Cruises bring together people from all walks of life, and with that comes a fascinating variety of fashion choices. Some of which aren’t what you might call typical…
I asked my Facebook followers to share the most unusual things they’d seen someone wear on a cruise, and the responses didn’t disappoint.
From the quirky to the downright bizarre, here are some highlights.
1. The dressing gown formality
One responder recalled a man dressed in a white towelling dressing gown during White Night, an evening typically known for its elegance and flair.
While others were decked out in their finest white ensembles, this gentleman seemed more ready for a lazy spa day than a glamorous soirée. Casual chic? Maybe. Appropriate? Debatable – but it was definitely memorable!
Suggested read: 6 Places You Can Wear A Bathrobe On A Cruise (And 4 You Can’t)
It’s always a good idea to check your cruise line’s website, app or even forums to find out what kind of themed nights you might get to experience on your cruise.
That way, you won’t have to resort to more unusual choices such as this just to feel like you’re fitting in!
2. The 17-day wetsuit
Imagine spotting someone in a black wetsuit – not just at the pool, but for the entire duration of a 17-day cruise.
This observer admitted they couldn’t believe their eyes.
Perhaps the person was preparing for a sudden snorkelling emergency or just found it unusually comfortable.
Whatever the reason, it left a lasting impression on their fellow passengers.
3. Proud in a Scottish Kilt
During formal night, one observer noticed a man sporting a traditional Scottish kilt.
While it initially stood out as unexpected, the look quickly earned admiration for its style and cultural pride.
Others chimed in, noting how kilts are often a show of great pride at events like Scottish weddings.
It was a reminder that “unusual” can also be classy and deeply meaningful. It doesn’t have to mean something negative!
4. The Neon Lime Green Showstopper
This responder described a woman in a neon lime green, cut-out jumpsuit that left little to the imagination.
Adding to the spectacle was the fact that it was as tight as could be.
Another observer mentioned spotting a similar outfit, but in neon pink and without a bra.
Subtle? No. Conversation-starting? Absolutely.
5. The Blow-Up Doll Companion
One passenger reported seeing a woman who carried a blow-up doll everywhere she went for the entire week-long cruise.
Whether it was a joke, a statement, or just a quirky travel companion, it certainly got people talking.
As one commenter put it, “It was definitely a conversation starter!”
Typically inflatables aren’t allowed on cruise ships but maybe this one got past security by being inflated and dressed!
6. Shirtless at the buffet
While enjoying a meal at the buffet, one observer noticed a trend they couldn’t unsee: men wandering around shirtless.
While it’s not unusual poolside, seeing someone grab their food bare-chested in a dining area struck them as more than a little inappropriate.
Sure, it’s a holiday, but maybe throw on a T-shirt before piling your plate high?
7. The Richard Branson wannabe
One responder couldn’t help but notice a man who dressed entirely in white for the entire cruise, seemingly emulating billionaire Richard Branson.
I mean, I’m not sure there’s anything wrong with looking like Richard Branson. Richard’s pretty cool, right?
Maybe it wasn’t the outfit so much as the overly intense vibes it gave off? Instead of classy and effortless, it ended up being more “sad and creepy,” according to the observer.
Now this one’s definitely subjective and maybe they just liked white a lot? As long as you dress appropriately then I think this one’s fine, but I agree it’s unusual to wear just one colour throughout your cruise.
8. Barefoot in the Dining Room
Another passenger shared their disbelief at seeing a man dining barefoot in the ship’s formal restaurant.
Apparently, he subscribed to a “no-shoe” lifestyle and even accessorised with foot jewellery in the evenings.
While going barefoot may feel freeing, many agreed it’s better suited to the beach than the main dining room.
And I don’t think this one’s subjective either. You should always have footwear on when walking around a ship. Even just for your own safety – sometimes, people may drop and break a glass!
9. Sundresses that leave nothing to the imagination…
Sundresses are a popular option on cruises. And apparently not just for ladies – some gents like to wear them too.
The problem is if you pair them with, well, nothing.
Hanging out on a cruise deck is fine, but ‘hanging out’ is not fine. You need to make sure you’re always covered, and so if you want to wear something short then you absolutely must make sure you’ve got something suitable on underneath.
The only time it’s OK to let your privates become public is if you book a nude cruise.
10. The dancing T-Rex
At 1 a.m., one observer was treated to the sight of someone dancing their heart out in a full T-Rex costume.
The image of a prehistoric creature busting moves on the dance floor is one that likely stayed with them long after the cruise ended.
Sometimes, it’s all about embracing the fun.
And while again, I think these costumes would normally be banned, you can grab one here if you want to try your luck and copy this passenger:
11. It’s-a him, Mario
A man in a full Super Mario costume, complete with cap and moustache, was spotted wandering the ship.
The sight was made even stranger by the fact that his wife was dressed completely normally.
Whether it was a themed night or just his everyday attire, this outfit definitely had heads turning.
Also I’m making the assumption that this person was referring to the Nintendo character, rather than Mario Salcedo, an American businessman who has become somewhat of a cruise celebrity due to the fact he essentially lives on cruise ships, and has done for around 20 years or so.
Though maybe someone did dress up as ‘Super Mario’ the cruiser?
12. Fur boots with a bikini
One observer described someone on the Lido deck wearing knee-high fur boots paired with a bikini.
It was June, the sun was shining, and yet this passenger clearly felt the need for furry footwear.
Fashion? Maybe. Not sure it’s the most practical choice, but you do you.
13. Rocking the PJs… all day
From the daring to the downright cosy, another responder shared their shock at seeing someone who spent the entire cruise in pyjamas covered in a cruise ship print.
Whether these choices were about comfort, confidence, or something else entirely, they were certainly unforgettable.
I’ve heard some people argue that they should be allowed to wear PJs for breakfast on a cruise, but it certainly splits opinion.
Personally, if you’re under the age of seven then it’s probably okay.
But I don’t think most cruisers would find it appropriate at all past breakfast time!
14. The Speedo Formal
One brave soul wore a Speedo to formal night, leaving little to the imagination. They even admitted to it themselves.
While most passengers opted for suits, tuxedos, and dresses, this gentleman decided that less was more. It’s safe to say he stood out.
Speedos are definitely a controversial topic when it comes to cruise attire:
A lot of stereotyping here, but what do you think? Are Europeans generally more comfortable wearing speedos regardless of their body size?
Is it an issue or should people be allowed to wear what they like?
15. Flip-Flops in Iceland
On an excursion in Iceland, where the weather is famously chilly, one passenger spotted someone wearing flip-flops.
While the rest of the group bundled up for the cold, this individual seemed determined to keep their toes out.
It might not have been the warmest choice, or one that was even remotely sensible for a walking excursion in a country where terrain can often be rugged, but it’s certainly one to remember.
More suggestions
Here are some of the other unusual items of clothing that cropped up in the comments:
- Football (soccer) shirts – are these unusual? Maybe it’s just embarrassing because of the team
- Underwear… in the pool. Put on some actual swimwear
- Woollen swimwear. I can’t imagine that worked well after a dip
- Mankinis (this got several mentions!)
- Actual heavy-duty farming clothing
- Pasties only
- Vests and cargo short combos in the dining areas
And of course, we can’t not mention this… P&O Cruises Australia Passengers Shocked by Staff Costumes Resembling KKK Attire. Yikes!
Final word
Cruises are always an adventure, and it’s not just the destinations that make them interesting – people bring their own unique flair to the experience.
These fashion choices, while unusual, are a reminder of the joy of individuality. In most cases. Some are a little gross.
Have you ever witnessed or worn something unforgettable on a cruise? Share your stories in the comments!
Related posts
- The Best Cruise Dresses for Formal Night
- The Do’s and Don’ts of Topless Sunbathing on Cruise Ships
- The Most Shocking Tales of Rudeness on Cruise Ships
- 9 Things You Should Never Wear On A Cruise
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
