Caribbean, Hawaiian, Alaskan cruises are more informal while Transatlantic, Mediterranean, and European cruises tend to be a little more formal. This can also vary from cruise line to cruise line and ship to ship. Princess Cruise Lines would probably lean toward formal whereas Carnival will tend to be more informal and casual. There is no real hard and fast rule, however here s a try. Tuxedos are generally not required.
Ladies can take cocktail dresses or a full length formal.
There are ususally 1 to 2 formal nights on a 7 night cruise, and only 1 on a 3 or 4 night cruises. The rest of the time is typically very casual. One of the most attractive features of a cruise is the price. Even more expensive cruises are a good value for the money. Undoubtedly, a cruise is the most affordable way to travel.