How To Find Out Cruise Theme Nights Before You Sail

The Easiest Ways To Find Out Cruise Theme Nights

Fortunately, there are a few options to discover the theme nights on Royal Caribbean that you can look forward to on your upcoming cruise. Here are the three best ways to explore (and plan ahead) for festive nights at sea.

Royal Caribbean App (Daily Planner)

The Royal Caribbean App is the top choice for cruise experts when it comes to learning about theme nights specific to your sailing. Finding theme nights on the Royal Caribbean app is simple: through the daily planner. It provides guests with a quick glance at each day’s activities, including the events that take place at night, when the themed activities kick off. If you’re keen on being prepared when packing, getting familiar with what’s happening each day via the app is the best way to go.

Cruise Compass On Board

Once on board, the Cruise Compass — a daily newsletter of the coming day’s activities — is a helpful resource to see everything happening both on and off the ship. Reviewing the Cruise Compass is a solid option if you don’t have time to plan ahead. Passengers can always find the latest copy in their stateroom; however, on select ships, it will also be loaded onto the Royal Caribbean App.

The Royal Caribbean Theme Nights Page

While the theme nights page on the Royal Caribbean website doesn’t share specific theme nights, as they vary by ship and itinerary, it’s worth checking out to get a feel for the good times ahead.

When Are Theme Nights Announced?

For future cruisers wondering when they can find out theme nights on Royal Caribbean, be mindful that final itineraries are typically announced close to the sailing date. Guests can usually access all the necessary details a week or two before departure, just in time for packing preparations. Since finalized itineraries happen within a few weeks of sailing, it’s recommended that you download the Royal Caribbean App and check it regularly, not only for theme night information but also for other activities like shore excursions and saving your spot at popular shows onboard.

Common Royal Caribbean Theme Nights You Can Expect

While theme nights aren’t part of every Royal Caribbean itinerary, the vacation brand typically rotates through a few popular themes that you likely already have something for in your closet. It’s also worth noting that while you don’t have to participate in theme nights, it does make the experience more enjoyable when you get in on the fun.

White Night

During my recent sailing on the Star of the Seas℠, guests sported their best all-white attire, which was fitting for a summer sailing in the Caribbean. Think white linen suits and matching sets, resort-style dresses or your most comfortable casual attire. There’s no wrong way to approach this theme, as long as your look follows the white night vibes.

Decades Parties

Nostalgia is the name of the game on decades' nights. Decade-themed parties are your chance to sport your best rendition of bygone eras, from the casual glamour of the 50s to the bold, bright colors of the 80s. On my cruise, our decades’ night tapped into the 90s (because who doesn’t miss the 90s?), characterized by baggy denim, sportswear, bandanas and graphic tees. The best part is the entertainment to match, which, in our case, involved reliving simpler times while doing the Macarena and belting out lyrics from the Backstreet Boys.

Caribbean or Island Night

Channel the tropics with laid-back looks, bright colors or floral prints on Caribbean theme nights. Caribbean theme nights aren’t particularly formal; opt for matching sets and tops or dresses that flow in the island breeze. It’s a way to pay homage to the colors, cultures and rhythms of the Caribbean region, where communities are as warm as the day is long.

Formal Night

Formal nights are all about donning your best outfit, with some guests going as far as gowns and tuxedos. While you don’t have to dress like you’re heading to a ball, no one will judge you if you do. Formal nights are also a great time to capture those coveted cruise ship portraits that ooze “you should be here.”

Other Examples

Royal Caribbean is always creating new ways to keep the surprise element alive for guests. While regular cruisers have come to expect the aforementioned themes on their cruise, it’s possible that new themes can enter the lineup at any time (which is why the app is so helpful). Additional themes the cruise line has offered in the past include Country Westerns, Masquerade Balls and Toga Parties.

How To Prepare And Pack For Cruise Theme Nights

Preparing for cruise theme nights can feel a bit overwhelming, but the goal is to have fun, so don’t feel pressured to keep up with the Joneses. Check the Royal Caribbean App before packing, so you’ll know what to expect once on board.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to have options, so pack wisely — the rolling method is always helpful for fitting everything in your luggage. Packing cubes and compression bags can also help you save space, giving you numerous options. Consider packing a variety of things — casual wear, versatile pieces and more elevated, formal looks.

In addition to clothing, don’t forget about the accessories, which can often take your look to the next level. Props, within reason, are also allowed, and they often make guests the talk of the town for going all out with their look.

Ready To Join The Fun?

Consider Royal Caribbean theme nights an opportunity to unwind and embrace your vacation persona. The only thing standing between you and timeless vacation memories is a confirmed booking on a future cruise. See you on board!