Formal night in MDR

[BCRose]

When fellow passengers don't follow the guidelines it can impact fellow passengers. There is a range of what is considered in the formal guidelines and there will be some at every end of the spectrum. Everyone does have the right to their own experience and can chose to follow or not if they are aware that there could be consequences.

 

We had a learning experience on our last cruise - where we were dressed to nines and were going to be seated at a table with two couples who were not in compliance. Did they gain admittance to the MDR - yes they did - should they have been - not according to the guidelines. It going to be VERY awkward for us - and I think it should have been awkward for them as well.

 

Many will consider it rude that before being seated - we made a u turn and then requested a table for two :( I consider it rude too and it bothers me to this day but I also think it was rude of them to put me in that position by not following the guidelines. Now on formal nights we dine with those that we know or at a table for two.

 

 

Oh my.

 

I think I understand now. I had been following this thread and as a first time cruiser found the fuss a bit confusing. But your experience shed some light...

 

My DH doesn't mind his suit and tie, my 16 year old is thrilled with the idea of getting dolled up (esp. on her BD night, which happens to be formal night), but me? I am a hiking boots, jeans type of person, dressing up is not fun for me. However, for the occasion I will dress according to protocol so as to not embarrass DH, DD and other table guests. But I also hope the other table guests do likewise, otherwise like you said Jane 2357, my DH and DD would feel awkward if they were the only ones dressed suitably.

It is simply good manners.

Edited May 27, 2014 by BCRose

[BCRose]

I wouldn't go to an alternate venue on formal nights to avoid the husbands not dressing appropriately. They usually have some of their better menus on formal nights. Send the husbands to the buffet, and you and your friend can enjoy the MDR. :)

 

BRILLIANT!!! Ladies night!!:D

[TheMediaman]

Let'sGetWet please don't make an issue where there is none.

 

blambition: One of the many things I have learned in forums is that people can be braver and bolder behind a keyboard. There is no face to face and words can easily be misinterpreted. I'm not saying who is right or who is wrong. Sometimes it's the wiser person who ignores those who just want to have their words heard and heard last.

 

Leave it behind and do what is right and comfortable for you, your DH and your friends. I know any of your party will not be attending formal night or any other night in an outfit looking like Larry the Cable Guy.

 

Cruise. Have fun. Enjoy. Leave the troubles in the wake. I'd sure enjoy meeting you on a cruise as many others here would too.

Edited May 27, 2014 by TheMediaman

[jonsmum]

We are not lovers of formal night and always choose either a speciality restaurant or dine in Blu as usual. However, my husband still wears a smart jacket and tie and I take the opportunity to dress up a bit. We're both pretty laid back people and don't get wound up about things but I have to say that I was 'incensed' (maybe a little strong but you get the drift!) to see a couple one in board shorts, the other in ones that barely covered her derrier, cruddy vest tops and flipflops wandering around. Don't know where they ate, but I definitely felt they were out of place at 9.00pm at the Cafe al Bacio. I was amazed that a member of staff hadn't said anything. In fact I was very surprised generally at the number of people who completely disregarded the dress code throughout the cruise (Carribean). I had been expecting greater conformity than on our previous one in the Med. Just goes to show you never can tell!

[Scrappytraveller]

Send the husbands to the buffet, and you and your friend can enjoy the MDR. :)

 

Perfect solution! :D

 

Ma Bell, you do sound like a bit of a bully on this topic, so I can see where Blambition's emarks came from.

 

Uncalled for. She's entitled to her opinion and to express that opinion here. People shouldn't ask questions they don't want honest answers to.

[galavant3]

We book Aqua Class so it really isn't an issue for us. But I am grateful for my husband who just says, "What do I need to pack?". Sometimes it is a tux, sometimes a suit, sometimes a blazer and sometimes just dress shirts. Depending on the cruise line.

 

He knows from experience that if I'm happy, he's happy!

[LetsGetWet!]

Let'sGetWet please don't make an issue where there is none. You do not know my family or friends and I can assure you that we would never make any kind of a scene on a cruise ship. That is not our style, on a ship or in any situation. I am trying my best to say that we will be going to the alternate dining venues unless the husbands decide to take jackets, but I do feel like you and perhaps another do not want to accept that statement. I believe I did already say I was sorry. I sincerely just asked what was accepted on Celebrity ships, as it had been so long since we have sailed this line. I am not trying to pull one over, or see what we can get away with, that was not my purpose of asking the question. I just wanted to be able to plan our week. This way I can book our reservations for the formal nights when we board the ship.

Again, I do appreciate those that have given me their responses so that I can make an informed decision. My husband even told me he would take a suit if the other husband wanted to pack one so that shocked me! I am willing to bet my friend's DH won't want to, so we will plan accordingly.

You're absolutely correct, I don't know you or your family. All I or anyone else here can know about you is what you post. So if your husbands would not refuse a loaned jacket offered at the door for MDR admittance, than you might want to think twice before posting that you "know they would." I didn't "make an issue", you did by posting that! :rolleyes:

 

Sent from my Galaxy S4 via Tapatalk

[NLH Arizona]

Let'sGetWet please don't make an issue where there is none. You do not know my family or friends and I can assure you that we would never make any kind of a scene on a cruise ship. That is not our style, on a ship or in any situation. I am trying my best to say that we will be going to the alternate dining venues unless the husbands decide to take jackets, but I do feel like you and perhaps another do not want to accept that statement. I believe I did already say I was sorry. I sincerely just asked what was accepted on Celebrity ships, as it had been so long since we have sailed this line. I am not trying to pull one over, or see what we can get away with, that was not my purpose of asking the question. I just wanted to be able to plan our week. This way I can book our reservations for the formal nights when we board the ship.

Again, I do appreciate those that have given me their responses so that I can make an informed decision. My husband even told me he would take a suit if the other husband wanted to pack one so that shocked me! I am willing to bet my friend's DH won't want to, so we will plan accordingly.

I never thought, by your post, that your husband would cause a scene. I was guessing a simple, "no thank you that is okay we'll go somewhere else", wouldn't be causing a scene as far as I'm concerned,

 

People have different opinions as to formal wear. A lot is discussed on here about what the men must wear, but we women get a big break onboard. I have felt way overdressed while on Celebrity. I wore 3/4 gowns and was in the minority. Most women wore what I would call day time dresses, summer maxi dresses or pants/skirts with sparkly top, none of which I would consider formal. I've decided not to dress up as much anymore, because I really felt out of place wearing formal attire.

 

It is your vacation, so wear what you feel comfortable in. I hope you have a great cruise and don't be bothered by what others think about what you are wearing.

[caladezi]

Does anyone else find it strange that any cruise line would recommend that their guests dining in the MDR on formal night are requested to wear formal attire while those staying in AQ or suites, and dining in their own venue, or those paying to dine in speciality restaurants are not asked to wear anything other than resort casual? Personally I liked dressing up in my tux and strutting around like a rooster in a hen house, but after many years it's getting kind of old, like me. Many real premium cruise lines have totally done away with the formal wear and now it is only the mid range lines that still have it for their general admission customers. Perhaps it's time for Celebrity and others to review their policy, and if they want a true formal night, hold it in one of the high priced speciality venues.

[jkgourmet]

Does anyone else find it strange that any cruise line would recommend that their guests dining in the MDR on formal night are requested to wear formal attire while those staying in AQ or suites, and dining in their own venue, or those paying to dine in speciality restaurants are not asked to wear anything other than resort casual? Personally I liked dressing up in my tux and strutting around like a rooster in a hen house, but after many years it's getting kind of old, like me. Many real premium cruise lines have totally done away with the formal wear and now it is only the mid range lines that still have it for their general admission customers. Perhaps it's time for Celebrity and others to review their policy, and if they want a true formal night, hold it in one of the high priced speciality venues.

 

I think that cruisegirl gets the Gold Star:

 

 

I think someone in the cruise industry is brilliant. First, they make a rule that men must wear a jacket to dinner. Then, they create a fee based alternative; better than the dining room but with a more relaxed dress code. Then, they charge $80-100+ per couple for the privilege of not having to wear a jacket to dinner. Brilliant. I love it when folks cite airline fees ($25) for a reason not to bring a jacket and then drop $100 in a specialty restaurant on formal night

 

enjoy - whatever you decide

M

[dkjretired]

We are not lovers of formal night and always choose either a speciality restaurant or dine in Blu as usual. However, my husband still wears a smart jacket and tie and I take the opportunity to dress up a bit. We're both pretty laid back people and don't get wound up about things but I have to say that I was 'incensed' (maybe a little strong but you get the drift!) to see a couple one in board shorts, the other in ones that barely covered her derrier, cruddy vest tops and flipflops wandering around. Don't know where they ate, but I definitely felt they were out of place at 9.00pm at the Cafe al Bacio. I was amazed that a member of staff hadn't said anything. In fact I was very surprised generally at the number of people who completely disregarded the dress code throughout the cruise (Carribean). I had been expecting greater conformity than on our previous one in the Med. Just goes to show you never can tell!

 

I believe the reason no one said anything is that they were not disregarding the dress code. The respective dresss code on Celebrity only applies to the restaurants and the theater. The rest of the ship is pretty much anything goes. Celebrity used to request the dress code remain throughout the ship after 6 but that went out the window a few years ago. I might also point out that my comments are not an opinion but the official dress code of Celebrity cruises.

[dkjretired]

Does anyone else find it strange that any cruise line would recommend that their guests dining in the MDR on formal night are requested to wear formal attire while those staying in AQ or suites, and dining in their own venue, or those paying to dine in speciality restaurants are not asked to wear anything other than resort casual? Personally I liked dressing up in my tux and strutting around like a rooster in a hen house, but after many years it's getting kind of old, like me. Many real premium cruise lines have totally done away with the formal wear and now it is only the mid range lines that still have it for their general admission customers. Perhaps it's time for Celebrity and others to review their policy, and if they want a true formal night, hold it in one of the high priced speciality venues.

 

I believe they set this up to give an incentive for people to eat in specialties and thus make more money. If you read these boards on a regular basis, more and more people are opting for specialties on formal nights. How many threads are started where cruisers are asking what the formal nights on cruises will be, months in advance so they can reserve their specialties.

[blambition]

I know this might be hard for some of you to believe, but my husband used to love to take his tux on cruises, including surprising me with new cummerbund and bow tie sets! It is just after so many cruises, it can get very old to get that dressed up, to some of us.

To The Mediaman, I too know from your kind post that we would love to meet you and your wife on a cruise someday.

Cruises are a wonderful way to travel, relax, see the world, or just stay on the ship! Honestly, we don't care if we even get off the ship, never go to the shows, we do love to meet new people, love to give our money to the casino, would like it even more if they ever gave us some back! We find the crew delightful, seems like we get to know the dealers the best, lol. I think some here might not like that I do change clothes after dinner just so I can reach my money easier to donate to the casino gods. I will say on Princess, the Let It Ride table is by far the coldest place on the ship, and I mean temperature, although you could also take that as ,they don't pay off very well too.

We have mostly traveled with another couple or even several friends, but still love meeting other on ships. So easy just sit anywhere, or stand in a line, have a smile on your face....and there is a new friend.

[jocelysue]

Here's what we did because DH can no longer wear his tuxedo. He bought a black silk cardigan which he wore with his black trousers, white shirt and bow tie. Sine he can no longer wear formal shoes he wore black velvet slippers.

 

The Maitre d' actually complimneted him for respecting the dress code in an alternative way that showed a true attempt to follow the dress suggestions inasmuch as he could ;the captain thanked DH on the following day as we were seated in the lounge for his spirit.

[blambition]

Here's what we did because DH can no longer wear his tuxedo. He bought a black silk cardigan which he wore with his black trousers, white shirt and bow tie. Sine he can no longer wear formal shoes he wore black velvet slippers.

 

The Maitre d' actually complimneted him for respecting the dress code in an alternative way that showed a true attempt to follow the dress suggestions inasmuch as he could ;the captain thanked DH on the following day as we were seated in the lounge for his spirit.

 

Wow, sounds like your DH looked very sharp!!! Nice alternative and great suggestion.

[jonsmum]

I believe the reason no one said anything is that they were not disregarding the dress code. The respective dresss code on Celebrity only applies to the restaurants and the theater. The rest of the ship is pretty much anything goes. Celebrity used to request the dress code remain throughout the ship after 6 but that went out the window a few years ago. I might also point out that my comments are not an opinion but the official dress code of Celebrity cruises.

 

I'm surprised at that as the UK website states clearly

'Shorts and flip-flops are not allowed in the evening hours' - this is a quote from their 'What is the onboard dress code' FAQ, and was the basis for my comment.

[Jenna109]

Here's what we did because DH can no longer wear his tuxedo. He bought a black silk cardigan which he wore with his black trousers, white shirt and bow tie. Sine he can no longer wear formal shoes he wore black velvet slippers.

 

The Maitre d' actually complimneted him for respecting the dress code in an alternative way that showed a true attempt to follow the dress suggestions inasmuch as he could ;the captain thanked DH on the following day as we were seated in the lounge for his spirit.

 

Thank goodness for old fashioned values and so nice that the staff appreciated you respecting formal evening dress.

This issue has been raised so many times over the past five years - why would anyone want to break the tradition? If anyone doesn't want to wear formal wear on a few evenings then perhaps they have chosen the wrong line. Or just go to an area of the ship which does not require formal dress - simples!

However, and lots will not like this, some just want to be awkward or make a point that they can do what they want because they are on holiday. Me, me, me!

How many times have I read - I have to wear a suit at work so don't want to wear one on holiday. Would a few hours on up to three evening hurt? Just to add that I wear a dress every day so where would that leave me on formal evening:eek:

No one can win on this topic - just follow the requirements which are printed in the brochure!:D

[dkjretired]

I'm surprised at that as the UK website states clearly

'Shorts and flip-flops are not allowed in the evening hours' - this is a quote from their 'What is the onboard dress code' FAQ, and was the basis for my comment.

 

The section you are referring to has to do with restaurants, not the buffet or the rest of the ship and not the area around Café al Baco.

Edited May 29, 2014 by dkjretired

[New Hampshire]

Please no hate response, just need the real low down on this question. We will be on the Silhouette in early Dec. and my DH and best friend's DH will not pack a jacket under any circumstance! Will we have any problems getting into the MDR (we will be nicely dressed) or do we need to plan those nights for alternate dining rooms? I am thinking we will do at least one night in an alternate dining room, but might like to dine on a regular evening. We always dress up for dinner, just not true formal as we have been there, done that too many times. We have not sailed on Celebrity in so many years, I do not know what to expect. Most of our cruises in the past years have been on Princess, with Azamara mixed in between.

Also has anyone done dinner in the buffet? I don't care for buffets even for lunch so this would not be my choice, but thinking we could do it, or even have room service on our balcony.

Thank you in advance for you replies!

 

 

 

You requested the "real low down" on the question of dress on formal nights in the MDR. We all know what is printed on Celebrity's website as it's stated dress code. The reality of what kind of dress is being accepted is not what the code states. This is not my opinion. It' simply a reporting of my observation and experience. On my last four cruises on Silhouette, Reflection and twice on Summit from 2012 until most recently March, 2014 and in the Caribbean, Europe and Bermuda, MY EXPERIENCE has been that formal dress or jacket and tie worn by men in the MDR has not been required. Jackets have not been handed out to men without them. Many men have been in the MDR on formal nights on all four of these cruises wearing dress shirts with and without ties, or even collared polo shirts. I really doubt that staff will try to tighten the dress code up again, now that people have experienced how relaxed it's become.

 

I think you can confidently plan on eating in the MDR every night of your cruise without the men in your party having a jacket or tie.

[Oxo]

Here more info on this:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?p=42920829&posted=1#post42920829

[LetsGetWet!]

You requested the "real low down" on the question of dress on formal nights in the MDR. We all know what is printed on Celebrity's website as it's stated dress code. The reality of what kind of dress is being accepted is not what the code states. This is not my opinion. It' simply a reporting of my observation and experience.

Nice try, but everything below IS just your opinion. :rolleyes:

I really doubt that staff will try to tighten the dress code up again, now that people have experienced how relaxed it's become.

 

I think you can confidently plan on eating in the MDR every night of your cruise without the men in your party having a jacket or tie.

 

 

 

Sent from my Galaxy S4 via Tapatalk

[New Hampshire]

You are very correct in pointing out that part of what I posted is clearly my opinion, especially when I began a sentence with "I think".

 

However, the portion of my post that described what I saw and experienced on four different cruises was not opinion, it was reality. I also observed more casual dress in Select Dining than in the part of the MDR reserved for traditional seatings.

 

My husband and I have always enjoyed formal nights and we have dressed formally in evening wear for all the years we've cruised. Our last cruise was the first one on which my husband wore a sport jacket, shirt and tie instead of a tux and still was more dressed up than many of the men around us in the MDR.