There are three very memorable aspects to going on a cruise. Firstly, you get to see so many different wonderful places. Secondly, it’s the food. Non-stop feeding from a great choice of the restaurants on board. Finally, it’s the clothes. Whether it’s slopping about on deck, participating in an island tour or dressing up for the night in your finest tuxedo for the Captain’s dinner, passengers just love getting dressed up for the occasion.

On a one week cruise you will always have at least one night reserved as Captain’s night. The lucky few will be invited to sit at the Captain’s table. A great honor indeed.

So the big question is what you should wear to such an event. Is it appropriate to wear a suit you’ve already got, or do you need to buy or rent a new one?

It could be that you never dress up for dinner. And that’s okay-the great thing about a cruise is that it lets you try on a different and more glamorous lifestyle for a week.

When you go on your cruise, it’s probably a good idea to pack your tuxedo along with the rest of your clothes. Taking it on the plane might be inconvenient, but you’ll be glad that you have it when Captain’s night rolls around.

It may be possible to rent a tuxedo on board. For a start, you will have to make sure you reserve it early because they will all surely go, or you will not find one to fit when the time comes.

When you book your cruise you should find information explaining acceptable forms of dress for the evening. Most usually it will be a “black tie” affair. Your black jacket (single or double breasted), black pants, matching bow tie and vest or cummerbund with a plain white dress shirt will be the perfect outfit.

Always remember, that if your not the sort of person who enjoys dressing up for dinner and consider the whole event unnecessary, then you will always have the option of eating elsewhere on board that evening. The Captain’s dinner is not compulsory. Being on a cruise is about your personal enjoyment, so don’t feel you must dress up for dinner unless you want to.