Getaway Style Guide: What to Wear on a Cruise

Your dream cruise vacation is just around the corner and, whether you’re setting sail for a Mediterranean adventure or a luxurious river cruise, packing the right vacation attire can make your getaway even more memorable. From cute vacation outfits to elegant cocktail dresses, we have all the tips to help you stay stylish and comfortable for every moment on and off the boat. Get ready to turn heads and collect compliments with our getaway style guide so you can pack like a pro for your next adventure on the high seas!

Know Your Destination

When you’re packing for a cruise, first things first: you’ve got to know your destination. And we don’t just mean knowing where you’re going, but knowing how to dress for where you’re going. 

If you’re going on a tropical cruise, it’s all about breezy sundresses and floppy hats while you sip on a poolside pina colada. Headed for a Mediterranean adventure? You’ll want comfy flats and chic separates that are perfect for al fresco dinners and cobblestone streets. As for Alaskan cruises, you have to stay warm by layering up with boots and cozy sweaters while you’re whale watching. Stay relaxed on a river cruise in polished pieces that are great for both sightseeing and lounging. Knowing your itinerary makes all the difference in packing for your vacation.

Tropical Cruise Packing Tips

Set sail on a tropical escape because packing for paradise is half the fun. Get ready for sun-soaked deck days while wearing a vibrant swimsuit underneath a flowy cover-up or breezy sundress. Don’t forget about strappy sandals for beach strolls and poolside lounging. Throw on a wide-brim hat and oversized sunnies to protect your glow while keeping your cool. For some evening inspiration, pack a maxi dress or romper for cocktails under the stars. Stick to breathable fabrics to act as your trusty sidekick in tropical temperatures. With any of these essentials, you’ll look effortlessly chic while soaking up the island sun.

Mediterranean Cruise Packing Tips

Jet off to a Mediterranean cruise and look like a real pro with flowy midi dresses and sandals as you explore sunny streets and quaint seaside towns. Warm Mediterranean days call for lightweight fabrics, and you’re going to want a statement sun hat for any Amalfi Coast photo ops. At night, pack a glamorous maxi dress or form-fitting jumpsuit paired with gold jewelry because those Mediterranean nights are meant for dining underneath the stars. Add a crossbody bag for hands-free sightseeing, and you’re set to slay every vineyard view in no time.

Alaskan Cruise Packing Tips

Before you head to the great Alaskan wilderness, pack cozy sweaters, warm leggings, and flannel shirts to layer up during whale watching and glacier hikes. Take in jaw-dropping views while wearing rain-resistant jackets because Alaskan weather sure loves to surprise. Don’t forget about trusty boots for exploring trails and chic accessories like scarves and hats for extra coziness. For nights on board the ship, pack a sweater dress and long jacket for a polished look in the Last Frontier.

River Cruise Packing Tips

As for sailing down a scenic river, it’s all about combining style and comfort. To pack for a river cruise, opt for polished yet relaxed pieces like breezy tops, flowy midi dresses, and chic sneakers for exploring historic sites and charming towns. Layer up with lightweight pieces because mornings tend to be cool while afternoons are on the warmer side. A structured crossbody bag is a great choice to keep your essentials on you while snapping photos of Insta-worthy views. For dinners onboard, wear a jumpsuit or maxi dress that can transition effortlessly from casual to dressy.

Cruise Essentials

No matter what kind of cruise you’re traveling on, it’s important to know your cruise essentials. Let’s break it down! For daytime activities, you’ll want comfy shorts and breezy dresses for sightseeing and lounging. When it’s time for cocktail hour or dinnertime onboard, it’s your chance to shine in stunning dresses that are sure to turn heads. 

For everyday loungewear on your trip, opt for easy t-shirts, leggings, and cozy cardigans, which are great for layering. Don’t forget to pack swimwear and cover-ups to stay stylish at the beach or pool. Make sure to pack outerwear like a shawl and lightweight jacket as temperatures dip. As for footwear, you’ll want options that are as practical as they are stylish, like comfy sneakers, slides, and dressy sandals.

Daywear Basics

Sunny days on a cruise are all about those easy, breezy daywear options like flowy skirts, rompers, and sundresses that are perfect for everything from sipping cocktails by the pool to sightseeing in a new city. Pair these with sneakers or sandals for a look that’s ready for whatever adventures your day brings. Make sure to pack lightweight fabrics to keep you cool in the bright sun while looking effortlessly put together. Complete the vibe with an oversized tote and sun hat to hold all of your on-the-go essentials. With any of these daywear basics, you’ll nail casual chic to make your getaway style as fashionable as it is fun!

Evening Attire

Your nightly cruise dinner or cocktail hour is the perfect opportunity to wear beautiful dresses. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail hour underneath the stars or headed out to a fancy dinner, evenings are your time to shine. Break out those stunning dresses like sophisticated maxis, playful midis, or a chic jumpsuit if you’re feeling a modern twist. Add sparkle with a statement clutch and gold jewelry, so you’re all set to dazzle. Opt for dressy flats or strappy heels. Whatever makes you feel fabulous and comfortable, your evening attire should blend glamour and ease so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.

Getaway in Style in Beautiful Dresses

Loungewear

Want a cruise vibe that’s as chic as it is comfy? Then loungewear is calling your name! Think comfortable dresses, cozy joggers, and soft knit sweaters while you relax on your balcony with a coffee or go for a stroll on the deck at sunset. Don’t forget about an oversized hoodie or lightweight cardigan so you stay cozy in air-conditioned lounges. Mix and match pieces in nautical-inspired colors so you can fully embrace your getaway style. Unwind in your cabin or grab a quick snack at the buffet because your loungewear feels like a hug but looks like you’re relaxing in style, Avaraista!

Swimwear

No cruise is complete without the proper swimwear for beach excursions and swimming in the pool. Keep your swimwear game strong by packing a mix of flattering one-pieces and playful bikinis to keep your getaway style fresh. Opt for chic cover-ups like maxi dresses and sheer pieces to allow your swimwear to become a statement piece. Go from deck chair to lunch date by wearing swimsuits in bold colors or fun prints to embrace the tropical vibes. Complete your look with a floppy hat, sandals, and sunglasses.

Footwear

The travel and cruise experts at Celebrity Cruises remind us not to let your footwear become an afterthought when packing for your cruise. The best shoes to pack will depend on your destination. While you’ll want to pack hiking boots for an Alaskan cruise, be sure to pack flip-flops if you’re going to take advantage of the pool or beach. As you go back and forth between your room and the rest of the ship, wear waterproof slides or comfortable walking shoes. Dressier occasions will call for nice sandals or heels.

Packing for Different Activities

Every cruise line is known for their different kinds of onboard activities. On a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, you might have a drink made by a robot mixologist or enjoy a surf simulator. At Celebrity Cruises, play a game of pickleball or try your luck in the casino. There are plenty of family fun options like rock climbing and bowling on a Norwegian! 

Make sure to pack for all different kinds of activities depending on what’s available on your cruise so your outfit matches what you’ll be doing. Casual dining calls for skirts and sundresses, but you’ll want to bring the wow factor for a formal dinner with a stunning maxi dress or jumpsuit. For more active excursions, stick to comfy leggings and breathable tops so you look fab during yoga or hitting the onboard basketball court. Don’t forget about pool and deck attire, like playful cover-ups and oversized sunnies, so you can soak up the sun in style.

Casual vs. Formal Dining

Breakfast and lunches onboard and off the boat tend to be more casual, so wear sundresses, skirts, or even trendy jumpsuits paired with low wedges or cute sandals for a more laid-back vibe. When it’s time for formal evening wear during dinner or cocktail hour, shine bright in a chic maxi dress or sophisticated midi so you’ll feel like the star of the cruise dinner show. Add on statement jewelry and heels, and you’re good to go.

Pool and Deck Attire

This is your vacation, so you can live that poolside cruise life if you want to. Just make sure your attire is as fabulous as the ocean view. Think stylish swimsuits that’ll make a splash. From bold bikinis to chic one-pieces, the key is to pick a swimsuit that makes you feel confident. Add a cover-up like a lightweight sarong or see-through piece so you can transition from the pool to the poolside cabana. Complete your look with sunglasses, a floppy hat, and comfy flip-flops.

Cruise Packing Tips

Because there are so many different activities to do both on and off the boat, the key to packing for a cruise is versatility. Versatile tops and blouses are perfect for casual daytime activities and dressier evening occasions. Pair a blouse with shorts during a daytime excursion into a historic town, or dress up your top with a skirt or breathable trousers for a night onboard. 

Mix and match to your heart’s content by packing items that can be easily swapped to create endless outfit possibilities. Stick to neutral basics, fun prints to make your outfit pop, and a few colorful accessories so your getaway wardrobe stays fresh and fabulous.

Pack Versatile Pieces

Ladies tops and blouses are a versatile must-have for your cruise because they can be dressed up or dressed down. Your versatile pieces should be able to do double duty, meaning that you can wear them to more than one activity or occasion. A cute blouse with shorts looks great during the day, but you can dress it up again for the evening with a skirt or jeans. Swap a basic everyday tee for a trendy statement top, and suddenly you’re game for poolside brunches and cocktail hour. Lightweight cardigans and jackets are great for layering and adding a bit of sophistication to your nighttime wardrobe. By sticking to pieces that can be mixed and matched, you’ll be set for any occasion without worrying about overpacking.

Mix and Match Your Wardrobe

The secret to packing light while looking fabulous on your cruise is to mix and match pieces from your wardrobe. Pack items that can be easily swapped out, like a pretty top that pairs perfectly with anything from jeans to skirts or shorts. Go for neutral basics like a black tank or classic white t-shirt, and then add pops of color with fun accessories. By mixing up different tops, bottoms, and other layering pieces and accessories, you’ll have plenty of endless outfit combinations without overstuffing your luggage. And if you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your look, be sure to look at all of our latest accessories.

Elevate Your Look with Accessories

Now that you have an idea of what to wear on a cruise, our fabulous women’s resort wear gets you ready for everything from laid-back lounging by the cruise ship pool to an elegant evening dinner. Ensuring you have versatility and chic pieces helps keep you prepared for every adventure. Keep in mind your destination, itinerary, and the cruise line’s dress code, which can differ from ship to ship. 

The most important thing is that you choose outfits for your cruise vacation that will make you feel as confident and carefree on your journey of a lifetime. Set sail in style and enjoy every moment of your cruise!

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