What to wear on family cruise holidays – dress codes at sea explained

Cruise holidays may take out the stress of how to get from A to B, but how do you know what clothes you’ll need for your family holiday at sea? We’ve got the guide on cruise dress codes.

Consider your entire itinerary when packing for a cruise

Cruise clothing is a key part of your packing to master – nothing worse than shivering on the sun deck or baking on the balcony.

Factoring in the destinations on your itinerary is important, of course, but you should also be aware that dress codes can vary depending on the cruise line.

Ambassador Cruise Line is offering two multigenerational cruises this summer that are perfect for you and the family to escape away on in 2023 (and the deals are marvellous too) so we’re here to make sure you get the garbs right.

Cruise dress code: Daytime

During the day Ambassador advises ‘casual clothing’ onboard but remember, this depends on what you’re getting up to! Swimming, crafts, sports sessions and more are all possible on an Ambassador cruise so be sure to think ahead about the activities you and the little ones will want to take part in when packing.

Consider your shore excursions too – will you be city sightseeing or adventure seeking? Let’s have a look at each of the Ambassador family cruise itineraries this summer to give you a steer on what to take.

Palma Cathedral, Palma de Mallorca

What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise

Ambassador’s Multi-generational Summer Balearics Getaway takes you to Portugal, Spain and Ibiza in August so be sure to pack some cool clothes for the gang.

Lightweight and breathable fabrics are a good idea to beat the Mediterranean heat. Opt for clothing made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen or blends that allow air circulation and keep you cool.

To ensure both little and big travellers are equipped for all eventualities, pack a variety of shorts, skirts, or lightweight trousers that are comfortable for walking and exploring the cities and towns as well as a mix of short-sleeved and sleeveless shirts or blouses.

Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes or sandals, as you may be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces as you roam historical town centres (ideally fuelled by ice cream stops). Remember to pack some light layers, too, just in case, as it can still get cooler in the evenings on the continent!

Norwegian fjords are a beautiful sight

What to wear on a Norwegian Fjords cruise

Meanwhile, Ambassador’s Summertime Fjordland Multigenerational Sailing may also be in August but there’s no guarantee of blazing sunshine. Norway’s weather can be quite varied, ranging from mild to chilly temperatures.

Layering is key for changing temperatures throughout the day so wearing lightweight, breathable layers that can be easily added or removed is savvy.

To keep parents and kids prepared, pack a mix of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts to accommodate varying weather conditions, a couple of light jumpers or cardigans to layer, and a lightweight jacket or windbreaker that is waterproof or water-resistant to protect against rain or wind.

Pack the right clothes for sightseeing activities

As for bottom halves of all sizes, pack a pair of comfortable trousers or jeans to wear during sightseeing activities. In addition to quick-drying hiking trousers or leggings for better mobility and protection if you and the gang plan on engaging in outdoor activities or hiking.

The Norwegian fjords offer beautiful opportunities for exploration, so make sure to take comfortable, waterproof and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots on your cruise. These will provide good traction and support for uneven terrain.

And for both family cruises, don’t forget sunglasses, hats and swimwear – the beaches of Spain and the calm waters of the Norwegian Fjords are equally good for a dip, albeit at rather differing temperatures.

Knowing the dress codes makes packing easier

Cruise dress code: Formal nights

There is a common misconception that cruising means dressing up to the nines every night. This is not the case!

Ambassador generally has two ‘formal’ or gala nights planned every seven to 12 nights when you can show off your glad rags – although if you don’t want to attend the festivities there’s certainly no obligation to.

On formal nights men tend to wear dinner jackets, but dads (uncles, granddads, godfathers, the more the merrier!) can also wear a lounge suit.

Ladies on these occasions can sport evening or cocktail dresses, although any formal outfit is acceptable. As for children, these rules are generally more relaxed on cruises but denim and trainers are best avoided.

The only thing adults must remember is that jeans, T-Shirts and open-neck shirts are not permitted in the main restaurant on Formal or Gala evenings.

You will need to pack some formal clothes

Cruise dress code: Smart nights

Ambassador does propose some nights as ‘smart’ when it comes to the cruise dress code. On these evenings, the line suggests a suit or smart jacket and trousers, with or without a tie, for men, adding: “ladies have further opportunities to look elegant in cocktail dresses or trouser suits.”

Kids might enjoy the chance to pop something jazzy on but no worries if your tiny cruisers are railing against the smarter outfits you’ve brought for them!

Cruise dress code: Casual nights

Equally some nights onboard Ambassador ships are pretty laid-back so you don’t need to worry about rooting out that fancy frock.

‘Casual’ nights generally cover evenings spent in port or when a special event such as a deck party is scheduled. On these occasions, cruisers of all ages can dress however they like.