Chickie2

Thank you all for your responses - they're very helpful, especially foremco for the copy from HAL's document but also everyone's replies that back it up.

We would like to pack minimally but not regret taking something a little nicer. It would be nice if my husband can leave his bulky sports coat at home...... but, then again, he might regret not wearing it for a nice dinner.

We were going to try to pack just carry-on bags (a la http://onebag.com) if possible, but my mom (age 86 at the time of the cruise) is going with us and may not be as comfortable going so minimalistically and I want her to be as comfortable as possible.

We will be cruising Alaska on the HAL Noordam in late August 2016 . This will be our first cruise.

A lingering question is - what is the definitive answer about the dress code for the formal dinner on Noordam? I've read everything from a cocktail dress to a skirt or black slacks for women, and a suit or sports coat for men to slacks and a nice shirt but no jacket tie.

Can anyone with recent experience on the Noordam answer this question?

We live in Southern California where anything goes. Our general style is semi-casual, we are respectful of dress code rules.

Thank you!