Packing for a cruise can be a bit of a minefield, especially if you’re new to P&O Cruises. You’ve probably heard about dress codes and formal nights, but what exactly does that mean? Do you have to dress up every night? Can you wear shorts in the evening? What happens if you don’t follow the dress code?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about what to wear on a P&O cruise, including daytime wear, evening dress codes, Black Tie nights, and even whether P&O enforces the rules.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you pack the right outfits so you can feel comfortable, stylish, and ready to enjoy every part of your cruise.
Daytime Dress Code on a P&O Cruise
The great thing about daytime on a P&O cruise is that there’s no strict dress code. You can pretty much wear whatever you like, as long as it’s appropriate for the setting.
What to Wear Onboard?
For warm destinations: Shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, and lightweight clothing are perfect.
For cooler destinations: Jeans, trousers, long-sleeved tops, and light layers work best.
On deck: It can get breezy in the evenings, so pack a light jacket or jumper.
You must wear shoes indoors, and swimwear is only allowed by the pool – not in lounges, restaurants, or reception areas.
What to Wear Ashore?
When you step off the ship, there are no dress codes – you can dress as casually as you like. However, consider these tips:
Comfortable shoes are essential – you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Pack for the climate – sun hats and sunglasses for hot destinations, raincoats for unpredictable weather.
Respect local customs – some religious sites require you to cover your shoulders and knees.
Caribbean / Mediterranean:
Norway / Northern Europe:
P&O Cruises will usually remind guests about local dress expectations in the daily Horizon planner.
Evening Dress Code on a P&O Cruise
In the evenings, the dress code changes depending on the night. There are two types of evening dress codes:
Evening Casual – Smart but Relaxed
Most nights on a P&O cruise follow the Evening Casual dress code, which is similar to what you’d wear to a nice restaurant.
✅ Acceptable Evening Casual Attire:
Dresses, skirts, or smart trousers
Polo shirts, blouses, or casual button-up shirts
Dark denim (smart, not ripped)
Smart shoes, loafers, or sandals
🚫 What’s Not Allowed?
Trainers or sneakers
Football shirts
Tracksuits or sportswear
Ripped jeans or overly casual clothing
Can I Wear Shorts?
Yes, but only in certain venues:
Buffet
The Beach House
The Glass House
6th Street Diner, The Olive Grove, and Keel & Cow (on Arvia and Iona only)
Tailored shorts are not allowed in the main dining rooms on Evening Casual nights.
Black Tie / Celebration Nights – Time to Dress Up!
Black Tie nights (also known as Celebration Nights) are your chance to dress to impress. These evenings create a glamorous atmosphere, with formal dining, special menus, and entertainment.
✅ Acceptable Black Tie Attire:
For men: Tuxedo, dinner jacket, or a dark suit with a tie
For women: Cocktail dress, evening gown, or a formal trouser suit
Military and formal national dress are also welcome
🚫 What’s Not Allowed?
Denim (even dark denim)
Trainers or casual shoes
T-shirts or polo shirts
Tailored shorts (except in the buffet)
Black Tie nights typically occur once per week on a 7-night cruise and 2-4 times on longer sailings.
Where Must You Wear Formal Clothes on Black Tie Nights?
If you’re going all out for Celebration Night, here’s where the Black Tie dress code is required:
Main Dining Restaurants
Epicurean
Sindhu
Ocean Grill
Green & Co
Intermezzo
Limelight Club
The Crow’s Nest
Anderson’s
Planet Bar
Metropolis
Blue Bar
Red Bar
If you’re dining in one of these venues, formalwear is expected after 6 pm.
Where Can You Wear Evening Casual on Black Tie Nights?
If you prefer to keep things relaxed, you don’t have to dress up. The following venues allow Evening Casual attire, even on Black Tie nights:
Buffet
The Beach House
6th Street Diner
The Olive Grove
Keel & Cow
The Glass House
So if dressing up isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy a nice meal in a more laid-back setting.
Do P&O Cruises Enforce Their Dress Code?
This is a common concern, but the reality is that dress codes aren’t always strictly enforced.
P&O recommends following the Horizon daily planner, but in practice:
Staff rarely turn guests away unless they’re seriously underdressed.
If you wear smart dark trainers, you’ll probably be fine.
Buffet and casual venues offer an alternative if you don’t want to follow the dress code.
That said, dressing appropriately helps maintain the cruise atmosphere, and many guests enjoy the opportunity to dress up.
FAQs About What to Wear on a P&O Cruise
Can I wear jeans on a P&O cruise?
Yes, smart dark denim is allowed on Evening Casual nights but not in Black Tie venues.
Do kids have to follow the dress code?
No, children under 18 don’t have to follow the adult dress codes, but they can dress up if they want to.
Are trainers allowed on a P&O cruise?
No, trainers, sportswear, and football shirts are not allowed in most evening venues.
What should I wear in port?
Comfortable shoes are a must! If visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees out of respect.
Can I skip Black Tie nights?
Yes! If you don’t want to dress up, stick to casual venues like the buffet, The Beach House, or room service.
Can I wear a fancy dress costume?
No, fancy dress is banned on P&O Cruises (except for official theme nights).
Does P&O provide formalwear rental?
No, P&O does not offer formalwear hire, so you’ll need to bring your own.
So, what should you wear on a P&O cruise? Dress comfortably during the day and smart in the evenings. Black Tie nights are optional, but if you want the full cruise experience, it’s a great excuse to dress up!
Still not sure? Check the Horizon daily planner or My P&O Cruises online before you sail to see what’s required each night.
Got any cruise fashion tips? Drop them in the comments below! 👇
Happy cruising! 🚢✨
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