Cunard cruises are famous for their timeless elegance – think grand staircases, gala evenings and that classic ocean-liner style.
With over 175 years of tradition behind them, it’s no surprise that the line has one of the most distinctive dress codes at sea.
But what does that really mean for your suitcase? Can you wear jeans? How smart is “smart”?
In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what to wear on a Cunard cruise – from daytime outfits to gala nights – plus how to stay comfortable while still fitting perfectly with Cunard’s refined style.
Cunard’s Daytime Dress Code is Casual
During the day, Cunard passengers are free to dress casually and comfortably, including jeans, shorts and T-shirts. Casual clothing is perfectly acceptable for daytime activities such as exploring the ship, attending onboard events or enjoying leisure time on deck.
However, most people on a Cunard cruise will be dressed very smartly, even in the daytime. Although you can wear casual clothing like jeans during the day, ripped or scruffy jeans aren’t the best choice.
Cunard is known for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, and ripped jeans may not align with the overall ambience the cruise line seeks to maintain. The same goes for cut-off jean shorts that are very short and show a lot of flesh.
But if your jeans or denim shorts are smart, there’s no reason why you can’t wear them in the daytime.
Suggested read: 9 Things You Should Never Wear On A Cruise
Cunard’s Evening Dress Codes Are Less Casual
Cunard has two main dress codes for evenings: Gala Evenings (also known as formal nights) and Smart Attire (also known as informal nights).
Formal Dress for Gala Evenings
On these nights, passengers are expected to dress up in more formal attire. For men, this typically means a tuxedo, dinner jacket or a dark suit with a tie. For women, this means a formal gown, cocktail dress or dressy separates. Jeans are not considered appropriate for Gala Evenings.
Smart Casual Dress for Smart Attire Nights
On Smart Attire nights, passengers can dress more casually but are still expected to maintain a sense of elegance. For men, this usually means a jacket, a collared shirt and dress trousers. Women can wear a dress, skirt or dressy trousers with a blouse.
Although jeans are not explicitly prohibited during Smart Attire evenings, it’s recommended that you choose dressier, dark-wash jeans without any rips or excessive wear. Pair them with a more formal top and shoes.
So dark jeans and a crisp shirt, or a nice top with smart shoes or heels, are absolutely fine to wear in the evenings on a Cunard cruise.
These dress codes are mainly enforced in the main dining rooms and other public areas of the ship during the evening. When dining in more casual venues or spending time in your own stateroom, you can generally wear what you like, including jeans.
Tips for Packing Clothes for Your Cunard Cruise
When planning your wardrobe for a Cunard cruise, consider the following tips:
- Bring at least one formal outfit for Gala Evenings.
- For Smart Attire nights, pack a few versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, such as dark jeans, blazers, dressy tops or skirts.
- Don’t forget comfortable clothing for daytime activities and excursions.
- Pack appropriate footwear, including dress shoes for formal nights and comfortable walking shoes for daytime activities.
- Remember to check the weather and plan accordingly, bringing layers and appropriate outerwear for the regions you’ll be visiting.
Final Word
Cunard’s dress code might sound formal at first, but once you’re on board, it simply adds to the magic of the experience. Dressing up for dinner or a gala evening feels like stepping back into a golden age of cruising – and it’s all part of what makes Cunard so special.
During the day, smart casual is perfectly fine, and yes, you can wear jeans – just keep them neat and stylish. In the evenings, a little effort goes a long way, and you’ll feel right at home among fellow guests who love the occasion as much as you do.
So pack your favourite outfits, polish your shoes, and get ready to enjoy the timeless elegance that Cunard is known for. After all, half the fun of a Cunard cruise is looking the part while you’re living it.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
