norwegian cruise line dress up dinner

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code for Dinner – A Comprehensive Guide

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

Welcome aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line! Planning what to wear for dinner on a cruise can be a bit confusing, especially for first-time cruisers. The dress code varies depending on the cruise line and the specific ship. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the dress code requirements for dinner on Norwegian Cruise Line. Let’s dive in!

Casual Nights

During casual nights, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and dress comfortably. Here are some suggestions:

• Men: Slacks or khakis with a collared shirt or polo
• Women: Sundresses, skirts, or pants with a blouse or casual top

Smart Casual Nights

Smart casual nights call for a slightly dressier attire. Here are some guidelines:

• Men: Dress pants or khakis with a collared shirt. You may also opt for a blazer.
• Women: Skirts or dress pants with a blouse or stylish top. Dresses are also a great option.

Formal Nights

Formal nights are an opportunity to dress up and add a touch of elegance to your dinner experience. Here’s what you can consider:

• Men: Suits or tuxedos are recommended. A shirt with a tie is the minimum requirement.
• Women: Cocktail dresses, elegant skirts or pantsuits are suitable choices. You may also opt for an evening gown.

Optional Specialty Restaurants

If you plan to dine at one of the optional specialty restaurants, such as a steakhouse or fine dining establishment, a more upscale dress code may apply. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to dress to the nines. It’s essential to check in advance with the restaurant or the cruise line for specific dress code requirements.

General Tips

Pack accordingly.

When preparing for your cruise, make sure to pack clothes that comply with the dress code. It’s always a good idea to pack a range of options to suit different dining occasions.

Check the Daily Newsletter

Your cruise ship will provide a daily newsletter that outlines the dress code for the following evening. Pay attention to these guidelines to ensure you are appropriately dressed for dinner.

Bring Accessories

To enhance your attire and add an extra touch to your outfit, consider accessorizing with items like scarves, belts, or statement jewelry.

Comfort is Key

While it’s important to adhere to the dress code, remember to prioritize comfort. You’ll want to enjoy your dining experience without feeling restricted by your outfit.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of dining options, each with its own dress code. From casual to formal nights, there’s something to suit everyone’s preferences. Remember to pack accordingly, check the daily newsletter, and bring accessories to add flair to your attire. Above all, prioritize comfort and enjoy your dining experience aboard the cruise.

Table of Contents

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Norwegian Cruise Dress Code Explained (NCL)

Have questions about a Norwegian Cruise Dress Code? Wondering what to wear on a Norwegian cruise? Keep reading to find out all the answers.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

While most cruises will have similarities when it comes to dress codes depending on the length of cruise and the itinerary. However one of the cruise lines whose dress code rules are very different is Norwegian Cruise Line.

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its freestyle dining concept. This means that there are not set tables, dining times, and perhaps most uniquely no formal nights.

In this guide I will look at specific Norwegian Dress Codes as well as tell you what to wear on Norwegian cruises with outfit inspiration.

Note : this NCL Dress Code guide is concerned with Norwegian Cruise Line rather than Norwegian as in Norway the country. For a guide on what to wear on a Norwegian cruise / Norway Cruise check out this post.

And if you are traveling on another cruise line be sure to check out our other specific cruise line dress codes posts:

• Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code
• Celebrity Cruises Dress Code
• Disney Cruise Line Dress Code
• MSC Cruises Dress Code
• Princess Cruises Dress Code
• Royal Caribbean Dress Code

Table of Contents

What is the Norwegian Cruise Dress code?

In most places and most of the time Norwegian Cruises operate a cruise casual dress code. This is comparable to resort casual wear.

The NCL website states:

Dress cruise casual anytime during the day, in the buffet and in most speciality restaurants. For women, it includes summer and casual dresses, skirts, regular or capri pants, shorts, jeans and tops. Khakis, jeans, shorts and casual shirts are fine for men. Swimwear is acceptable at the buffet and outdoor restaurant, but a shirt or a cover-up and footwear are required.  NCL website

As such you will see a range of clothes being worn from maxi dresses and sun dress to capri blouses, pants and shorts and t shirts for women.

And for men a range of wear from t shirts, polo shirts and shirts paired with shorts and trousers to smarter chinos and sports jackets with shirts in the evening.

The only real exception to the freestyle cruise casual dress code on Norwegian is in relation to bathing suits and eateries. Being topless or in swimwear is not permitted in the buffet restaurant of any restaurant for that matter for hygiene purposes.

Also it is worth pointing out that on some Norwegian cruise ships there are certain speciality restaurants which will have a dress code. The dress codes aren’t particularly strict and the only item I have seen enforced is the no shorts rule. This is certainly true for the Le Bistro and Ocean Blue restaurants on Norwegian Cruise Line.

And on some Norwegian cruise ships shorts will only be allowed in the main dining room if they are “dress shorts”. Keep reading for a more thorough guide on where and when you can’t wear shorts on a Norwegian Cruise Line.

Other than that you can wear what you like, however most people who dine at these restaurants will stick to a smart casual dress code. We will give you some outfit inspiration for what to wear on a Norwegian Cruise later in this post.

FAQs About Norwegian Cruise Dress Code

But before we get into our outfit inspiration for what to wear on a Norwegian Cruise we will first answer your frequently asked questions about the NCL cruise dress code.

Are there formal nights on Norwegian Cruises?

No, there are are no formal nights on Norwegian cruises. There are also no gala nights on NCL as there are on other cruise lines.

However there is usually one “Dress Up Or Not” theme night on a 7 night cruise. These areb basically dress-up nights. This is not an obligatory formal night as on other ships, however some people will use this as an excuse to get dressed up.

These nights usually also coincide with the Norwegian Night Out theme night which runs later in the evening and are usually held on one of your sea days. If your itinerary has no sea days, it will usually be held in the middle of your cruise itinerary.

They are never held on embarkation day or the last night as on these evenings passengers are not likely to have their luggage with them.

In my experience of cruising NCL, which I have been luckily enough to experience a few times, I have found that how many people choose to dress up on the Norwegian’s Night Out varies greatly. However if I had to put a figure on it, I would say that people dress up around 50% of the time.

Do people dress up on NCL?

However just because there are no formal nights on Norwegian Cruises doesn’t mean that people do not dress up on NCL. It is just personal taste whether people want to or not.

What to wear to Dinner on Norwegian cruises?

So what should you wear to dinner on a Norwegian Cruise? Firstly it is always worth checking your daily cruise compass (for first time cruisers this is your daily cruise schedule and itinerary that will be delivered to your stateroom). This will tell you whether it is a casual night (like on embarkation day) or is a Norwegian’s Night Out theme night (not obligatory).

Do different Norwegian cruise line ships have different dress codes?

Although all ships on NCL operate a cruise casual dress code, there are some variations on rules on different ships.

For instance on the last Norwegian cruise ship I went on onboard, the Norwegian Getaway, dress shorts were allowed in the Taste and Savor dining rooms, however were not permitted in the Manhattan dining room. This rule is also present onboard the Getaway’s sister ships the Norwegian Breakaway.

Also some of the newer ships like the Getaway, Breakaway and the Norwegian Prima, there are some speciality restaurants such as Le Bistro and Ocean Blue that have a no shorts policy and generally operate a loose smart casual dress code.

What to wear in NCL speciality restaurants?

Some of the speciality restaurants on NCL Will have different dress codes to the main dining rooms. It tends to be stricter.

They will enforce a no shorts policy, with the exception on children under 12.

Generally speaking men are expected to wear collared shirt, closed-toed shoes and either pants/jean or speciality restaurants. However ripped jeans and distressed jeans are not permitted.

For women these translates to slacks or jeans, dresses, skirts and tops. Therefore although smart casual is stated, what this translates to is pretty broad.

Can I wear shorts on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Shorts are permitted in many of the Norwegian Cruise Line public spaces including the pool deck, bars, and if they are dress shorts in some, though not all of the main dining rooms.

However shorts are not permitted in the Manhattan dining room or in speciality restaurants.

Therefore if you want to wear shorts on Norwegian Cruises we recommend packing at least one smarter pair of dress shorts along with casual shorts i.e. denim shorts, khaki shorts and cargo shorts). This way you will have shorts that can be worn both during the day and in the evening on NCL cruises.

Can I wear jeans on NCL?

Yes jeans are permitted on NCL in most places. However there are some restrictions on the types of jeans.

For instance ripped jeans and distressed jeans are not permitted in speciality restaurants. For this reason we recommend packing a mix of smarter jeans alongside your ripped jeans if you want to pack these for daytime wear.

Also depending on the destination of your cruise will depend on the suitability of jeans in terms of cliate.

What to wear on Norwegian cruises

Please note: there are no laundry facilities on any Norwegian cruise ship. Therefore unless you are happy to pay for laundry on the ship, it is important to get the number of outfits you pack right. For guidance on how much to pack for specific length cruises check out the posts below:

• what to pack for a 4 day cruise
• 5 day cruise packing list
• 7 day cruise packing list
• 14 day cruise packing list.

What to wear on Norwegian Cruises during the day

Casual attire is perfectly find and recommended for day times during your NCL Cruise. Up on the pool deck you will see people wearing bathing suits and beach covers, however these are not allowed in the restaurants.

And in other public areas people will dress for the weather i.e. casual shorts and t shirts or on a cold weather cruise jeans and tees.

You will also find many women wear maxi dresses and resort casual outfits all around the ship.

What to wear on NCL at Night

As NCL operates a cruise casual dress code on all nights you will see a variety of outfits. However in my experience on many Norwegian cruises I have found most people will wear a casual or smart casual outfit.

This means maxi dresses and sun dress for women. Or capri pants, trousers or skirts paired with either a blouse or smarter t shirts.

Most women will also ahve a cardigan or a pashmina with them at night on a NCL cruise as the air conditioning is quite strong.

While most men will opt for dress shorts with t shirts, polo shirts and shirts (either long sleeve, short sleeve or even Hawaiian). Or chinos and smarter trousers with the same.

For more inspiration on the best cruise wear for men check out this post.

The only place shorts are not permitted is in speciality restaurants and sometimes one of the main dining room.

And on the dress up or not nights, people will either dress up or not. Some people will wear ball gowns or cocktail dresses for women, and tuxedos or button down shirts and jackets for men. However this will not be everyone so you do not have to do this if you don’t want to or are worried about overpacking .

What to wear on shore excursions

What to wear on shore excursions will really depend on what and where the shore excursion is.

If it is a city or local beach, then you can stick to your casual dress code. However if you plan to visit a religious building or more cultural site it is worth checking out the local guidance.

For what to wear on a Caribbean Cruise check out this post.

What Not to wear on Norwegian Cruises

So now you have some outfit inspiration here are some things on our what not to wear list for Norwegian cruises. The items on this list are either becaise they are not permitted by the cruise line or advice from ourselves.

Baseball Caps in Restaurants

Baseball caps are not considered acceptable attire in any of the NCL restaurants however are fine during the day on the pool deck and other public spaces.

Ripped and Faded Jeans in Restaurants

If you want to wear jeans in restaurants on NCL ships they must be neat and in good repair.

Tank tops in Restaurants for Men

Men are not permitted to wear tank tops in any Norwegian restaurants per the Norwegian rules. However tank tops for women are fine.

These are a safety hazard and therefore not allowed on any cruise .

And there you have our ULTIMATE Norwegian Cruise Dress code guide. But if you have a question we haven’t answered please leave us a comment below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Decoding the NCL Dress Code: Sail in Comfort

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When embarking on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) adventure, a common question that arises is, “What is the NCL dress code?” In a nutshell, think “Cruise Casual” and “Smart Casual.”

As a cruise line known for its relaxed and freestyle atmosphere, NCL offers a dress code policy that encourages guests to express their style while maintaining a comfortable and inclusive environment.

We’ve cruised many times on  Norwegian Cruise Line , so let’s decode their dress code and suggest what to wear during your voyage.

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The NCL Dress Code

First of all, there are no formal nights on NCL, although they do have “Dress Up or Not” nights, which are great for getting a portrait made with the family or with the ship’s captain.

Part of its freestyle cruising concept means being comfortable, so you don’t need to pack formal clothing such as long gowns and tuxedos—although you can if you want. For that matter, you don’t need to pack a suit or a cocktail dress either, unless you want to. Instead, you’re encouraged to dress in “cruise casual” during the day and “smart casual” for the most part at night.

Let’s break that down for you.

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Daytime attire: cruise casual.

The NCL dress code embraces a cruise casual form of dress throughout most of its ships and many of its dining venues . Cruise casual allows guests to feel relaxed while maintaining a neat and presentable appearance. Think of it as dressing comfortably yet stylishly.

Some suggestions for cruise casual attire include:

• Women: Sundresses or casual dresses. Shorts paired with a tee. Regular or capri pants or jeans paired with a blouse or top. Skirts paired with a top.
• Men: Khakis, jeans, shorts, and casual shirts are fine.

Ultimate Cruise Planner

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For the Pool

Swimwear is appropriate for the pool deck and eating at the buffet during the day or at outdoor restaurants near the pool, but shirts or cover-ups and shoes are required.

For Excursions

Comfort is the key to dressing for excursions, so be sure to check the weather before venturing out. Casual shorts or pants, tees or shirts, sundresses, or other lightweight clothing are ideal for excursions and exploring ports. Wear comfortable shoes, though, for you’ll probably be doing a good bit of walking, sometimes on cobblestone streets or rough terrain.

Pro Tip: Don’t wear graphic tees with curse words, obscene gestures, or controversial themes. Also, leave the camo clothing at home as it is illegal to wear it on some Caribbean islands.

Nighttime Attire: Smart Casual

Cruise casual is fine to wear to the buffet, outdoor restaurants, and specialty restaurants such as Teppanyaki. However, upscale specialty restaurants call for smart casual attire, which for men means long pants and collared shirts.

Norwegian Cruise Line features a variety of specialty dining options, each with its unique ambiance. While the majority of these venues maintain the resort casual dress code, a few specialty restaurants may require slightly more formal attire. It’s always wise to check the specific NCL dress code guidelines for each restaurant you plan to visit.

• Women: Summer dresses, cocktail dresses, nice jeans or skirts or slacks with a nice blouse are appropriate. Ladies might want to consider bringing a sweater when dining in specialty restaurants. The air-conditioning can be quite chilly.
• Men: Khakis, dress pants, collared shirts, polo shirts, or button-down shirts. Jeans are acceptable but should be in good condition.
• Children: Kids aged 12 and under are allowed to wear nice shorts in specialty restaurants.

Pro Tip:  Smart casual does not include shorts or tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors, and jeans that are overly faded, with holes or tears, or worn below the hips. The NCL dress code is casual compared to that of many other cruise lines, but there are some limitations.

For Casual Restaurants, the Casino, or Comedy Clubs

For these venues, cruise casual is fine. Be comfortable but don’t wear your swimsuit!

For Main Dining Rooms, Specialty Restaurants, or the Theater

For these venues, smart casual is best. Dress up and look your best! Shorts are not allowed for men in the main dining rooms or upscale specialty restaurants at night, so be sure to bring long pants.

For Theme Nights and Events

Norwegian’s Night Out is a dress-up evening of cocktails, fine dining, and great entertainment. The White Hot Party is a theme night where an all-white outfit is fun, so you may want to pack for that. Dress for these events if you want, or don’t—it’s your choice.

Pro Tip: Please don’t wear your bathrobe or pajamas outside your stateroom. NCL wants you to feel at home, but don’t go to the extreme.

Final Thoughts on the NCL Dress Code

Norwegian Cruise Line’s dress code policy strikes a balance between relaxed resort casual attire and optional formal nights, allowing guests to express their style while feeling comfortable during their cruise vacation. By understanding and following these guidelines, you can confidently pack your suitcase, knowing you’re prepared to sail in style and make the most of your NCL experience.

Remember, the key is to enjoy yourself, embrace the freestyle spirit of NCL, and dress in a way that makes you feel your best throughout your cruise journey. For more information, please visit  NCL’s website .

Happy cruising!

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Norwegian Dining Information

Norwegian is famous for Freestyle Cruising , which offers passengers the freedom to choose a new restaurant, dining time and dining companions each night. With food choices ranging from French, Italian, Continental, to Spanish Tapas, Hawaiian, Asian Fusion and Sushi, passengers can choose a different type of cuisine each night! Main Dining Room Policies: Guests can request to dine at the same assigned table at the same time for the length of the cruise, or they can enjoy the variety of dining at a different table every evening. Reservations are required when dining in NCL's specialty restaurants and can be made on board. A flat surcharge is required for specialty dining restaurants, or menu items are priced à la carte. Main dining rooms are open from 5:30 p.m. to midnight. Guests must be seated by 9:30 p.m. Dress Code: Dress is casual. Appropriate attire for men is close-toed shoes, slacks and a collared shirt, while women are advised to wear slacks and blouse, a sundress or a pantsuit. Nice jeans may be worn to dinner in all restaurants, including the main dining room. Tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors and jeans that are overly faded, with holes or tears and worn below the hips are not permitted in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants. Beverage Policy: Alcohol/wine/beer and soft drinks and juices are extra. Soft drink cards are available for purchase on board. Special Requests: Special meals are available including low-calorie, vegetarian, gluten-free, and low/no sodium meals, as well as sugar-free and fat-free desserts. Kosher meals are available on all ships and itineraries and should be requested at the time of booking, and no later than 30 days prior to sailing. All dining rooms onboard Norwegian ships are smoke-free.

Norwegian Aqua Norwegian Bliss Norwegian Breakaway Norwegian Dawn Norwegian Encore Norwegian Epic Norwegian Escape Norwegian Gem Norwegian Getaway Norwegian Jade Norwegian Jewel Norwegian Joy Norwegian Pearl Norwegian Prima Norwegian Sky Norwegian Spirit Norwegian Star Norwegian Sun Norwegian Viva Pride of America

Norwegian Cruise Line Don’t Have Formal Nights – Here’s What They Have Instead

If you’re taking your first cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line you may be wondering if the line has formal nights.

I’ve cruised with Norwegian Cruise Line 10 times to date and their relaxed approach to dining and dress codes is one of the reasons that I choose to cruise with them time and time again.

Do Norwegian Cruise Line Have Formal Nights? 

There are no formal nights on any of cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line . Instead of formal nights, Norwegian Cruise Line have ‘dress up or not’ nights where there is a suggested dress code. Guests do not have to take part.

This relaxed approach continues throughout all elements of Norwegian Cruise Line cruises.

What is a ‘Dress Up Or Not’ Night?

The dress up or not night is an opportunity for guests to wear more formal clothing should they wish to. Lots of guests take this opportunity to have family portraits taken.

There is usually an option to have photos taken with the captain on this night too.

The dress code for the dress up or not nights is extremely casual. In my experience of cruising with Norwegian the option of ‘not’ dressing up it taken by around 50% of the passengers so if you decide you don’t want to dress up you definitely won’t look out of place. That said, some guests will wear full suits and long gowns, so if you do want to wear something nice you won’t look out of place either.

The dress up or not night is usually on the same night as something often referred to as Norwegians Night out.

When Will The ‘Dress Up Or Not’ Night be?

The dress up or not night usually takes place on a sea day if your cruise has any. If your cruise has multiple sea days the dress up or not night could be on any of these.

If your cruise doesn’t have sea days it’ll be on a mid-cruise port day.

It’s very unlikely that it’ll be on the first night of the cruise because passengers have been travelling and may not have their suitcase and outfits ready for the first dinner. Similarly, it’s unlikely that the dress up or not night will be on the last night because most guests have already packed away their clothes.

What Is The Dress Code On Regular Nights on a Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise?

Norwegian have the most relaxed dress code of any cruise line that I’ve ever cruised with. Jeans are acceptable at all times in the main dining room as long as they are not too ripped/faded.

Realistically as long as you are dressed and clean you won’t be turned away from the main dining room on a Norwegian cruise.

Norwegian’s website says the following:

Dress cruise casual anytime during the day, in the buffet and in most speciality restaurants. For women, it includes summer and casual dresses, skirts, regular or capri pants, shorts, jeans and tops. Khakis, jeans, shorts and casual shirts are fine for men. Swimwear is acceptable at the buffet and outdoor restaurant, but a shirt or a cover-up and footwear are required. – source. 

Can You Wear Shorts on a Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise?

Norwegian do allow ‘dress shorts’ in some of the main dining rooms onboard but shorts are usually not allowed in the speciality restaurants. Many of the cruise ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet will have a more formal main restaurant which will not allow shorts.

For example, on Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway, there are three main restaurants. Two of these, Taste and Savour, will allow shorts but the third, The Manhattan Room, will not.

Shorts are always allowed in the buffet and outdoor restaurants and children are allowed to wear shorts in all dining venues.

Why Don’t Norwegian Cruise Line have formal nights?

Norwegian Cruise Line focus primarily on the freestyle approach to dining and dress codes. This sets the cruise line apart from the majority of other cruise lines which still do feature formal nights in some way or another.

Norwegian Cruise Line originally launched in the 1960s but didn’t implement their freestyle approach to dining until the early 2000’s. Many cruise lines have since followed offering flexible dining times and multiple dining options.

The majority of cruise lines have been relaxing their dress codes when it comes to formal nights over the last few years with Cunard being the only cruise line to still enforce ship wide dress codes.

What is The Dress Code For Speciality Restaurants?

The speciality restaurants on Norwegian ships usually have a slightly stricter code which requires men to wear a collared shirt, closed shoes and either pants/jeans.

For women, the dress code in speciality restaurants would be either a dress or a trouser/skirt combination.

Dress smart casual in our more formal dining room or in our more upscale speciality restaurants. For women, it includes slacks or jeans, dresses, skirts and tops. For men, it’s jeans or slacks with a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes. Kids 12 and under are welcome to wear nice shorts in all our restaurants. – source.

Even for the speciality restaurants, the dress codes are very relaxed in comparison to other cruise lines.

This is one of the reasons why I constantly recommend Norwegian Cruise Line to families, to find out why I do (and which other lines I recommend) check out our recommended cruise lines page here: Recommended Cruise Lines (Tried & Tested)

Disallowed Clothing Items:

The following items aren’t allowed in any dining venues:

• Tank tops for men (not sure why this one is just for men)
• Flip Flops/Athletic Sandals
• Baseball Caps/Visors
• Jeans that are faded and ripped

I consistently recommend Norwegian Cruise Line as being one of the best cruise lines for solo cruisers. To find out why check out our recommended cruise lines page here: Recommended Cruise Lines (Tried & Tested)

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Dining Dress Code

By adlb1300 , February 22, 2022 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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My family will be cruising on the NCL Breakaway out of New Orleans on 3/6. We are scheduled to do 2 speciality dining nights (Moderno and Teppanyaki). I know normally the attire for speciality dining is a little more formal than the complimentary restaurants. So my question is would my 18 year old be ok in closed toed black shoes, a nice pair of jeans and say a polo or button down shirt? Would a nice t-shirt be acceptable? They are not big on fancier clothes to begin with so trying to avoid buying clothes that will never be worn again but also would prefer not to pack a bunch of unneeded clothes just to find out jeans, shoes (figure sneakers may be pushing it) and nice tee with no design would have worked.

Thanks in advance

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moosecrouse

No real dress code in either of those restaurants. Only Le Bistro and Ocean Blue have any kinda of requirements 

BirdTravels

Shorts are allowed in all dining rooms for all meals for all persons EXCEPT Le Bistro and Ocean Blue where gents are asked to wear long pants. Long pants (jeans or dockers are fine) and a polo shirt is acceptable in those venues. 

Definitely get away with casual in both of those restaurants, there is supposedly a dress code for Manhattan, le bistro and oceana but they‘re not massively strict even then. For an 18yr old they’re not going to be excessively strict, as long as he’s clean and not dressed for the pool/beach he should be fine. 

BTW: for Teppanyaki, wear something washable. Aside from the splatter from the cook top, you’ll have a Teppanyaki chef flinging food at you

Two Wheels Only

People should always check the dailies for their particular ship/cruise. There are differences between ships. For example, on some ships, all MDRs are " Cruise Casual ". On some other ships, one MDR might be " Smart Casual ". Specialty restaurants can be either so it's best to check to avoid problems. 

The website gives general information.....

Cruise Casual : the Freedom of Freestyle Cruising

Dress cruise casual anytime during the day, in the buffet and in most specialty restaurants. For women, it includes summer and casual dresses, skirts, regular or capri pants, shorts, jeans and tops. Khakis, jeans, shorts and casual shirts are fine for men. Swimwear is acceptable at the buffet and outdoor restaurant, but a shirt or a cover-up and footwear are required.

Be sure to pack a sweater - the air conditioning can be chilly. Kids 12 and under are welcome to wear nice shorts in all our restaurants.

Please Note: We want you to be comfortable, but tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors and jeans that are overly faded, with holes or tears and worn below the hips are not permitted in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.

All Decked-out: Smart Casual

Dress smart casual in our more formal dining room or in our more upscale specialty restaurants. For women, it includes slacks or jeans, dresses, skirts and tops. For men, it's jeans or slacks with a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes. Kids 12 and under are welcome to wear nice shorts in all our restaurants.

For the OP, jeans can be worn in ANY NCL restaurant. A Polo and sneakers will be fine anywhere. A t-shirt will be fine in Moderno and Teppanyaki.

day of sailing is no dress code. shorts in le bistro wont get you kicked out. after that, even try to get in MDR in shorts and you walk the plank. also ive sat on the outside seating of ocean blue in shorts but unsure what nite i did that on. 

jeans ok everywhere. all access pass given with those. 

debenson0723

Just off the Escape 10 days ago and ate at both Teppanyaki and Moderno.  Travel Partner wore shorts and a polo in both.  With the other two men at our table in Teppanyaki, one wore jeans and a button down shirt and the other one a graphic tee, cargo shorts and sandals.  I wanted to go to Le Bistro but a button down shirt was not packed so we skipped that one. 

adlb1300:  sounds like your teen will be well dressed, 

ChiefMateJRK

9 hours ago, adlb1300 said: So my question is would my 18 year old be ok in closed toed black shoes, a nice pair of jeans and say a polo or button down shirt? Would a nice t-shirt be acceptable? They are not big on fancier clothes to begin with so trying to avoid buying clothes that will never be worn again but also would prefer not to pack a bunch of unneeded clothes just to find out jeans, shoes (figure sneakers may be pushing it) and nice tee with no design would have worked.  

Why not ask your adult child what he/she would like to wear?  I would be much more interested in letting my family member decide what to wear than what a bunch of (occasionally snobish) internet cruisers have to think.

5 hours ago, ChiefMateJRK said: Why not ask your adult child what he/she would like to wear?  I would be much more interested in letting my family member decide what to wear than what a bunch of (occasionally snobish) internet cruisers have to think.

That’s all well and good until they can’t eat in the Manhattan room because he didn’t pack a collared shirt. Knowing the dress code helps, I’d suggest throwing a couple of polo shirts in the luggage.

JustSomeLady

7 hours ago, ChiefMateJRK said: Why not ask your adult child what he/she would like to wear?  I would be much more interested in letting my family member decide what to wear than what a bunch of (occasionally snobish) internet cruisers have to think.

Pish posh! I’m using this cruise as an excuse to get my daughter to wear something other than ripped jeans and short shorts. 

7 hours ago, JustSomeLady said: Pish posh! I’m using this cruise as an excuse to get my daughter to wear something other than ripped jeans and short shorts. 

I would be more interested in my DD having an enjoyable cruise.   😎

8 hours ago, mjkacmom said: That’s all well and good until they can’t eat in the Manhattan room because he didn’t pack a collared shirt. Knowing the dress code helps, I’d suggest throwing a couple of polo shirts in the luggage.

That's fine.  I would just let my DS/DD know what the dress code is for certain restaurants.  Aren't we talking about an 18 year old here?

20 hours ago, luckyinpa said: after that, even try to get in MDR in shorts and you walk the plank.

I've worn shorts in MDR's numerous times, and I never had to walk anything.

Manhattan Room turned people away on the second night and on for the cruise if you were wearing shorts. The two other MDR's... Savor and Taste don't abide by that dress code.  

Clean, non ripped jeans and a collared shirt are fine for both Moderno and Teppanyaki.

21 minutes ago, crowandzah said: Clean, non ripped

Does the dress code really specify "clean, non-ripped?"  🤣

Let your conscience be your guide .. If you can not put a pair of pants on for dinner theres always the Buffet . Cruising has changed ALOT in the last 20 years , Not for the better . 

Theres always Wisconsin Dells    😉

38 minutes ago, mpk218 said: Let your conscience be your guide .. If you can not put a pair of pants on for dinner theres always the Buffet . Cruising has changed ALOT in the last 20 years , Not for the better .  Theres always Wisconsin Dells    😉

Shorts are perfectly acceptable in  all  restaurants (complimentary or specialty) for all  meals for all  persons (except Le Bistro and Ocean Blue where gents are asked to wear jeans or dockers). 

5 minutes ago, BirdTravels said: Incorrect.   Shorts are perfectly acceptable in  all  restaurants (complimentary or specialty) for all  meals for all  persons (except Le Bistro and Ocean Blue where gents are asked to wear jeans or dockers). 

 except day 1 when shorts are ok. which is why i booked them day one 

13 hours ago, BirdTravels said: Incorrect.   Shorts are perfectly acceptable in  all  restaurants (complimentary or specialty) for all  meals for all  persons (except Le Bistro and Ocean Blue where gents are asked to wear jeans or dockers). 

On some ships the nicer MDR does not allow shorts for over 12 year olds. My tall 11 year old was asked his age.

15 hours ago, ChiefMateJRK said: Does the dress code really specify "clean, non-ripped?"  🤣

We want you to be comfortable, but tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors and jeans that are overly faded, with holes or tears and worn below the hips are not permitted in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.

1 hour ago, mjkacmom said: We want you to be comfortable, but tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors and jeans that are overly faded, with holes or tears and worn below the hips are not permitted in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.

Do you have a link to this expanded dress code? 

Are my Bermuda length shorts considered "shorts" or short pants?

and arent capris really long shorts..women have so much more in the way of comfort

1 hour ago, ChiefMateJRK said: Do you have a link to this expanded dress code?    Are my Bermuda length shorts considered "shorts" or short pants?

https://www.ncl.com/ca/en/cruise-faq/what-clothes-should-i-pack

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The 5 best cruise lines for families

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The best cruise lines for families allow parents and kids to have fun together and apart while taking the stress out of group travel.

Our favorite family ships mix wow-factor activities with attractive kids clubs, plentiful and convenient dining and thoughtful touches like bathtubs and babysitting.

Your family might be happy anywhere there’s a beach or pool, but if you want an at-sea family vacation you’ll always remember, book a sailing on one of our top five cruise lines for families.

Interested in more tips and tricks for cruises? Sign up for  TPG’s free cruise newsletter .

Disney Cruise Line

No one will be surprised that entertainment juggernaut Disney offers an amazing family cruise experience.

Disney Cruise Line ships are known for meet-and-greets with Mickey Mouse and Disney princesses, interactive movie-themed dining experiences and enormous kids clubs and play areas.

What might surprise the uninitiated is how good the line is at taking care of the whole family, not just the Mouse-obsessed little ones.

Disney thinks of all the little things that can help parents have a stress-free trip with kids in tow. From split bathrooms (allowing one family member to take a bath while another uses the toilet) to waiters who will cut up your child’s food, Disney Cruise Line takes the pressure off parents.

While other cruise lines limit water play to kids who are toilet trained and drop-off child care to ages 3 and up, Disney caters to all kids with onboard splash areas and nurseries.

It also offers adults-only pool decks and restaurants, a nightlife scene and couples spa treatments to revive exhausted parents who haven’t had a date in months.

Teens might roll their eyes at the ever-present Mickeys, but Disney Cruise Line does not ignore its older kid guests. Tweens and teens get their own cool hangouts, Edge and Vibe, with video games, foosball and hip seating areas.

Additionally, first-run movies and Broadway-caliber musicals, waterslides, teen spa treatments and grab-and-go food options (and free room service) keep older kids busy and happy.

The new Disney Wish features a sports area for free play and competitions attractive to this age group.

Royal Caribbean

With some of the biggest ships at sea and an amusement park-like private island in the Bahamas, Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines for active families.

Want to try surfing, sky diving, rock climbing, laser tag, go-karts or zip lining? Families don’t have to leave the ship to get their adrenaline highs.

Even the sedentary pursuits are high-octane on Royal Caribbean. Broadway musicals, festive parades, water acrobatic performances and ice skating shows wow the crowds on sea days.

Expansive play spaces for kids include separate clubs for teens and tweens, plus drop-off nurseries for babies.

Parents can sneak off to the adults-only solarium or thermal suite while the kids live it up at cruise camp.

After a hard day of play, worn-out families can refuel at a variety of restaurants, including burger and milkshake mecca Johnny Rockets, Italian and Mexican eateries and an all-day buffet.

Family cabins and connecting staterooms give larger families their needed space. The Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas can sleep eight, but parents and kids alike might be tempted to stay up late playing air hockey, scrambling up the climbing wall, soaking in the private outdoor hot tub or watching the giant TV.

When Icon of the Seas debuts in 2024, the new megaship will offer an entire section of the ship devoted to family-friendly accommodations and an outdoor dining-and-play space targeted at parents with young children.

Carnival Cruise Line

Practicalities first: Carnival Cruise Line is an affordable and convenient cruise line for families who don’t live the jet-set lifestyle. With home ports all around the U.S., Carnival puts its ships within driving distance of many Americans.

A variety of short-cruise destinations, affordable-yet-spacious inside cabins (they can sleep four) and lots of onboard attractions and restaurants included in the fares combine to make it one of the best-value cruise lines afloat.

Carnival doesn’t dub its fleet the Fun Ships for nothing. The whole family will have a blast on board, whether you like getting down to live music, busting a gut at family-friendly comedy shows, getting soaked at an onboard water park or eating green eggs and ham with Dr. Seuss characters.

The cruise line also embraces simple pleasures like free-flowing soft-serve ice cream and pizza and a day spent lounging by the pool.

Families don’t need to pull out their wallets to feed ravenous teens or sugar-fueled children. Guy Fieri burgers and barbecue, burritos for breakfast and lunch and Shaquille O’Neal’s fried chicken are all included in your cruise fares. No one’s going to make you dress up for dinner, either.

Carnival ships have plenty of cabins that can sleep four or five passengers, but its newest ships truly treat families right. Book a Family Harbor suite or stateroom and get access to a family lounge stocked with all the essentials — snacks and coffee, games, Wi-Fi, movies and a concierge to make bookings so mom and dad can spend more time playing with the kids.

MSC Cruises

The underdog on our list, MSC Cruises might not be a household name yet, but any cruise line that has a partnership with Lego should be on every family’s radar.

As the Mediterranean line grows its U.S.-based fleet, it is staying attuned to the needs of traveling families.

Case in point: Larger family groups don’t have to cram into one cabin or be scattered across the ship. Instead, they can select from a variety of connecting cabins that can accommodate up to 10 people.

Families keen on rooming together can take advantage of frequent “kids sail free” fares and pay only the taxes and fees for children under 18 who are the third and fourth passengers in a cabin.

Speaking of kids clubs, MSC’s ships offer play spaces for babies, kids, tweens and teens. Its ships not only offer a drop-off Baby Club with educational toys by Chicco but also a special baby laundry service to take care of that pile of dirty onesies.

Kids club activities go beyond arts and crafts and video games to include cooking events, sports competitions and hi-tech interactive games. Teens can sing karaoke, dance at the onboard disco and attend themed parties with their new friends.

Outside of the kids club, families can race in a Formula One simulator, experience virtual reality, get soaked in a water park or brave their fear of heights on a suspension bridge.

One of the line’s newest ships, MSC Seascape, features Robotron, a three-seat robotic amusement ride that’s a hit with thrill-seeking families.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is all about giving cruisers options to create different versions of the perfect cruise vacation, all within the same ship.

The flexibility and choice make it one of the best cruise lines for families, especially those who need to satisfy diverse interests or get bored with the same activities day after day.

Kids clubs and adults-only sun decks allow for age-appropriate fun time apart, but Norwegian wants families to have fun together. Teaming up for laser tag, mastering a ropes course, singing along to a Broadway musical or live concert or screaming down a waterslide are guaranteed to create those unbreakable family bonds.

Norwegian’s flexible dining system and a plethora of onboard eateries let families plan meals to suit their schedules and tastes.

Also, free kids meals at extra-charge restaurants mean parents can sample Brazilian, Japanese, French or seafood dishes while the littles gobble up pasta and chicken fingers. Casual all-day options suit fussy eaters who need unfussy dining areas.

The cruise line also gets a shoutout for its family-friendly Hawaii itineraries. The only big-ship cruise line that sails weeklong itineraries round trip from Honolulu, Norwegian provides an easy way for families to visit multiple islands.

Beach time, boat rides, water sports, luaus and volcano tours combine for an epic family trip, with the ship taking the stress out of meals and transportation.

Bottom line

Families can have a great time on any cruise line, hanging out by the pool, visiting exciting new destinations and simply spending time together. But if you’re looking for a ship that really caters to kids and their adult companions, you’ll want to book a vacation on one of these five best cruise lines for families.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Dining On Board Norwegian: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you're a first-time cruiser or an experienced traveller, here is some advice that's always a helpful reminder: Try something - anything - new every day of your cruise. Granted, such a suggestion is easy to indulge because you’re likely to explore a different port city every day. However, I find that when it comes to food, we tend to stick to the first onboard dining experience we like, rather than explore our way through Norwegian’s diverse culinary selections .

And whilst you are sure to be satisfied with sumptuous selections from the main dining hall (where you can even select more than one entrée per meal from the menu), remember that with Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising , it's so easy to eat when you want, wherever you want.  And with so many choices and speciality dining options, it's sometimes hard to decide which to choose. It’s a happy problem, however, and we can help steer you to some of Norwegian’s most popular dining options, in addition to the main dining room:

Ready to start planning? Explore all cruise holidays with Norwegian .

Norwegian's breakfast buffets are hearty and offer everything from cereal favourites for kids to fresh fruit and an extravagant omelette station for discerning adults.  However, many guests head to the big buffet because they do not know that breakfast is also offered in other venues, like O'Sheehan's. Enjoy favourites such as French toast, omelettes, and house-made corned beef hash.

If you want breakfast in bed, you can get room service for a flat fee (or for free if you're staying in  The Haven or a Suite ). Haven and Suites also have the option of dining in the private and complimentary Haven Restaurant.

For a light meal, or if you are craving a speciality coffee blend, you'll find gourmet offerings at The Atrium for a small fee.

For those days when you are at sea or choose to spend it on the ship, Norwegian's speciality dining venues are open for both lunch and dinner. Of course, this is in addition to the savoury offerings in the main dining hall. You could easily enjoy light sushi fare at Asian Fusion, or grilled hamburgers whilst dining poolside. But, my best advice? Keep it simple and save your onboard foodie adventures for dinner! Besides, it’s so much fun to sample a lunch that can be delivered to your pool chair!

Reserve at least one meal at Ocean Blue, one of Norwegian's more elegant restaurants. Here you'll find the freshest ingredients and fine wines. It's a perfect pairing of sophisticated taste with a health-minded menu. Or, if you prefer turf to surf, Cagney's Steakhouse serves up choice cuts, from Angus to Ribeye. If you still have room for a late-night snack, indulge with exotic ice cream flavours at Dolce Gelato. Or head up to the Garden Buffet where you can get free soft serve ice cream.

In the spirit of global travel, Norwegian also offers several fine-dining restaurants celebrating world cuisine. Le Bistro for gourmet French cuisine, Los Lobos for sizzling Mexican favorites are all fantastic specialty dining options. But with 27 speciality dining restaurants offered throughout Norwegian's fleet, take this advice: Not only do you want to try something new every day, you'll also want to book another Norwegian cruise so you'll have more time to explore - and eat -- your way from bow to stern.

What are some of your favourite dining options on board?

Disney Cruise Line's rotational dining: What to know about this unique dinner concept

Much like Captain Hook, Jafar and Ursula, Disney Cruise Line 's rotational dining is iconic to some but plain evil to others.

When you cruise with Disney, rotational dining dictates how you and your cruise companions dine each night in your ship's main restaurants. On the one hand, it's a rigid schedule that takes the ability to choose away from travelers, which some cruisers don't like. On the other hand, knowing where you will eat each night makes dinnertime less chaotic and guarantees you will experience each of your ship's themed restaurants at least once.

Here's everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line's dining system , including what rotational dining is, which ships have it and which main restaurants are included on each vessel.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What is Disney Cruise Line's rotational dining?

Rotational dining is Disney Cruise Line's unique dinner concept. You and your travel party are assigned to dine in one of three complimentary onboard restaurants at a set time each night of your sailing. You'll sit with your group at an assigned table and with assigned waiters.

You'll dine at each of the three restaurants at least once on short sailings and at least twice on weeklong voyages, according to a schedule given to you on board. Your table number will remain the same, and your waiters will travel with you. On voyages longer than three nights, you'll visit some of the restaurants more than once, possibly with a different menu for pirate night or the welcome aboard dinner. Cruisers can't choose which venues they visit an extra time.

Each dining room has a different menu, so the rotation ensures you can dine at each of your ship's main dining rooms at least once.

Each dining room also has a different theme, which might tie into Disney animation, a garden at sunset, characters from the movie "Frozen" or Marvel immersion. Sometimes, the restaurant will include a show or mealtime entertainment. Different ships have differently themed rotational dining restaurants.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Which Disney ships have rotational dining?

Rotational dining is on all ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet:

• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Treasure
• Disney Wish
• Disney Wonder

Disney Dream rotational dining

The three main restaurants that cater to rotational dining on Disney Dream are Animator's Palate, which allows passengers to have conversations with animations of Crush (the turtle from "Finding Nemo") via giant screens along the walls; Enchanted Garden, which feels like you're dining in a garden as the sun slowly sets; and Royal Palace, featuring paintings of Disney Princesses and a French-influenced menu.

Disney Wish rotational dining

On Disney Wish, passengers will rotate among Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , which features a Norwegian-forward menu in celebration of Anna's engagement to Kristoff; Worlds of Marvel , where Ant-Man accidentally shrinks the ship and then tries to fix it; and 1923, a less interactive and more elegant restaurant with an art deco motif that's inspired by the golden age of animation.

Disney Magic rotational dining

Passengers on Disney Magic will rotate between Rapunzel's Royal Table, which celebrates Rapunzel's birthday with singing, dancing and visits from characters, and Lumiere's, a rather nondescript dining room with a loose but hardly noticeable "Beauty and the Beast" theme. The ship also has Animator's Palate, but it differs from Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy because, instead of conversations with Crush, it features decor and waiter uniforms that are black and white but gradually turn colorful throughout the meal.

Disney Fantasy rotational dining

Like Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy also has Animator's Palate and Enchanted Garden, as well as Royal Court, which is the same as Royal Palace with the exception of the name.

Disney Wonder rotational dining

On Disney Wonder, cruisers will move between Tiana's Place, a New Orleans-themed eatery that draws from "The Princess and the Frog"; Triton's, which is loosely based on "The Little Mermaid" and the most formal of the restaurants; and a version of Animator's Palate similar to the one on Disney Magic.

Disney Treasure rotational dining

Disney Treasure will introduce new rotational dining restaurants and dinner shows, and its weeklong cruises will allow guests to dine at each twice. Plaza de Coco features "dinner in the round" with performances by characters from the movie "Coco," and Worlds of Marvel will return with new and updated shows. Also returning from Disney Wish is 1923, with slightly different decor.

Is rotational dining optional?

Disney Cruise Line's buffet is not open for dinner on most sailings, and its ships don't have main dining rooms that cater to travelers who prefer flexible dining times. If you want a complimentary sit-down restaurant meal, you need to follow the rotational dining schedule.

If you choose not to eat in the main dining rooms as part of rotational dining, you can opt for room service or choose to pay extra for an alternative restaurant, such as Palo , Remy or Enchante . However, the extra-fee restaurants are adults-only and do not accept diners younger than 18. If you're traveling with children, alternatives to rotational dining are extremely limited.

Pros and cons of rotational dining

Disney Cruise Line's rotational dining guarantees every passenger is able to eat in every venue at least once, so they won't miss any of the included dinner shows or experiences. It also helps to better stagger the number of passengers trying to see the line's phenomenal theater shows either before or after the two set dining times.

Additionally, it provides structure to mealtimes and allows waiters, who follow passengers from restaurant to restaurant, to learn passenger preferences, thereby offering a more elevated level of service.

With rotational dining, you and your travel companions have to eat at whichever time and restaurant Disney assigns you. That can be frustrating for passengers who prefer to eat earlier or later than the time they're assigned or who just want a relaxed experience following a busy day in port.

Another downside is that the menus tend to be themed (French at Royal Palace and Royal Court, Norwegian at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, Cajun at Tiana's Place and so forth). If you're not a fan of the type of cuisine served and wish to skip a meal in a main restaurant, you're limited to whatever happens to still be available on the pool deck (hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza and the like) when you're hungry for dinner.

If you're traveling with children, rotational dining can be either a blessing or a curse. If your kids are able to tolerate sit-down meals and enjoy the entertainment, it works well. If they're bored with a multicourse, sit-down meal, you might find yourself frustrated that Disney Cruise Line offers so few grab-and-go alternatives.

Bottom line

On a Disney Cruise, rotational dining at an assigned time is the only option if you'd like to eat in one of the main dining rooms and not be stuck with room service or pricey alternative dining that doesn't allow children.

Although the concept is somewhat inflexible, it's efficient, allows passengers to try all the restaurants (and see all the dinner shows) and ensures service continuity since cruisers have the same waiters as they move from venue to venue each night. The schedule also guarantees all cruisers can find seats in the theater for each night's show, which has two performances at two different times. (Those who are assigned to eat late go to the early show and vice versa.)

Whether you love it or hate it, rotational dining is a unique way to experience dinner on a Disney cruise.

Planning a Disney cruise? We've got you covered with these articles:

• The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line
• The best Disney Cruise Line sailings for every traveler
• Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club loyalty program
• Types of Disney Cruise Line ships explained
• Disney Cruise Line's Oceaneer kids club
• Ways to save money on a cruise
• The best destinations to visit on a Disney cruise
• Disney Cruise Line tips and tricks
• Disney Cruise Line ships, newest to oldest
• Disney Cruise Line ships, biggest to smallest
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Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best nyc dinner cruises for food & views.

These dinner cruises provide some of the best views of Manhattan.

The Best NYC Dinner Cruises

Courtesy of La Barca Cantina

When you're strolling the streets of Manhattan, it can be difficult to grasp the magnitude of the city, with its skyscrapers and densely packed landmarks. The solution? A boat ride. A breezy sail in New York Harbor can feature everything from an elegant dinner to a live jazz band to tacos and tequila. Read on to discover the top-rated New York City dinner cruise options as determined by travel expert opinion and recent reviews.

City Cruises New York Bateaux Premier Dinner Cruise

Price: From $144 Duration: 3 hours Standout perk: This all-glass boat delivers panoramic skyline views.

Climbing aboard the Bateaux feels like stepping into a greenhouse, with its glass-enclosed structure and water views in every direction. There are no bad seats on this boat, but as an upgrade you can reserve a window table for the best views of the Hudson River, the East River and the New York Harbor. This cruise is a match for anyone seeking elegance: The tables are covered in crisp white cloths, wine and cocktails are served in sparkling glasses, and a three-course a la carte dinner is served at a relaxed pace (no buffet here).

The Bateaux cruise is an experience to get dressed up for, where the dress code is semi-formal and dinner is accompanied by live music. The sunset can provide the perfect backdrop for pictures, and don't forget to snap a shot of the Statue of Liberty . Children younger than 6 are not permitted on this cruise, so expect a polished, for-adults atmosphere complete with creative cocktails and dancing under the stars. The Bateaux has rightfully earned a reputation for its fresh food; this three-course, plated menu includes several tempting a la carte options from a ravioli starter with crispy pancetta to osso bucco with cauliflower polenta.

Check prices & availability on:

City Cruises New York Signature Dinner Cruise

Price: From $109 Duration: 2.5 hours Standout perk: A live DJ gives this dinner cruise an extra dose of atmosphere.

Looking for a casual night of dining and dancing with the addition of a skyline backdrop? This dinner cruise offers just that. Set sail from Chelsea Piers in a climate-controlled boat along the Hudson and East rivers, admiring New York City landmarks like the Empire State Building . For dinner, indulge in a chef-prepared buffet with a wide range of options from Greek salad to oven-roasted salmon with miso to Caribbean jerk braised pork. If you're bringing a sweet tooth on board, be sure to check out the ample dessert station.

After snapping some pictures on the open-air deck, return to the cabin for cocktails from the cash bar, interactive games and upbeat music from the onboard DJ.

Those traveling with young kids will be pleased to know that infants younger than 3 cruise free – so feel free to bring your little ones along to enjoy the experience with you.

La Barca Cantina

Price: Varies Duration: 2 hours Standout perk: You'll find an extensive tequila and mezcal list on board to accompany the Mexican fare.

One criticism of New York dinner cruises is that they don't offer good value for money, but the "taco boat" challenges that critique with ceviche, tacos, churros, cocktails and skyline views for an affordable price. Climb aboard a yacht at Pier 81 to experience a youthful, modern interpretation of a dinner cruise – think: low lighting, couches for lounging and three bars, complete with Latin pop, salsa and dance music playing in the background. Raise a glass while the yacht sails south on the Hudson River to check out world-famous Manhattan skyline views.

La Barca Cantina also offers a bottomless brunch cruise with a DJ, as well as special events.

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Classic Harbor Line NYC Evening Jazz Cruise

Courtesy of Classic Harbor Line

Price: From $108 Duration: 1.5 hours Standout perk: A jazz trio typically featuring a sax, keyboard and drums plays live on board.

Listen to jazz standards aboard a 1920s-style yacht with this fun sightseeing cruise departing from Pier 62 in Chelsea Piers. Choose between kicking back in the climate-controlled cabin or on the open-air deck throughout this evening cruise, which includes views of Manhattan landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Live music is played outside on the deck or inside the salon, depending on the season (and the boat, Manhattan or Manhattan II).

While this cruise doesn't offer dinner, one complimentary alcoholic beverage is included, and a cash bar offers additional drinks and snacks. Listen to music by Duke Ellington, George Gershwin and more as you sail past the twinkling Manhattan skyline. Those traveling in a group should keep in mind: Tickets are slightly discounted for groups of 4 to 16.

Circle Line New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

Courtesy of Circle Line

Price: From $54 Duration: 2 hours Standout perk: This no-fuss, excellent-value cruise option has drinks and snacks available for purchase on board.

When you're craving panoramic views rather than a three-course meal, choose the Circle Line's Harbor Lights cruise departing from Pier 83. This sightseeing sailing delivers an up-close experience of the Manhattan skyline lights coming to life, while cruising past landmarks including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building . A live guide provides narration and historical context for what you're seeing. As the sun sets behind New Jersey, watch the glow of the sinking sun reflect in the windows of skyscrapers.

Food from the onboard cafe – like salads, sandwiches and snacks – as well as beer, wine and cocktails at the bar are available for purchase. This is an ideal situation for groups with varying levels of hunger and thirst. Sit alfresco in the breeze or indoors in the climate-controlled cabin – it's up to you.

Non-English-speaking guests can download the Circle Line app for narration available in several languages; just be sure to bring your own headset.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jessica Colley Clarke is a New York-based freelance writer. She loves to take visiting family and friends out on the water in the New York Harbor for a fresh perspective on the Manhattan skyline and beyond.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top New York City Tours
• The Best Hotels in New York City
• The Top Observation Decks in New York City

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