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Is there a dress code or recommended attire?

Yes. Daytime attire is casual, most evenings are smart casual, and select evenings are designated as Dressy Nights (with the number of Dressy Nights depending on voyage length).

Daytime and indoor basics
During the day, casual attire is appropriate throughout the ship. When indoors on board, guests are required to wear shirts or cover-ups and footwear at all times.

Evenings and dining expectations
Most evenings follow a smart casual standard. In table service restaurants, the following attire is not permitted:

  • Shorts

  • Pool and beachwear

  • Distressed jeans

  • Men’s tank tops

Where to confirm nightly attire
The specific dress recommendation for each evening is listed in the Daily Program and in the Navigator® App.

Dressy Nights schedule and timing notes

  • On a typical 7-day cruise, Dressy Nights usually occur on the first full day and the second-to-last evening. 

  • They are never scheduled on embarkation day or on the final night of the cruise.

  • Voyages include a set number of Dressy Nights, and ship staff may adjust their placement, so the schedule can change. 

    Length of Voyage Dressy nights
    Less than 4 days 0
    4 – 6 days 1
    7 – 13 days 2
    14 – 20 days 3
    21 – 28 days 4
    29 – 38 days 5
    39 – 48 days 6
    49 – 58 days 7
    59 – 68 days 8
    69 – 78 days 9
    79 – 88 days 10
    89 – 98 days 11
    Grand World Voyage Varies by length

Important notes:

  • The term “Dressy” is used instead of “Formal” to avoid confusion. Black tie or tuxedos have never been required.

  • Guests are responsible for bringing their own Dressy Nights attire, as Holland America Line does not provide formal wear.

  • Guests participating in a Cruisetour may pack a separate bag with Dressy Nights clothing and have it held until they return from the inland portion of their journey.

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