Dress code – part 1

Packing for a cruise can be a little stressful – especially us ladies who like to pack a diffrerent pair of shoes and hangbag for each outfit.  I have put together some information that hopefully will help you in your hour of need.

This applies to P&O cruises, I will put one together for each cruise line.

Formal
For a typical two week cruise there are normally four formal evenings onboard.  This is an opportunity for ladies to wear glamorous evening wear including cocktail dresses or even a smart trouser suit.  For men, a dinner jacket or tuxedo are the norm, but a dark lounge or business suit and tie can be worn as an alternative.  Formal wear can be purchased on board and applies to all restaurants with the exception of the buffet restaurants and certain bars.

Smart Casual
For a typical two week cruise on Oceana or Ventura there are normally ten Smart Casual evenings.  On Arcadia, Aurora, Adonia, Azura and Oriana there are normally six Smart Casual evenings.  Stylish resort or leisurewear is ideal for Smart Casual evenings, for example casual separates or dresses fpr ladies and open-neck polo shirts and casual trousers (not shorts) for men.  A jacket and smart trousers can be worn but are not compulsory.  Smart dark denim is also fine, but not trainers, football shorts or tracksuits.

Semi-Formal
This is found on Arcadia, Aurora, Adonia, Azura, Oceana* and Oriana.
For a typical two week cruise there are normally four Semi-Formal evenings.  Ladies typically wear tailored trousers, smart separates or even a stylish dress, while men are in a smart shirt and trousers with a jacket, such as a blazer or sports jaket – or a suit and tie if they fancy it.

Children
The dress code is applicable to all passengers of 18 years and over.  P&O request that on Formal or Semi-Formal evenings children wear, as a minimum, Smart Casual dress, however on these occasions dark denim is not permitted.

Oceana will adpot the Semi-Formal dress code from the 26 Oct 2011 cruise onwards.