Most cruise ships have suggested evening wear guidelines. Each cruise has a pre-determined number of casual, semi-formal and formal nights. Casual implies colorful prints, long pants or a skirt and button down tops. Semi-formal means a dress for women and slacks for men, jackets are optional. Formal nights imply gowns for the women and tuxedos or dark suits for men depending on which cruise line you are sailing. Don't be a scofflaw and try to wear sports clothes at night, you will feel very out of place. Younger crowds tend to be less formal than older ones; a coat and tie will do for them. A trick for women is to pack separates that can be turned into different outfits. Larger ships have shops on board where dress items can be purchased and some ships have gown and tuxedo rentals available. Many ships have self-service laundry facilities and dry cleaning services.

Always remember to take a great pair of walking shoes for going ashore. Sturdy tennis shoes are great, you could encounter a lot of rocky terrain. Also remember to take a large tote bag going to the beach or shopping. Finally, remember to remember that anything you forget you can buy - it's a great excuse to go shopping!