The 7 Best Luxury Cruise Lines with an Informal or Relaxed Dress Code

2. Windstar Cruises' laid-back luxury

We refer to Windstar's laid-back style as 'the Big Chill'. Whether you're on one of their three sail-assisted yachts, their all-suite former Seabourn ships, or considering their two soon-to-be-launched vessels, you'll be travelling with fewer than 350 fellow guests, with a focus on your itinerary rather than dressing for dinner. There are no formal nights and the dress code here is best described as "casual elegance", and with a predominantly American crowd, you can expect this to lean rather more towards the casual. Think smart-casual cruise attire: informal cocktail dresses, flowy separates, collared shirts, polo shirts, and trousers. The vibe is very much destination-focused rather than fashion-focused, perfect for travellers who prefer relaxed evening wear.

3. Scenic Ocean Cruises' relaxed exploration

Australian company Scenic describes their ocean expedition fleet, Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, as 'discovery yachts', offering trips to both classic cruise destinations such as the Mediterranean and expedition-style voyages to places like Antarctica. As with all expedition ships, guests enjoy a very informal onboard dress code, with no requirement to dress up in the evenings. The mainly Australian contingent on board means your fellow guests will know how to adopt a relaxed style appropriate for warmer weather. Having said that, you may wish to get a little more dressed up if you're heading to the Teppanyaki grill at Koko's, the ship's superb Asian fusion restaurant, or the Champagne bar at Lumière, with its contemporary French fine dining.

4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises' updated sophisticated fashion

Regent is known for ultra-luxury cruising, but its dress code has shifted toward relaxed sophistication. Their newly updated "Elegant Casual" evening dress policy now includes refined denim and dress sneakers in the evening - ideal for guests who want to look stylish without dressing formally. This has been done to, in their words, "reflect today's wider interpretation of sophisticated fashion". Refined denim means stylish/sophisticated jeans with no rips, tears, or distressing, while dress sneakers are trainers in good condition in neutral or classic colours. This will likely be a little contentious amongst Regent guests, and to pre-empt questions, Regent has helpfully produced a style guide to help.

It does remain to be the case that on sailings of 16 nights or more, 'Formal' attire is optional on two evenings, where guests are welcome to dress either in line with the 'Elegant Casual' dress code or to opt for a more formal choice of outfit, including gowns and cocktail dresses for ladies, and tuxedos, dinner jackets or dark suits with tie for gentlemen.

5. Silversea Expeditions' relaxed discovery

On Silversea's expedition voyages, the dress code reflects the adventurous itinerary: informal and comfortable. Days are packed with excursions, and evenings are a time to unwind with gourmet dining and world-class service.

Be aware that Silversea's classic fleet can be more formal, so if you're set on their relaxed cruise style, stick to their expedition sailings or consult us for ship-specific dress advice.

6. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' contemporary style

Hapag-Lloyd's MS Europa 2 and Hanseatic Inspiration both serve international guests and offer a noticeably relaxed luxury cruise atmosphere.

Europa 2, rated by Berlitz as the best ship in the world, recommends jackets in the evening but not ties, and maintains a no-set-dress-code approach overall. On Hanseatic Inspiration - Hapag-Lloyd's expedition vessel - the vibe is even more casual, and jackets aren't required at all.

Do watch out for the more formal style of MS Europa, another ship in the Hapag-Lloyd fleet, which caters to the German market.

7. Ponant Explorations' European chic

Ponant offers small-ship cruising with a touch of European style. While there are occasional Captain's Dinners on board that suggest smart attire, the overall approach is laid-back yet refined - jacket or dress preferred, black-tie not required.

Some itineraries may feature a themed "white party," so be sure to check the details before you pack. Ponant strikes a balance between relaxed elegance and stylish minimalism, perfect for those who like to keep it effortless.

A final word on dress codes at sea

Even cruise lines with more formal dress codes often reserve formalwear for just a few evenings. Many ships offer alternative dining venues where cruise casual attire is always acceptable. If a particular itinerary or ship has caught your eye but isn't listed above, give us a call, we'll help you navigate exactly how dressy or informal your experience will be.