First cruise

[Ashley uk]

I am going on my first cruise with my mum, dad and older brother in September.

 

It's a special holiday to celebrate my mum and dad's 25th wedding anniversary. We are traveling on the P&O Arcadia from Southampton on 20th September.

 

I am 18 years old and was wondering what to expect from the cruise. Will there be much to do? What do they mean by formal nights and what would I be expected to wear on these nights? Also what's best to wear on informal nights?

 

These are all probably silly questions to all of you who have cruised before, however I want to make sure that I and my family enjoy the cruise without wondering what's around the corner

 

Thanks in advance for your replies

Ashley - UK

[JanineM]

Ashley, I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time!

 

I haven't sailed on P&O, but checked their website for their dress suggestions. Here is what they say:

 

To help you pack for your holiday, below you’ll find a description of the different dress codes we operate and upon which ship they apply. If you do forget to pack something, then don’t worry as our shops carry a wide range of leisurewear and formal clothing.

 

Daywear

Casual shirts, shorts, trousers and beachwear are ideal. For going ashore and walking on deck, flat comfortable shoes are a must. You will also need a lightweight jacket or coat for cool evenings and occasional showers. Don’t forget sun protection cream, a sun hat and sunglasses as the sun is much stronger at sea. Packing a spare pair of glasses and an ample supply of any medicines you are taking is also a good idea.

 

Formal

This is the opportunity for ladies to wear formal evening wear such as an evening dress, smart trouser suit or a cocktail dress. For men, a dinner jacket or tuxedo are the norm, otherwise a dark lounge/ business suit and tie or formal national dress is fine. (Applies to all ships.)

 

Semi-Formal

Ladies can wear anything from tailored trousers to smart separates or an elegant dress, while men are required to wear a smart shirt and trousers with a jacket such as a blazer or sports jacket. A suit and tie may be worn but is not compulsory. (From April 2009 Semi-Formal applies to Arcadia, Artemis, Aurora and Oriana only.)

 

Smart Casual

Stylish resort or leisurewear is ideal, for example casual separates or dresses for ladies and open-neck polo shirts and casual trousers (not shorts) for men. A jacket and smart trousers may be worn but are not compulsory. Smart dark denim may be worn however we request that the following items are not worn: sportswear, e.g. trainers, football shirts and tracksuits. Bring your brightest clothes for our Tropical evenings. (Applies to all ships.)

 

For a typical two week cruise:

Oceana and Ventura - From April 2009 there will normally be four Formal evenings and ten Smart Casual evenings. Arcadia, Aurora, Oriana and Artemis – there are normally four Formal evenings, four Semi-Formal evenings and six Smart Casual. However in extremely hot temperatures these dress codes may be relaxed. We will send you confirmation of the specific details of your cruise with your travel documents.

 

Children: The dress code is applicable to all passengers of 18 years and over and we request that on Formal or Semi-Formal evenings children wear, as a minimum, Smart Casual dress, however on these occasions dark denim is not permitted.

 

Please do not wear your swimsuit in the lounges, interior bars, restaurants or reception area. A shirt and suitable footwear is required while indoors and when using the buffets. In the evenings all restaurants and bars comply with the dress code of the evening.

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I hesitate to comment directly on what may or may not be appropriate ... but in general, many young women wear short cocktail or party dresses on formal or even semi-formal nights. A sundress or skirt and top are often good for smart casual.

 

You may also want to post on the P&O board here if you don't get many responses or if you want more details about the cruise itself.

 

Have fun planning!

[Ashley uk]

Thanks Janine for your reply and advise. It's most helpful.

 

Regards

Ashley

[Jane110]

Water Baby gave you some great advice. Like her, I've never been on P&O, but they're like most other large cruiselines.

 

There will be LOTS for you to do! Every evening you'll receive a calendar of events for the next day. Most of them will not need pre-signing up. You can go to the gym, take dance lessions, poolside activities, participate in sports, and I'm sure they'll have some activities for teenagers, such as some teen dances in the evenings. Also in the evenings there will be shows in the various lounges and showrooms (singing, dancing, Braodway show style reviews, comedians, magicians, etc).

 

You won't be bored!

 

The nice thing about cruising with the family is that you can split up for a few hours to enjoy different activities, and then reconnect at various times of the day to enjoy some activities together.

 

Enjoy!