Formal Nights?

[che5904]

We love freestyle and dressing formally. The 1st thing DH packs is his tux.

 

Most of the time he is one of the few men on board in a tux. We usually get dressed up at least 2x on a cruise.

 

That's the beauty of NCL -- we can dress the way we want, formally, and others can dress the way they want. It doesn't make one right or wrong. It doesn't make one better than the other.

 

One cruise we sat will a group of new CC friends & the outfits ran the gamut: us in formal, a Scotsman in a kilt, others in polos. At dinner we talked about all the other big "no nos": politics, money & religion. It was marvelous!

 

Viva la difference!

 

I love freestyle that allows everyone to dress the way they are comfortable. I dress in resort casual for the whole evening, specialty restaurants, MDRs, buffets, shows, whatever. Just change for the evening and I'm comfortable. Pair of dresspants and nice top.

 

What bothers me is those that are always pushing for formal dining areas for all. They claim it's all about ambience, my theory is then don't look at me. Would it hurt to have one MDR formal if serving the exact same meal as the other, perhaps not, would it hurt to have one night at a specialty restaurant have one formal night, perhaps not. I just don't see the reason to put it in place in the first place.

 

I worry about me, not how to control other people.

 

Glad you and your husband are comfy in formal, glad you enjoy to do this and happy that you don't feel others have to follow suit for your comfort.

[trish1c]

I worry about me, not how to control other people.

 

Glad you and your husband are comfy in formal, glad you enjoy to do this and happy that you don't feel others have to follow suit for your comfort.

 

What does bug me though is when there are rules (like on some other ships) & people want to violate them. Since there are lines like NCL & Carnival where you don't have to dress up, I never understand why people want to cruise lines that encourage formality like Celebrity, HAL & Cunard then complain that they can't wear shorts to dinner.

[mikewrit]

DW will insist on packing the tux and gown until the day NCL bans formal wear in all venues. DH rather looking forward to that day so the big suitcase will be easier to schlep around the terminals. Meanwhile, how about NCL sets a policy that on dress or don't night, formalists will be allowed in Cagneys and Le Bistro without paying the cover charge? That would get all of us tuxerios in one handy spot for the captain and photogs.

[swedish weave]

What does bug me though is when there are rules (like on some other ships) & people want to violate them. Since there are lines like NCL & Carnival where you don't have to dress up, I never understand why people want to cruise lines that encourage formality like Celebrity, HAL & Cunard then complain that they can't wear shorts to dinner.

 

Those lines are rapidly changing their stance on dress codes. Take a short journey through the boards and see what is happening.

 

BTW -- Nothing anybody else wears is going to bother me because I am on a CRUISE !!

[swedish weave]

What happens if you get invited to dine with the Captain and you don't have any formal attire? :eek:

 

The Captain becomes extremely jealous because he has to dress up and you don't !!!:D:D

[Sauer-kraut]

Meanwhile, how about NCL sets a policy that on dress or don't night, formalists will be allowed in Cagneys and Le Bistro without paying the cover charge? That would get all of us tuxedos in one handy spot for the captain and photogs.

 

That's a great idea! Then maybe I'll want to try Cagneys.

 

The Captain becomes extremely jealous because he has to dress up and you don't !!!:D:D

 

Great answer :D

 

I was thinking along the lines that if you have a decent shrirt no one can see what's hiding under the tablecloth. ;)

[che5904]

OK this was too cute. From another thread

 

quote byoldguysandgalls

"Gotta get me ready and spiffed up for evenin supper:

 

1. Sunday suit

2. Shirt

3. Tie

4. Suspenders

5. Clean hankie

6. Baseball cap

7. Socks

8. Shoes with laces

9. Moonshine

10. Chewin Tobacco

11. Matches

12. Spare change

(where are me long johns???)"

 

Now for those that push for the mandatory formal wear. Tell me which would ruin your "ambience" more. This description (of course leaving out baseball cap and chewin' tobacco, which would be against the MDR or specialty restaurant's rules). Or my nice pair of dress pants and a blouse. ;)

[trish1c]

Those lines are rapidly changing their stance on dress codes. Take a short journey through the boards and see what is happening.

 

BTW -- Nothing anybody else wears is going to bother me because I am on a CRUISE !!

 

I know the times are changing & that's fine. I actually find it ironic that various CC posters lambaste NCL but every other line now has some form of frestyle dining.

That said, my point & it applies to life, is if there are rules, people who refuse to follow them annoy me. But somebody else's attire isn't my issue.

[strype2]

Is this a serious question, or do you ask because you've never been onboard an NCL ship before?

 

Serious question. I just read a Gem review and the women was invited to dine with the Captain and she had formal wear.

 

Do they not have "dining with the capt." on NCL?

 

No joke, need to know.

[jdvmd]

Serious question. I just read a Gem review and the women was invited to dine with the Captain and she had formal wear.

 

Do they not have "dining with the capt." on NCL?

 

No joke, need to know.

 

If you read a NCL Gem review where a woman said she was invited to dine with the captain, wouldn't that mean that they have "dining with the Captain?" I've never been invited on NCL to partake, only on Celebrity, and is was not a formal night. My husband wore a suit and I wore a dress. You do not need a long dress or tuxedo.

[swedish weave]

Serious question. I just read a Gem review and the women was invited to dine with the Captain and she had formal wear.

 

Do they not have "dining with the capt." on NCL?

 

No joke, need to know.

 

 

Resort casual is acceptable anywhere and at anytime on NCL ships.

[SuperTrooper00]

What bothers me is those that are always pushing for formal dining areas for all. They claim it's all about ambience, my theory is then don't look at me. Would it hurt to have one MDR formal if serving the exact same meal as the other, perhaps not, would it hurt to have one night at a specialty restaurant have one formal night, perhaps not. I just don't see the reason to put it in place in the first place.

 

I know that you were not referring to me and I agree that I do not like when people push for formal in all dining areas on a night. I don't like that either. However, again, I think it would be a great idea to designate one dining room for formal only, one night of the cruise.

To answer the quote in bold above, I will give you two reasons I think it is a great idea:

1. Ambiance. You can downplay it, but it is real and exists, and many of those who like to dress up love to be in an environment where others are dressed up as well. Its like going to a 'ball' all over again. For some, that is one of their favorite parts of the cruise.

2. Money. If they choose to use one or two of the specialty restaurants as "formal only", I could almost guarantee you they would be booked completely out for those nights. In fact, they could probably do some kind of package and charge even more than normal. They could have a pre-fixe meal that includes wine, and it is a formal night only. I could see that being a big money-maker and am a little surprised no one has done it yet (hint hint NCL).

[che5904]

I know that you were not referring to me and I agree that I do not like when people push for formal in all dining areas on a night. I don't like that either. However, again, I think it would be a great idea to designate one dining room for formal only, one night of the cruise.

To answer the quote in bold above, I will give you two reasons I think it is a great idea:

1. Ambiance. You can downplay it, but it is real and exists, and many of those who like to dress up love to be in an environment where others are dressed up as well. Its like going to a 'ball' all over again. For some, that is one of their favorite parts of the cruise.

2. Money. If they choose to use one or two of the specialty restaurants as "formal only", I could almost guarantee you they would be booked completely out for those nights. In fact, they could probably do some kind of package and charge even more than normal. They could have a pre-fixe meal that includes wine, and it is a formal night only. I could see that being a big money-maker and am a little surprised no one has done it yet (hint hint NCL).

 

You are right super that I was not referring to you, or anyone in particular, just making a statement to anyone who may believe this.

 

I'm not really downplaying ambience, but saying 2 things. #1 you or anyone else do not have control over another persons wardrobe or choice of attire (unless it is against the rules of whereever I am). And truthfully I'm not worth looking at in a ballgown or jeans, so trust me when I say I won't be part of your wonderful ambience.;) So look at the people you are with, the art on the walls, the lights, the wine towel over the arm, the special outfits of the serving crew,all those things you actually are paying for in ambience. #2 This part is actually being discussed on a parellel thread similar to this one. If you read one of the posts on what some of these people are wearing and calling it "dressed up". Trust me, me my jeans would probably be better for your ambience, unless you want your snicker for the evening.

 

I hope NCL doesn't take the hint unless they do it Le Bistro, since I don't eat there anyway.;)

[swedish weave]

It is the same old story !!! Just in different words ---- Why not have a restaurant that is exclusive for torn jeans and tank tops ???

 

I don't understand why people are always trying to exclude others from activities or locations on the ship. LET FREESTYLE BE FREESTYLE AND STOP TRYING TO MAKE IT LIKE THE OTHER CRUISE LINES !!!!

[sdmike]

I want "shorts and flip flops" night in the MDR :D

[SuperTrooper00]

I want "shorts and flip flops" night in the MDR :D

 

I'm in!

[strype2]

If you read a NCL Gem review where a woman said she was invited to dine with the captain, wouldn't that mean that they have "dining with the Captain?" I've never been invited on NCL to partake, only on Celebrity, and is was not a formal night. My husband wore a suit and I wore a dress. You do not need a long dress or tuxedo.

 

Apparently JDVMD you did not read my original question or the answer, or lack of an answer, I originally got. I was asked if my question about dining with the Captain was a joke. So I was thinking I must be crazy to even think there is such a thing as dining with the captain on NCL.

 

We have been invited to dine with the captain on other cruises and the very first cruise we took my DH did not bring a Tux and he was mortified that he was the only one at the captains table not in a Tux. I would hate to not bring fromal, be invite to dine with the Capt. and once again not be dressed. :eek:

[npsh]

I don't understand why people are always trying to exclude others from activities or locations on the ship. LET FREESTYLE BE FREESTYLE AND STOP TRYING TO MAKE IT LIKE THE OTHER CRUISE LINES !!!!

 

I completely agree. Why are the Formal Dress crowd constantly yapping on this NCL site. If they want to dress up on their vacation, cruise with Celebrity/RCCL/HAL/Princess et al and leave us NCL freestyle cruisers alone - please and thank you.

:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[SuperTrooper00]

It is the same old story !!! Just in different words ---- Why not have a restaurant that is exclusive for torn jeans and tank tops ???

 

I don't understand why people are always trying to exclude others from activities or locations on the ship. LET FREESTYLE BE FREESTYLE AND STOP TRYING TO MAKE IT LIKE THE OTHER CRUISE LINES !!!!

 

The answer to your first question is because there is no demand for it. Obviously there is for "formal night" because it keeps being debated on almost every cruise board.

Your 2nd statement is self-defeating and illogical. It is easy to argue that every activity or location is exclusive based on the activity and location. If I don't gamble (or like smoke) I don't go to the casino. If I don't drink, I don't go to the bar. If I don't smoke, I don't go to a cigar lounge. If I don't swim, I don't go to the pool. If I don't play basketball, I don't go to the sports court...on and on and on. Not just that, but the dining rooms are "exclusive" (using your definition) because you cannot wear shorts, tanks, flip-flops, etc. Exclusivity means someone CAN'T participate even if they want to. That is not what we are dealing with when saying it would be a good idea to designate a specialty restaurant for a formal night. Everyone CAN participate, some would choose not to (just like not eating in the dining room because you would prefer shorts, or not playing bingo because you don't like to be robbed).

I get this in most ways from NCL's standpoint. They have staked their identity on being a "casual" cruise line. However, other cruise lines have adjusted, and I am just not sure that argument will hold water much longer. To me, the essence of freestyle is options. We are just suggesting a new (old) option that would be financially beneficial and would appeal to a wider audience by including them at what NCL is already good at. To me, this idea is the essence of freestyle and not counter to it.

Finally, just a reminder, I am part of the casual crowd. My wife and I are not formal folks (although will participate happily if necessary). We are from San Diego for crying out loud. I wear shorts and flip-flops to work every single day. My opinion is not based on my own selfish desires (are yours?), but instead because I see it as a benefit to NCL generally.

Do I really care? No. We will continue to sail NCL (and other lines) based on price and itinerary, not dress code. This is a message board and is generally an enjoyable place to share opinions and have good conversation. I certainly don't care enough TO START TYPING IN ALL CAPS TO TRY TO GET MY POINT ACROSS BY YELLING!!!!!!

[swedish weave]

the answer to your first question is because there is no demand for it. Obviously there is for "formal night" because it keeps being debated on almost every cruise board.

Your 2nd statement is self-defeating and illogical. It is easy to argue that every activity or location is exclusive based on the activity and location. If i don't gamble (or like smoke) i don't go to the casino. If i don't drink, i don't go to the bar. If i don't smoke, i don't go to a cigar lounge. If i don't swim, i don't go to the pool. If i don't play basketball, i don't go to the sports court...on and on and on. Not just that, but the dining rooms are "exclusive" (using your definition) because you cannot wear shorts, tanks, flip-flops, etc. Exclusivity means someone can't participate even if they want to. That is not what we are dealing with when saying it would be a good idea to designate a specialty restaurant for a formal night. Everyone can participate, some would choose not to (just like not eating in the dining room because you would prefer shorts, or not playing bingo because you don't like to be robbed).

I get this in most ways from ncl's standpoint. They have staked their identity on being a "casual" cruise line. However, other cruise lines have adjusted, and i am just not sure that argument will hold water much longer. To me, the essence of freestyle is options. We are just suggesting a new (old) option that would be financially beneficial and would appeal to a wider audience by including them at what ncl is already good at. To me, this idea is the essence of freestyle and not counter to it.

Finally, just a reminder, i am part of the casual crowd. My wife and i are not formal folks (although will participate happily if necessary). We are from san diego for crying out loud. I wear shorts and flip-flops to work every single day. My opinion is not based on my own selfish desires (are yours?), but instead because i see it as a benefit to ncl generally.

Do i really care? No. We will continue to sail ncl (and other lines) based on price and itinerary, not dress code. This is a message board and is generally an enjoyable place to share opinions and have good conversation. I certainly don't care enough to start typing in all caps to try to get my point across by yelling!!!!!!

 

wow!!!!!! And you call my statements illogical ???????

[swedish weave]

Apparently JDVMD you did not read my original question or the answer, or lack of an answer, I originally got. I was asked if my question about dining with the Captain was a joke. So I was thinking I must be crazy to even think there is such a thing as dining with the captain on NCL.

 

We have been invited to dine with the captain on other cruises and the very first cruise we took my DH did not bring a Tux and he was mortified that he was the only one at the captains table not in a Tux. I would hate to not bring fromal, be invite to dine with the Capt. and once again not be dressed. :eek:

 

I repeat ----- Resort casual is acceptable anywhere and anytime on NCL ships !!!! If the Captain invites you, it is for your company, not your clothes !!

[Karysa]

I don't understand why people are always trying to exclude others from activities or locations on the ship. LET FREESTYLE BE FREESTYLE AND STOP TRYING TO MAKE IT LIKE THE OTHER CRUISE LINES !!!!

 

I completely agree. Why are the Formal Dress crowd constantly yapping on this NCL site. If they want to dress up on their vacation, cruise with Celebrity/RCCL/HAL/Princess et al and leave us NCL freestyle cruisers alone - please and thank you.

:rolleyes::rolleyes:

 

No need to go to the other cruise lines if you want to get dressed up. Freestyle means that you can dress to the nines every night if you choose. I do agree about stopping the yapping though! :)

[weltek]

I just wanted to encourage the OP to enjoy Dress Up or Not night. There will be enough women that dress in very formal dresses and men in at least nice shirts and ties (probably even a jacket) of all ages to make you feel comfortable. I enjoy seeing people dressed up in formal wear. You look great and it's fun!

 

I always wear a nice dress or skirt on formal night, but don't dress to the nines those nights. I just don't want the expense or hassle of dressing up that much, particularly when we have to fly to our ports.

[STARFISH*4]

with 9 cruises and seeing each cruise that passengers are Dressing Up less and less this is what the Majority of the NCL cruisers want...FREESTYLE to have a choice any night they choose or dont choose to dress....this works and why the Majority of us LOVE NCL!!!

 

personally i wear a dress pretty much everynite of the week and do Dress Up more on the Dress Up or Not nites, but its my choice and hubby can wear his jeans and Island print shirt....his choice-and we can go eat anywhere.....our choice!!

[npsh]

with 9 cruises and seeing each cruise that passengers are Dressing Up less and less this is what the Majority of the NCL cruisers want...FREESTYLE to have a choice any night they choose or dont choose to dress....this works and why the Majority of us LOVE NCL!!!

 

personally i wear a dress pretty much everynite of the week and do Dress Up more on the Dress Up or Not nites, but its my choice and hubby can wear his jeans and Island print shirt....his choice-and we can go eat anywhere.....our choice!!

 

+1 for this commentary.