Night: Common on Caribbean sailings. Pack a vibrant floral shirt or dress.
• Italian Night: Celebrating MSC's heritage, some guests choose to wear the colours of the Italian flag (green, white, and red).

Frequently Asked Questions About the MSC Cruises Dress Code

Can I wear jeans on MSC Cruises?

Yes, jeans are acceptable on MSC Cruises. During the day, they can be worn anywhere. In the evenings, smart, dark-wash jeans (without rips or holes) are generally permitted in the Main Dining Room and most bars on casual/informal nights. However, they are not considered appropriate for Gala Evenings.

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

No, shorts (including dress shorts) are not permitted in the Main Dining Room or speciality restaurants for dinner on any evening. They are perfectly acceptable in the Buffet at all times.

How many formal nights will be on my cruise?

MSC Cruises calls their formal nights 'Gala Evenings'. The number depends on your cruise length. As mentioned earlier, a 3-4 night cruise typically has one, a 7-night cruise has two, and cruises of 10 nights or longer may have three. This can vary, so always check your daily planner once on board.

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

While many guests enjoy dressing up in tuxedos, dinner jackets, or gowns for a Gala Evening, it is not strictly mandatory. A dark suit and tie for men, or a cocktail dress or elegant pantsuit for women, is perfectly acceptable. The aim is to look smart and elegant.

What is the dress code for children and teenagers?

The dress code for children and teenagers is more relaxed. During the day, normal holiday wear is fine. In the evening, the 'no shorts' rule in the Main Dining Room applies. On Gala Evenings, children are encouraged to dress up in their best outfits, such as a smart shirt and trousers for boys and a party dress for girls, but it is not as strict as it is for adults.

Is the dress code strictly enforced?

Enforcement of the evening dress code is most prominent in the Main Dining Room and speciality restaurants. You may be politely asked to change if your attire is not appropriate (e.g., wearing shorts or swimwear to dinner). In other venues like the buffet, bars, and theatre, the code is much more relaxed.

Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary

A little smart packing goes a long way. Here are some final, itinerary-specific tips to help you prepare.

• For your Alaskan cruise: Don't forget a waterproof jacket, binoculars for wildlife spotting, insect repellent for shore excursions, and a swimsuit for the ship's indoor pools and hot tubs.
• For the Mediterranean: Pack a light scarf or shawl for visits to religious sites, very comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during long days ashore.
• For the Caribbean: Bring at least two swimsuits (so one can dry), a waterproof phone case for beach days, and after-sun lotion. Consider water shoes for rocky beaches.
• General Tip for All Cruises: Pack a small carry-on bag with a change of clothes, any necessary medication, and your swimsuit for the first day. Your main luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until later in the afternoon.

Finally, remember that certain items are prohibited on board for safety reasons. These typically 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 current information, please visit the official MSC Cruises website: MSC Cruises Packing Tips.