P&O Cruises dress code: The complete guide

 A holiday is the perfect place to dress up and show off your trendiest get-ups, extravagant ensembles, and perhaps more experimental outfits you haven’t had the chance (or nerve) to wear yet. It’s also a time to chill out and wear your comfiest ‘fits – but in order to feel fully comfortable, you want to make sure you’re wearing the right thing! Nothing is more awkward than feeling you’re dressed wrong for the occasion. Queue flashbacks of arriving at school on home clothes day, dressed in your uniform. Ah, the joys. 

While many cruise lines have relaxed their dress codes over the years, P&O Cruises included, most still have guidelines to adhere to. This is not as scary as it sounds – it’s mostly what you’d expect, (i.e. don’t saunter into the buffet in your swimming trunks) however it’s good to be clear on exactly what’s what. Here’s the down-low on P&O Cruises’ dress code to avoid any fashion faux pas on your next holiday.

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While it’s true that gone are the days of cruise ships being Titanic-level formal, most cruise lines still have dress codes and P&O Cruises is no exception. This can be broken down into a daytime dress code, the ‘Evening Casual’ dress code, and the ‘Formal Nights’ dress code.

Let’s take a look at what each of these involves.

For children aged 17 or under, they do not have to follow the Formal Nights dress code on P&O Cruises. However, that’s not to say they can’t dress to impress if they feel like it! Children are encouraged to wear Evening Casual dress on formal occasions if possible, and avoid denim. 

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If you forget your flip flops when nipping into the bar after a dip in the pool, or get the date wrong for a black tie night and accidentally arrive in your jeans, a member of crew will gently remind you of the policy/evening’s dress code and politely ask you to adjust your clothing accordingly. No biggie. 

If you wear novelty clothing with printed images or slogans, or anything that could be deemed inappropriate, this is strictly prohibited. P&O Cruises states in their policy that they reserve the right to deny embarkation to guests who are inappropriately dressed in this manner. 

So, if you’re wondering “how strict is the P&O dress code”, the answer is that it’s generally considered to be a little stricter than other major cruise lines. The main thing to remember is to avoid fancy dress and any clothing with inappropriate images/language at all times to avoid any sticky situations. 

With so much to explore in each port destination, it’s a good idea to get your walking shoes on. Flat shoes like trainers or boots tend to be best for longer walks, active excursions, and around historic cities. It goes without saying, stilettos and cobblestones don’t mix well…

There’s no dress code to follow for shore excursions as such when on a P&O cruise, but clothing that’s comfortable, allows you to be active, and is warm/cool enough depending on the destination is sensible. The last thing you want is to be held back from discovering each destination because of a fashion faux pas! 

It’s also important to remember that some sites and attractions require you to cover up for cultural or religious regions. A member of the P&O Cruises shore programming team will be able to advise you if you have any questions.

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