Since the beginning of passenger cruising services in the 1800s, a cruise was known for its elegance and sophistication, heightened by the dress code that was expected in those days. Those in higher social classes would dress to impress and given the chance to appear in the press and socialise with one another in a formal setting.
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Cruise Formal Nights
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Now, the dress code on many cruise lines has eased off a little – although the concept of a formal night aboard your cruise is still a perfect chance to dress up and enjoy an evening that feels a little more special.
In this guide, we’ll go through exactly what a formal night is and what you should expect, including what to wear and how to make the best of it.
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What is a cruise formal night?
Formal night, sometimes also known as gala night, is an evening aboard your cruise ship where there’s typically a little more elegance in the air. There’s usually a special menu, followed by a show or music.
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In many cases, formal night will take place in the main dining room, although some specialty restaurants will also require a smarter dress code for the evening.
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What to expect on a cruise formal night
Most cruise lines will host a formal night at least once per voyage, and if the itinerary is slightly longer, there could be 2 or more formal nights. On the whole, a cruise formal night is an evening where people may dress up more than usual, have some drinks and take professional photos, before enjoying dinner and potentially a show afterwards.
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The captain may make a short speech, and there could be a champagne toast, but every cruise ship is different.
However, while the emphasis would have been on the ‘formal’ aspect in years gone by, this has relaxed a little in modern times. Many formal nights have been renamed, such as ‘Dress to Impress’ or ‘Evening Chic’.
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What to wear on a cruise formal night
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Is there a formal night on every cruise?
In most cases, there will be at least 1 formal night on each cruise, if not more. It depends on the length of the voyage. For shorter cruises that are up to 5 nights, you will typically find formal night occurs on the second night.
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For cruises that are up to a week long, you may find there are formal nights on night 2 and 6 of your holiday. In many instances it will be at the ship’s discretion.
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Do you have to take part in formal night?
Formal nights on cruises are not mandatory, so if you don’t want to attend, you don’t have to! However, because it is typically a ship-wide event, you might find that your alternative dining options are limited and in some cases it might mean ordering room service to your stateroom.
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You will usually find the buffet restaurants will offer the chance to dine with casual dress, where it is more relaxed.
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How to enjoy your cruise formal night
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