Are you setting sail soon and wondering what to wear on a cruise to the Bahamas? First of all, I am completely jealous! A cruise vacation to the Bahamas is always a good idea! Average temperatures range from 70 to 85 degrees with light evening winds. Whether it is your first cruise or your fifth, I hope you have the best time! Keep reading to find out my complete Bahamas cruise packing list.
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What is the dress code for the Bahamas?
There is no specific dress code for the Bahamas. Check with your particular cruise lines for any specific formal themes or formal night opportunities. Whether it is a Carnival cruise, Royal Caribbean cruises, Disney Cruise Line, or another, you may have a need for costumes or formal attire.
One great idea is to join a social media group to know more about your cruise (besides booking with a travel agent). I often search Facebook with the name of my specific cruise ship and sailing date. Join the group and ask your questions.
This is an especially great idea for first time cruisers. Often, veteran cruisers will know the latest info. You can ask about cruise attire, formal evenings, land excursions, your cruise cabin, and water activities. We always find these groups to be a great help and a nice way to meet other cruisers.
What shoes should I wear on a cruise to the Bahamas?
Consider your activities when choosing the best shoes for your Bahamas cruise outfits. Consider your shore excursions and pack waterproof, comfortable walking shoes. Chances are good that your shoes will get wet and sandy, particularly if you travel during the rainy season. I like to pack footwear from Keen, Chaco, or Teva for port days. They are perfect for any beach excursion and cruise casual outfits.
Keen’s Whisper Sandals
Chaco’s Women Sandals
Teva Women’s Sandals
A good pair of flip-flops or water shoes are always a good option. Throw them on for the pool or beach days. These are also easy to throw into your carry-on bag. You can put them on with your bathing suit and head to the pool on your deportation day before your suitcases arrive in your stateroom. If you plan outdoor activities in a place like Lucayan National Park, be sure to wear shoes that are waterproof and comfortable.
Columbia Sport Sandal
Columbia Water Shoes
If you plan to run or work out on the ship, be sure to pack athletic shoes and socks. Include some dress shoes to match your cocktail dresses and dress pants. I also like some simple sandals to go with casual sundresses. Leave uncomfortable shoes at home
Shoes to Pack for a Bahamas Cruise
- comfortable walking shoes
- waterproof sandals
- flip flops
- dress shoes
- athletic shoes
What is the weather like in the Bahamas?
Bahamas weather is lovely throughout most of the months of the year. There are over 300 sunny days per year, so you will not need the winter jacket you may need for an Alaska cruise. The average temperature is between 80 and 85 degrees during the summer months and between 70 to 78 degrees in the winter months. If you love warm weather, the Bahamas are the place for you!
Be sure to check the weather forecast before planning a Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, or Western Caribbean cruise. The wet season runs from June to November, so plan to pack a light rain jacket, in case of unpredictable weather.
What do men wear on a cruise to the Bahamas?
Men can use cruise casual wear on a cruise to the Bahamas. You will be spending lots of time in the sun, so pack shirts with short sleeves and shorts. Include a swimsuit and flip flops for the pool. If you are dressing for the main dining room, include polo shirts, long pants, and formal wear (if you desire.)
Be sure to also include a hat and sunglasses, especially for port days. Warm temperatures dictate cool clothing with natural fabrics so pack accordingly.
Men’s Clothing List for a Bahamas Cruise
- shorts
- short-sleeved shirts
- flip flops
- swimsuit
- athletic wear
- polo shirts
- long pants
- formal wear
- athletic shoes
- dress shoes
- hat
- sunglasses
What should women wear on a cruise to the Bahamas?
Think cruise casual for women in the Caribbean islands as well! For a 4-5 day Bahamas cruise, I like to pack 2-3 bathing suits with coverups and flip flops for days by the pool. Include 3-4 pairs of neutral shorts with coordinating casual shirts or tank tops. My cruise clothing also includes 2-3 dresses for casual nights with a light jacket or sweater for indoor dining with air conditioning. You will want plenty of comfortable clothing on your cruise.
I also pack 2-3 nice dresses for semi-formal and formal dinners, along with coordinating shoes. If you are a first time cruiser, be sure to check for any themed nights. For instance, on Disney Cruise Line, there is typically a pirate night. So, I throw in a bandana and eye patch for each member of our family!
Remember a sun hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to visit any historical sites, check with tour guides about any specific clothing restrictions. This is more common in Europe, but it is always good to check beforehand.
Women’s Clothing List for a Bahamas Cruise
- shorts
- short-sleeved shirts or tank tops
- swimsuits
- cover-ups
- flip flops
- sandals
- tennis shoes
- athletic wear
- formal dresses
- casual dresses
- formal shoes
- hat
- sunglasses
- light jacket
How strict are cruise dress codes?
Check with your travel agent or your specific cruise line for dress code rules. In general, cruises from the United States tend to be quite casual, but some dining options will require long pants, jackets, or dress wear.
The best option is to read through your cruise line’s website before you travel to be fully prepared. A cruise can be the perfect time to get dressed up and make some memories with your loved ones!
How much money should you take on a Bahamas cruise?
If you are planning to explore the Bahamas, it is a good idea to take some bills for tipping. Your credit card will most likely work in most locations, but it is wise to have small bills available for taxis, tour guides, and small shops.
Is tipping customary in the Bahamas?
Tipping is customary in the Bahamas and expected. Be sure to show your appreciation for taxi drivers, restaurant staff, tour guides, and others that help make your vacation special.
What do you wear on a cruise to dinner?
We typically dress in cruise casual for most dining. For women, that includes a casual dress or pants with a blouse. For men, it is typically a polo shirt with long pants or nice shorts. Try to avoid swimwear and flip flops in the dining rooms.
More formal restaurants may require a jacket and tie for men and a dress or suit for women. Be sure to check the dress code before making reservations.
How many suitcases do you take on a cruise?
We typically pack 2 suitcases per person at maximum for our cruise. Remember, cruise cabins are small and you need to maximize your space. Consider using packing cubes to stay organized, along with laundry bags and magnetic hooks for your lanyards and towels.
It may take a long time on your first day to receive your suitcases at your cabin, so be sure to pack a day bag to have with you those first few hours.
What should I pack in my day bag?
Pack a day bag or tote bag for your first few hours on the cruise. These are also helpful to have on your port days. I keep mine packed with a change of clothes, my credit card and ID, a waterproof phone case, a refillable water bottle, motion sickness and essential medications, a cell phone, a cell phone portable charger, and a good book.
It’s also great to have lip balm, sunscreen, and bug spray packed for your time outside during your Bahamas getaway. Be sure to keep your travel documents with you and educate yourself on what type of identification you will need for your cruise.
Day Bag Essentials
- change of clothes
- swimsuit and flip flops
- sunscreen
- credit card
- ID
- travel documents
- lip balm
- sunscreen
- bug spray
- waterproof phone case
- water bottle
- medications
- cell phone
- cell phone portable charger
- book or magazine
- snacks, gum
- portable first aid kit
What medications should I pack for my cruise to the Bahamas?
Be sure to pack any essential prescription medications for your cruise. I also include pain relievers, upset stomach medications, Band-Aids, Bonine, motion sickness bands, ginger candies, and sinus pain relief. Every cruise line will have first aid and medical care onboard. I also highly encourage clients to purchase travel insurance, just in case you or someone in your party needs emergency care.
I hope you enjoy your cruise to the Bahamas! It is such a lovely destination and a cruise is a fabulous way to relax with your family and friends. Keep reading for more great travel and family articles and be sure to sign up for my free packing newsletter.
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