Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Dress Code: Essential 2025 Guide
In This Guide
- Introduction
- Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening
- Evening Dress Codes Explained
- Sourcing Your Formal Wear
- Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)
- Common Themed Nights & Special Events
- Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Dress Code
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
Welcome to your essential 2025 guide for the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code. Fred Olsen offers a wonderfully traditional British cruising experience, which is reflected in its onboard atmosphere and in how guests choose to dress.
During the day, the vibe is casual and relaxed, allowing you to explore the ship or ports in comfort. In the evening, the ship comes alive, and the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code transitions to a smarter style for dining and entertainment, with clearly defined Smart Casual and Formal evenings.
This guide covers everything from daytime essentials to formal night glamour, so you will know exactly what to pack for your voyage. By the end, you should feel confident that you understand how the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code works in real life, and how to adapt it to your own style and budget.
Daytime Dress Code: What to Wear from Morning to Evening
From morning to evening, your daytime attire should be comfortable and practical for your activities, whether on board or ashore. There is no strict formal Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code during the day, but a neat, resort-casual look works best.
- Warm-Weather Sailings (e.g., Mediterranean, Canaries, Caribbean): Pack light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts, sundresses, skirts, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are all essentials. Light layers for air-conditioned areas can also be helpful.
- Cool-Weather Sailings (e.g., Norwegian Fjords, Northern Europe): Layering is key. Be sure to pack fleeces, warm jumpers, long-sleeved tops, a waterproof and windproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes or boots. A hat, scarf, and gloves can be invaluable on deck in cooler seasons.
- Pool Decks & Outdoor Spaces: Swimwear is perfectly appropriate for the pool decks and spa. However, you will need a cover-up (like a kaftan, sarong, or t-shirt) and footwear to wear when heading to indoor venues or buffet areas. Dry swimwear is preferred away from the pool.
- Indoor Venues (Lounges, Cafes, Daytime Dining): Casual wear like jeans, shorts, chinos, and casual tops are fine. For daytime meals in the buffet or Main Dining Room, swimwear must be covered, and footwear is required. Think relaxed hotel or resort rather than beachside bar.
- What to Avoid: Very revealing swimwear away from the pool, bare feet indoors, and clothing with offensive slogans or imagery may draw attention and could be discouraged by staff.
If you would feel comfortable walking into a casual café on land in your outfit, it will very likely be fine for the daytime Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code on board.
Evening Dress Codes Explained
After 6:00 PM, the dress code becomes more defined for the evening’s main venues. Fred Olsen operates two distinct evening codes, which will be announced in your Daily Times programme delivered to your cabin. Understanding these is the key to feeling comfortable and confident with the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code.
Smart Casual Evenings
This is the dress code for most evenings on board. The goal is to be well-dressed and comfortable, as if you were visiting a nice restaurant back home.
- For Women: This can include stylish dresses, skirts or smart trousers with a blouse, or elegant separates. Jumpsuits and tailored playsuits are also a good option if you prefer not to wear dresses.
- For Men: Chinos or smart trousers with a collared shirt (long or short-sleeved) are ideal. A jacket is optional, though many gentlemen choose to wear one, especially on the first night or for photo opportunities.
- What about jeans? Smart, dark-wash jeans (with no rips or fading) are generally acceptable on Smart Casual nights, particularly when paired with a collared shirt or smart top. Very distressed or ripped jeans are best avoided in the main restaurants.
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes, loafers, smart sandals, or low heels work well. Clean, good-quality trainers may be acceptable, but gym-style running shoes are better kept for daytime.
- Not Permitted: In the Main Dining Rooms or speciality restaurants on Smart Casual nights, items like shorts, sports vests, slogan t-shirts, swimwear, and beach flip-flops are not allowed.
Formal Night
Formal nights are a celebrated highlight of the Fred Olsen experience. They offer a fantastic opportunity to embrace the glamour of classic cruising and are for your finest attire. Many guests enjoy dressing up and taking photos around the ship on these evenings.
- For Women: This is the time for cocktail dresses, full-length ball gowns, or elegant evening separates like a skirt or trousers with a sequined or embellished top. A wrap or shawl is handy for air-conditioned venues and deck photos.
- For Men: A dinner jacket (tuxedo) is a popular choice. However, a dark lounge suit with a tie is also perfectly acceptable and in line with the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code for Formal nights.
The number of Formal nights is based on the length of your cruise:
- Cruises up to 6 nights: Typically 1 formal night.
- Cruises of 7-10 nights: Typically 2 formal nights.
- Cruises of 11-13 nights: Typically 3 formal nights.
- Cruises of 14 nights or more: Typically 4 or more formal nights.
This is a general guide, and the schedule will be confirmed in your daily on-board programme.
In practice, the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code is intended to feel special but not intimidating. If you aim for “smart and polished” on Formal nights, you will almost always fit in perfectly.
Sourcing Your Formal Wear
You do not need to spend a fortune to look the part on formal night. If you do not own a dinner jacket or gown, there are plenty of smart alternatives that still match the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code.
- Clothing Rental Services: Many online services allow you to rent a high-end dinner jacket or designer gown just for your holiday. This is a cost-effective way to wear something special without the long-term commitment.
- Charity & Second-Hand Shops: You can often find incredible, high-quality formal wear in charity shops or second-hand boutiques for a fraction of the original price. Vintage pieces can help you stand out in the best way.
- Outlet Stores & Sales: Keep an eye on sales and designer outlet stores in the run-up to your cruise to find an affordable suit or cocktail dress. Classic styles in neutral colours are easier to re-wear on future trips.
- Mix-and-Match Separates: A simple black skirt or pair of tailored trousers can be dressed up with a variety of tops and accessories, allowing you to create multiple formal looks from a small capsule wardrobe.
For more ideas, we invite you to visit our blog to see The Essential Cruise Shop’s clothing suppliers partners for a directory of online stores.
Dress Codes by Venue (Evening)
The evening’s designated dress code (Smart Casual or Formal) primarily applies to the main restaurants, but it also influences the general feel of the ship after 6:00 PM.
- The Main Dining Room(s): Strictly adheres to the evening’s dress code. Staff may gently remind guests if their attire does not match the advertised Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code for that night.
- Speciality Dining Restaurants (e.g., Vasco): These venues also follow the ship’s main dress code for the evening. It is best to dress as you would for the Main Dining Room.
- The Buffet / The View: This venue remains casual every evening. It is the perfect option for guests who prefer not to change into smarter attire, although swimwear must be covered and footwear is required.
- The Main Theatre or Show Lounge: Most guests will attend shows dressed according to the evening’s code, but it is generally more relaxed than the dining rooms. Smart Casual is almost always suitable here.
- Bars and Lounges: The dress code in the bars generally reflects the overall evening attire, though enforcement is typically more relaxed. If you have dressed for the Main Dining Room, you will be appropriately dressed for the bars and lounges too.
When in doubt, follow the highest level of the evening’s Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code that applies to your plans. You can always remove a jacket or tie later if you feel overdressed.
Common Themed Nights & Special Events
Fred Olsen often hosts optional themed nights, which are great fun to participate in but never mandatory. Check your itinerary for specifics, but common themes may include:
- Tropical/Caribbean Night: Common on warmer itineraries. Think floral shirts, bright colours, sundresses, lightweight maxi dresses, and fun accessories. You can still follow the Smart Casual dress code while adding a tropical twist.
- Nautical or British Night: A nod to the cruise line’s heritage. Guests might wear red, white, and blue or striped, nautical-themed clothing. A navy-and-white outfit with a pop of red fits the theme perfectly.
- Decades Night (e.g., 60s/70s): An opportunity to dress up in the style of a bygone era for music and dancing. You can go all-out with fancy dress or simply hint at the decade with a retro print or accessory.
Do not worry if you prefer to keep things simple. These events sit alongside the main Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code, so you can still comply with Smart Casual or Formal expectations while adding as much or as little theme as you like.
Expert Packing Tips for Any Itinerary
A little planning goes a long way. Here are some itinerary-specific tips to ensure you have everything you need, while still keeping your suitcase manageable and meeting the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code.
- For your Norwegian Fjords cruise: Do not forget binoculars for wildlife spotting from the deck, insect repellent for shore excursions, and a reusable water bottle. Layers are your best friend. Comfortable, waterproof footwear and a warm hat can make time on deck much more enjoyable.
- For the Mediterranean: Pack a light scarf or shawl for women, which is essential for entering many religious sites. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must for cobbled streets and ancient ruins, and a light cardigan can help bridge the gap between hot days and cooler evenings.
- For the Canary Islands or Caribbean: In addition to swimwear, pack a high-quality reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and aloe vera gel for any potential sunburn. A rash vest or UV top can be helpful if you plan to spend long periods in the water.
- General Tip: Pack a small medical kit with essentials like plasters, pain relievers, sea-sickness medication, and any prescriptions. Having these ready on board saves you time and worry if you need them.
- Prohibited Items: Remember that certain items are prohibited on board for safety. Do not pack clothing irons, travel steamers, candles, or surge-protected extension leads. Always check the latest advice from the cruise line before you travel.
- Smart Wardrobe Planning: Choose a simple colour palette so that tops, trousers, skirts, and accessories can be mixed and matched. This helps you create multiple looks that still comply with the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code without over-packing.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Dress Code
- Can I wear jeans on Fred Olsen Cruise Lines?
Yes, smart, dark-wash jeans (with no rips or tears) are generally acceptable on Smart Casual evenings. They are not appropriate for Formal nights in the main dining venues. - Are shorts allowed in the Main Dining Room in the evening?
No, shorts are not permitted for any guest in the Main Dining Room or speciality restaurants during the evening, regardless of how smart they are. - How many formal nights will be on my cruise?
This depends on the duration. Typically, 1 night (up to 6-night cruise), 2 nights (7-10 nights), 3 nights (11-13 nights), and 4 or more (14+ nights). Always check your Daily Times programme on board. - Do I really need a dinner jacket for a formal night?
While a dinner jacket is popular, it is not mandatory. A dark business suit and tie for men, or an elegant cocktail dress or smart separates for women, are also perfectly acceptable and comply with the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines dress code. - What is the dress code for children and teenagers?
Fred Olsen primarily caters to adults. On the rare sailings with children, they are expected to follow the spirit of the code (e.g., no shorts at dinner, smart trousers or dresses on formal nights). - Is the dress code strictly enforced?
Yes, in the Main Dining Rooms and speciality restaurants, the evening dress code is generally enforced. If you are not suitably dressed, you may be politely asked to change or invited to dine at the casual buffet. - Can I stay casual all evening if I avoid the Main Dining Room?
If you prefer to remain more casual, you can choose to dine in the buffet, where the expectations are more relaxed. However, dry swimwear, suitable cover-ups, and footwear are still required. - Where can I find the latest official dress code information?
Cruise line policies can change, so always check your pre-cruise documents and the official Fred Olsen Cruise Lines website for the latest dress code guidance before sailing.
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Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop Blog provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, including dress codes, are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
For the most current official information, please visit the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines website: Fred Olsen Cruise Lines On Board FAQs.
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