There are three distinct types of dinners while eating in the main dining room of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Passengers should check in advance, as the schedule varies based on the length of the cruise. The three categories include casual, smart casual and formal.
For casual evenings, men are encouraged to wear sport shirts and slacks. Women can stick to sundresses or pants. These evenings typically occur on the first night of most Royal Caribbean cruises.
Smart casual attire is a bit dressier. Men are expected to wear suit jackets and ties. Women can were dresses or pantsuits.
The most elegant evenings follow a formal dress code. Royal Caribbean asks men to dine in suits and ties or tuxedos. Women are expected to wear cocktail dresses.
If you don't own a tux, do not worry. Men can opt to wear a suit, or event rent a tux from Royal Caribbean. Just provide your measurements and the tux will be delivered to your stateroom. Packages are available for around $100 and include the jacket, pants, shirts, cummerbund and bow tie (or vest and tie), and cufflinks.
With three different dress codes to follow, it's no easy task to pack for all the dinners you will enjoy on a cruise ship. Royal Caribbean encourages passengers to bring clothing in similar colors, so different tops and bottoms can be worn more than once. This will help minimize what you need to squeeze into a suitcase.
Each passenger's interpretation of the guidelines will vary. On smart casual nights, you may see a passenger wearing jeans or a very formal outfit. Shorts, T-shirts and bathing suits are not allowed in Royal Caribbean dining rooms at dinner. Casual dining is always available at the onboard cafes.
