New Dress Code Designations?

[PORT ROYAL]

Those who are more comfortable in " casual gear" will be more comfortable in places where it's allowed. It is good that there are now enough casual places in the evening

 

Note you state "casual gear" (your words) is okay "where it's allowed". Therefore, by making this statement there is an acceptance as to the existence of diametrically opposed areas "where it's not allowed".

 

We are fully aware of the nature of some of those in "casual gear" frequenting areas, where "it's allowed", will not remain in areas "where it's allowed", and will have no compunction to migrate to areas where "it's not allowed", for example the Theatre, because they are aware of the lack of enforcement.

 

If not enforced, one miscreant not enforced, could lead to a mass migration by those in "casual gear" of Lemming proportions to "it's not allowed" areas.

[Tonopah]

Must one pay extra to view the miscreant lemming migration or is it included in one’s fare?

[Neuhoftraveler]

Must one pay extra to view the miscreant lemming migration or is it included in one’s fare?

 

This could be the best post on the entire thread.

[NSWP]

At the end of the day, these days it is evident that Cunard staff do not want confrontation with passengers, thus dress code enforcement has waned.

 

I could not believe what I saw on QM2 last March, Sydney to Hong Kong.:loudcry::eek:

[PORT ROYAL]

Must one pay extra to view the miscreant lemming migration or is it included in one’s fare?

 

Like it!

 

However, there may be some who would pay a premium to witness the enforced ejections of miscreants.

[PORT ROYAL]

At the end of the day, these days it is evident that Cunard staff do not want confrontation with passengers, thus dress code enforcement has waned.

 

I could not believe what I saw on QM2 last March, Sydney to Hong Kong.:loudcry::eek:

Do share......

[bluemarble]

We received the pre-voyage brochure for our June 24th QM2 crossing in the mail yesterday. This brochure mentions the dress code in several places.

 

First, on the itinerary page it provides a general introduction to the dress code without going into the details.

 

Then in a "What to wear" section, it goes into the dress code in more detail using wording we've seen elsewhere in various places. But like the "What to pack" page on the main web site, this section of the pre-voyage brochure does not mention which specific venues are included in the "selection of casual dining and entertainment venues".

 

Then later in finer print within pages titled "Those final preparations", it goes over the dress code again and does provide the complete list of casual venues. Those pages also include a section called "What you need to pack" which contains wording about the dress code during the day. It makes the statement we have seen before "During the day, feel free to relax and dress as you please in all areas of the ship." But then it goes on to make the following statement I have not noticed elsewhere.

 

"We ask that swimwear is not worn in our inside bars, lounges and restaurants."

[NeedPeace]

I just noticed something curious regarding the dress code designations in voyage personaliser for our upcoming voyages on QM2. We are booked on three consecutive voyages M821 (eastbound crossing), M822 (Norwegian Fjords), and M823 (westbound crossing).

 

The dress code for our first crossing was posted in voyage personaliser a little over a month ago and is what I was expecting.

 

Voyage M821

10 June - New York Embark - Dress: Informal (Jacket Required)

11 June - Sea Day - Dress: Formal (Royal Cunard Ball)

12 June - Sea Day - Dress: Informal (Jacket Required)

13 June - Sea Day - Dress: Formal

14 June - Sea Day - Dress: Informal (Jacket Required)

15 June - Sea Day - Dress: Formal (Roaring Twenties Ball)

16 June - Sea Day - Dress: Informal (Jacket Required)

17 June- Southampton Disembark

 

The dress codes for our next two voyages were just posted today in voyage personaliser and are not exactly what I was expecting. Here is what is listed within the itineraries for those two voyages.

 

Voyage M822

17 June - Southampton Embark - Dress: Informal (Jacket Required)

18 June - Sea Day - Dress: Gala Evening (Black & White Ball)

19 June - Bergen - Dress: Smart Attire

20 June - Alesund - Dress: Smart Attire

21 June - Flaam - Dress: Smart Attire

22 June - Stavanger - Dress: Gala Evening (Masquerade Ball)

23 June - Sea Day - Dress: Smart Attire

24 June - Southampton Disembark

 

Voyage M823

24 June - Southampton Embark - Dress: Smart Attire

25 June - Sea Day - Dress: Gala Evening (Black & White Ball)

26 June - Sea Day - Dress: Smart Attire

27 June - Sea Day - Dress: Gala Evening

28 June - Sea Day - Dress: Smart Attire

29 June - Sea Day - Dress: Gala Evening (Masquerade Ball)

30 June - Sea Day - Dress: Smart Attire

01 July - New York Disembark

 

The best I can make of this is that Cunard is starting to call the "Formal" dress code "Gala Evening" instead and is starting to call the "Informal" dress code "Smart Attire" instead. I hope that's all there is to it. I can find no definition of the "Gala Evening" and "Smart Attire" dress codes. I fact, the "What to Wear" page within voyager personaliser still refers to the dress codes as "Formal" and "Informal", so I'm not sure what to make of this.

 

Just wanted to bring this up in case anyone else has any other ideas about what Cunard may be up to with these new "Gala Evening" and "Smart Attire" dress code designations shown in our voyage personaliser itineraries.

 

John

 

Hi Bluemarble,

 

I had noticed that and my first thought was that it was a 'dumbing down' - I do hope not, but it does read like that, doesn't it?

 

Hope I'm wrong.

[Windsurfboy]

Note you state "casual gear" (your words) is okay "where it's allowed". Therefore, by making this statement there is an acceptance as to the existence of diametrically opposed areas "where it's not allowed".

 

We are fully aware of the nature of some of those in "casual gear" frequenting areas, where "it's allowed", will not remain in areas "where it's allowed", and will have no compunction to migrate to areas where "it's not allowed", for example the Theatre, because they are aware of the lack of enforcement.

 

If not enforced, one miscreant not enforced, could lead to a mass migration by those in "casual gear" of Lemming proportions to "it's not allowed" areas.

 

I cannot think of fellow holiday makers as miscreants, a penchant for more casual clothing is not a criminal offence . There are areas on the ship where formal dress is requested and others where casual dress is allowed . I and the majority of passengers will follow the requested dress code. However I will not call upon the Spanish Inquisition if if see someone in casual gear. On the other hand perhaps like in the crossings of the Massai river Cunard can employ crocodiles to inhibit the migration , that might be worth a supplement.

 

In the theatre I'm watching the show not the audience.

 

 

Behaviour is more important than dress.

[PORT ROYAL]

We received the pre-voyage brochure for our June 24th QM2 crossing in the mail yesterday. This brochure mentions the dress code in several places.

 

First, on the itinerary page it provides a general introduction to the dress code without going into the details.

 

Then in a "What to wear" section, it goes into the dress code in more detail using wording we've seen elsewhere in various places. But like the "What to pack" page on the main web site, this section of the pre-voyage brochure does not mention which specific venues are included in the "selection of casual dining and entertainment venues".

 

Then later in finer print within pages titled "Those final preparations", it goes over the dress code again and does provide the complete list of casual venues. Those pages also include a section called "What you need to pack" which contains wording about the dress code during the day. It makes the statement we have seen before "During the day, feel free to relax and dress as you please in all areas of the ship." But then it goes on to make the following statement I have not noticed elsewhere.

 

"We ask that swimwear is not worn in our inside bars, lounges and restaurants."

 

This is the point on which one has tried to obtain an answer from Cunard. The wording is now "We ask not to" not "No Swimware" (Forbidden)

The wording change happened on Celebrity, RCL, P&O etc., and we are well aware of the results.

Addendum

Throughout the new wordings of Cunard are the words "ask", "feel free" and "suggest". These "soft" words are indicative of more than a change of wording.

How can Cunard enforce a suggestion, when leaves the final decision as to the actual minimum possible body covering to the wearer?

Edited April 21, 2018 by PORT ROYAL
Addendum

[PORT ROYAL]

I cannot think of fellow holiday makers as miscreants, a penchant for more casual clothing is not a criminal offence . There are areas on the ship where formal dress is requested and others where casual dress is allowed . I and the majority of passengers will follow the requested dress code. However I will not call upon the Spanish Inquisition if if see someone in casual gear. On the other hand perhaps like in the crossings of the Massai river Cunard can employ crocodiles to inhibit the migration , that might be worth a supplement.

 

In the theatre I'm watching the show not the audience.

 

 

Behaviour is more important than dress.

 

Agree behaviour (manners) are more important.

So is it good behaviour and/or manners to deliberately flout and/or ignore a required dress code?

Then is it also good behaviour and/or manners to first deliberately flout and/or ignore a required dress code, then knowingly and deliberately migrate to areas where a required dress code applies?

[Windsurfboy]

The terms and conditions are the ONLY REQUIREMENTS.

 

Every thing else including dress code is a REQUEST. If cunard had wanted dress code to be a requirement should be in T&Cs

 

One can flout a requirement, you cannot flout a request, just choose not to follow it.

 

I will follow it dress code, however I personally I find bad behaviour , and lack of simple manners and courtesies more upsetting than dress.

[NSWP]

Do share......

 

OK, Adidas tracksuit tops, or windcheater, jeans and trainers in the Britannia Restaurant, Formal and non formal night, same in theatre, same in some of the formal lounges. I think to some, jacket mean a tracksuit top or a windcheater. The odd baseball cap also evident in the above.:rolleyes:

 

I have no doubt the miscreants were those doing the sectors, to and from Asia/Australia.:evilsmile: A pile of Aussies got thrown out on a couple of nights from ye olde Golden Lion Pub, T shirts and short and flip flops not the dress after 6pm, and they were carrying on, embarrassing.:o

[Nebr.cruiser]

Probably makes more sense... "Formal", "Informal" are I guess confusing to some. But "Smart Attire" is... well interpretation is everything no? I frankly suspect Cunard's dress code will be dumbed down by the time the QUEEN K'DAM comes on line. Cunard is unique in the cruise industry for its formality and we all know how disdained that quality seems to be nowadays.

 

My wife and I love Oceania Cruises but after nine consecutive cruises on them, I admit we enjoyed Cunard if only to take a break from the dismal prospect of 500 men in "polo" shirts and "khakis" every night. The best cuisine afloat and beautiful surroundings and the people look like they are dressed to go down the road to their pub. Or mow the lawn.

 

I hate to say it, but "Smart Attire" confuses many Americans, due to differences in English usage. I get it, due to much reading of English literature, many don't.

[Alanxx]

I would be interested to hear from people on this board who sail Cunard and do not want to follow the dress code.What are the reasons for paying a higher price with Cunard ? It cannot be such things as service in the restaurant or the theatre shows or the Commodore Club or most of the bars as non of these,IN THEORY,are currently open to people ignoring the dress code, so what is it that justifies a premium price to current or potential Cunarders

[balf]

I would be interested to hear from people on this board who sail Cunard and do not want to follow the dress code.What are the reasons for paying a higher price with Cunard ? It cannot be such things as service in the restaurant or the theatre shows or the Commodore Club or most of the bars as non of these,IN THEORY,are currently open to people ignoring the dress code, so what is it that justifies a premium price to current or potential Cunarders

 

Have a look at my post 602.

 

David

[kaymoz]

Did anyone ever hear from Cunard on this? (sorry, didn't read all 33 pages of this thread!)

 

I have reading a few boards here and there, trying to decide on our next trip, and notice there is someone with Azamara who seems to follow various CC threads and jump in appropriately. But if Cunard hasn't overheard this conversation and dropped in, maybe it is time to ask. The prospect of 500 aging men in polo shirts filling the MDR at dinner is not inspiring, unless perhaps they all look as fit as aging military pilots typically do....

[PORT ROYAL]

Did anyone ever hear from Cunard on this? (sorry, didn't read all 33 pages of this thread!)

 

I have reading a few boards here and there, trying to decide on our next trip, and notice there is someone with Azamara who seems to follow various CC threads and jump in appropriately. But if Cunard hasn't overheard this conversation and dropped in, maybe it is time to ask. The prospect of 500 aging men in polo shirts filling the MDR at dinner is not inspiring, unless perhaps they all look as fit as aging military pilots typically do....

 

To date Cunard replies to various CC members are just filled waffle and ambiguity.

The rallying mantra being "Just a change of wording", when challenged on the detail go silent.

[Lakesregion]

I would be interested to hear from people on this board who sail Cunard and do not want to follow the dress code.What are the reasons for paying a higher price with Cunard ? It cannot be such things as service in the restaurant or the theatre shows or the Commodore Club or most of the bars as non of these,IN THEORY,are currently open to people ignoring the dress code, so what is it that justifies a premium price to current or potential Cunarders

 

Just a theory from one who will greatly miss the ambiance of a ship with a strict dress code.

 

I believe that these people have heard about the wonderful ambiance, the romance of ships from the past and wish to experience this ambiance. However, they do not get that they help create this ambiance. If the vast majority of the passengers are not in the "role" so to speak of a proper dress code and a general level of discourse, the ambiance is missing. I liken it to a great concert. One begins with the concept, a fabulous piece of music say something from Handel. Now we move to the structure, a very professional orchestra and choir. Now visualize if you will the choir and orchestra in formal dress and preforming with nary a miscue. Now visualize that same wonderful music and the potential ambiance of a highly professional orchestra and choir, only they show up in casual attire and do not play nor sing quite in sync. That is to me the difference on board ship. If the vast majority do not also pull their weight to help create the total effect it is not there.

 

The people who sign on for the experience but do not contribute either don't get it or don't care and they come away feeling short changed but never really understand why.

[wripro]

I would be interested to hear from people on this board who sail Cunard and do not want to follow the dress code.What are the reasons for paying a higher price with Cunard ? It cannot be such things as service in the restaurant or the theatre shows or the Commodore Club or most of the bars as non of these,IN THEORY,are currently open to people ignoring the dress code, so what is it that justifies a premium price to current or potential Cunarders

To me it's the appeal of a crossing. I would never do a regular cruise on Cunard.

[Pennbank]

To me it's the appeal of a crossing. I would never do a regular cruise on Cunard.

 

I would always do a crossing or Cruise on Cunard when the price is right.

This dress code thread nonsense is unbelievable. I doubt their will be little change. I can not believe how some posters are getting so worked up about it ! I get on board to enjoy myself not worry about other guests dress sense. However reading this thread, there will be some guests who before boarding will think they are going to be the self appointed Dress Police, Why ? Your gong to be on your own there. The possibilities you are going to cause en that route could be mind boggling , think ! Enjoy your own travels with Cunard as it is. Its just Great fun have your own fun with out worrying about anyone else on board. If you don't like it, there are other lines. I am sure Carnival wont care. Life changes and there is always a fresh load of customers eager to try the Line.

Edited April 22, 2018 by Pennbank

[Tangoqueen]

I spoke at length with my Cunard Cruise Specialist yesterday whilst paying the balance of my holiday and I raised the matter of the “dumbing down of the dress code” to be told it is just the wording........I said it’s more than wording and it increases places onboard for casual dressers to use during the evening. I mentioned the discussion on this board and was assured that there was no dumbing down in the MDR.........I’ll find out in 89 days........I will continue to dress as I always have no matter what.

 

I received this in an email shortly after our telephone conversation:

 

“Hope this reassures you x

 

We have completed extensive global research with over 13,000 guests who told us that they love the glamour of a Cunard voyage; the chance to dress up is something that is becoming increasingly rare yet increasingly desirable.

 

We are not making any changes to the dress code but we are updating the language that we use to describe the evening attire on board:

 

During the day, feel free to relax and dress as you please in all areas of the ship.

 

From 6pm on 'Informal' nights, we ask that you wear smart attire in most of our bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. On our much-anticipated Gala evenings, dress attire is Formal. We invite you to dress to impress and celebrate with us. There are two or three of these Gala evenings for every seven days of your voyage.

 

Informal/Smart Attire: Gentlemen, every night we request you wear smart trousers with a shirt and jacket; tie is optional. Ladies, blouses and skirts or stylish trousers and dresses are welcome.

 

Formal/Gala Evenings: It’s Showtime. Dinner jacket, tuxedo, or dark suit for the men with a regular tie or bow tie. Evening or cocktail dress, smart trouser suit, or formal separates for the ladies please.

 

Of course, if you prefer to spend your evenings in more relaxed attire, feel free to dress casually as you visit any of the following venues: Kings Court or Lido Buffet, Golden Lion, Casino, Carinthia Lounge, Winter Garden/Winter Lounge and G32 or Yacht Club. Non-ripped jeans are appropriate, but please refrain from wearing shorts, sports attire, swim wear or sleeveless t-shirts outside of the gym, spa and deck spaces”

 

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

[PORT ROYAL]

I spoke at length with my Cunard Cruise Specialist yesterday whilst paying the balance of my holiday and I raised the matter of the “dumbing down of the dress code” to be told it is just the wording........I said it’s more than wording and it increases places onboard for casual dressers to use during the evening. I mentioned the discussion on this board and was assured that there was no dumbing down in the MDR.........I’ll find out in 89 days........I will continue to dress as I always have no matter what.

 

I received this in an email shortly after our telephone conversation:

 

“Hope this reassures you x

 

We have completed extensive global research with over 13,000 guests who told us that they love the glamour of a Cunard voyage; the chance to dress up is something that is becoming increasingly rare yet increasingly desirable.

 

We are not making any changes to the dress code but we are updating the language that we use to describe the evening attire on board:

 

During the day, feel free to relax and dress as you please in all areas of the ship.

 

From 6pm on 'Informal' nights, we ask that you wear smart attire in most of our bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. On our much-anticipated Gala evenings, dress attire is Formal. We invite you to dress to impress and celebrate with us. There are two or three of these Gala evenings for every seven days of your voyage.

 

Informal/Smart Attire: Gentlemen, every night we request you wear smart trousers with a shirt and jacket; tie is optional. Ladies, blouses and skirts or stylish trousers and dresses are welcome.

 

Formal/Gala Evenings: It’s Showtime. Dinner jacket, tuxedo, or dark suit for the men with a regular tie or bow tie. Evening or cocktail dress, smart trouser suit, or formal separates for the ladies please.

 

Of course, if you prefer to spend your evenings in more relaxed attire, feel free to dress casually as you visit any of the following venues: Kings Court or Lido Buffet, Golden Lion, Casino, Carinthia Lounge, Winter Garden/Winter Lounge and G32 or Yacht Club. Non-ripped jeans are appropriate, but please refrain from wearing shorts, sports attire, swim wear or sleeveless t-shirts outside of the gym, spa and deck spaces”

 

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

 

The same standard corporate verbiage issued to everyone.

We read the words and their meaning, then we think as to the direction of travel.

 

 

Examples

"Fee free to dress as you please throughout the ship." In other words, wear what you like anywhere you wish.

Smart attire: "We request you wear" - Not a requirement

Smart attire in bars: "We ask" Not a requirement

Gala: "Please" - Not a requirement

 

 

Cunard repeatedly sing the same corporate mantra "Just a change of wording".

 

 

However, when Cunard is questioned on finite detail of the new wording, and potential enforcement, more waffle and ambiguous statements appear. Cunard appear to be unable to answer a pertinent question with a yes or a no.

 

 

We are aware Cunard monitors all social media platforms, intervening regularly to answer questions, or reach out to posters. However, for some reason, Cunard has not interviened on this thread.

[cook68]

The trouble you have with a change of wording is people like my self who have never sailed on anything let alone the QM2 only know what the "new" dress code is. It will be adhered to and appropriate clothing is already purchased but I have no idea what it was before or where what was worn/not allowed. Unfortunately, my excitement of my very first TA is being quickly squash and replaced with the fear of being judged on how we will all look. I fear some of you will be jumping in front of me holding up a scorecard and marking us out of 10. Please try and remember not everyone on board is a seasoned traveler with Cunard and us "new" folks are just trying to get it right and that's the new dress code not the old one. Room service for 7 days is starting to look a safer plan.

[Pennbank]

The trouble you have with a change of wording is people like my self who have never sailed on anything let alone the QM2 only know what the "new" dress code is. It will be adhered to and appropriate clothing is already purchased but I have no idea what it was before or where what was worn/not allowed. Unfortunately, my excitement of my very first TA is being quickly squash and replaced with the fear of being judged on how we will all look. I fear some of you will be jumping in front of me holding up a scorecard and marking us out of 10. Please try and remember not everyone on board is a seasoned traveler with Cunard and us "new" folks are just trying to get it right and that's the new dress code not the old one. Room service for 7 days is starting to look a safer plan.

 

Have no fears or worries, Once on board you should have a very enjoyable and fun time and wonder who the hell these Dress police writing on these forums are. One sometimes wonder if they actually still travel on board as you will soon find out ! Remember the dress code only kicks in at 6pm. To be honest one does wonder what all the fuss is about. In my opinion P&O are a lot worse.

You should have fun onboard with Cunard.

Edited April 22, 2018 by Pennbank