Holland America Line · On board

What is the dress code?

The answer

Checked 2026-09-21

Smart casual in the dining rooms, with Dressy Nights

  • Dining rooms require shirts or cover-ups and footwear indoors. Smart casual attire is appropriate.
  • Shorts, beachwear, tank tops and distressed jeans are not permitted in table service restaurants.
  • Pack cocktail attire for Dressy Nights.
  • Orange clothing or accessories are suggested for the Orange Party.

In one sentence — Holland America Line: Smart casual in the dining rooms, with Dressy Nights. Dining rooms require shirts or cover-ups and footwear indoors. Smart casual attire is appropriate. Shorts, beachwear, tank tops and distressed jeans are not permitted in table service restaurants. Pack cocktail attire for Dressy Nights. Orange clothing or accessories are suggested for the Orange Party. Read from Holland America Line's own published policy on 2026-09-21. Cruise lines change policies without notice — confirm with Holland America Line before relying on this.

Why this one catches people out

Two questions really: what is expected at dinner, and what happens on formal or gala nights.

Where this came from

https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/faq/cruise-planning/packaging-and-luggage/what-should-i-pack

We read these policies from each cruise line's own pages and record the date we read them. Lines change their rules without notice. Always confirm with the cruise line before you rely on anything here.

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