Packing for your cruise? Not sure what to wear for “Elegant Night?” Not even sure what it is?

Elegant Night on a Carnival cruise, formerly known as Formal Night. Some cruise lines call it the Captain’s Ball but Carnival doesn’t really have this event. The Captain might welcome guests in the Atrium.

Passengers are encouraged to dress up in nice attire for Elegant Night. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a special dinner menu, take photos with the Captain, and participate in other elegant events. While not mandatory, it’s a popular experience for those who enjoy dressing up. It adds a touch of sophistication to the cruise.

Carnival usually has one Elegant Night on cruises five nights or shorter. It has two Elegant Nights on cruises six nights or longer.

The dress code is much more flexible than formal black-tie events. In fact, the dress code has relaxed considerably over the past few years on Carnival.

Most cruise guests need to fly to their cruise port. Due to the extra luggage costs, many have opted for less formal wear. I know we have! My husband no longer packs a suit with dress shoes. He opts for dress slacks and a nice button up shirt.

Here’s a breakdown of what is considered appropriate and what to avoid:

For Women

Recommended:

• Cocktail dress
• Sundress with elegant accessories
• Dressy jumpsuit or pantsuit
• Skirt/blouse combo with flair
• Maxi dress or wrap dress
• Dressy sandals, heels, or flats
• Sweater or wrap for cooler nights or climates

Avoid:

• Flip-flops
• Casual shorts or beachwear
• Pool cover-ups or sportswear
• T-shirts or tank tops

For Men

Recommended:

• Dress slacks with a button-down or collared shirt
• Polo shirt with dress pants (for more casual elegant)
• Sports coat or blazer
• Suit and tie (optional but welcomed)
• Closed-toe shoes or loafers

Avoid:

• T-shirts
• Swim trunks
• Athletic wear or sneakers
• Baseball caps

Optional But Nice Touches

• Tie or bow tie (not required, but looks sharp)
• Suit or formal dress for special photos
• Matching accessories for family/group pictures

Where You’ll Need Elegant Attire

• Main dining rooms on Elegant Night(s)
• Steakhouse or upscale specialty restaurants – required
• Photoshoots with ship photographers

Pro Tip:

It’s a great night for formal portraits on the promenade deck! Consider coordinating colors if you’re cruising as a couple or family. You will find photographers set up with a huge variety of backgrounds throughout the promenade decks. This is usually the only photo I purchase while cruising.

On Elegant Night, you will enjoy a more upscale menu. It typically includes entrees like prime rib, lobster, and fillet mignon, depending on the night. This is a sample menu.

You will see a large variety of attire in the MDR on Elegant Night. I encourage my family and clients to wear what they feel comfortable in. However, dress as nicely as you would for church!

Personally, I will never judge my fellow passengers for their Elegant Night attire. What someone else wears does not make my meal taste any different!

I’m an experienced cruise travel agent who specializes in Carnival. I help families, first-timers, and groups plan amazing cruises—without the stress or extra cost.

Book with me and get:

Onboard Credit per cabin

Personalized planning help

Price drop monitoring even after you book

Help with excursions, cabins, packing tips & more

No extra cost to you—the cruise line pays me!

Message me anytime or drop a comment with your cruise ideas. I’m here to help make your next vacation smooth sailing!

Here’s a group just for new cruisers and others! No judgment with correct answers to your questions. Lots of in-depth information, tips and personal advice! 

Carnival Cruising for First Timers & Seasoned Sailors