Packing for a Disney cruise?
Then you might be wondering what to wear.
The Disney Cruise Line dress code is pretty relaxed most of the time, which means guests can wear whatever they want.
But some event nights and restaurants on deck may have special rules.
Don’t worry; you won’t need a fancy outfit every night!
But there are definitely times when dressing up is encouraged on a Disney cruise.
Let’s go over what’s allowed, what’s not, and what you might need to pack for special events.
What to Wear on Most Nights
For most dinners, the Disney Cruise Line dress code is called “cruise casual.”
This means you can wear:
- Shorts
- Jeans
- T-shirts
- Sundresses
- Polo shirts
However, there are a few rules.
Specifically, swimwear and tank tops are not allowed in the main dining rooms.
If you’re coming from the pool, you’ll need to put on a cover-up or change.
Special Nights on Disney Cruises
Disney cruises will often host special themed nights.
These are ship-wide events where passengers are encouraged to dress up according to the theme.
For instance:
Pirate Night
On Pirate Night, guests are encouraged to dress like pirates.
Some people go all out with full costumes, props, and makeup.
Others are fine with just a bandana, an eyepatch, or a pirate-like shirt.
Themed nights are all about having fun, so you can wear what makes you comfortable.
Dress-Up Night
Some Disney cruises will host an optional dress-up night.
It’s not required, but many guests like to wear nicer outfits during this night.
Men can wear dress pants and nice collared shirts.
Women can wear dresses, skirts, or formal blouses with nice pants.
But, of course, if you don’t feel like dressing up, cruise casual wear is still acceptable.
Dress Code by Cruise Length
Your cruise length determines how many dress-up nights or themed nights you’ll have.
For 3-night cruises, you can expect:
- One cruise casual night
- One Pirate Night
- One optional dress-up night
For 4-night cruises, the schedule looks something like this:
- First night: cruise casual
- One Pirate Night
- One optional dress-up night
- Final night: cruise casual
For cruises longer than 7 nights, here’s the usual lineup:
- First night: cruise casual
- One Pirate Night
- Three more cruise casual nights
- One formal night
- One semi-formal night
What to Wear on Formal and Semi-Formal Nights
As mentioned earlier, there are both formal and semi-formal nights on longer cruises.
Both nights are chances for guests to dress up a little nicely.
Here’s what the Disney Cruise Line dress code recommends for each night:
Formal Night
- Men: A suit or tuxedo, or at least dress pants, a button-up shirt, and a tie
- Women: A gown, cocktail dress, or dressy separates
- Shoes: Dress shoes are recommended
Semi-Formal Night
- Men: A suit or a collared shirt with dress pants
- Women: A cocktail dress or an elegant skirt and blouse
Not everyone dresses up, but many guests do.
If you don’t want to wear formal clothes, a neat, polished, and presentable look works fine.
If you’re working with a travel agent or travel advisor to book your cruise, you can also check if your clothes are formal enough for the dress code.
Adult-Only Restaurants Have Stricter Dress Codes
If you plan to eat at specialty restaurants like Palo or Remy, the Disney Cruise Line dress code is much stricter.
Palo Dress Code
- Men: Dress pants/slacks with a collared shirt (a jacket is optional)
- Women: A dress, skirt, or pants with a nice blouse
- Jeans? Yes, if they’re in good condition (no rips)
Remy Dress Code
- Similar to Palo, but fancier. The focus is on elegance.
For brunch at Palo, dress shorts are allowed.
How Strict is the Dress Code?
Disney’s dress code is not strictly enforced in the main dining rooms.
Just remember not to wear swimwear or tank tops there and you’ll be fine.
But at adult restaurants like Palo and Remy, the dress code is taken more seriously.
You may be turned away if you show up in regular t-shirts, shorts, swimwear, or athletic wear.
On formal nights, dressing up is suggested but not required.
Some guests go all out – i.e., dresses, heels, makeup – while others prefer to stick to cruise casual.
Again, you won’t be pressured or required to change into formal or semi-formal wear during these nights, so don’t worry.
Exceptions for Special Events
The Disney Cruise Line dress code simply requires passengers to look presentable in more public spaces.
But it still makes room for fun!
For instance, pirate costumes are encouraged on Pirate Night.
Some guests wear themed outfits for other special events, like Halloween costumes for Halloween on the High Seas or Jedi outfits for Star Wars night.
Disney even sells accessories onboard if you forget yours!
What Not to Wear on a Disney Cruise
As mentioned earlier, Disney wants guests to be presentable but comfortable.
However, some outfits simply are not allowed.
Avoid:
- Swimwear in dining areas
- Tank tops in main dining rooms (especially for men)
- Clothes with offensive language or graphics
- Overly ripped or distressed jeans
- Anything too revealing (please remember that Disney Cruise Line caters primarily to kids and families)
Does the Dress Code Change by Ship?
The Disney Cruise Line dress code is mostly the same on every ship.
The main difference is in adult-only restaurants.
- Palo is on all Disney ships
- Remy is on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
- Enchanté is on Disney Wish
Each of these restaurants has a formal dress code, and they’re quite strict about it.
Swimsuit Rules on Disney Cruises
Swimsuits are generally allowed (and expected) in the pool and deck areas, but there are still a few rules to note.
- Buffets: You can wear a swimsuit if you have a cover-up
- Main dining rooms: Swimwear is not allowed
- Adult dining: Swimwear is completely prohibited
So if you’re heading inside to eat after a big swim, be sure to throw on some casual clothes over your swimsuit.
Need Help Planning Your Disney Cruise Outfits?
Packing with the Disney Cruise Line dress code can feel overwhelming, especially with different dress codes for each night.
So if you need a little help planning for your cruise, give me a call!
At Travel by Maeghan, I help families and groups plan the perfect Disney cruise experience.
Whether you need advice on Disney Cruise Line dress code rules, theme night outfits, or packing tips, I make sure you’re ready for every moment of your trip.
I also specialize in Disney Destination planning, ensuring your family has an easy, stress-free, and magical cruise.
Want help booking the best Disney cruise for your family?
Let’s chat and make it happen!