If you’ve booked a cruise with Royal Caribbean, you probably want to know; does Royal Caribbean have formal nights?
And, if so, are you required to attend?
Yes to the first question, no to the second.
Royal Caribbean’s formal nights are a chance for passengers to dress up, feel fancy, and enjoy a special evening on the ship.
But it’s 100% optional, and no one should feel forced to join in.
You’ll likely have one or two formal nights on your itinerary, depending on the length of your cruise.
Cruises up to five nightswill typically have one formal night, while cruises a little longer (up to 13 nights) will have two.
Cruises that run for two weeks or more usually have three formal nights lined up.
If you decide not to take part in Formal Night, you can always choose casual dining options during the event.
What Happens on Royal Caribbean Formal Nights?
Formal nights are held in the main dining room and some specialty restaurants.
The atmosphere feels more elegant and high-end.
However, the dress code is fairly flexible for attendees.
During Formal Night, guests can enjoy:
- A special dinner menu with premium dishes like lobster, filet mignon, and prime rib
- Live music and entertainment in lounges and theaters
- Professional photography with formal backdrops
- A Captain’s Welcome Reception on some cruises
These nights create a fun, upscale experience for the passengers without strict rules.
Dress Code for Royal Caribbean Formal Nights
Does Royal Caribbean have formal nights and, if so, what is the dress code?
As the name suggests, the recommended style for such a night is basically something that isn’t casual.
For Men
- Recommended:Suits, tuxedos, or dress pants with a collared shirt
- Accepted: A blazer with a polo or button-down shirt
- Not allowed: Shorts, tank tops, flip-flops
For Women
- Recommended: Cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or dressy outfits
- Accepted: Dress pants with a blouse or a stylish skirt
- Not allowed: Swimwear, ripped jeans, casual t-shirts
Many guests who participate in the event follow the dress code.
However, some are able to get by with smart casual outfits instead of full formal attire.
Dining Options on Royal Caribbean Formal Nights
If you don’t want to dress up, you can eat at other venues on the ship.
Here are some suggestions for those going casual on Formal Night.
Main Dining Room
- Formal attire is suggested but not required
- Many guests wear smart casual clothing
- You can still enjoy the special dinner menu
Specialty Restaurants
- Venues like Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, and 150 Central Park allow business casual attire
- Some guests dress up, but it’s optional
Windjammer Buffet
- No formal dress code
- Shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are allowed
- A great option for a relaxed dinner
If you prefer casual dining, Windjammeris perhaps the best and most available option.
Special Events on Formal Nights
Formal nights on Royal Caribbean cruises often include extra entertainment and activities.
Captain’s Welcome Reception
On some cruises, the captain hosts a welcome event in the Royal Promenade or a main lounge.
Guests can meet the captain, enjoy drinks, and listen to live music.
Live Music and Performances
Many lounges and theaters feature special entertainment on formal nights.
The atmosphere feels elegant and lively, with live musicians and performers keeping the energy high.
Professional Photography
Photographers set up formal backdrops around the ship.
You can take pictures with family, friends, or solo.
There is no obligation to buy the prints, so feel free to take as many shots as you want.
Can You Skip Formal Nights?
Yes, passengers can skip Royal Caribbean’s formal nights if they don’t feel like dressing up or simply aren’t interested in taking part.
These events are completely optional, and guests are free to do whatever they want.
If you aren’t going to be dressing up, you can:
- Dine at casual venues like Windjammer
- Skip dressing up and still eat in the main dining room
- Enjoy other onboard activities instead
Royal Caribbean lets guests decide how they want to experience the cruise.
How to Know When Formal Nights Are Scheduled
Does Royal Caribbean have formal nights on every cruise?
Typically, yes.
Formal nights usually happen on the second night and second-to-last night of a cruise.
But if you want to find out when Formal Nights is scheduled for your cruise, you can:
- Check the Daily Planner section in the Royal Caribbean app
- Refer to the Cruise Compassprovided in your stateroom
- Review past cruise schedules for similar itineraries
If you want to participate, remember to pack the right outfits in advance.
Are Royal Caribbean’s Formal Nights Free?
Yes, Royal Caribbean’s formal nights are included in your cruise fare.
However, some extras during the event could cost money.
For instance:
- Professional photos (if you choose to buy them)
- Specialty dining (if you book an upscale restaurant)
However, the main dining room’s elevated menu and entertainment are free for all guests.
Other Themed Nights on Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean cruises often have other themed nightsthroughout the cruise aside from Formal Night.
Popular events include:
- White Night – Guests wear all white
- Caribbean Night – A tropical dress code with floral shirts and sundresses
- 70s and 80s Night – A throwback party with music and costumes
- Masquerade Night – A formal event with decorative masks
- Toga Party – A fun night featured on select ships like Utopia of the Seas
Themed nights vary by ship and itinerary.
You can check the Cruise Compass or Royal Caribbean app for more details.
Experience Royal Caribbean’s Formal Nights with RSC Vacations
So, does Royal Caribbean have formal nights?
Yes, and we can help you plan for them!
At RSC Vacations, we help you create the perfect cruise itinerary.
Whether you’re ready to dress to the nines for Formal Night or you’re dying to experience a masquerade, we’ll find the right itinerary for you.
Let us handle the details.
All you need to do is enjoy the experience.
Contact RSC Vacations today to start planning your Royal Caribbean cruise!