Dress Code for dinner in Lido

[bpjazzer]

Cruising on Holland for the 1st time. Have been on NCL and Royal Caribbean in the past. On those if one didn't want to dress for dinner you could always go to the buffet in whatever you were wearing that day. Shorts, jeans, t-shirts, etc. If I didn't want to dress for dinner on Holland, is it okay to go to the buffet dressed in jeans/t-shirt? I don't mind dressing up - in fact do it every day for work. I'm an early riser and like to go to bed early. When I get back from the excursions, I just want a bite to eat and head to the cabin for the night.

[kryos]

Cruising on Holland for the 1st time. Have been on NCL and Royal Caribbean in the past. On those if one didn't want to dress for dinner you could always go to the buffet in whatever you were wearing that day. Shorts, jeans, t-shirts, etc. If I didn't want to dress for dinner on Holland, is it okay to go to the buffet dressed in jeans/t-shirt? I don't mind dressing up - in fact do it every day for work. I'm an early riser and like to go to bed early. When I get back from the excursions, I just want a bite to eat and head to the cabin for the night.
I'm not sure about shorts during the evening hours ... but jeans and a tee-shirt are fine in the Lido on any night ... even formal night. The Lido serves pretty much the same dinner menu at night that the dining room serves. You go through the buffet for all of your sides, salad, etc. ... and you select your entree. You then go to your table and a waiter will bring your entree to you when it has been cooked to order. Of course, seating is open ... so you can just sit at any table ... unlike the assigned seating in the dining room during the dinner hours.

Be aware, though, that on Holland America the dress code for each night is considered the dress code for the entire evening. So, if it is formal night, and you wish to dine dressed casually in the Lido, technically you won't be able to remain dressed that way if you want to go to the show or sit in one of the lounges on the main decks. However, if you're planning to just retire to your cabin after dinner, the Lido is an excellent alternative dining option.

The Lido is set up at night with tablecloths, and I believe someone will even come to your table if you want to order a drink. It is actually an enjoyable dining experience that lets you shorten the time required for dining in the more traditional dining room.

Of course, the hours in the Lido for dinner are limited ... I think on my cruise it was like from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. that you could enjoy pretty much the entire dinner menu.

I only had occasion on my last cruise to dine in the Lido on one particular night. But normally I use the Lido frequently as I abhor getting all "gussied" up for dinner ... especially on formal nights.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[wowzo]

One cruise we ate in the Lido every night but the night we ate in the Pinnacle.
The Pinnacle was on a formal night so we wore the appropriate clothes.

The other nights we wore long pants , Golf shirts or button shirts (DH), closed shoes - I had on the woman's equiv. of that outfit. Then wherever we went after dinner, we blended in.

Have fun, M.A.

[5 in OK]

Dress code for the lido was much more relaxed than I expected for dinner. There was a little of everything - from capris to dress slacks for women and jeans to slacks for men. I don't remember anyone wearing shorts, however, it was the Alaska itenerary so it got pretty chilly at night.:)

Also - we noticed a lot of people would change into casual clothes (even on formal nights) after dinner before they headed out to the evening activities. I remember thinking, all that fuss on the cruisecritic boards about dress code - no one really cares. I never once saw anyone that offended me by what they were wearing. For the late dining our show was at 10:15 p.m. By the time the shows over (11 ish) we were all so tired we were just ready to sleep!

You are going to have a wonderful time!!! Enjoy your cruise!:)

Janet

[kakalina]

My DH never dresses up. On all nights aboard he eats in the Lido or we eat together in the Pinnacle Grill. I, OTOH, love to dress up and attend each formal evening in the dining room with bells on ( along with appropriate clothing :D ).

That is what we love about cruising with HAL, the opportunity and the ability to enjoy our vacation as we each choose to.

Happy cruising.

[twoatsea]

Hello Bpjazzer. For our last 5 cruises on HAL, we have mostly eaten our dinner meals in the Lido. In March was Carib; April was East Coast. On all sailings, we saw everything in the Lido for dinner, except swimsuits with covers. There were t-shirts (sleeveless & sleeves), jeans, shorts (men & women), resort casual, dressy. This mixture was on every evening, even on formal nights in the dining room. I'm sure you will feel comfortable in whatever you choose to wear on any evening in the Lido.

Another alternative is room service. If you order within the first 1/2 hour of the first dining room time, you can have anything that is on the dining room menu. If you don't want to dress up to go to the dining room but want something on that menu, which is not served in the Lido such as lobster, just order room service. Our dinner room service order always came promptly (you can set the delivery time), was accurate, & at the right temp.

As stated before, many folks attend the evening festivities without adhering to the evening dress code. There are no fashion police who will throw one in the brig for not complying. However, there are some passengers who do not appreciate those who do not follow the HAL dress code guidelines for the dining room & the subsequent evening festivities.

Have a great cruise. :)

[bpjazzer]

Appreciate everyone for their advice. I'm cruising the Baltics, so won't be wearing shorts but will be wearing jeans much of the time. I just wanted to make sure on the dress code, as I was getting the impression from this board and from others that I've talked to that jeans are considered too casual for even just walking around the boat during the day! I don't care much for the entertainment on cruise ships (even though I am a musician), so you won't have to worry about me seeing me in the public areas in the evening. I find it much more relaxing to head back to the cabin and rest for the next day.

I do plan on going to the main dining room on some evenings and will dress up appropriately then, but I like having the casual dining as an option.

[Stevesan]

Personal opinions aside, this is HAL's dress code:

http://www.hollandamerica.com/guests/category.do?category=packing&topic=dressCode

A partial extract:

Evening dress falls into three distinct categories. Each night a daily program will be delivered to your stateroom announcing the suggested dress for the following evening. Comfortable, relaxed clothing is fine for evenings designated as casual; however, T-shirts, jeans, swimsuits, tank tops and shorts are not allowed in the dining room, Lido restaurant, or public areas during the evening hours. During informal nights, dresses or pantsuits for women and jackets (tie optional) for men are standard.

On festive formal evenings, women usually wear cocktail dresses or gowns and men usually wear business suits or tuxedos. There are approximately two formal nights per week. (Gentlemen: Although business suits or tuxedos are suggested attire for formal evenings, they are certainly not required. You are welcome to wear a jacket and tie on formal nights.)

You'll hear numerous "what I saw" or opinions. They don't matter, do they? You only need to follow your own principles.

[bpjazzer]

Personal opinions aside, this is HAL's dress code:

http://www.hollandamerica.com/guests/category.do?category=packing&topic=dressCode

A partial extract:

Evening dress falls into three distinct categories. Each night a daily program will be delivered to your stateroom announcing the suggested dress for the following evening. Comfortable, relaxed clothing is fine for evenings designated as casual; however, T-shirts, jeans, swimsuits, tank tops and shorts are not allowed in the dining room, Lido restaurant, or public areas during the evening hours. During informal nights, dresses or pantsuits for women and jackets (tie optional) for men are standard.

On festive formal evenings, women usually wear cocktail dresses or gowns and men usually wear business suits or tuxedos. There are approximately two formal nights per week. (Gentlemen: Although business suits or tuxedos are suggested attire for formal evenings, they are certainly not required. You are welcome to wear a jacket and tie on formal nights.)

You'll hear numerous "what I saw" or opinions. They don't matter, do they? You only need to follow your own principles.


I also thank you for your opinion. I know what the dress code states. I also know that on the other cruises that I've been on, that there is a dining option where one doesn't have to dress up. I go on cruises for the convience of seeing lots of sites and not having to find transportation, motels, food, etc every day. I'm on vacation and like to dress comfortably. If I want to dress up, I can stay home and go to work everyday. I am a paying customer, so what are they going to do - arrest me if I don't follow their policy?

[Copper10-8]

Appreciate everyone for their advice. I'm cruising the Baltics, so won't be wearing shorts but will be wearing jeans much of the time. I just wanted to make sure on the dress code, as I was getting the impression from this board and from others that I've talked to that jeans are considered too casual for even just walking around the boat during the day! I don't care much for the entertainment on cruise ships (even though I am a musician), so you won't have to worry about me seeing me in the public areas in the evening. I find it much more relaxing to head back to the cabin and rest for the next day.

I do plan on going to the main dining room on some evenings and will dress up appropriately then, but I like having the casual dining as an option.

FYI Jeans are perfectly fine to be worn in the daytime anywhere on the ship and on excursion on shore!

[sail7seas]

I always promise myself I will stay out of dress code conversations but I always contribute to them. :(

And I always same the same thing.
It's a matter of respect and courtesy IMO
Seeing as we know in advance what is requested/expected of us, it is respectful and polite to consider those around us whenever possible.

No one says you have to wear a tuxedo at all...let alone every night but HAL has made it very clear what they request you wear when out and about during the evening. Show the courtesy to your fellow guests and to the crew and officers. Mood, ambience, atmosphere....all that. It matters to many of us.

[sail7seas]

As Copper says and I fully agree....jeans are fine during the day both on and off the ship.

[kryos]

Dress code for the lido was much more relaxed than I expected for dinner. There was a little of everything - from capris to dress slacks for women and jeans to slacks for men. I don't remember anyone wearing shorts, however, it was the Alaska itenerary so it got pretty chilly at night.:)

Also - we noticed a lot of people would change into casual clothes (even on formal nights) after dinner before they headed out to the evening activities. I remember thinking, all that fuss on the cruisecritic boards about dress code - no one really cares. I never once saw anyone that offended me by what they were wearing. For the late dining our show was at 10:15 p.m. By the time the shows over (11 ish) we were all so tired we were just ready to sleep!

I agree. I've often seen people ... even on formal nights ... casually dressed later in the evening. Obviously they are either unaware that on HAL the dress code in force is the dress code for the entire evening (on some other lines ... such as Princess ... this is not the case), so maybe they are confused or else maybe the line's policy has changed.

I agree with Kakalina. That's why I love cruising ... something for everyone. If you wanna stay informal ... then go to the Lido for dinner. The food/ambience is perfectly fine. If you like dress up ... especially on a formal night ... then by all means, don your flashiest clothes and hit the elegant dining room.

That said ... I also agree with you. I think on many cruises the emphasis is shifting away from formality, and as long as people are dressed neatly, they will have no trouble gaining admission to the dining room on a formal night ... in their casual clothes ... nor will they have a problem wandering the ship after dinner dressed casually.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

No one says you have to wear a tuxedo at all...let alone every night but HAL has made it very clear what they request you wear when out and about during the evening. Show the courtesy to your fellow guests and to the crew and officers. Mood, ambience, atmosphere....all that. It matters to many of us.

Yeah, but I think HAL themselves has removed the "no jeans" requirement from their Know Before You Go" book. So, if the dress code for the evening is casual, and there is no written prohibition of jeans ... you'd better believe people are gonna wear them if they want ... and they really aren't going to care who it "matters to" or bothers.

Not trying to pick a fight ... this is nothing personal ... it's just a fact. If HAL doesn't say jeans are a no-no ... then who can fault somebody for wearing them?

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

I do plan on going to the main dining room on some evenings and will dress up appropriately then, but I like having the casual dining as an option.
Check the "Know Before You Go" brochure for your cruise. Jeans may be permitted in the dining room on casual nights ... so you can very possibly have your cake and eat it too ... be comfortable in your jeans, yet still partake of a full service dinner in the main dining room.

And, as someone else said here ... many people do choose to change after dinner on formal nights and enjoy the rest of their evening dressed casually. There are certainly no "fashion police" onboard that will arrest you if you're sitting in the show lounge dressed casually on a formal night. But ... I guess the best advice here is to see how the wind is blowing on your specific cruise since each sailing is unique and some will be more formal than others. If you see a lot of people dressing casually for the show and in the lounges or whatever, then there's certainly no reason you can't do the same if you so choose.

Enjoy your cruise!

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

I also thank you for your opinion. I know what the dress code states. I also know that on the other cruises that I've been on, that there is a dining option where one doesn't have to dress up. I go on cruises for the convience of seeing lots of sites and not having to find transportation, motels, food, etc every day. I'm on vacation and like to dress comfortably. If I want to dress up, I can stay home and go to work everyday. I am a paying customer, so what are they going to do - arrest me if I don't follow their policy?
LOL ... poster after my own heart. :)

Betcha you will find a lot of folks "dressing down" on your cruise. Just eyeball the dining room on the first formal night and see how others are attired.

For what it's worth, I have an "interesting" way of handling formal night. I love tee-shirts ... I love jeans. Unlike you, these are my normal work clothes since I work night work in a large data center. Several years ago I found a nice little black tee-shirt ... and that's all it is ... a tee-shirt. The thing has multi-colored reinstones around the entire neckline and down the front. Looks really snazzy. Works perfectly for formal nights and, in fact, I've gotten a lot of compliments on it. Add that to a pair of rather plain black velvet pants and maybe a little black jacket if the ship is on the cooler side ... and I'm sure fittin' in at the dining room table on formal night. No one's thrown me out yet ... and I took almost ALL of my dinners in the main dining room during my last cruise.

I looked perfectly fine on formal night. All you gotta do is play the game ... and let them see you make an effort. You'll have no trouble dining in the main dining room on any night of the cruise.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[Copper10-8]

Show the courtesy to your fellow guests and to the crew and officers. Mood, ambience, atmosphere....all that. It matters to many of us.

That's really what it comes down to, isn't it? Unfortunately, a lot of people don't know what that word means anymore! It's what I feel like doing that's more important! Me, me, me!

Once again, it's not going to make or break my vacation if folks choose not to follow the suggested dress code and/or change after dinner. (and no, HAL does not have fashion police posted at the entrances to the show lounge, casino and/or any other public lounges)But following the suggested dress code is showing courtesy to those around you as well as to your hosts!

[sail7seas]

Yeah, but I think HAL themselves has removed the "no jeans" requirement from their Know Before You Go" book. So, if the dress code for the evening is casual, and there is no written prohibition of jeans ... you'd better believe people are gonna wear them if they want ... and they really aren't going to care who it "matters to" or bothers.

Not trying to pick a fight ... this is nothing personal ... it's just a fact. If HAL doesn't say jeans are a no-no ... then who can fault somebody for wearing them?

Blue skies ...

--rita


:) I guess if they wanna they're gonna. ;)

[lougee1043]

i agree with sails comments

what i find interesting in my case is that i dress casual ALL the time at home -- and when i cruise i look forward to wearing a tux -even if its rented-- on formal nites- and i keep it on for the entire evening as requested------------------i wish hal would enforce the dress code with more diligence

[mafig]

Our 10-dayer on Volendam has three formal nights. We were considering skipping one of them and going to the Lido. From what I've read the last formal is lobster, which we don't want to miss. What is usually served on the other formal nights? AND is it served in the Lido?

[RevNeal]

I've never eaten dinner in the Lido, hence I cannot comment with any authority regarding what goes on there or how people dress when eating their evening meal there. However, relative to the ship and to dress codes in general, much of the advice already posted is good, and particularly so where caution is suggested relative to anecdotal observations and experience-based advice. Suffice it to say that each cruise is different -- not only in terms of itineraries and regions of the world but also from cruise to cruise within a region or on the same itinerary -- hence, "milage will vary."

I tend to enjoy the atmosphere of pomp and circumstance which "dressing up" for formal night brings. However, I'm more of a people-person than a "exterior" person ... I'm more interested in the PEOPLE that are wearing the clothing than I am the clothing they're in. I enjoy the Formal atmosphere and seeing people dressed very nicely, however such is not "necessary" for my enjoyment (though it does help).

This being said, I DO feel sorry for those who end up feeling conspicuous because they listened to well-meaning but erroneous advice about what one should and should not expect to find being worn on formal nights. Invariably I have discovered that they've been advised to ignore the code because "no one" or "very few" bother dressing according to it. They come on a HAL cruise and discover that this just isn't the case and they are embarrassed that they don't even have a jacket, much less a tie or a tuxedo. True, not EVERYBODY dresses up ... but most still do (perhaps not all in Tuxedos, but suits or jackets and ties) and it's nice to blend in and not be made to feel a spectacle by not being dressed similarly to one's fellow shipmates. I feel sorry for these people ... as chaplain I've talked with a fair number of them on 3 different cruises and, in many cases, it turns out that they were mislead by friends who had cruised before (though, often, not on HAL) and who had told them to ignore the code. I've yet to find one who was advised to ignore the code through coming to an online board; but I figure it's only a matter of time.

[newmexicoNita]

That's really what it comes down to, isn't it? Unfortunately, a lot of people don't know what that word means anymore! It's what I feel like doing that's more important! Me, me, me!

Once again, it's not going to make or break my vacation if folks choose not to follow the suggested dress code and/or change after dinner. (and no, HAL does not have fashion police posted at the entrances to the show lounge, casino and/or any other public lounges)But following the suggested dress code is showing courtesy to those around you as well as to your hosts!
Iam one of those, so is DH that enjoys dressing up on formal nights but likes to relax after dinner. WOuld I go back to the cabin and change? Not if I was expected to stay dressed in a certain fashion the entire evening. For those who think they don't need to follow the dress guidelines maybe they should cruise on NCL or Princess. One thing, even on those lines certain dress codes are enforced in the dining rooms after 5:30pm. If the policy does allow jeans, for heaven's sake enjoy that, but if the policy is no jeans as has been said: stop doing just what you want and respect the rules. NMnita

[kryos]

:) I guess if they wanna they're gonna. ;)
Sail, even I was upset that they took the prohibition of jeans in the dining room out of the guidelines brochure. Not that I have a problem with people wearing jeans, but my fear is that loosening the prohibition is gonna encourage some people to wear torn, bleached and "holy" jeans. At least while the prohibition was in there, people might have "stretched" the limit of the suggested dress code ... but they stretched it by wearing nice, clean, pressed jeans.

Even I ... a dress code rebel ... am disappointed that HAL changed this aspect of the dress code. While it really should have no bearing on formal nights, I fear that casual nights are gonna become just another dinner at the local Denny's ... not something special as I have come to look forward to onboard ship.

HAL, put the prohibition back in the brochure ... and then let your dining room captains and Matri 'd decide on a case-by-case basis whether the jeans someone is wearing are appropriate for the dining room.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[KAYEF]

When we REALLY appreciated HAL's Dress Code was when we (never again) sailed on the Norwegian Dream last fall.
Formal Night found us dining at a table with our grown kids..........not in Tuxes but in suits and ties, etc.
and across from us, the direction some of us had to look, was a couple in dirty tee-shirts, sweat pants and flip-flops and the man wore a baseball cap the entire time he ate.
They were allowed in and served as were we; we only found the Dress Code on the Dream enforced if a person tried to wear blue jeans to DINNER.
We're talking about being considerate of others here..........everyone has an opinion, but being considerate should be a priority as well.
If we are "pooped" from a shore excursion, taking a shower and putting on shorts and tee-thirts and ordering Room Service is a fun choice.

[richwmn]

I posted this in another thread earlier --

I keep reading posts about the "dress code" on HAL and the constant mention of "jeans". There is a lot of room to be comfortable between jeans and formal. I have been out and about on formal nights many times with nice slacks or dockers and a golf shirt and no one minded.

The OP in that thread came back with a comment about "designer jeans". I believe that a big part of this continuing discussion may be the definition of "jeans". To a large number of (maybe older) people, the term means a style of blue denim pants designed rugged for heavy outdoor work, and generally being a bit ragged. I don't think many people would have a problem with the nicer denim pants which are well kept.

[sail7seas]

Sail, even I was upset that they took the prohibition of jeans in the dining room out of the guidelines brochure. Not that I have a problem with people wearing jeans, but my fear is that loosening the prohibition is gonna encourage some people to wear torn, bleached and "holy" jeans. At least while the prohibition was in there, people might have "stretched" the limit of the suggested dress code ... but they stretched it by wearing nice, clean, pressed jeans.
--rita

Again......I guess if they want to, they are going to.

[sail7seas]

The OP in that thread came back with a comment about "designer jeans". I believe that a big part of this continuing discussion may be the definition of "jeans". To a large number of (maybe older) people, the term means a style of blue denim pants designed rugged for heavy outdoor work, and generally being a bit ragged. I don't think many people would have a problem with the nicer denim pants which are well kept.

;) I can only speak for myself but I think it fairly safe to say that most of us know what designer jeans are. :) I realize your sincerely in thinking some folks over 50 may be thinking work pants. I doubt that is the case for many of us.

JMHO, of course, but all designer does for jeans is make them more costly. :) Sure, I know....there are different weights, colors, cuts, stitching, low riders, high riders, boot cut, slim cut yadda yadda yadda.......

[cruzincurt]

Quote: "Be aware, though, that on Holland America the dress code for each night is considered the dress code for the entire evening. So, if it is formal night, and you wish to dine dressed casually in the Lido, technically you won't be able to remain dressed that way if you want to go to the show or sit in one of the lounges on the main decks. However, if you're planning to just retire to your cabin after dinner, the Lido is an excellent alternative dining option."

"Technically you won't be able to.....?" Is there a back stairwell that the casual people can leave the Lido and safely arrive back at their cabins without being seen? How offensive to demand, or expect that, after eating, they need to go directly back to their cabin so you are not offended.

HAL doesn't need fashion police, some of the passengers would be quick to volunteer their services. I spend my evening dressed and paying attention to my DW rather than those around me. We follow the suggested dress code because we enjoy dressing up for dinner, not because I'm worried about offending some other HAL cruiser, who will be so upset, their evening will be ruined.

[newmexicoNita]

When we REALLY appreciated HAL's Dress Code was when we (never again) sailed on the Norwegian Dream last fall.
Formal Night found us dining at a table with our grown kids..........not in Tuxes but in suits and ties, etc.
and across from us, the direction some of us had to look, was a couple in dirty tee-shirts, sweat pants and flip-flops and the man wore a baseball cap the entire time he ate.
They were allowed in and served as were we; we only found the Dress Code on the Dream enforced if a person tried to wear blue jeans to DINNER.
We're talking about being considerate of others here..........everyone has an opinion, but being considerate should be a priority as well.
If we are "pooped" from a shore excursion, taking a shower and putting on shorts and tee-thirts and ordering Room Service is a fun choice.I don't want to start anything here and I do love dressing up, but I find your remarks about NCL out of line. Number 1-the Dream is a little different than many NCL ships: she is older, sails out of Texas (which you should have known all this) and is geared to a certain group of travelers. I book her a lot and I always inform the passengers about the difference in ships and lines. For the price you paid to sail the Dream you should have known what you would get. I will say I have cruised on the Sea out of Texas which was replaced by the Dream and never witnessed what you are discribing. NCL has the same requirements for night time that HAL or any other line has and I have seen it enforced. Anyone can slip up once in awhile. I am not saying this to put down people from the southwest, we live in NM as you can tell and lived in Texas for 13 years after spending 8 years in Washington DC. I am only pointing out you are judging a cruise line from one experience. Of course there are reasons we have so many choices and each person has his/her won reason for choosing a particular line. I just had clients this morning asking me to make a choice for them and of course I wouldn't do that. NMnita

[sail7seas]

What you do or do not wear will never ruin my evening. ;)

[joycruiser]

To keep everything in perspective…………one night that was causal dress, we decided to eat dinner in the Lido.

DH wanted to wear his new sports coat and looked pretty spiffy~I dressed up too! Just cause we wanted to.

As we entered the Lido, we noticed a couple in line that looked at us and then looked horrified at each other. They were in jeans with biker t-shirts.
We could see the wheels turning in their heads “Oh no! we’re not dressed right!!”

In the same second, I kid you not, in walks a couple in the HAL bathrobes!!

DH and I, along with the biker couple had a good chuckle.

We were dressed up, they were dressed down-but at least they were dressed.

[bpjazzer]

I'm almost sorry that I started this thread. I apologize if I hurt anyone's feelings. Of course I'm taking dress clothes and will eat in the dinner most nights. All I was asking is there was a place where I can eat dressed casually on those nights that I don't feel like dressing up. It must be important to some of you to be waited on and eat gourmet meals. I personally don't like eating out and prefer to always eat at home. If I do eat out, I actually prefer fast food.

Funny thing is that since I dress everyday for work, my dress clothes are actually in somewhat worse shape than my jeans and t-shirts. I hardly get to dress down so those clothes are in excellent shape. My jeans are not faded or riped. My t-shirts are high quality with no writing on them.

Like I said in earlier post, I don't do the night time entertainment. The shows are typically bad and I don't morally believe in gambling or drinking. I have an introvert personality so will be happy in my cabin after dinner. I am not a night person, so I will be the first one up for breakfast.

Some of these posts have me not looking forward to my cruise. Some of you only seem concerned that your cruise isn't ruined by someone not conforming to the dress code. I think you're being a bit selfish and not thinking about others. I make decent money and paid off the cruise on the spot. I can afford to buy clothes, cameras and stuff I need for a vacation. There may be those that want that dream vacation and will take them years to pay if off. These people may not be able to afford nicer clothes and stuff. I never judge people on what they wear as long as they are neat and clean. Some of you need to develop some tolerance for those that don't conform to your wishes.

I would have been happier to go on a more casual ship, but I wanted to be on this particular Holland cruise as it makes a stop where I have relatives.

Thanks to those that replied to my originial message. Especially thanks to Kryos for being a voice of reason. You seem to see both sides and I appreciate your insight and honesty.

[KAYEF]

newmexicoNita
I have NO idea what you mean about "Texas"...........we've never been there.
Nor do I understand why you insinuate I should "know what I'm getting" by booking on the Dream. I knew nothing about her until she limped into Seattle on the cruise before ours and my Mother sent me a newspaper article about her. A friend told me about this cruise out of Seattle and we all decided to go.
She isn't always in Texas; we took her from Seattle to Alaska.
And, for your information, there were a couple of older gentlemen on her who wore overalls the entire time............we do know the difference between "jeans" and "jeans" which seems to be another discussion on this thread.
Also, many, many older men wore baseball hats in the dining rooms the entire cruise. The only person who was denied entrance to a restaurant that we ever witnessed was a man in very nice, pressed jeans.

[kryos]

I'm almost sorry that I started this thread. I apologize if I hurt anyone's feelings. Of course I'm taking dress clothes and will eat in the dinner most nights. All I was asking is there was a place where I can eat dressed casually on those nights that I don't feel like dressing up. It must be important to some of you to be waited on and eat gourmet meals. I personally don't like eating out and prefer to always eat at home. If I do eat out, I actually prefer fast food.

Ahhhhhh, again a poster after my own heart. She likes Mickey D's too! :)

Seriously, no need to apologize. Most of our threads wind up going off topic. It's not your fault. I guess it's just that this subject of dress code, as well as a few others, is a hot button to a lot of people.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

"Technically you won't be able to.....?" Is there a back stairwell that the casual people can leave the Lido and safely arrive back at their cabins without being seen? How offensive to demand, or expect that, after eating, they need to go directly back to their cabin so you are not offended.

I'm just stating what the HAL policy is. I didn't say I agreed with it ... nor did I say I always followed it. You're right. HAL does not have "fashion police" and they are certainly not going to ask you to leave the show lounge or a bar ... at least I've never seen anyone asked to leave. If someone wants to change after dinner and go to the show dressed casually, they are certainly free to do so. I'm just quoting what is the written HAL policy on the matter. Hopefully, HAL will go the way of most other lines that consider the evening's dress code to be for the dining room only.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[RevNeal]

Hopefully, HAL will go the way of most other lines that consider the evening's dress code to be for the dining room only.

Sorry, Rita ... I hope not.

[lkmamom]

As someone new to HAL, I have read this thread with interest. We have always sailed with Princess. The debate is basically the same over on the Princess boards. I have always really appreciated what advice that seasoned cruisers give. I really appreciated Rev. Neal's earlier post. I too,judge someone from what's inside rather than what they are wearing. But,(and you know there was going to be a but;) ) when the cruiseline specifically specifies what their dress code is,and wherever it is,I think that passengers should respect this. We also had some questions about the dress code in the Lido and called HAL and a very kind gentleman explained the dress code to us. Of course, anytime that our sixteen year old can get out of wearing a sport coat to dinner is alright with him. He honestly does not mind the shirt and tie.:) I kind of took offense to the "hoity toighty" comment. Those that dress for dinner are following the rules of the cruiseline. And some even enjoy it:)
I guess to me, the dress code is all a part of the "cruising experiance." Maybe it is because it is a tradition and most people that have cruised for a long time want to keep it that way. Our family loves cruising and this has been the theme of most of our vacations since our first cruise seven years ago.Given their choices, I am sure that my DH and DS would much rather eat in their jeans and tee shirts but they know the dress codes in the dining rooms. They have never complained and we all have a great time.If there are individuals that cannot afford a, for example, suit, well then it is understandable that they may feel a little intimidated, but I truly think that most cruiselines have made even that situation comfortable with various dining choices.
Most people adhere to what is asked of them, and for those that do not, noone really says anything, but I really think that they are the ones that stand out. I think everyone is entitled to their own comfort level.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all of those that have patiently answered all of my questions. I promise to report back after our Zuiderdam cruise early July:D
Linda

[sail7seas]

I think it has gone full circle on this thread.......

It has gotten right back to respect and courtesy. ;) It matters to some people.

[sail7seas]

Linda (lkmamom)........Welcome to HAL.

Hope you have a great cruise and will come back and make some comments after your cruise.

[RevNeal]

Thank you for your input, Linda ... your kind words are greatly appreciated. I tend to agree that simple common courtesy should indicate that one ought to abide by the wishes of one's hosts. The Cruise Line is our host while we're aboard, and their "request" is that gentlemen wear at least a jacket and tie on formal nights, jackets on informal nights, and nice clothing on casual evenings. They also "request" that that we all observe the dress code during the entire evening, and not just during dinner in the main dining room. Given then minimal nature of the various evening's code, I simply do not see it as any kind of substantial inconvenience to expect one's guests to dress according to what is "requested."

While clothing do not make a person, one can often tell a whole lot about another person by how they behave in public relative to such conventions. Some of the most pleasant people I've met on cruises have been those who have dressed according to the minimal dress code but don't wear Tuxedos or ball gowns; they have shown respect for the Line and for their fellow passengers, even though it might not have been something that they relished doing nor even something that was very easy for them. Contrary wise, some of the most annoying stinkers I've ever met aboard ship have been among those who dressed "to the nines" and would never be found out-and-about in anything less than the highest hout couture. :)

This being said, there's nothing like combining a high fashion sense with a fantastic, outgoing, engaging, and pleasant personality. I've known plenty of these people too. :D

[cruzincurt]

I agree that out of respect for the request of the host, the dress code should be observed; we do that. Now my question is, with all that being said, then why do they have the Lido open on formal nights?

Do they expect those dining there, taking advantage of the non-formal dress allowance, to eat then go back to their cabins? Obviously people in formal wear may also dine at the Lido since they can do so on their own time schedule.

[RevNeal]

I agree that out of respect for the request of the host, the dress code should be observed; we do that. Now my question is, with all that being said, then why do they have the Lido open on formal nights?

Do they expect those dining there, taking advantage of the non-formal dress allowance, to eat then go back to their cabins? Obviously people in formal wear may also dine at the Lido since they can do so on their own time schedule.

You know, Curt, that's a good question. I suppose the only consistent answer is "yes" ... the Line expects those who are not going to partake of the dress code to also not partake of the in-ship activities. They're welcome to hang out on the Lido, to go up or aft and outside, or back to their cabins. At least, that would be consistent with the Line's stated policy. However, for the most part those who don't dress according to code can still be seen wandering the ship, looking kinda sheepish, and not quite fitting in.

[suelars]

Ouch - Isn't that everyone's biggest fear . . . not fitting in? We sure do get our panties in a wad over strange things . . . When we take the time to focus on others, I've found their stories are much more interesting than their clothing.

Fun for all! Happy Cruising!!!

[twoatsea]

Thank you Suelars. This whole thing sounds a little "high schooly" doesn't it! :eek: People embarrassed because of their clothes? People "sheepishly" "wandering" the ship" & "not fitting in". For heavens sake! And these are supposed to be adults mentally alert & emotionally stable enough to travel on their own. And it's not their fault; it's the fault of those who give them "wrong" info - each of my children tried that excuse - once. I hope any counseling anyone would have with these distraught folks would be to advise them on the important areas of life, not one's or anyone else's clothes!

And not wanting folks at your dinner table because they wear flip flops or tshirts - dirty or clean! Does their attire mean they are not possible of interesting conversation; of being very nice people; etc, etc.?

Respecting our "host"? Let's not go over the deep end here. Our host is a business! Our host markets what will make the most money & keep the bean counters & stockholders happy. When HAL decides that changing the dress code makes more money, our "host" will change the dress code! Besides, our "host" suggests & recommends" only. The only "not allowed" are t-shirts, swimsuits, tank tops, & shorts in the dining room "only". Our host actually chooses not to enforce their own suggested dress code (which makes sense since it is only suggested) - so obviously, our "host" is not offended & obviously they are not going to chase away paying customers.

Being respectful of other passengers? The dress code is not required & not enforced. So how are those who do not desire to take the "suggestion" being disrespectful, any more than those who choose to take the suggestion? HAL is a mass market, low to medium cost cruiseline. There are luxury cruiselines with "required" dress code.

To me, IMO, the bottom line is how we treat others - & that does not have anything to do with how we or they dress. Attire was developed as a class distinction. Luckily in our modern society, many have come to realize that is not the "measure of a man". Even church services are filled with men no longer in suits. One of the best sermons I ever heard was on Easter when the minister let it rip about how proud we all were in our fancy clothes & how we judge & assess each other based on our clothes - how true it was. He said anyone was welcome in his church, no matter how dressed - & that was in the conservative 50's!

There are several adults on this board who profess to be respectful, but who have been more cruel than anything I ever witnessed during my school years, when I was among children. Please, folks, this is an internet message board about cruising - not world peace, world hunger, world torture, abuse of children, etc., etc. Let's play nice & keep things in perspective!

[Copper10-8]

One thing I've learned is that people will do what they want to do. This board is certainly not going to change that! My post about "respect" came out harsher than I intended so sorry about that! In addition, it was intended as a general statement and it wasn't meant to single out any individual, including the OP! Being referred to as a "hoity toity" was a first;) and has provided/is providing free entertainment to those that know me at home and at work!:)

HAL's "suggested" dress code seems to be only enforced if someone pushes the envelop. "Suggested" to us, means that's what the cruise line would like us to follow so that's what we do out of "respect" to the cruise line and to our fellow passengers. Others interprete it differently and some will completely ignore it. Regardless, it's not worth getting uptight about! Life's too short. Enjoy your next cruise wherever it might take you!

[diboja]

Thank you Suelars. This whole thing sounds a little "high schooly" doesn't it! :eek: People embarrassed because of their clothes? People "sheepishly" "wandering" the ship" & "not fitting in". For heavens sake!

Respecting our "host"? Let's not go over the deep end here. Our host is a business!
HAL is a mass market, low to medium cost cruiseline. There are luxury cruiselines with "required" dress code.

To me, IMO, the bottom line is how we treat others - & that does not have anything to do with how we or they dress. Attire was developed as a class distinction. Luckily in our modern society, many have come to realize that is not the "measure of a man".

Let's play nice & keep things in perspective!

Nicely said Twoatsea!!
Before my first cruise a few years back I read the HAL boards to obtain information - and truly the boards are a great source of information and I continue to obtain a lot of info to this day from Cruise Critic.

Initially, because of a few posters I had the "Fear of God" drummed into my head about dress attire and protocols. I then found that they do not portray the majority ..... it wasn't long after when I started cruising that I would go to the Lido on a Formal night and then to a bar or to the show in my country club casuals - never have I "sheepishly" wandered the corridors!

Thanks again for an intelligent post.

[kryos]

I agree that out of respect for the request of the host, the dress code should be observed; we do that. Now my question is, with all that being said, then why do they have the Lido open on formal nights?

Do they expect those dining there, taking advantage of the non-formal dress allowance, to eat then go back to their cabins? Obviously people in formal wear may also dine at the Lido since they can do so on their own time schedule.
Believe it or not, there are some people who do retire to their cabins right after dinner. I've done it myself on occasion ... especially if I have a full day on shore planned for the next morning. Of course, I want to eat ... and the Lido allows me to enjoy a full course meal without having to "gussy up" ... especially if it's a formal night aboard ship. Then, after a relaxing meal, I'll go out on the Lido deck for a spell (the Lido deck is not considered one of those areas where the evening's dress code prevails) ... enjoy my java and a few cigarettes out there ... perhaps read a bit ... indulge in a bit of conversation with my fellow passengers ... and then about 9:00 or so, head back to my stateroom to get ready for bed. This way I get a good block of sleep before a full day the next morning. I've seen lots of others following pretty much the same routine.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[caribbean girl]

Oh, yes...'perspective' is a very good thing.:rolleyes:

Good post, twoatsea...:)

[Host Walt]

This thread was reopened (after a brief timeout to permit a cooling off period). Sadly the first posts made only minutes after it was reopened were clear violations of our community guidelines (http://www.cruisecritic.com/community/guide.cfm#6).

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