Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line Downgrades Dress Code

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises, known for delivering ultra-luxury cruising experiences, is introducing a significant update to its evening dress code policy across its fleet.

Seven Seas Splendor

Beginning 1st August 2025, the line will allow guests to wear refined denim and dress sneakers in all public areas, including restaurants, after 6 pm – a departure from the previously stricter interpretation of “Elegant Casual.”

This policy shift is intended to reflect modern guest preferences while retaining the sophisticated tone that defines Regent’s onboard atmosphere.

“This adjustment reflects evolving guest preferences while maintaining the elevated atmosphere aboard our ships,” the cruise line explained in an official statement.

What’s Now Permitted Under “Elegant Casual”

Previously, Regent’s evening dress code prohibited jeans and any form of athletic footwear. But now, refined denim and dress sneakers will be allowed under the following conditions:

  • Refined denim must be free of rips, fraying, or distressing and styled in a polished, dressy manner
  • Dress sneakers must be clean, polished, and in neutral or classic tones

This brings Regent’s policies more in line with modern interpretations of smart casual attire seen in luxury hospitality spaces on land.

Couple on a Regent Seven Seas cruise

Where the Dress Code Applies – and Where It Doesn’t

The new guidelines apply to all public venues, including main dining rooms and lounges. As before, Pool Grill and Pool Bar areas remain casual throughout the day and evening.

Formal optional nights – which are offered on voyages of 16 nights or longer – will remain unchanged.

These nights encourage cocktail attire or black-tie ensembles, including floor-length gowns and tuxedos.

Mixed Reaction From Loyal Guests

While some long-time Regent cruisers have welcomed the added flexibility, others have voiced concern that the change could diminish the refined onboard ambience.

"Refined Denim. Really. Talk about putting lipstick on a pig! What's next? Hemp, burlap, straw and jute. Why stop at sneakers. Lets get the sandal crowd on board as well. Bermuda shorts. Why not."

A common theme among critics is the fear that their personal effort to dress elegantly may now stand out in contrast to more relaxed interpretations of the dress code.

However, Regent sought to reassure passengers that dressing up remains entirely welcome:

“Guests who enjoy dressing up for dinner are always welcome to do so – formal wear remains a welcomed choice onboard,” the cruise line said.

Some also acknowledged that the move is likely aimed at attracting younger travellers who may value luxury experiences but seek a more relaxed approach to evening attire.

"While I most certainly don’t enjoy wearing a tie and jacket at dinner, I feel like I enjoy wearing khakis and a nice collared shirt. But unfortunately I understand why Regent is making this change.Although I personally don’t like seeing people wearing jeans and sneakers, the younger people are different and need to feel like they are welcome. I know people say I shouldn’t be bothered by what other people wear but it does bother me even though I know why Regent made the change. I’ll have to live with it."

On the other hand, many applauded the change, noting that once seated at dinner, most guests aren’t fixated on what others are wearing.

A Shift Seen Across the Cruise Industry

Regent Seven Seas is not the first luxury line to soften its dress code policies.

In recent years, many upscale cruise brands – including Oceania Cruises and Viking – have gradually moved away from rigid attire rules, aligning more with luxury hotel standards than traditional cruise formalities.

The change reflects a broader shift in the luxury travel market, where experience and comfort are being increasingly prioritised alongside traditional elegance.

Whether you opt for evening gowns and dinner jackets, or polished denim and sleek sneakers, Regent Seven Seas maintains its promise of unparalleled service and sophisticated cruising – no matter your outfit.

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1 thought on “Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line Downgrades Dress Code”

  1. Robert

    For relaxed dress code, read slopy, I once cruised with Azamara and some American passengers wore the same clothes for most of the 10 days, the body odour did not seem to upset them, but it did us 😉

    Reply

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