wombatsoup

Just to follow up to this. Currently on the Arcadia, docked in Flam/Flaam (or however the Norweigans spell it) and we've had one formal night. Now, due to a variety of events since I first posted (changed job mainly), I've gone without any kind of DJ or suit - except for a decent pair of shoes, but no shoe polish (and for some bizzare reason, the ship's shop doesn't sell shoe polish).

So I tried the in-room service, and it's not bad at all! Sure, it does cost a small amount, but it's not bad at all. The alternative is the Belvadere and the Aquarius pool and bar.

Thanks everyone!

I may hire a suit for the two weeks I'm aboard the Arcadia. Gives me options, and should be cheaper.

Hi, the answer is yes! On formal nights those who do not wish to participate in formal attire often dine in the buffet area.

Thanks, Mika6617. I thought that might possibly be an option (or alternatively room service). Will have to think. I remembered that I hired my tux last time, so I may look into that option this time.

Martyn

The biggest part of my forthcoming P&O cruise that I'm fearing are the 4 "black tie" nights. I don't own a suit, and the last time I wore a tux was back in 2005 at the world premiere of the Peter Jackon's King Kong. Since then I've been very much smart casual, but I don't wear ties and I dislike jackets.

Are there alternative dining options during those nights where formal attire is required?

Thanks Solocruzin. The one thing that I enjoyed the most from my first ever cruise was sitting on tables with people whom we never met before - you got to meet some very cool, very interesting people. I'm on a Freedom Dining plan with P&O - but hope that it offers the same experience (e.g. they put me on a table with others, and not by myself).

My first ever cruise was on the Azamara Journey travelling from Italy to Portugal. I was married at the time. Absolutely loved it. Wasn't too formal, and had an absolutely brilliant time. Five years later, and now divorced, I'm now doing my first single cruise (at the age of 41 - not quite reached the answer to life, the universe and everything - yet) on P&O's Arcadia in a few month's time. TBH, I'm not quite sure what to expect - particularly as a single traveller - but nevertheless, I'm absolutely looking forward to it.

Martyn