Costa Cruises has the reputation of being casual when it comes to cruising and dress codes, but do they actually have dress codes, and what do they entail?
In this post, you’ll find dress code guidelines for all parts of a Costa cruise and we will look into if the dress codes are actually enforced.
This post is based on my experience cruising with Costa Cruises.
What Is The Dress Code on a Costa Cruise?
Do Costa Cruises Have a Dress Code During The Day?
The dress code during the day is very casual, just your typical wardrobe.
T-shirts, shorts, and sundresses. It can be chilly on deck and breezy in the evening, so be sure to pack plenty of light layers. Flat shoes are recommended for strolling the decks.
“Tasteful T-shirts” and shorts are acceptable in the dining room during the day. From that, I think you could assume that T-shirts with offensive slogans may be frowned upon!
This is pretty standard within the cruising industry. Even the cruise lines with the strictest evening dress codes do not have dress codes during the day.
Do Costa Cruises Have a Dress Code During The Day?
Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring ports of call. It’s sensible to take a light jumper or sweater or layer up so you will be prepared for all eventualities.
Take the weather forecast into account before you leave the ship – sunglasses, hats, or even rainproof jackets may be needed.
Some cultures may require you to cover up more than you normally would on holiday. The Costa website does not provide guidance on this.
It is sensible to be aware of the traditions in the countries you visit.
In some Middle Eastern countries, modesty is expected, so consider packing light and loose clothing that covers the tops of your arms and legs. It may be best to avoid wearing shorts or tight-fitting clothes and to take a head covering ashore.
If unsure about the countries you are visiting, visit a Government foreign travel advice website for further advice regarding dress codes.
Does Costa Have Formal Nights?
Costa Cruises have formal nights of sorts. These are called “Elegant Evenings.”
Although Costa describes their restaurants as luxurious, they also say the atmosphere is “relaxed.”
Costa suggests that men wear a dark suit or tuxedo and women wear an evening gown or cocktail dress during their “Elegant Evening.”
Costa Also Have Informal Nights
Costa suggests long trousers/pants and a long-sleeved shirt for gentlemen – with or without a tie. They suggest a dress or trousers/pantsuit for ladies.
Does Costa Have Themed Evenings?
Costa has themed evenings.
They suggest you bring white, red and green clothing and accessories for their “Italian evening.”
They also hold a “White Night.” and recommend that you bring white clothing to wear to dinner.
They also hold a White Night party later that evening.
For real example of what cruisers wear for White Nights onboard ship, read this article next:
What Do People Actually Wear On White Night? Real Photos, Examples and Suggestions
Are There Other Dress Restrictions On Costa Cruises?
In restaurants, Costa asks passengers not to wear beach clothes (shorts, sarongs, or flip-flops), and shoes are always required.
Although Costa does not mention wearing jeans in its written policy, denim and jeans are allowed in the dining room.
How Many Elegant Evenings/Formal Nights Will There Be?
| Formal Nights | |
| Cruises 4 Nights or Under | 1 |
| 7 Night Cruises | 2 |
| 8-13 Nights | 3 |
| 14 Nights | 4 |
Most three and four-night cruises have one formal night.
Most 7-night cruises have two formal nights, most 10-night cruises have three formal nights, and two-week cruises are likely to have four.
Is Dressing Up Compulsory On Formal Nights/Elegant Evenings?
Whilst not compulsory, it is recommended that guests follow the evening’s dress code in restaurants and bars from 6 pm.
Costa appears to be pretty relaxed on dress codes, but the amount of formality may vary from ship to ship.
It’s unlikely that you’d be prevented from entering a restaurant or being refused service if you are not dressed in your best clothes!
Some guests have even reported seeing people in the dining room in shorts on elegant nights.
If you prefer casual dress, you can always dine at the buffet, which is even more relaxed, or take advantage of room service.
There is no need to participate in elegant nights at all.
When I sailed on Costa Smeralda, I chose to go to a Speciality pizza restaurant to avoid Formal Night. I ended up with someone else’s baby sitting under my table!
To find out more about that interesting cruise, watch this video next:
If you want to avoid elegant nights, here’s how:
You Can Skip Formal Nights on a Cruise – Here’s How
Are Dress Codes Strictly Enforced on Costa Cruises?
Costa doesn’t seem to enforce dress codes strictly. When I sailed with Costa, lots of people didn’t dress up at all.
Whilst they would encourage you to adhere to their suggested dress codes, guests have reported that some arrive at the dining room for Elegant evenings dressed in shorts and T-shirts!
The newer the ship, the more relaxed the dress code seems to be the rule.
Does the Dress Code Apply To Everyone?
The Costa website does not mention dress codes for children, but it does have a suggested “packing list” for adults and children.
What Should Children Wear on a Costa Cruise?
For Boys: It suggests you pack a shirt, trousers, or suit for boys to wear on their cruise. Generally speaking, boys would be fine wearing a polo shirt and chinos on Elegant evenings or casual nights.
For Girls: the packing list suggests a dress/skirt or smart trousers/top for formal or informal nights.
Some families love the opportunity to dress up, and I’ve seen small children wearing full tuxedos and bow ties, which are adorable. On Costa it would appear that really, anything goes for kids!
What Should Teenagers Wear on a Costa Cruise?
Teenagers: There is no mention at all on the Costa website of dress codes for teenagers, they are very unlikely to be turned away from any restaurant for not adhering to the correct dress code!
Trousers/pants, chinos, and a shirt would be acceptable, but if they want to dress up in a suit or tuxedo, that would be fine, too!
Does the Dress Code Apply When Visiting the Speciality Restaurants?
There is no set dress code when visiting speciality restaurants.
You can wear clothes to suit the dress code on board for that evening. Wearing casual night clothes on a formal evening is unlikely to be frowned upon!
Dress codes are not strictly enforced, wear what suits you within reason, maybe show some respect and use some common sense, just don’t arrive in flip-flops and shorts for a speciality meal and you’ll be fine.
Can You Skip Formal Nights /Elegant Evenings?
You can absolutely skip elegant evenings.
If you’re tired or not feeling in the mood to dress up, there are always alternatives for passengers, and you won’t be alone.
Rather than dine in the main dining room, you can always eat in a speciality restaurant, the buffet or maybe on your balcony via room service.
When I sailed on Costa Smeralda, the cabin had an unusual quirk. Find out what that was here:
Before You Go
I have heard people complaining about the food quality on Costa cruises. I enjoyed the food! To find out everything I ate on my last Costa cruise, read this article next:
Everything I Ate on my Costa Cruise (Photos and Menus) – Food Review
Find out what the cheapest inside cabin on a Costa cruise looks like here:
Costa Smeralda – Inside Cabin Photo Guide and Honest Review
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