The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to AIDA Cruises Dress Code.
Welcome aboard! One of the hallmarks of an AIDA cruise is its wonderfully relaxed and informal atmosphere. There are no strict dress codes, allowing you to enjoy your holiday in comfort. This guide will help you pack the right clothes for every casual and fun-filled occasion on your AIDA ship.
Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening
From sunrise to sunset, comfort is king. The dress code is casual across the entire ship, with attire depending on your destination's climate and your planned activities.
- Mediterranean & Canary Islands: Pack light, breathable fabrics. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimwear are perfect. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes for excursions and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
- Northern Europe & Fjords: Layering is the key to comfort. Pack a mix of t-shirts, long-sleeved tops, warm sweaters or fleeces, and a waterproof and windproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Caribbean: Think light and tropical. Multiple swimsuits, cover-ups, shorts, tank tops, and sundresses are ideal. Strong sun protection, including a hat and sunglasses, is essential.
General Public Areas (Theatrium, Lounges, Cafés)
Casual and comfortable clothing is standard. Feel free to wear shorts, t-shirts, and sandals as you explore the ship's indoor amenities.
Pool Decks and Outdoor Spaces
Swimwear is the uniform of the day on the sun decks. Bikinis, swimsuits, and swim trunks are encouraged as you enjoy the pools and outdoor bars.
Daytime Dining (Main Dining Room & Buffet)
For breakfast and lunch in all dining venues, the dress code remains casual. The buffet restaurants are particularly laid-back.
- You must wear a cover-up or t-shirt over your swimwear to enter any indoor restaurant or bar.
- Footwear is required in all indoor venues; bare feet are not permitted.
Evening Dress Codes Explained
AIDA keeps things simple and relaxed in the evenings. There are no mandatory formal nights or complicated rules. The philosophy is "come as you are and enjoy."
Casual Evenings
This is the standard for almost every evening on an AIDA cruise. It's all about being comfortable.
- For Men: Shorts, jeans, or casual trousers with a t-shirt or polo shirt.
- For Women: A casual dress, skirt, shorts, or jeans with a nice top.
Smart Casual
If you are dining in one of the à la carte or speciality restaurants, you might want to dress a little more nicely, though it's not a strict requirement.
- For Men: Long trousers or chinos with a collared shirt (polo or button-down).
- For Women: A dress, skirt with a blouse, or smart trousers.
What Not to Wear (in speciality restaurants)
- Swimwear
- Bare feet or athletic wear
Elegant / "Festlich" Night
AIDA does not have Formal Nights in the traditional sense. However, on most voyages of a week or longer, there is often one evening with a more festive or elegant motto. Participation is completely optional.
- Frequency: Typically one optional evening on a 7-night cruise. Check your daily onboard program for details.
- For Men: This is a chance to wear a suit or a blazer with smart trousers, but it's not required. Many men will simply wear a nice shirt and long trousers.
- For Women: A cocktail dress, elegant jumpsuit, or a stylish skirt ensemble is a great choice if you wish to participate.
Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)
- The Main Dining Room(s) & Speciality Restaurants: The recommended dress is Smart Casual. However, the enforcement is very relaxed compared to other cruise lines.
- The Buffet / Marketplace Restaurants: Always Casual. Shorts and t-shirts are perfectly acceptable for dinner here, making it a popular choice every night.
- The Main Theatre (Theatrium) & Show Lounge: There is no specific dress code. Guests wear whatever they are comfortable in, which usually reflects what they wore to dinner, from casual to smart casual.
- Bars and Lounges: The atmosphere is relaxed and casual throughout.
Common Themed Nights & Special Events
AIDA loves a good party! Check the daily program for fun themed events. Joining in is a great way to meet fellow passengers.
- White Night / Pool Party: A very popular event, often held on the pool deck. Guests are invited to dress in all-white attire.
- Oktoberfest: Reflecting its German heritage, AIDA often hosts a fun Oktoberfest-style party with traditional music and beer. Lederhosen and dirndls are welcome!
- Tropical/Caribbean Night: On sailings in warmer climates, expect a colourful deck party. Pack a floral shirt or dress to get into the spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions About the AIDA Cruises Dress Code
Can I wear jeans on AIDA Cruises?
Yes, absolutely. Jeans are a staple on AIDA ships and are perfectly acceptable in all venues during the day and for most evenings, including in the buffet and main dining rooms.
Are shorts allowed in the Main Dining Room in the evening?
For dinner in the main, served restaurants (speciality restaurants), long trousers are recommended for men. While AIDA is very relaxed, smart shorts might be frowned upon. In the extensive buffet restaurants, however, shorts are completely fine for dinner.
How many formal nights will be on my cruise?
AIDA Cruises does not have mandatory 'Formal Nights.' The atmosphere is consistently relaxed. On a typical 7-night cruise, there may be one optional 'elegant' or festive evening where some guests choose to dress up, but it is not a requirement.
Do I really need a dinner jacket or a gown for an elegant night?
No, you do not. The 'elegant' evenings are completely optional. Many guests stick to smart casual attire. If you enjoy dressing up, a dinner jacket, suit, or cocktail dress is welcome, but you will not feel out of place in something less formal.
What is the dress code for children and teenagers?
The dress code for children and teenagers on AIDA is very relaxed. The main rule is that they must wear shoes and are not in swimwear inside the restaurants. Otherwise, casual and comfortable clothing is appropriate at all times.
Is the dress code strictly enforced?
AIDA's dress code is more of a guideline and is not strictly enforced. The onboard culture is famously relaxed and informal. As long as you are not wearing swimwear inside dining areas, you will be fine. The emphasis is on comfort and enjoying your holiday.
Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary
A little planning ensures you can relax completely once on board.
- Embrace the Casual: Don't overpack with formalwear. Focus on comfortable, versatile pieces that you can mix and match.
- Pack Layers: A light jacket, cardigan, or pashmina is always a good idea for breezy evenings on deck or in the air-conditioned indoor spaces, no matter the itinerary.
- Comfortable Footwear: You'll be doing plenty of walking on the ship and in port, so comfortable shoes, sandals, and sneakers are essential.
- Prohibited Items: For safety, personal clothing irons, travel steamers, and surge-protected extension leads are not allowed on board. Laundry and pressing services are available for a fee.
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 AIDA website (information typically in German):
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