dress code question

[blossom]

We have read on the boards about changes in the dress code on formal nights allowing shorts and t-shirts in the dining room. Has the dress code been altered on all of the HAL ships or just on the Ryndam? We did notice on our last cruise in December on the Westerdam a relaxed attitude towards passengers that came into the dining room on the formal nights without jackets. Has this also spilled over into the Pinnacle Grill where jackets are required every night?

We enjoy the formal atmosphere and dress accordingly. We will be very disappointed in HAL should become the norm.

blossom

HAL cruisers since 1998.

[RuthC]

Neither the dress code, nor the definitions of the codes has changed. What has changed on some cruises is compliance and enforcement.
On my January Noordam cruise, the compliance on formal nights was at an extremely high level. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of tuxedos, vs suits (vs couldn't get their act together); the women looked beautiful in long gowns.
Two weeks later, on the Veendam, the level of dress had dropped at least a couple of notches.

There's no predicting how it will be on your cruise. All you can do is bring your best clothing and jewels, go out for the evening looking fabulous, and hope for the best.

[Boytjie]

We have read on the boards about changes in the dress code on formal nights allowing shorts and t-shirts in the dining room.

Just because someone posted that on CC does not mean the dress codes have changed. :)

[hammybee]

All the cruise lines are seeing an increasing tendency of passengers to change into something more comfortable, after dinner, especially on 7-10 day sails.

It's impossible to predict what passengers will or will not do on any given cruise. Most passengers however, seem to make some effort to dress for dinner, most of the time, on HAL.

Cruising is like a vacation at a resort hotel or dinner at nice restuarant where some of the patrons dress up and others are out an about, in more casual attire. The hospitality industry is not in the position to lock passengers inside their cabins or rooms if guests prefer to be more casual, than not.

[CowPrincess]

changes in the dress code on formal nights allowing shorts and t-shirts in the dining room.

I think what HALfans meant in their mini-review of the Ryndam was the DESPITE the "formal" dress code for the evening, some pax were in shorts and t-shirts. NOT that HAL has relaxed their definition of "formal".

[gotmilk]

I did not realize you had to wear a jacket(men) in the Pinnacle Grill, I thought they just followed the dress code of the evening. Am I wrong to assume this?

[HALFans]

On the Ryndam we didn't see shorts & tees in the dining room, just the Crow's Nest from about 8PM onward, and just one young couple... but they stood out like neon lights, were loud, boisterous, etc.

Probably 40% of the other men there (me included) were wearing tuxes.

[pipedreams62]

All the cruise lines are seeing an increasing tendency of passengers to change into something more comfortable, after dinner, especially on 7-10 day sails.

It's impossible to predict what passengers will or will not do on any given cruise. Most passengers however, seem to make some effort to dress for dinner, most of the time, on HAL.

Cruising is like a vacation at a resort hotel or dinner at nice restuarant where some of the patrons dress up and others are out an about, in more casual attire. The hospitality industry is not in the position to lock passengers inside their cabins or rooms if guests prefer to be more casual, than not.


The flood gates are now open:eek:


http://www.alimed.com/resources/common/images/products/full/70544_d.jpg

[Gizmo582]

One of the things we are looking forward to is the well dressed atmosphere! We always dress for dinner when we go out here in the SF Bay Area. You know always, jacket and tie, or tux for formal ocassions and of course lovely attire and jewels are the norm for my lady even when shopping. :-)

We seem to always overdress. My wife says "I hate sitting in a nice restsaurant with a smelly hairy legged gym short guy at the next table blabbling on his cell phone loudly." LOL

[hammybee]

I did not realize you had to wear a jacket(men) in the Pinnacle Grill, I thought they just followed the dress code of the evening. Am I wrong to assume this?

The PG does follow the suggested attire of the day.Some passengers however, don a jacket as they would do at home, when dining at a very nice restaurant.

[numbersix]

I did not realize you had to wear a jacket(men) in the Pinnacle Grill, I thought they just followed the dress code of the evening. Am I wrong to assume this?

We're just back from the Maasdam, where, I'm happy to report, the overall dress and decorum was to be commended, which was a nice change from the Rotterdam Med last May/June, but that had, I suspect, more to do with a Dutch television crew dining in their jeans and t-shirts, about which I shared several conversations with the Maitre D' and the Restaurant manager.

To your question...although we did not dine there, the Pinnacle grill stated that jackets were required for men, and was "formal' on formal nights. I noticed that dress in the PG was generally quite appropriate, as I passed by while slinking into the Explorers' Lounge to grab a few of those luscious chocolates after dinner.:o

Kevin

[GeriatricNurse]

I did not realize you had to wear a jacket(men) in the Pinnacle Grill, I thought they just followed the dress code of the evening. Am I wrong to assume this?


Men do NOT have to wear a jacket in the Pinnacle Grill, UNLESS it is a formal night, in which case, presumeably, ALL men would wear the "suggested" dress code and wear either a tuxedo or a dark suit!
And yes, you DO follow the dress code of the evening in the Pinnacle Grill, (contrary to what others might suggest)!

[Opinions]

Men do NOT have to wear a jacket in the Pinnacle Grill, UNLESS it is a formal night, in which case, presumeably, ALL men would wear the "suggested" dress code and wear either a tuxedo or a dark suit!
[/QUOTE]

Actually the "suggested" dress code on HAL for formal nights includes a jacket and tie not just "tuxedo or a dark suit"!

[Pam in CA]

Believe it or not, on my last night on the Amsterdam in January, a curvy young woman was led into the dining room by the Maitre D and seated wearing a "Daisy Duke" outfit -- skimpy top and super short shorts with her butt hanging out. I should have taken a picture but I was so stunned, I sat there with my mouth open.

[Rudolph38]

Believe it or not, on my last night on the Amsterdam in January, a curvy young woman was led into the dining room by the Maitre D and seated wearing a "Daisy Duke" outfit -- skimpy top and super short shorts with her butt hanging out. I should have taken a picture but I was so stunned, I sat there with my mouth open.


Probably so did the men.

[Pam in CA]

Probably so did the men.You betcha. :)

[lovebug33]

My parents were on HAL in October. People tried to get into the dining room the first night in shorts and were turned back.

[RuthC]

My parents were on HAL in October. People tried to get into the dining room the first night in shorts and were turned back.
As they should have been. Hurray for the Maitre d' on that cruise!
Shorts don't rise to the standard of smart casual (first night's dress code).

[iflyrc5]

On our very recent Maasdam Float on a Smart Casual night one not so young lady was wearing short shorts according to my DW (I missed it:mad:) and on one of the formal nights the same lady was wearing a Hawaiian shirt - go figure.

Over all - most everyone else did follow the dress code but I did see several men in blue jeans on several of the smart casual nights and several folks at the evening show in shorts even on formal nights.

[DieHard]

My parents were on HAL in October. People tried to get into the dining room the first night in shorts and were turned back.
I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code. If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.

[KirkNC]

As they should have been. Hurray for the Maitre d' on that cruise!
Shorts don't rise to the standard of smart casual (first night's dress code).

I agree 100%, I don't know why people can't just conform to this. If you prefer not to dress formal there are alternatives such as Lido and room service.

On the PG, the two times we ate there in February, I noticed a lot of men with sport coats or suits and neither night was formal. I think it is just part of the tone of HAL which is a plus for us!

[usha]

I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code. If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.
We had the same problem once with late arriving luggage, (and hadn't brought a carry-on with dinner clothes:eek:).
Lucky for us, the maitre d' was understanding and let us in.

[thorsdad]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS

[pms4104]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS
The suggested dress code for the main dining room applies to fixed (upper) as well as to the open (lower) seating. For formal nites, HAL suggests tux, suit, or pants and sportcoat and tie. Enforcement may be spotty.

[pipedreams62]

Our luggage hasn't shown up either?

http://pipedreams62.eaph2.com/share/afunstuff/duanehansontourists21.jpg

[usha]

Oh, yeah, Sorry!
This is how DH & I looked on the first night when our luggage hadn't arrived....:o
http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00391/Orlando_Bloom_Miran_391333a.jpg

[hammybee]

Usha:
I will appreiate it if you cease posting my picture, all over the internet.

Love
The Hammybee

[usha]

hammybee, YOU WISH>>>>>>>
(so do I.....:o)

[serendipity1499]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS

From the FAQ section of Hal's WEB site

Quote:

Evening dress falls into two distinct categories: Formal or Smart Casual. Smart Casual can be defined as slacks and collared shirts for men and casual dresses, slacks and informal evening wear for women. T-shirts, swimsuits, tank tops and shorts are not allowed in the restaurants or public areas during the evening hours. On festive Formal evenings, ladies usually wear a suit, cocktail dress or gown and gentlemen wear a jacket and tie, dark suit or tuxedo. There are approximately two formal nights per week.

In order to complement your fellow guests, Holland America Line asks that you observe the suggested dress code throughout the entire evening.

Formalwear for ladies and gentlemen can be pre-ordered for your use during your cruise by calling Cruiseline Formalwear at 800-551-5091 or make your reservations online (http://www.cruiselineformal.com/cf_pages/packages.php?c=hal). Your formalwear will be in your stateroom when you board.

Unquote

I think you will feel more comfortable & not stand out if you wear a Jacket & tie only for Formal nights, especially if you wish to be seated in the main dining room..It doesn't make any difference if it's fixed seating or Any time Dining (open seating), the dress code is the same for both..On a 7 day Cruise there are two formal nights & 5 Smart Casual Nights...

Betty

[Sundagger]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS

I'm curious where you got the idea that HAL has gone to casual all the time? The dress code is posted on the website and in the Know Before You Go brochure. As far as I know, NCL and Carnival are the only casual lines.

[orangearmy]

According to passengers on next weeks Veendam sailing there are no formal nights. At least this is what their documents tell them. Wonder if that is some sort of mistake or a change in policy.:confused:

[twinkletoes4445]

Usha:
I will appreiate it if you cease posting my picture, all over the internet.

Love
The Hammybee

LOL....I thought the same thing! That's me (in my dreams after 4 Wang Wang's). :)

[twinkletoes4445]

hammybee, YOU WISH>>>>>>>
(so do I.....:o)

Don't we all. :)

[twinkletoes4445]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS

HAL still has formal nights (how many depends on the length of your cruise), but if you don't want to dress formally, there's always the Lido (which we LOVED) or room service. On out last 10-day cruise we opted out of formal nights and from what I could tell, the dress code was pretty much adhered to by the vast majority of passengers. The great thing is HAL gives those of us that don't want to do formal other options. We loved dining in the Lido and probably would dine there most of the time on our next cruise. :)

Have a wonderful cruise!

[twinkletoes4445]

According to passengers on next weeks Veendam sailing there are no formal nights. At least this is what their documents tell them. Wonder if that is some sort of mistake or a change in policy.:confused:

Now that's interesting. A year or so ago there was talk that HAL was doing away with formal nights. I wonder why there are no formal nights on this particular sailing (and if it's also on others?)?

[RevNeal]

I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code. If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.

With 200 days on HAL, I have never gotten to dinner time without luggage. Of course, I eat 8 pm dinner, so that might be a factor. Usually, however, my luggage is in my cabin either before Lifeboat Drill or immediately thereafter. Indeed, I'm usually unpacked by sail-away.

As for those occasions where luggage might not arrive in time for dinner, might I humbly suggest wearing long pants in transit to the ship? Or, in the very least, having a pair of long pants in your carry on?

[Alexat2]

I think what HALfans meant in their mini-review of the Ryndam was the DESPITE the "formal" dress code for the evening, some pax were in shorts and t-shirts. NOT that HAL has relaxed their definition of "formal".

One the last 2 Recent HAL cruises (both one 25 day, the other 32) - the only time I've seen shorts and tees in the evening was in the Lido. Never in the dining room. Although I was rather dissappointed in the Veendam's enforcement after the first formal night, the other formals they actually let gentlemen in without Coat or Tie - unfortunately one of them was at my table. I personally find it very rude. You don't want to dress and play by the rules - go to the lido, or sail NCL. A few months before on the Statendam they were refused entry into the dining room without Jacket and Tie on Formal nights. So my guess is it varies from ship to ship.

In fact one night on the Veendam they did their "anything goes" dress code, only a few people got it and then the dining room tried to turn away a couple of people for following it - one couple showed up, he was in a trenchcoat and fedora, she was in a bathrobe, slippers, and showercap.:p The supervisor caught the conversation and told the front door staff - they were fine - it was "Anything Goes" night - and the staff apologized for the confusion.

Lydia

[Alexat2]

Over all - most everyone else did follow the dress code but I did see several men in blue jeans on several of the smart casual nights and several folks at the evening show in shorts even on formal nights.

Jeans are allowed on all nights except formal. They've been dropped from HALs "no no" list for a couple of years now. (I realize there are numerous people who don't think they're "smart casual" - but they are "legal").

Lydia

[English_in_Spain]

One thing I don't understand is the conflict between the 2 comments

1. From HAL
"In order to complement your fellow guests, Holland America Line asks that you observe the suggested dress code throughout the entire evening"

2. Posts througout this thread
"If you don't want to wear formal clothes then dine in the Lido"

Either everyone is in the suggested dress code throughout the ship all evening or they are not.

Also, from what time do HAL consider "the entire evening" to start? We are often still in our day wear (shorts etc) at around 5 or 6pm but people going into first sitting are in their formal clothes.

[Big Al B.]

I'm not planning on packing even a jacket for our October 19-day Hawaii trip. However, I'll either eat in the Lido or room service on formal nights. As far as the rest of the evening, I don't plan on spending the night in my cabin. I will dress in long pants and a collared shirt to attend the shows etc.

[serendipity1499]

I'm curious where you got the idea that HAL has gone to casual all the time? The dress code is posted on the website and in the Know Before You Go brochure. As far as I know, NCL and Carnival are the only casual lines.

NCL & Carnival are not the only ones...Oceania is strictly Country Club Casual & many men do not wear jackets at any time, although our DH's wore jackets when we dined in the alternative Restaurants...Also understand that one or two of the Premium (Deluxe) Cruise Lines are Country Club Casual..

Will be sad if Formal Nights are omitted on our cruises..:( We look forward to dressing up, since we don't get much chance to dress up here!

Cheers...:)Betty

[RevNeal]

Will be sad if Formal Nights are omitted on our cruises..:( We look forward to dressing up, since we don't get much chance to dress up here!

All I can say, Betty, is to keep dressing up as you like. :)

[usha]

Will be sad if Formal Nights are omitted on our cruises..:( We look forward to dressing up, since we don't get much chance to dress up here!

Cheers...:)Betty
Betty, I LOVE to see people dressed up, formal night or not! You get as dolled up as you like!:D

[Copper10-8]

Oh, yeah, Sorry!
This is how DH & I looked on the first night when our luggage hadn't arrived....:o
http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00391/Orlando_Bloom_Miran_391333a.jpg

Why are you wearing Christmas decorations? Not that there's anything wrong with that!

BTW, a dress code AND a smoking thread simultaneously!! Very cool!:) Can someone maybe start a chair hogging or a diapered babies in the hot tub thread so we can really have some good times at the beach?

[jodi2227]

I love to dress-up for dinner. I do it for me and it makes me feel like a princess for the day.

However, I would never want someone uncomfortable either way. You are welcome to sit with my family no matter what your wearing.
It cracks me up when I read how intense people get on this subject. I really wish there were no suggested code and people wear whatever they feel comfortable in.

Someone mentioned staying dress for the shows. I never knew this was a rule. We usually change after dinner because we take a nice long walk before the shows. Hard to do in heels!

[Copper10-8]

Btw, it is pretty well known on these boards that HAL's record of enforcing the infamous dress code in the formal dining room has been inconsistent at best, for various reasons. It's basically a hit and a miss, kinda like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get!

I have never, however, heard of HAL enforcing that same code in places like the Crow's Nest, main (or secondary) show lounge, casino, Wajang theater, other public lounges, you name it. Going out on a very narrow limb here:rolleyes:, I don't think you're going to see that change:cool:

[pipedreams62]

BTW, a dress code AND a smoking thread simultaneously!! Very cool!:) Can someone maybe start a chair hogging or a diapered babies in the hot tub thread so we can really have some good times at the beach?



https://lifeofpi2.wikispaces.com/file/view/perfect_storm_1-796069.jpg

[lettienets]

I'm curious where you got the idea that HAL has gone to casual all the time? The dress code is posted on the website and in the Know Before You Go brochure. As far as I know, NCL and Carnival are the only casual lines.
Carnival Dress Code
Cruise Casual Dining Dress Code: Gentlemen - Sport slacks, khakis, jeans (no cut-offs), dress shorts (long), collared sport shirts; Ladies - Casual dresses, casual skirts or pants and blouses, summer dresses, Capri pants, dress shorts, jeans (no cut-offs). Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Casual dinner for ladies and gentlemen: gym shorts, basketball shorts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, cut-off jeans, and sleeveless shirts for men.
Cruise Elegant Dining Dress Code: Gentlemen - Dress slacks, dress shirts. We also suggest a sport coat. If you wish to wear suits and ties or tuxedos, by all means we invite you to do so. Ladies - Cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses; if you‘d like to show off your evening gowns, that's great too! Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Elegant dinner for ladies and gentlemen: shorts, T-shirts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, jeans, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men, sportswear, and baseball hats.

[usha]

Is it just me, or is the term "DRESS SHORTS" an oxymoron?:o

[krock19]

I'm a cruise newbie - so I have a question. On formal nights, is there anything different or special other than how people dress? I mean, is the food a little more upscale / special shows, etc.? I'm just curious, if we were to opt out of some of the formal nights by going to the Lido, would we miss something?

[Copper10-8]

I'm a cruise newbie - so I have a question. On formal nights, is there anything different or special other than how people dress? I mean, is the food a little more upscale / special shows, etc.? I'm just curious, if we were to opt out of some of the formal nights by going to the Lido, would we miss something?

Not really as far as 'upscale' food and/or shows is concerned. The dining room will be 'extra decorated' (white chair covers) one one of them and the photographers will be out in force taking (formal background) pics. On some of the longer HAL cruises, they might schedule a 'Black & White Ball' on one of the formal nights. Pretty fun afair where the captain and his officers will be around to dance with their passengers.

[serendipity1499]

All I can say, Betty, is to keep dressing up as you like. :)
Welcome back Rev. Neal..Have missed your wit & wisdom!

Betty, I LOVE to see people dressed up, formal night or not! You get as dolled up as you like!:D

Understand what you both are saying...However, as much as I love to dress up, don't think DH will wear his Tux, which he looks so handsome in, if they change to Country Club Casual..He does not want to be a standout & be the only one wearing a Tux:(..I was able to wear most of my dress clothes on Oceania with the exception of the Beaded/sparkle tops & Chiffon type skirts/palazzo pants..That's what I would miss the most..Now if I were with a bunch of CC Friends & we all were going to "Dress up" for Dinner, then DH would wear his TUX & I would wear my sparkle things..



Btw, it is pretty well known on these boards that HAL's record of enforcing the infamous dress code in the formal dining room has been inconsistent at best, for various reasons. It's basically a hit and a miss, kinda like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get!

Just practicing what Boytjieny tried to teach me..


[quote]I have never, however, heard of HAL enforcing that same code in places like the Crow's Nest, main (or secondary) show lounge, casino, Wajang theater, other public lounges, you name it. Going out on a very narrow limb here:rolleyes:, I don't think you're going to see that change:cool:

We too have always seen people in the Crow's Nest, Casino, Show Lounge etc. in non Formal wear, who have changed after dinner & no one has ever said a word to them..

Hooray, I think I've got the tags down now..Hope Boytjieny see this! I kept looking for those square parentheses on my keyboard & finally found them on the tool bar here..


Cheers...:)Betty

[serendipity1499]

Oops...Still don't think I've done the quotes correctly... Boytjieny please advise what needs to be done to get it right..:confused:

It took me an hour to find the square parenthisis...:o:o

Also can you explain what "wrap code tags around selected text" means...I'm almost a dummy when it comes to this..:confused:

Thanks....Betty

[agabbymama]

I do think the menu is a little more classy on formal night. That's usually when lobster and baked alaska comes out. You don't have that on the normal dinner menus.

And the Crew are all in their very formal elegant uniforms and white gloves. You can always tell when it's formal night.

[Boytjie]

Oops...Still don't think I've done the quotes correctly... Boytjieny please advise what needs to be done to get it right..:confused:

It took me an hour to find the square parenthisis...:o:o

Also can you explain what "wrap code tags around selected text" means...I'm almost a dummy when it comes to this..:confused:

Thanks....Betty

You seem to be doing fine (except for that one of Copper10-8)!

The tags are: [ quote ] and [ /quote ] (Note: I addes spaces inside the tags)

You need the first one in front of any text you want to quote and the second at the end, always in pairs and you have to type the tags correctly - without the spaces - so that the browser can interpret it as a tag and not as text.

[serendipity1499]

You seem to be doing fine (except for that one of Copper10-8)!

The tags are: [ quote ] and [ /quote ] (Note: I addes spaces inside the tags)

You need the first one in front of any text you want to quote and the second at the end, always in pairs and you have to type the tags correctly - without the spaces - so that the browser can interpret it as a tag and not as text.

Thanks...I'll keep practicing & maybe someday will get it right..;)

Betty

[Rudolph38]

[quote=agabbymama;18703147][ I do think the menu is a little more classy on formal night. That's usually when lobster and baked alaska comes out. You don't have that on the normal dinner menus. ]

Nor is it offered in the Lido---at least not on the Noordam last February. Didnt matter to us, though---We like other things better.

[maxsmamma]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS

Maybe on the first formal night you may be better off trying the Lido, I swear, it is a great dinner option. Otherwise, I think you will be just fine! And even if you do go to the dining room with no coat or tie, I will not be offended at all!

[serendipity1499]

Maybe on the first formal night you may be better off trying the Lido, I swear, it is a great dinner option. Otherwise, I think you will be just fine! And even if you do go to the dining room with no coat or tie, I will not be offended at all!

my bold!

Can you guarantee that the OP will not be turned away at the DR if he does not have a jacket on formal night?

We have seen Psgrs turned away in the Dining Room on formal night for not having a jacket on some HAL Cruises, while on other cruises the dress code has been relaxed & people were sans jackets..

However, I think that encouraging the OP not to take a jacket is not in his best interest if he wants to eat in the DR..The OP specifically stated he understands that he can eat in the Lido, but wants to eat in the DR.

I would not be be offended if he did not wear a jacket, but I would be offended if he sat at my table with a baseball cap on as I've seen one or two passengers do on other lines..:eek:

JMO...Betty

[maxsmamma]

[/B]

my bold!

Can you guarantee that the OP will not be turned away at the DR if he does not have a jacket on formal night?

We have seen Psgrs turned away in the Dining Room on formal night for not having a jacket on some HAL Cruises, while on other cruises the dress code has been relaxed & people were sans jackets..

However, I think that encouraging the OP not to take a jacket is not in his best interest if he wants to eat in the DR..The OP specifically stated he understands that he can eat in the Lido, but wants to eat in the DR.

[SIZE=3]]

He stated he didn't want to bring one, he asked if people would be offended, I said I would not be. I never said he would get into the dining room for sure. I just stated that as a fellow passenger it would not offend me.

It seems from reading recent reviews that he could be turned away on the first night (but not necessarily on all ships) but probably not on future formal nights. That is why I suggested trying the Lido on the first night. Other than that night, I do think he will be fine. He did say he wanted to eat in the DR, but he also doesn't want to bring a coat, so I guess he will need to make the choice himself.;)

[marle7]

With 200 days on HAL, I have never gotten to dinner time without luggage. Of course, I eat 8 pm dinner, so that might be a factor. Usually, however, my luggage is in my cabin either before Lifeboat Drill or immediately thereafter. Indeed, I'm usually unpacked by sail-away.

As for those occasions where luggage might not arrive in time for dinner, might I humbly suggest wearing long pants in transit to the ship? Or, in the very least, having a pair of long pants in your carry on?

This is more or less what we do. Hubby wears dockers and a polo shirt to board, and I wear a Tilley's skirt and sleeveless top. A nice light summer skirt or capri's for the ladies when boarding will be fine for the first night if luggage hasn't arrived.

[serendipity1499]

I sail 8 April 09 thought HAL has gone to casuel attire like pants and collared shirt no tie acceptable for all evening meals. Will people get upset as I will not be bringing even a jacket (ret Mil CAN) had enough of formal wear. Since retirement I don't even wear a watch. Hope that this does not get anyone upset I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room. Oh we are on Zuderdam. Will be in open sitting which I thought would not offend. Best to all thought please before I go. THANKS

My Bold again!

] Maybe on the first formal night you may be better off trying the Lido, I swear, it is a great dinner option. Otherwise, I think you will be just fine! And even if you do go to the dining room with no coat or tie, I will not be offended at all![/B]

First of all I stand corrected this is not the OP..Thorsdad asked this within this thread..

He stated he didn't want to bring one, he asked if people would be offended, I said I would not be. I never said he would get into the dining room for sure. I just stated that as a fellow passenger it would not offend me.

That is true he did say he did not want to bring one & you said you would not be offended...However you only answered part of his post.. thorsdad also said:

I know that the lido is open for my type but why not main dinning room.

This line in itself states that he knows about the Lido but he wants to eat in anytime dining in the Dining Room..

In your post you intimated that he would only need a jacket on the first formal night by saying this..

Otherwise, I think you will be just fine!

This to me means that you are saying he would be OK on the other formal nights..Have you been on the Zuiderdam recently? Do you personally know that the Matre d' will permit him into the DR sans jacket on the second or third formal night?

I also asked if you can you guarantee that he will not be turned away from the DR without a jacket? I still believe that to encourage someone not to bring a jacket & saying or even intimating he would be OK is not in his best interest.

It seems from reading recent reviews that he could be turned away on the first night (but not necessarily on all ships) but probably not on future formal nights. That is why I suggested trying the Lido on the first night. Other than that night, I do think he will be fine. He did say he wanted to eat in the DR, but he also doesn't want to bring a coat, so I guess he will need to make the choice himself.;)

Were the reviews, you've read about a recent Zuiderdam cruise?
Having had more than 130 days on HAL, we've seen people turned away without jackets on many & all Formal nights... I've also seen just the opposite, where the Matre d' has turned a blind eye to HAL's dress code suggestions.. That's why so many posters are complaining that there doesn't seem to be one policy which is followed & enforced on all HAL ships..Our two cruises, Volendam in Alaska & the Maasdam in the Caribbean last year, were in Anytime Dining & both times we've seen the Matre d' turn a blind eye, however I would never say to another person that

I think you will be just fine!..To me this is not an informed opinion & is completely opposite of what HAL states on their WEB site & in their "Know Before you Go Booklet"..I've never been on the Zuiderdam & do not know their policy in the DR..

Just because you & I would not be offended if he does not wear a jacket, does not mean he should be encouraged not to bring a jacket..Also agree with you that he should make the choice himself..

Betty

[thorsdad]

He stated he didn't want to bring one, he asked if people would be offended, I said I would not be. I never said he would get into the dining room for sure. I just stated that as a fellow passenger it would not offend me.

It seems from reading recent reviews that he could be turned away on the first night (but not necessarily on all ships) but probably not on future formal nights. That is why I suggested trying the Lido on the first night. Other than that night, I do think he will be fine. He did say he wanted to eat in the DR, but he also doesn't want to bring a coat, so I guess he will need to make the choice himself.;)
I have been told by the Boss that she will pick out a jacket and put it in my suit case (carry on). The tie I am still holding out on.
Thanks for all the great info and help. I have only one Carnival 8 day cruise under my belt and plan on trying out a few more till I find my fit.
Oh please tell me what OP means. Thanks again.

[jaxonboy]

I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code. If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.

Well said.

[Cruising-along]

I have been told by the Boss that she will pick out a jacket and put it in my suit case (carry on). The tie I am still holding out on.
Thanks for all the great info and help. I have only one Carnival 8 day cruise under my belt and plan on trying out a few more till I find my fit.
Oh please tell me what OP means. Thanks again.

thorsdad, I believe we'll be on the same cruise with you (April 8 Zuiderdam). We have an active roll call, with some friendly folks. Come on over and say "hi" :) Zuiderdam - April 8-18, 2009-Panama Canal (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=751135)

Oh, and OP means "original poster" :)

[pipedreams62]

http://www.coverbrowser.com/image/saturday-evening-post/1031-1.jpg

[maxsmamma]

I have been told by the Boss that she will pick out a jacket and put it in my suit case (carry on). The tie I am still holding out on.
Thanks for all the great info and help. I have only one Carnival 8 day cruise under my belt and plan on trying out a few more till I find my fit.
Oh please tell me what OP means. Thanks again.

OP=original poster. Sometimes it is used to chastise people who go off the original topic.

I make my DH take a coat just in case. I usually sneak in a tie too, because he looks so dang good in one!

I hope you enjoy the trip, plenty of meals in the dining room, and a relaxed vacation without any feelings of judgement from other pax!

[klyde]

your posts do make me laughhttp://www.coverbrowser.com/image/saturday-evening-post/1031-1.jpg

[Down-Unders]

I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code. If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.


Good point, the head waiter explained to us it sometimes happens and people do arrive to eat in their traveling clothes.

[Hollyday]

Everyone knows there will be at least one formal night on their cruise. If you don't want to dress up go to the Lido Deck or dine in your room. It is that simple. :p

I enjoy dressing up and my DH does not. I really can't blame him when I have the option wearing something formal but still cool for the tropical climate. His option is only a suit/tux with a tie....within minutes he's unfortably warm. We follow the rules for dinner and actually enjoy being "classy" for dinner. But I don't have the heart to make him sweat all evening, therefore, as soon as dinner is over he changes and I don't.

Personally I feel that if the men have to wear a tie the women should have to wear panty-hose. Fair is Fair. I wonder how many of us women would change our minds about formal night if we had to wear a hot wool suit and a piece of silk choking us like the men do. :rolleyes:

[dnl_in_Illinois]

I'm a cruise newbie - so I have a question. On formal nights, is there anything different or special other than how people dress? I mean, is the food a little more upscale / special shows, etc.? I'm just curious, if we were to opt out of some of the formal nights by going to the Lido, would we miss something?

Kara, It's Dave here -- as in Dave and Linda. I don't think anyone has responded to your question. Usually on formal night they will have a special meal, often lobster (but I see you're from near Boston and it won't taste/look that good!). You probably can get the same meal in the Lido however. BUT -- Jay should NOT feel under dressed if he just wore a suit. I would guess that at least 1/4 to a half of the men are in dark suits. The "formal" is probably not as "formal" as you may think it is but it is a special evening. Also - Jay could rent a tux. I do that. One advantage - - I don't have to pack a suit. You have our email address. If you want details on that let me know and I'll send to you guys. I am not subscribed to this thread so if you respond here I won't see it.

Dave K.

[aliaschief]

I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code.


If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.
We have experienced that if luggage has been late being delivered or luggage problems existed; the Captain waived the evening dress code.

[dnl_in_Illinois]

Originally Posted by DieHard http://boards12.cruisecritic.com/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?p=18687130#post18687130)
I have been on a couple of cruises when our luggage didn't show up until dinner was over. Usually, the first night, unless you are naked there is no dress code.

If my luggage hasn't been delivered in time to change for dinner there will be hell to pay if I am refused.

We have experienced that if luggage has been late being delivered or luggage problems existed; the Captain waived the evening dress code.

Having sailed on HAL several times I can say that they are very flexible and accomodating if the worst were to happen and your luggage did not arrive in time. They just do not operate that way.