Poll - Formal Night - Caribbean Cruises

[ekerr19]

What do you think about the current Formal night on a 7 -day Caribbean Cruise? Should it stay the same? Be reduced? Enforced?

[doone]

I voted stay the same, 2 formal night, dress code enforced. It will be interesting to see everyone else's thought.

[Orcrone]

I was wondering how many people are going to "vote and run" without commenting. I considered it. I'm the one who said abolish it.:D

[etrainer1]

you already know my view!:D

[ekerr19]

Orcrone- Good for you! At least you had the guts to say so. It is a public poll so I think the results can be viewed anyway....

I voted to keep it the same, but enforce it -

I'm curious to see what others think, though. ;)

[Orcrone]

Actually ekerr19,

I considered voting "other". Eliminate the dress code and enforce it. Anyone found adhering to a dress code will not be served.:D

[Esme]

I'm with you ekerr - keep it the same, but enforce it.

[etrainer1]

Actually ekerr19,

I considered voting "other". Eliminate the dress code and enforce it. Anyone found adhering to a dress code will not be served.:D
HAHAHA! good suggestion! :D :D :D

[hdawson]

Why fix something that's not broken? Keep it the same and enforce.

[joeinwpb]

I voted for elimination. Too much extra luggage.
If it stays the same for a while longer I’m OK with that also.
I just don’t like the inconvenience, of packing extra clothes in my luggage.

[bombero]

We love formal nights.. My wife likes to dress up whenever she gets the chance, and I like to oblige her..It is her cruise too.. She is a beautiful lady, especially when she's all dolled up.. I am very proud of her and feel like a million dollars strolling around with her on my arm.. Wouldn't give that up for anything... bombero

[gizmo]

I am with the keep it the same but enforce it group.

[BorderLady]

Why fix something that's not broken? Keep it the same and enforce.I agree completely.

One of the things we enjoy on QE2 crossings are the 4 formal nights. Not only does everyone look marvelous but the mood is of the whole ship is more festive, men are more gallant and all the ladies seem more beautiful.

[peaches from georgia]

Keep and enforce! :p

[GrammyPL]

Keep the two and ENFORCE the dress code. Penny

[Lynzchat]

I'm not a cruise expert, so someone please explain formal night to me, and how often will it happen? We are cruising on Holland Oosterdam.

[CruisinNana]

Eliminate it so those of us who hate to dress up can comfortably enjoy the evening .
Dee :o

[arzz]

Come on now, don't take away everything that is cruising -- if formal nights are not to your liking there is always the Lido and room service -- the chance to dress up elegantly is all part of the experience -- We need to learn to slow down in this world and relax -- dressing up and enjoying a fine meal and whatever we do afterwards is all part of that

This, however, is only my personal opinion. Be aware that I also enjoyed the nightly waiter style meals in my college dorm because they forced us to slow down, enjoy our food and the company of others (yeah, there were dress codes that were enforced on Wed and Sun -- "heels and hose")-- by the time I graduated, my opinion was a minority view. I could be a dinosaur......

[ekerr19]

I'm not a cruise expert, so someone please explain formal night to me, and how often will it happen? We are cruising on Holland Oosterdam.

Lynzchat - On a 7-day cruise there are usually 2 formal-dress evenings. HAL suggests men wear a tux, suit or jacket and ladies dress in evening gowns or other fancy attire.

Some people choose to wear a bit more "relaxed" attire, even though HAL has a suggested dress code for the evening, they do not really enforce it.

I have seen all kinds of attire, some of it cute - teen boys in dinner jackets, starched shirts & bow-ties BUT with green & red plaid bermuda shorts (at Christmas) - I thought it was pretty cute, I don't think anyone was offended by it - on these boards you will find very differing opinions when it comes to the dress code.

I am in favor of it - even for enforcing it, but that is just my preference and I respect those who feel differently. My DH does not particularly like wearing his tux in hot weather - I don't really blame him, especially when it's humid.

[Oink]

:) I personally don't need to be dressed up to enjoy a nice meal. However, since so many others get off on it, I think it should be one formal night for cruises 7 nights or less. Cruises that are 8-12 nights would have two formal nights. Informal is completely ridiculous and should be eliminated. No jeans or shorts should be allowed after a certain hour....say 7pm (except by the pool or in the kids zone). Just my opinion, of course. Later....Oink! :)

[sail7seas]

Why fix something that's not broken? Keep it the same and enforce.

But it is broken IMO; they do not enforce it!!!

No surprise that I voted to have two formal nights on a seven day cruise and to enforce it.

[elmorejj]

Let me preface this by saying we have always adhered to the dress codes on whatever night. That said, I voted to go country club casual in the Carib. when on a port intensive cruise. People are not sticking with the stated code for the evening and its getting very depressing to see jeans and T shirts in the DR, with the Maitre D` looking the other way. Its time they either enforced whatever the dress code is for the evening or forget about it. As always, JMHO......jean :cool:

[CINCY40]

We will be on the Ryndam next month in an S suite. It is only a five nighter. We plan on dinner in Pinnacle on the casual nights and room service the other nights. We certainly do not want to spoil the ambiance for others, but we don't really care about going to the dining room. We did the same thing on the Zuiderdam in May and enjoyed ourselves immensely and we will do the same on the Westerdam in December.

So...we are different. That does not make us bad people.

Nancy

[cactuslady]

I was torn between enforcing and eliminating. I love the elegance of formal night, which just doesn't happen on land in these parts. On the other hand, the Caribbean is so muggy, sticky, icky (to my taste) that the thought of wearing hose there makes my skin crawl. The thought of wearing hose while everybody else is wearing shorts just makes me want to weep. (The honest story is that when I landed in Tucson on a 100 degree evening after my first Caribbean cruise, it felt cooler here.)

So, I voted for cutting down and enforcing. I'd be content to get rid of it entirely in the Caribbean, which is a beachy kind of place anyway, and keep/enhance it in more temperate or drier climes (including, say, the west coast of Mexico).

[cruisingangel]

I voted for 2 formal and enforce, we do happen to enjoy dressing up those two times.:D

[mhshapiro]

I voted for "other" mainly because I don't particularly see the point of "informal" nights. Perhaps one or two dressy nights with the rest casual on a seven day cruise would work.

[ekerr19]

cactuslady-

I hear you with the hose! I just don't do it anymore, especially in the Caribbean. Once I started seeing all the actresses on the red carpet wearing strappy sandals without hose, I thought... hmmm that works for me!

I think the Caribbean is a far more relaxed cruise and when it is port intensive like jean pointed out - the heat and humidity make formal night not-so-fun for many people.

Another thing too, when the ships A/C system is not functioning properly, eek! Who wants to be dressed up at that point?

[Krazy Kruizers]

:)

Voted 2 keep both formal nights on a 7 day cruise and HAL should enforce the rule!

We love dressing up!

:D

[jazzsea]

I can't imagine how you would inforce the dress code. Many people now opt to eat in the Lido Restaurant where no dress code is required.

I'm still offended by shorts, tank tops and flip flops in the public rooms after 6:00 PM. However, who's going to stop them? And I'm sure not going to stress out on my vacation over how others are dressed. I prefer to think that the seriously underdressed have lost luggage and have no other choice.

Two formal nights is necessary to keep the photo department busy. With out photo opportunities there would be no photographer concession on board. Even though we seldom purchase the pictures I would hate to not have the pictures taken. Who knows, we might all of a sudden start looking younger and then I would want the pictures.

[Lynzchat]

Lynzchat - On a 7-day cruise there are usually 2 formal-dress evenings. HAL suggests men wear a tux, suit or jacket and ladies dress in evening gowns or other fancy attire.

Some people choose to wear a bit more "relaxed" attire, even though HAL has a suggested dress code for the evening, they do not really enforce it.

I have seen all kinds of attire, some of it cute - teen boys in dinner jackets, starched shirts & bow-ties BUT with green & red plaid bermuda shorts (at Christmas) - I thought it was pretty cute, I don't think anyone was offended by it - on these boards you will find very differing opinions when it comes to the dress code.

I am in favor of it - even for enforcing it, but that is just my preference and I respect those who feel differently. My DH does not particularly like wearing his tux in hot weather - I don't really blame him, especially when it's humid.
That totally helps me! I think my FI(future DH) will bring a tux, just so we can get dressed up. It's a rare treat for us, so we're looking forward to one night of dressing up!

[dakrewser]

Ivoted for 3 formal nights, strictly enforced. But I'd do away with "informal" nights.

For those who don't like "dressing up", but want to eat in a dining room, may I suggest "freestyle cruising" on Norwegian Cruise Lines....

[MISSYLOU]

I would like to see the traditions of cruising kept but I would be happier with one formal night for a seven day cruise.

[ryansmemom]

I voted to keep it the same and enforce it. I like the two formal nights on a 7 day cruise, however, I like more formal nights so I take longer cruises whenever I can.

Chimera and I enjoy dressing up for the evening because we enjoy the way we feel in our fancy dress up duds. It's just so romantic. It's really nice to have the ambience of everyone dressed up. With that said, I must admit, I think we would dress up even if few people did and just feel like we were the stars of the evening or something like that. It really is about what ever you want it to be. For us it's just romantic and wonderful.

After all, a cruise is about getting away from the "real" world isn't it?

Linda

[Terri Lee]

I voted for keeping the same formals and enforcing the dress code.

I remember the Maitre D' on the SS Rotterdam in 1995 turning away passengers inappropriately dressed on formal evenings.

To be honest,I LOVE the dressing up on formal nights,especially since there are hardly any places or events to go to these days here on land,that warrant formal clothes(except maybe a fancy New Year's Eve dinner/dance).Don't know about any of you other gals out there but I always feel like a princess when I am all decked out in all my finery(too bad I don't have a prince to share it with!LOL!)


Terri;)

[digby]

I was wondering how many people are going to "vote and run" without commenting. I considered it. I'm the one who said abolish it.:D

I second that! The dress code is only a SUGGESTION according to my recent experience on the Westerdam. How do you enforce a suggestion?

[divinggirl]

I was torn between enforcing and eliminating. I love the elegance of formal night, which just doesn't happen on land in these parts. On the other hand, the Caribbean is so muggy, sticky, icky (to my taste) that the thought of wearing hose there makes my skin crawl. The thought of wearing hose while everybody else is wearing shorts just makes me want to weep. (The honest story is that when I landed in Tucson on a 100 degree evening after my first Caribbean cruise, it felt cooler here.)

So, I voted for cutting down and enforcing. I'd be content to get rid of it entirely in the Caribbean, which is a beachy kind of place anyway, and keep/enhance it in more temperate or drier climes (including, say, the west coast of Mexico).
I'm with you Cactuslady.

[JimVrhovac]

If they enforce it does that mean that Peppy cannot get dressed up with us. These slippers are much more comfortable that 9 inch stilleto's !!!!!!

Jim

[ryansmemom]

If they enforce it does that mean that Peppy cannot get dressed up with us. These slippers are much more comfortable that 9 inch stilleto's !!!!!!

Jim

Jim,

Your slippers will never!, I repeat NEVER! be banned. They are a tradition. HAL is a traditional cruise line. Therefore it only makes sense that your traditional Peppey Le Pew slippers are an integral part of the traditional formal night experience.

I will defend your right to wear them with my very life!!!

Linda :D

[kryos]

I was wondering how many people are going to "vote and run" without commenting. I considered it. I'm the one who said abolish it.:D
I'm with you. I could see the formal nights on a Med cruise, or Panama Canal, or even R/T Hawaii with all those days at sea. But, a Caribbean cruise is, by its very nature, a laid-back type of adventure and I personally think Resort Casual (certainly no jeans or tees, but perhaps floral Hawaiian shirts and dresses) would be fine.

Just my humble opinion ...

Blue skies ...

--rita

[serendipity1499]

I can't imagine how you would inforce the dress code. Many people now opt to eat in the Lido Restaurant where no dress code is required.

I'm still offended by shorts, tank tops and flip flops in the public rooms after 6:00 PM. However, who's going to stop them? And I'm sure not going to stress out on my vacation over how others are dressed. I prefer to think that the seriously underdressed have lost luggage and have no other choice.
Jazzsea, I'm with you..Also can't imagine how they could enforce a "Suggested" dress code...We happen to enjoy dressing up & do go by the "Suggested" dress code..Yes I object to shorts & tank tops in the dining room, but if others choose not to dress in formal clothes, & instead dress in Resort Casual, we couldn't care less ..We'll still enjoy our friends & our cruise..Our vacation will not be spoiled over such a silly thing..Would rather think about the more important people & things in our lives.. I vote to keep it the same.

[localady]

If they are going to enforce formal night, then HAL needs to offer those folks who choose not to participate in the formal dining more extended hours in the Lido for casual dining. Casual dinner was only served from 6pm until 7:30pm on the Ryndam in July, which truly limits peoples options. If someone were turned away from the 8:00 or 8:30 seatings presently, there is no option for dinner but room service. That is unacceptable!:eek:

I occasionally like to dress up, but am less inclined to do so in the heat of the tropics!! I wasn't sure how to vote, as I can live with it either way, as long as an alternative casual dining experience is offered with reasonable hours! I think it's wonderful when folks are allowed to have their vacation their way, be it to dress formally, or to dine in the casual venue.:cool:

[Himself]

I voted to keep it at two formal nights and ENFORCE the dress code. In an age that is all too casual, it is good to see people dress up.

Himself

[hdawson]

For those that use the argument that it's only a suggestion. Most any invitation to a formal event use the word requested or suggested. The one doing the inviting assume that the people getting the invitation understand and have the social graces and will respect that request or suggestion. Occaisionally the invitation will state Black Tie but that would eleminate suits.

[RevNeal]

No need to inform CNN, ;) I voted to maintain the Dress Code as-is -- 2 formal nights, 1 informal night, 4 casual nights per 7 day cruises -- but enforced.

On that informal night, when men are asked to wear a jacket, it is possible for me to wear a suit and tie and, hence, have the FEELING of a third formal night, even though it's not. In my mind THAT is the purpose of informal night ... it allows those of us who WANT to wear a suit and tie just one extra night to get to do so and not feel out of place, as we would on casual night.

So ... that's my position. Whack away on that horse! :D

[RevNeal]

Joe, you wrote:
I just don’t like the inconvenience, of packing extra clothes in my luggage.

Here's an attempt at a helpful suggestion: don't pack them. You have at least a couple of other options than having to pack a lot of formal clothing. You can (1) rent your formals from cruselineformal.com (http://www.cruselineformal.com), and they will be in your cabin when you get to the ship; or, (2) you can go minimal -- but still within the code -- by wearing a pair of slacks and sports jacket to the ship on the day of embarkation ... then, all you'll need to pack is a white dress shirt and a couple of ties. :)

There are plenty of ways to adhere to the dress code without having to pack large amounts of extra clothing.

[RevNeal]

Also can't imagine how they could enforce a "Suggested" dress code.

The code contains the language of "suggestion," true, but relative to what? The code as a whole, or certain elements within the code? A careful reading of the dress code (found on the HAL website and in the Know Before You Go Booklet) will shed some light on this matter.

Near the beginning of the code, it states:

"Each night a daily program will be delivered to your stateroom announcing the suggested dress for the following evening."

This makes it sound like they're going to give one a bunch of ideas ... some "neat tips on how one might like to dress" on such a night. However, when that very program arrives (for, let us say, formal night) one discovers that what is "suggested" are: "Dark Suit or Tuxedo for men," but that "jacket and tie are required." In other words, YES the Daily Program suggests certain kinds of clothing, but then it immediately sets a minimum limit of a "jacket and a tie" in terminology that can not, in any way, be thought of as a "suggestion."

This distinction can be seen in the published code itself:

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.

Note what the code does not say ... it does NOT say: "You are welcome to dress however you wish, just so long as you don't wear jeans or shorts." No, it is permissive in its terminology toward wearing a "jacket and tie" on formal nights. In other words, they are politely saying that if one doesn't wish to take their suggestion regarding business suits or tuxedos, the alternative is a jacket and tie. The truth of this analysis is born out by the Daily Program, which states -- clearly -- "jacket and tie required."

There are other statements in the Dress Code that really cannot be thought of as optional suggestions. For instance:

T-shirts, jeans, swimsuits, tank tops and shorts are not allowed in the dining room, Lido restaurant, or public areas during the evening hours.

The word here that demonstrates that at least THIS part of the Code is not a suggestion is the term "not allowed."

To state this most simply: The code DOES contain suggestions, but it also contains minimal requirements for each night. What is suggested on formal night are several kinds of formal attire, but what is required for men is the minimal "jacket and tie."

If one wishes to ignore the suggestions as well as the stated minimal requirement ... well, we're adults and should be capable of being responsible ones at that. However, one shouldn't pretend that the Code doesn't articulate a set of minimal requirements, when it certainly does.

[Joedog]

One formal night....enforced!! If it is not enforced it is pointless.

[the2ofus]

Keep two formal nights on a 7 night cruise and enforce, regardless of what part of the world the cruise takes place. I can be laid back all day in the Caribbean and then get all dressed up in the evening and feel just great in either situation.

After a warm sticky day I shower before dinner anyway, so why not put on some fancy duds two nights out of seven? For the most part the A/C works just fine, so the climate is no excuse. When we walk on the Lower Prom late in the evening there are rarely more than a handful of folks outside enjoying the warm humid breeze, they're all hanging out in air conditioned comfort, so what's with the "too hot and sticky" excuse?

As far as packing is concerned, one tux or suit with two shirts is almost as easy to pack as with one shirt. With some advance planning the ladies can look just great with one dress and then a jacket or cover-up and different jewelry for the second evening. Of course, if people want to have lots of variety and make great fashion statements (with additional luggage) more power to them. I enjoy seeing the lovely gowns and handsome tuxes.

[CGMan]

I voted for a single formal night, and I do not know why I voted that way. May be is because I'm not really too fund of dressing up, but after 34 years of wearing military uniform, I feel kind of comfortable in a Tux.
I feel a little sorry for the ladies that have to pack that many dresses or slacks for the formals. I pack only one Tux and as many vests (different colors) and bows as formal nights there are for that particular cruise. We are booked on the Volerdam for the Christmas cruise. (10 days, 3 formal)

By the way, it may be hot, muggy and humid all over the Caribbean, but the temperature inside the ship is very well controlled.

[RevNeal]

Ok ... now that I've articulated my opinion, both relative to the code's nature and to the number of formal/informal/casual nights it should have, allow me to hedge a bet or two.

I made a similar suggestion to this a few months back, and it was shot down. I want to try it again: HAL can designate the Zuiderdam as country-club-casual for as long as she's stationed in the Caribbean. Other ships that cruise the caribbean can maintain the traditional code, but the Zuiderdam can set it aside and focus on a different demographic, etc.

So ... what do y'all think? For me, the alternative is simple: I'll just stay away from the Zuiderdam unless I'm willing to accept it's relaxed dress-code. For TAs and HAL itself, promoting just ONE ship as the "Casual Explorer" (opposite of the Prinsendam being "Elegant Explorer") would be easier than a bunch of different ships.

Think about it ... the other HAL ships could then be termed: "The Stuffed Shirt Explorer," "The Snooty Explorer," "The Formal Explorer," etc. :D

[Lois R]

Hi:) I voted for keeping it at 2....I never have a chance to "dress to the 9s" here at home...I love it...and the hose stay home too;)

I have 2 beautiful long skirts with very dressy tops.......EASY TO PACK:D

Being my first time on HAL, I look forward to dressing up...and to me it doesn't matter if we are in the Caribbean.....I am guessing there will be others dressed up too:)

[ron46936]

I voted "Other". Some people enjoy dressing up, others don't. I think NCL has the right method by designating one dining venue as formal and require appropriate dress. The other venues are casual.

[Orcrone]

I made a similar suggestion to this a few months back, and it was shot down. I want to try it again: HAL can designate the Zuiderdam as country-club-casual for as long as she's stationed in the Caribbean. Other ships that cruise the caribbean can maintain the traditional code, but the Zuiderdam can set it aside and focus on a different demographic, etc.Rev - since I'm sailing the Zuiderdam in March, I'm all for your suggestion.:D

[peaches from georgia]

I voted "Other". Some people enjoy dressing up, others don't. I think NCL has the right method by designating one dining venue as formal and require appropriate dress. The other venues are casual.
Ron, your definition of 'Other' is exactly what HAL ships do now. The main dining room is designated as formal and appropriate dress according to the dress codes each night and the Lido Restaurant is stipulated casual, no formal dress necessary.

[lipoppop]

When you say enforce the fomal night just what do you mean, specifically?

For people not wearing the appropriate clothing is it-

No admission to the dining room, Neptune lounge, Pinacle grill?
No admission to the theater?
No admission to the casino?
No admission to the Crow's nest or other lounges?
others?

Second question is what is appropriate clothing? For the men the definition is clear but what specifically determines formal wear for a woman and who will make the determination that my DW's dress is or is not sufficiently dressy?

[Orcrone]

Second question is what is appropriate clothing? For the men the definition is clear but what specifically determines formal wear for a woman and who will make the determination that my DW's dress is or is not sufficiently dressy?LIpoppop,

Very good point. For men it's very cut and try; tux, suit or coat and tie is acceptable, but any outfit that does not meet those requirements is out. But it is much more subjective for women. Would they need to get preapproval from the maitre'd ahead of time?

[Tide Pride]

I voted to eliminate entirely. My wife and I both work and dress up each day. Therefore I wear a suit five days a week year long and it certainly is no treat to me to " dress up " at all and does not add to my vacation. In addition when I go on a vacation it is to relax and hopefully have fun and I could care less about some ' tradition ' that prescribes formal dress because that is the way they did it 20, 30, or more years ago.
Having said that I realize that the majority of HAL passengers seem to enjoy formal nights and therefore I am in the minority. I conform to the dress code because HAL's code recommends it and the majority of guests support it. My cruise will not be ruined because I pack a suit and a tie

[dakrewser]

I want to try it again: HAL can designate the Zuiderdam as country-club-casual for as long as she's stationed in the Caribbean. Other ships that cruise the caribbean can maintain the traditional code, but the Zuiderdam can set it aside and focus on a different demographic, etc.
Too confusing for potential customers, and doubles the marketing need. Carnival differentiates by line: if you want to cruise the Caribbean dressing "elegantly casual" there's Seabourne. For Country Club Casual there's Windstar. "Traditional" is HAL. Costa handles the eurotrash look, while Carnival is for those who shop at Goodwill....:rolleyes:

[elmorejj]

Dave, could you define what the "eurotrash" look is please. When I`ve sailed Costa, the Europeans on board dressed very elegantly, just like most of them do at home in Europe.......jean :cool:

[dakrewser]

Dave, could you define what the "eurotrash" look is please. When I`ve sailed Costa, the Europeans on board dressed very elegantly, just like most of them do at home in Europe.......jean :cool:
Impossibly slim, long coats, all in slinky, silky black, etc. On the women.

Men in heavily printed silk shirts, multiply-pleated pants and ankle boots.

The term "eurotrash" was coined to refer to the relatives & heirs of out-of-power minor royalty who dressed in what might be called "elegant" (if occasionally bizarre) fashion, frequented "exclusive" clubs and had no visible means of support.....
:)

[Orcrone]

I want to know if Eurotrash buy clothing at good will stores across the pond. That way then can also sail Carnival now that they have some European itineraries.:rolleyes:

[lindacat]

I have always stayed away from these type of posts on the boards. Personally, I do like to dress up and use some of the jewelry I have purchased, but do not have a chance to use in every day life. However, I usually cruise with family and friends who do not enjoy formal nights. My father will usually conform to the point of wearing a jacket on formal nights, but will not wear a tie. He is a big man, and finds them extremely uncomfortable. I have been fortunate to enjoy my parents company on some wonderful cruise vacations. Just four years ago my father lost his younger brother, rather suddenly. As of right now my father at age 68, is the oldest male relative living in his entire family. Just this past summer, I lost my dear cousin, with whom I had cruised. She was just 37. I refuse to let a dress code taint any of the vacations I have left with my friends and family members.

We always dress nicely in the dining room on every evening, and make more of an effort on formal night. If I am ruining your trip - I am not sorry.

I also take exception to the many posts that tell me to cruise NCL. I have cruised many lines over the years, and choose the trip based on intinerary, ship, and price. I did cruise NCL, and they do not insist that those who choose not to dress up are banned from a dining room experience. Their casual experience includes one of their regular dining rooms. I would be happy to cruise NCL again, however at the present time they do not have ships with an intinerary I am interested in.

[elmorejj]

Thanks Dave for clearing that up, I`d never heard of them being called Eurotrash before but I know exactly who you are refering to! We just call them princess wannabees!.......jean :cool:

[etrainer1]

[QUOTE=lindacat]

We always dress nicely in the dining room on every evening, and make more of an effort on formal night. If I am ruining your trip - I am not sorry.

lindacat,
firstly i'd like to say i am sorry for the loss of your family members.
secondly, i totally agree with your attitude. if you refer to the older thread, on formal wear, you will see how there are so many different opinions. but mostly those in favor for the formal dressing. i have cruised many cariribean trips, and we dress very appropriately each night! my husband wears a suit and a silk shirt, no tie, and i wear an elegant skirt and top or dressy pants on formal nights. we have never been stared at, nor ridiculed to our knowledge, and no one has EVER stopped us from entering the dining room. in fact, we look more classy than most folks in their formal wear do! after so many folks gave their opinions, and it was never going to change one another's viewpoint, i posted another thread on who is in favor in continuing to beat a dead horse? this dresswear issue will never cease! i love america!:D

[ASM]

Re the Zuiderdam: we sailed her last summer and DH was certainly not the only man in a tux. At main seating I'd say large number in tuxes, slightly larger number in suits or sportcoats and ties. Very few casually dressed. They did seem to change after dinner sooner than I expected. There were definitely a few roaming the ship who looked like they were prepared to wash the car but I didn't notice them in the DR. We certainly didn't let them make us feel overdressed. You won't be a rarity if you dress for formal night on the Zuiderdam even if she is more casual than the other HAL ships.

[RevNeal]

ASM,

Thank you so much for your counsel. If I ever cruise on the Zuiderdam I shall keep your words in mind. They are encouraging. I just don't want to stand out too much in a crowd ... and certainly not for the wrong reasons. :D

[RISKMGR]

I was wondering how many people are going to "vote and run" without commenting. I considered it. I'm the one who said abolish it.:D

I am with you ! Throw it overboard.

[CrabbyHarper]

I'm in the minority. Keep two formal nights but not "enforce". I like to dress up, but if someone else wants to be more casual that does not interfere with my pleasure. I'd much rather have folks around me who have great manners on than great clothes. Having both would be terrific.

My DH and I do not have really formal clothes, but we wear "good stuff" like we'd wear to church or a funeral. Something our grandparents would have approved!

I really do pity the staff in dealing with some passengers who have the "It's my vacation" syndrome. If I were the maitre d' I'd have to think which is better - quietly to avoid confrontation with a passenger dressed inappropriately thereby preserving the decorous tone of the evening by looking the other way, or getting into a possibly loud and hideous confrontation to the chagrin of the other passengers.

Maybe the word "Encourage" is more appropriate - encourage folks who want to dress casual to dine in the Lido or in their cabin. Maybe even publicize that the Lido will have some special treat that night for those who choose not to dress up.

[blndee77]

I voted for 3 nights, enforced. I look forward to dressing up and seeing my husband and DD dressed up too. We always get great pictures.

Also, formal nights tend to have better food. More formal nights = more lobster??? I wish!

[Orcrone]

Also, formal nights tend to have better food. More formal nights = more lobster??? I wish!Actually I think more formal nights = more opportunities to sell pictures.:(

[dakrewser]

Actually I think more formal nights = more opportunities to sell pictures.:(
Reminds me of my favorite picture story. We were on the R7, which had an open seating DR, always "elegantly casual" so there were photographers wandering around every night. On one night my wife and I were seated at a table for 4 with another couple. Each person was seated across from their spouse in "boy-girl-boy-girl" fashion. When the photog came around and asked if we'd like a picture, I threw my arm around the "other woman" and we moved in cheek-to-cheek and posed. My wife and the other gentleman did the same. Later, when we saw the pictures in the gallery, I took mine up to the counter and asked the clerk to put a 2nd copy out. "Why?", she asked. "So this woman's husband might have a chance to buy it", I replied. It did get a good blush from the young lady on the counter!

[RevNeal]

Actually I think more formal nights = more opportunities to sell pictures. :(

You know, this thought has been brought up several times before. My normal response has been something like:

"Do they force you to buy? Do they even force you to have your picture made? The answer is NO to both. So ... how is anyone swindled?"

However ... upon reflection -- and upon looking at a collection of professional photos that I have from previous cruises -- I must say that if it were not for such opportunities I wouldn't have nearly as many nice photos of myself, of my parents, or of Christopher. Like this one:

Rev. Neal and Chris on Formal Night (http://revneal.org/gregchris6.jpg)

One of the things I've noticed, in looking at these photos, is how much weight I've lost. 48 pounds is a lot of weight ... and I have a lot of weight left to loose ... but it's still amazing to actually see it, hanging around my neck. :) All the more motivation to lose weight pre-cruise. :)

[RevNeal]

When the photog came around and asked if we'd like a picture, I threw my arm around the "other woman" and we moved in cheek-to-cheek and posed. My wife and the other gentleman did the same. Later, when we saw the pictures in the gallery, I took mine up to the counter and asked the clerk to put a 2nd copy out. "Why?", she asked. "So this woman's husband might have a chance to buy it", I replied. It did get a good blush from the young lady on the counter!

FOFLMHO ... that's rich! Very similar to the confusion I've seen, many times, when photographers assume "who's with whom." ;)

[localady]

Woo hooo RevNeal!!!!!
48 pounds is amazing!!!! I am sure you are thrilled and should be sooooo proud of yourself!!!! Congrats!!! GQ watch out:D ...........hehehe :cool:

[RevNeal]

GQ watch out

There is absolutely no danger of that. :)
The REALLY sad thing is that I need to lose another 70 pounds.
You do the math. :)

[localady]

Many of us need to lose another 70....but the fact is you have lost a huge amount of weight and should be darned proud of yourself!!!! Finally I have come to peace with my volumptuous body (emphasis on lump:p ), and although I do strive to lose weight and all, I will not worry anymore about flashing my white flesh when on HMC !! :cool:

[RevNeal]

...you have lost a huge amount of weight and should be darned proud of yourself!

Thank you so much ... I appreciate that. And, you're right, I am proud of what I've managed to do, slowly, over the past year. When I went on my Alaska Cruise last September I was just barely wearing pants with a 50 inch waist. When I say "just barely," I mean JUST BARELY ... I had to suck it in and grit my teeth to get them buttoned. They were TIGHT. My Tux was so tight I had trouble buttoning the coat and my wing-neck tux shirt was too tight for me to button ... I had to buy a larger tux shirt from the ship's stores.

2 weeks ago I began wearing size 46s again. They are comfy. I've gone from a size 60 jacket to a size 56 ... which is what my Tux is. I've also gone from a size 20 inch neck back down to a size 18 inch. It's slow, but steady.

I had a doctor's appointment a few weeks ago. He was very pleased with my progress. Based upon my height, bone structure, and muscle mass, I should weigh between 190 - 195 ... that is what I weighed in water. That's 72 pounds away. At the rate I'm going, I'll be getting much closer by the time of our cruise in Nov 2005. So ... who knows????

[Orcrone]

You know, this thought has been brought up several times before. My normal response has been something like:

"Do they force you to buy? Do they even force you to have your picture made? The answer is NO to both. So ... how is anyone swindled?"Greg - I never said anyone was swindled by the ship's photog. I guess I'm just questioning how much of the reason for formality is for marketing purposes, and not for the elegant ambience of the cruise.

Either way, doesn't matter much. You are correct. I can choose to leave any and all pictures for the recycle bin if I wish.

BTW, congratulations on the weight loss. Not only do you look better, but you're probably much healthier.:)

[RevNeal]

Greg - I never said anyone was swindled by the ship's photog. I guess I'm just questioning how much of the reason for formality is for marketing purposes, and not for the elegant ambience of the cruise.

Marc, I know you didn't use the term "swindle." It's simply my interpretation of what many (mostly others) have said regarding the true reasons for formal night. I don't doubt that one of the reasons HAL maintains formal nights is so that they can sell photographic services. And, frankly, I don't see anything wrong with that. No one is forced to stand for a photo, nor is anyone forced to buy a photo. If the line wants to provide the service, and I want to buy that service, then great. If I don't, then what's the big deal if providing the service is one of the reasons why formal nights are maintained? I'm not so jaded as to think that such sales are the only reason, or even the most important reason. I just think that HAL is savvy enough to take advantage of the formal night tradition to make a little money by providing a useful service.

[superstein61]

I was wondering how many people are going to "vote and run" without commenting. I considered it. I'm the one who said abolish it.:D
Yep, beat it mercilessly with a stick and ABOLISH FORMAL NIGHTS on a Caribbean cruise !!!:D :D :D

[ger_77]

One of the things we really look forward to when booking a cruise is the formal evenings (how gramatically incorrect IS that?). Both DH and I love to dress up, as we come from a fairly small city in the frozen tundra where there are not a lot of occasions for us to dress formally. We enjoy dressing for dinner and stay that way for the evening. We usually create a 3rd formal evening when we dine in the Pinnacle/Odyssey restaurant, as we usually celebrate our anniversary onboard. It's fun to see what other people wear for formal attire - whether tuxedos or suits, and I love seeing other ladies in their gowns and sequins. It gives me ideas for future cruises! We don't mind packing hubby's tux, or my formal wear, they're just automatically included in the packing list.

I would like to see the formal evenings remain at 2 per 7 day cruise, but have the dress code enforced. I feel if people want to dress casually, they should book cruises without formal evenings! Just my humble opinion.

Smooth Sailing! :) :) :)

[joeinwpb]

Yep, beat it mercilessly with a stick and ABOLISH FORMAL NIGHTS on a Caribbean cruise !!!:D :D :D


Good shot Super
A sentiment expressed with sensitivity, and with a very delicate perception. :D

[Krazy Kruizers]

:)

Before we retired we both had to attend many social functions which required us to be dressed up - and some of them required husband to wear a tuxedo.

We do not mind dressing up now that we are retired - we love it. Husband even has some cummerbunds to match my clothing.

There are many restaurants in our area where we still dress up to dine (not in tuxedo).

We don't want to HAL go the way of NCL - Princess - etc. - with their new policies.

:)

[superstein61]

I have always stayed away from these type of posts on the boards. Personally, I do like to dress up and use some of the jewelry I have purchased, but do not have a chance to use in every day life. However, I usually cruise with family and friends who do not enjoy formal nights. My father will usually conform to the point of wearing a jacket on formal nights, but will not wear a tie. He is a big man, and finds them extremely uncomfortable. I have been fortunate to enjoy my parents company on some wonderful cruise vacations. Just four years ago my father lost his younger brother, rather suddenly. As of right now my father at age 68, is the oldest male relative living in his entire family. Just this past summer, I lost my dear cousin, with whom I had cruised. She was just 37. I refuse to let a dress code taint any of the vacations I have left with my friends and family members.

We always dress nicely in the dining room on every evening, and make more of an effort on formal night. If I am ruining your trip - I am not sorry.

I also take exception to the many posts that tell me to cruise NCL. I have cruised many lines over the years, and choose the trip based on intinerary, ship, and price. I did cruise NCL, and they do not insist that those who choose not to dress up are banned from a dining room experience. Their casual experience includes one of their regular dining rooms. I would be happy to cruise NCL again, however at the present time they do not have ships with an intinerary I am interested in.
BRAVO Lindacat, BRAVO

Your post deserves a STANDING OVATION !!!!!

Enjoy your cruising

[superstein61]

Good shot Super
A sentiment expressed with sensitivity, and with a very delicate perception. :D
LOL - yep, thats me :D

[Orcrone]

Actually, what I'm enjoying about this thread is that people are saying what they like or don't like, without making nasty comments about people who disagree. BRAVO!!!!

[SHayesShip]

Stay the same with two formal nights enforced.

Steve Hayes


What do you think about the current Formal night on a 7 -day Caribbean Cruise? Should it stay the same? Be reduced? Enforced?

[hotspur]

I was wondering how many people are going to "vote and run" without commenting. I considered it. I'm the one who said abolish it.:D
Right. Formal dress in the Caribbean simply makes no sense. Actually, it makes no sense on a cruise ship, period.

[RevNeal]

Marc,

I agree. This has been a surprisingly positive thread. I was looking at the poll results and, as of this exact moment there are 135 votes, total. Of those votes 62.9% want the dress code maintained at 2, or increased to 3, nights. Granted, this is not a scientific poll, nevertheless I'm quite amazed that the percentage of voters who want either the current number of formal nights, or more, is as high as it is. I'm also amazed that only 17% of responders either want the code abolished or don't care.

I didn't lump those who want it reduced to just 1 night in wither either group because I'm not sure which direction they lean ... do they like Formal nights and want to maintain just 1 because of that, or are they compromising so that the majority won't be upset?? I have no idea, and I suspect that it would vary from person to person.

[merryecho]

Isn't there some way to make everyone happy? Since there are several dinner seatings on HAL, what if the early seating was casual, the later seating formal? Then make one bar formal for the rest of the evening, another bar casual. Or even make every other cruise casual or formal? NCL has proven there is a demand.
Having formal night that isn't enforced misses the point. Formal dressers want to dress (properly) for an occasion. If they just wanted to wear fancy clothes they could wear them any night of the week. And people who don't like to get decked out in finery when it is 100 degrees out really HATE formal night.
By the way, I am a reformed formal lover- husband refuses to leave the room on formal nights, and since I passed 50 it is not nearly as much fun to wear a long strapless gown as it used to be.

[RevNeal]

Formal dress in the Caribbean simply makes no sense. Actually, it makes no sense on a cruise ship, period.

You mean that it makes no sense to you.

It makes sense to me, and to at least 70% of those who have voted on this poll (those who want 1 or more formal nights per cruise).

[Vic The Parrot]

I agree completely.

One of the things we enjoy on QE2 crossings are the 4 formal nights. Not only does everyone look marvelous but the mood is of the whole ship is more festive, men are more gallant and all the ladies seem more beautiful.



I do have to say that having a few formal evenings on board make the cruise experience. As BorderLady mentioned, it does add to the glamour of being on a ship. When I did the crossings in Dec 2003, and the 'historic tandem' crossing in April this year, I enjoyed putting on a tux, as well as seeing the other pax in thier finery.

Not only does it add a touch of elegance and class, it complements the individual in the white dinner jacket, the lady wearing the violet gown, the gent in bow tie and kilt.

Even if the 2nd formal night is done away with somehow, I'll still be more than happy to put on my formal wear for that evening.

[Vic The Parrot]

PS


And......

Wearing a kilt on one of those 'warm humid tropical nights'
is a blessing in disguise!


:-D

[Sue's Mom]

I voted for "the same - enforced". I quite like being dressed formally, but my DH doesn't. We do both like eathing dinner in the dinging room. It does to me seem a bit daft carrying a heavy-by-comparison dress suit (tux) all the way across the Atlantic just to please me!!! But, bless him, he does. That's love for you. :p

[Nasmas]

We love formal nights.. My wife likes to dress up whenever she gets the chance, and I like to oblige her..It is her cruise too.. She is a beautiful lady, especially when she's all dolled up.. I am very proud of her and feel like a million dollars strolling around with her on my arm.. Wouldn't give that up for anything... bombero
I love formal night. I wish they'd make every night formal night or at least informal. I was so disappointed that our 09/04 Zuiderdam has only one informal and four casual. My husband likes to dress up, too. He says it doesn't bother him at all to dress up. Makes us feel better. So, PLEASE dont' try to change it to do away with the formal nights.

[cactuslady]

As for the photos on formal night, I appreciate that they're available, although I certainly agree that they shouldn't be forced on people. We purposely chose to skip the expense of a photographer at our wedding reception, as we were going on our Statendam honeymoon a month later and planned to just buy a few of the ship photos.

The bad news is that, even though I packed my wedding dress for one of the formal nights, by the time it got to formal night I could no longer zip the dang thing up! :o

[Randyk47]

2 formal nights and enforce it. We love the formal atmosphere and it actually was one of the things that attracted us to cruising and HAL so many years ago. Looking forward to the 3 nights on our next cruise. :)

[Linda-E]

I vote for enforcing formal dress on the two nights. If the dress code is not enforced, then it might as well be done away with. But I do enjoy dressing up occasionally, and especially people watching on cruises.