Quick answer: P&O uses two main evening dress codes: Evening Casual and Black Tie. Daytime is casual. You do not need a suitcase full of formalwear, but you should pack at least one outfit that meets each code shown in your itinerary.
The two evening dress codes
Evening Casual includes trousers, smart dark denim, polo shirts, dresses, skirts and similar smart-casual clothes. Black Tie is the dressier night: P&O encourages a tuxedo or dark suit and tie, or an evening or cocktail dress. The exact number of each night varies by cruise, so check My P&O Cruises rather than relying on somebody else’s itinerary.
The code applies in particular venues from the evening. If dressing up is not your thing, check the daily programme for the more relaxed dining and bar options rather than assuming every part of the ship has the same rule.
What to wear during the day
Daytime on board is relaxed: shorts, T-shirts, sundresses and normal holiday clothes are fine. Swimwear should be covered and shoes or sandals worn when moving through indoor ship venues. Under-17s do not have to follow the evening dress code, although smart clothes are still a sensible choice for special meals.
A realistic packing list
- One Black Tie outfit that can be reworn
- Two or three mix-and-match Evening Casual outfits
- Comfortable shoes for port days
- A light layer for air-conditioned rooms and breezy decks
- A swimwear cover-up and pool shoes
The useful trick is to pack pieces that work more than once. Nobody is checking whether the same jacket, shoes or dress appears twice. Save luggage space for things that matter on shore.
What it felt like on our cruise
We found the dressier evenings added a sense of occasion without making the whole holiday formal. Some passengers go all-out and others keep it simple. The best approach is to meet the published code, wear something comfortable and enjoy the evening instead of worrying about competing with strangers.
Check the latest official information
Opening times, prices, transport and package inclusions can change. These are the official pages we used, so check them again for your travel date:
Last fact-checked: 19 August 2026. Our experience is personal; operational details above are linked to official sources.