Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines simplifies evening dress code rules

From the 1st July 2013, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will streamline their various evening dress codes across the fleet.

Guests will still be able to enjoy the company’s ‘Black Tie’ ‘Formal Nights’ during their cruise, but the dress code for the remainder of the evenings will be simplified to ‘Smart Casual.’ This allows guests to enjoy a more relaxed feel, while maintaining the high standards the cruise line is known and loved for.

Fred. Olsen Cruises did not want to remove their dress codes altogether, as some cruise lines have, as most guests embrace and enjoy the chance to dress smart for the evening activities.  The new ‘Smart Casual’ rule is a happy compromise, based on customer feedback.

Speaking about the changes, Nathan Philpot, Sales and Marketing Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:

“Whilst many cruise lines have done away with dress codes altogether, we are aware that a significant number of our guests welcome the opportunity to dress up on special occasions, such as the ‘Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party’, so we will be continuing with the popular ‘Black Tie’ theme on these nights.

“However, we have listened to our guests’ feedback and there is a demand from many for a more relaxed and informal dress code for the remainder of the evenings on board. We hope that, by simplifying the dress code for these, we can make things easier for everyone when packing and ensure that no one feels constrained by too many rules; after all, our guests are on a relaxing cruise holiday!”

What the Smart Casual dress code allows:

Gentlemen can wear a jacket and tie, or they may prefer an open-necked shirt with Chinos or smart, dark coloured jeans.

Ladies can choose to wear either an elegant dress, or casual separates (such as tailored trousers.)

Trainers are not appropriate for either gender.

Shorts or vests are not allowed in the restaurant at all times.

When onboard, all dress code guidelines will be mentioned in the ship’s Daily Times newsletter, so you can anticipate the tone of the next evening to come.

Theme nights:

Fred. Olsen’s cruise ships will continue to operate the ‘Theme Nights’ that many guests love and enjoy, such as ‘Tropical’, ‘Nautical, ‘International’, ‘Rock n’ Roll’ and ‘Red, White & Blue.’

Guests are welcome to get into the spirit by wearing a fancy dress costume for these evenings, or can simply adopt the new ‘Smart Casual’ dress code as an alternative, if they prefer.