What is Formal Night?

• Formal night is a special evening set aside on a cruise when all of the passengers put on their best clothing and have a gourmet dinner with their fellow guests. Formal night is special not only because it allows you to get dressed up, but because there are also activities and entertainment, creating a wonderful night of memories.
  
  Before you go on the cruise, check in with guest information to see whether or not they allow a sports jacket in lieu of a full tuxedo or suit. Sports jackets are ideal to wear throughout the day, dressing up a pair of tailored jeans or slacks for a more casual look.
  
  

Dress Code

• Depending on the cruise line, dress codes may be different. If the cruise is more laid back, chances are they will likely allow sports jackets for the formal wear dinner. For more formal cruises, dress code requirements often include at least a suit jacket, dress shirt and tie. Women must wear cocktail dresses, tailored slacks or dress suits during a formal dinner.
  
  Since formal wear night gives passengers a chance to dress up, they often choose to dress their best, in tuxedos, ball gowns and full suits. If you do not have a tuxedo, rental shops are usually on board to provide formal wear options to both men and women. Visit the shops early to see the best selection of what is available.
  
  

What to Expect

• Formal wear dinners, whether they allow sports jackets or require tuxedos, are often the best on the voyage and may occur at the beginning or end of the cruise. Food selections such as duck, filet mignon, prime rib and lobster are usually the main course, paired with gourmet appetizers, side dishes and desserts. On most cruises, chefs create delicious meals throughout the entire trip; however, formal wear night is often above and beyond in food creation.