45 Best Dresses for Cruises: Chic Styles on a Budget

Looking for the best dresses for cruises that are both stylish and budget-friendly?

I’ve got the top 45 picks for you for all kinds of women’s cruise dresses, from casual sundresses to formal evening gowns.

As a former cruise crew member whose onboard uniform included dresses and a now frequent cruiser who doesn’t cruise without a few, I know what dresses you need for your next adventure at sea that won’t break the bank but also look great and pack well.

Oh, and bonus if they have pockets, am I right?

I’ve done all the research for you in this post to save you time, so if you’re ready to find out what the best women’s cruise dresses are, anchors away!

👗 Buy the best dresses for cruises here

Overall Best Dresses for Cruises

Best Casual Dress

Best Cocktail Dress

Best Formal Night Dress

Best Coverup Dress

Best Cruise Dresses for Women

As a former crew member and now frequent cruise guest, I’m a pro at packing minimally for an adventure at sea– especially when it comes to women’s clothing for cruises.

And I know how difficult it can be to want to bring EVERYTHING with you onboard!

With so many cruise dresses for women available, it can be hard to choose just one.

I’ve narrowed down some of the top rated dresses for all occasions on your next cruise, from casual sundresses and swim coverups to cocktail dresses and formal gowns.

Best Casual Dresses for Cruises

When going on a cruise, casual dresses are the easiest way to elevate your outfits.

You don’t have to think about matching a top and some bottoms together; you just put the frock on and you’re good to go!

Whether you’re enjoying a port day in Curacao or on a walking tour of Old San Juan, these laid back cruise dresses will have you looking stylish with zero effort.

1. Floral Spaghetti Strap Knee Length Sundress

This floral knee length sundress with spaghetti straps needs to be in every woman’s cruise wardrobe!

It has a v-neck wrap top with an elastic waist and comfy a-line silhouette– making it the perfect beach dress that isn’t too figure hugging.

Before you ask, yes it does have pockets ✅

👗 PURCHASE FLORAL SPAGHETTI STRAP KNEE LENGTH DRESS HERE

2. Summer Maxi Dress with Pockets

This summer maxi dress is the perfect staple for anyone who wants to stay cool in warm weather but keep their legs covered.

It has a fitted but loose silhouette with a round neck and elastic waist.

The cruise maxi dress comes with pockets and a full length, making you instantly look taller!

👗 PURCHASE SUMMER MAXI DRESS HERE

3. Casual Sleeveless Midi Swing Dress with Pockets

This sleeveless midi swing dress was made for cruising.

It has a flattering u-neckline with a gathered waist, two pockets, and chic button detailing.

Reviews rave about how soft, stretchy, and flowy this dress is.

Comfortable and stylish?

Count me in.

👗 PURCHASE SLEEVELESS MIDI SWING DRESS HERE

4. Boho Square Neck Maxi Dress

This boho square neck maxi dress is for my aesthetic cruise girlies.

It has an open back with elastic smock midsection and a lovely bow detail at the neckline.

The floral maxi sundress also comes with a tiered ruffle bottom hem for an extra feminine touch.

I like that the adjustable button straps are wider, making it perfect for those who need a little more support or prefer this over spaghetti straps.

👗 PURCHASE BOHO SQUARE NECK MAXI DRESS HERE

5. Sleeveless Maxi Sundress with Pockets

This sleeveless maxi sundress comes with pockets and versatility.

The side slits allow you to tie up the bottom or you can wear it casually full length.

This maxi dress is also ideal for traveling from a colder city to a warmer cruise port as you can layer it over tights for extra warmth without taking up much luggage space.

It comes in a variety of solid colors as well as boho prints, floral, and tie dye.

👗 PURCHASE SLEEVELESS MAXI SUNDRESS HERE

6. Floral Sleeveless Sundress with Pockets

This sleeveless floral sundress is perfect for exploring the many walking beaches in the Caribbean.

It hits just above the knee with a flowy silhouette and features a modest round neckline with pockets.

👗 PURCHASE FLORAL SLEEVELESS SUNDRESS HERE

7. Casual Belted Midi Sun Dress

This boho belted midi dress offers great coverage while still being light enough for warm cruise days.

It features a v-neck wrap style top with an elastic waist and belt to cinch your waist.

The dress also comes with a swing pleated hem and romantic flutter cap sleeves to protect your shoulders from the sun.

This midi dress can definitely be dressed up or down, and would work well especially if you’re going on a Mediterranean cruise.

👗 PURCHASE BOHO BELTED MIDI DRESS HERE

8. Strappy Beach Maxi Dress with Slit

This strappy beach maxi dress goes from day to night.

It has adjustable spaghetti straps with a deep v-neck and thigh high slit.

Paired with the right shoes and accessories, you could easily wear this flowy cruise dress on the beach and later to dinner in the main dining room.

👗 PURCHASE STRAPPY BEACH MAXI DRESS HERE

9. Tank Top Mini Dress

This tank top mini dress is everything you need in a casual dress for cruises.

It’s made from jersey like fabric which means you don’t have to worry about wrinkles.

The crew neck and tank top design keep this dress super casual but chic with the ruching and asymmetrical hem.

👗 PURCHASE TANK TOP MINI DRESS HERE

10. Flutter Sleeve Smocked Tiered Midi Dress

This flutter sleeve tiered midi dress is the modest summer dress of your dreams.

It features elastic smocked top and crew neck that comfortably sits on the high waist, flowing into a tiered skirt.

The short flutter sleeves add a playful touch, while the back keyhole closure offers an elegant finish, making it perfect for those sweltering hot days at sea.

👗 PURCHASE FLUTTER SLEEVE TIERED MIDI DRESS HERE

11. Short Sleeve Shift Dress

This short sleeve tunic shift dress is giving sophisticated chic.

With it’s short bell sleeves and above-the-knee cut, this dress is both playful yet elevated.

Transition seamlessly from day to night in this shift dress, becoming the envy of your friends back home as you stun in photos accompanied by catchy Instagram cruise quotes.

👗 PURCHASE TUNIC SHIFT DRESS HERE

12. Flutter Sleeve Mini Dress with Bow Tie

This casual swing mini dress features a charming bow tie v-neck and feminine short sleeves.

It offers a flattering loose fit that effortlessly drapes over the body, making it an excellent cruise dress for women looking to stylishly conceal any areas they’re self-conscious about.

👗 PURCHASE SWING MINI DRESS WITH BOW TIE HERE

13. Wrap Maxi Dress with Ruffle Hem

This wrap maxi dress knows no limits.

Wear it to afternoon tea, work, or out exploring a port.

For those looking for a little shoulder coverage, this is one of the best cruise dresses with sleeves.

This maxi features a flattering v-neck wrap, belted waist, and a playful asymmetrical ruffle hem with a flowy silhouette.

👗 PURCHASE WRAP MAXI DRESS HERE

14. Long Sleeve Tiered Tunic Dress

This long sleeve tiered tunic dress has a boho style with a loose swing shape that falls just above the knee.

It features tiered ruffles, a deep V neckline, and is made from lightweight fabric for comfort and easy movement.

👗 PURCHASE LONG SLEEVE TIERED TUNIC DRESS HERE

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Best Cocktail Dresses for Cruises

A cocktail dress is another staple in my cruise crew packing list as well as regular cruise wardrobe.

I always pack either an LBD (Little Black Dress) or a knee-length semi-formal dress as they’re perfect for evenings on the ship– even on formal nights, without bringing along a full-length gown.

15. Sleeveless Lace Sheath Cocktail Dress

This sleeveless lace sheath dress is the perfect cruise cocktail dress that’s simple yet elegant.

It features lace detailing along the neckline and bottom hem for an eye catching look.

👗 PURCHASE SLEEVELESS LACE SHEATH DRESS HERE

16. V-Neck Wrap Sheath Cocktail Dress

This V-neck wrap sheath dress has a slight ruched bodycon fit and a tulip hem with a middle slit.

The lightweight fabric and wrap style make it great for work events back home as well as evenings on a cruise.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only for a cruise, a little black dress is one of the most versatile pieces you can bring onboard.

👗 PURCHASE V-NECK WRAP SHEATH DRESS HERE

17. Vintage Style Cocktail Dress

This vintage tea-length cocktail dress is for fans of classic shapes and Audrey Hepburn.

It features cap sleeves and a bow at the waist, making it a stylish choice for any formal event.

This modest women’s cruise dress is great for anyone who wants a classy outfit with full coverage.

👗 PURCHASE VINTAGE STYLE COCKTAIL DRESS HERE

18. Lantern Sleeve Ruched Mini Dress

This lantern sleeve mini dress offers comfort and style.

With elastic cuffs and shoulders to keep the sleeves in place, it features a flattering square neckline and ruched details.

Ideal for a cocktail evening or clubbing, this cruise dress with sleeves is great for showing off your figure while still keeping your arms covered.

👗 PURCHASE LANTERN SLEEVE MINI DRESS HERE

19. One Shoulder Sequin Mini Dress

This one-shoulder sequin mini dress is perfect for holidays at sea.

It features an asymmetrical hem and a body-hugging fit to highlight your curves.

It’s also fully lined, which is always a plus.

👗 PURCHASE ONE SHOULDER SEQUIN MINI DRESS HERE

20. One Shoulder Ruched Bodycon Cocktail Dress

This one shoulder ruched bodycon cocktail dress is both classy and modest.

Hitting just below the knees, the dress hugs your curves in all the right places .

The ruching on this dress also helps camouflage shapewear lines underneath so you can feel confident and sexy in this cruise cocktail dress!

👗 PURCHASE ONE SHOULDER RUCHED COCKTAIL DRESS HERE

21. Off Shoulder Hi-Low Skater Dress

This off shoulder hi-low skater dress is simple yet chic.

It features a high-low hem (a blast from the past for us millennials!) that provides you with the right backside coverage while still showing off your legs.

With its off-the-shoulder neckline and flared silhouette, this dress is the perfect playful cocktail dress for cruises.

👗 PURCHASE OFF SHOULDER HI-LOW SKATER DRESS HERE

22. Satin Midi Slip Dress with Tie Front Detail

The satin midi slip dress is both elegant and sophisticated, perfect for dressing up on the ship or going out to dinner in port.

With adjustable straps and a unique open front tie knot, you can choose a modest or bold look.

The dress features side slits as well as a smock back for better fit.

👗 PURCHASE SATIN MIDI SLIP DRESS HERE

23. Mock Neck Satin Mini Dress

This satin mini dress with a mock neck and waist tie is perfect for a night out.

The silky fabric shines beautifully and grabs attention, making it ideal for cocktail hour out on deck or dancing all night.

The fitted silhouette highlights your waist and legs for a flattering look.

👗 PURCHASE MOCK NECK SATIN MINI DRESS HERE

24. Long Sleeve Velvet Wrap Mini Dress

This long-sleeved velvet wrap mini dress is another perfect cruise dress for women during the holidays.

It features a modern tulip hem and a belted waist that gives you an hourglass figure.

The full sleeves not only keep you warm but also help balance out all the legs you’re showing off to keep this outfit looking classy and chic.

👗 PURCHASE LONG SLEEVED VELVET MINI DRESS HERE

25. One Shoulder Batwing Summer Dress

This one-shoulder batwing cocktail dress is both stylish and comfortable.

The loose silhouette offers plenty of room to move, and the mini dress drapes nicely to flatter your shape.

It’s great if you want to hide your stomach, which, let’s be real, is all of us on a cruise after a trip to the buffet!

👗 PURCHASE ONE SHOULDER BATWING COCKTAIL DRESS HERE

26. Asymmetric Sequin Cape Cocktail Dress

This sequin cape sheath dress is for those looking for a more classic fit with modest top coverage.

While the bottom layer of the dress is simple, the top layer features an asymmetric sheer sequined poncho cape to jazz it up.

It’s a small but fun twist to a traditional cocktail dress, perfect for cruisers looking for a more mature style.

👗 PURCHASE SEQUIN CAPE SHEATH DRESS HERE

27. Plus Size Cape Sleeve Midi Dress

This sequin plus-size cape sleeve cocktail dress combines style and elegance with its sparkly finish.

A popular choice among the older and plus-size demographic, this dress offers a flattering silhouette while concealing the midsection.

The cape sleeves add a touch of glamour and flair to make you stand out in those cruise photos!

👗 PURCHASE PLUS SIZE CAPE COCKTAIL DRESS HERE

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Best Dresses for Cruise Formal Night

Finding the best dresses for cruise formal night might seem challenging, but it can be simple if you know what to look for.

I noticed this particular part of wardrobe planning was the most difficult for guests when I was working on cruise ships.

Because I also had to bring a few formal gowns onboard for each contract as a crew member, I was able to get it down to a science.

28. Convertible Infinity Wrap Dress

A convertible infinity dress is always my go-to recommendation for cruise formal gowns for a couple of reasons.

First, jersey fabric doesn’t wrinkle as easily as other fabrics.

Second, they pack down well, making it much easier to travel with.

Third, they’re super stretchy and comfortable; you basically feel like you’re wearing pajamas.

And lastly, infinity dresses can be worn in dozens of ways depending on how you style it, so you can always switch it up especially if you’re on a longer cruise and want to wear this a few times.

This convertible dress can be worn in 72 ways, including short sleeved, one shoulder, halter, and so much more.

It’s one of the best long evening dresses for cruises.

👗 PURCHASE CONVERTIBLE INFINITY DRESS HERE

29. Mermaid Evening Gown

A mermaid evening gown is another favorite among both guests and crew members who get a job on cruise ships.

The high neck is both stylish and modest while the asymmetrical ruffled hem with slit shows off your legs in style.

The dress also features a wrap waist, improving the look of an hourglass figure.

👗 PURCHASE MERMAID EVENING GOWN HERE

30. Cowl Neck Sleeveless Mermaid Dress

This cowl neck floor-length dress features a sleek mermaid cut that elongates your figure and pairs well with heels.

With a deep V back and cowl neck, it’s sophisticated yet simple.

There’s also a hidden zipper to keep the look seamless.

👗 PURCHASE COWL NECK MERMAID GOWN HERE

31. Ruched Off Shoulder Midi Dress

This off-the-shoulder ruched midi dress combines style and functionality.

The fitted silhouette, enhanced by the flattering draping of fabric across the top, accentuates curves while showcasing the shoulders and collarbone elegantly.

There’s also an anti-slip strip on the bust, ensuring a secure fit free from any wardrobe malfunctions.

It’s a classy yet practical midi dress for cruises.

👗 PURCHASE OFF SHOULDER RUCHED MIDI DRESS HERE

32. Sleeveless Off Shoulder Evening Dress

This off-shoulder formal gown is sophisticated and stylish, with a high neck and sleeveless design that fits snugly at the waist, highlighting your shape.

The V-shaped back adds a touch of charm, and the flared bottom makes it perfect for elegant evenings onboard.

👗 PURCHASE OFF SHOULDER EVENING DRESS HERE

33. One Shoulder Satin Gown with High Slit

This one-shoulder satin gown is a showstopper.

Featuring a thigh-high slit and bodycon silhouette, this dress highlights all of your best curves.

The shoulder is a thick strap in front and then splits into two adjustable spaghetti straps in the back for a sexy look perfect for cocktail hour on a yacht in Europe.

👗 PURCHASE ONE SHOULDER SATIN DRESS HERE

34. Satin Dress with Back Cut Out

This satin tube top maxi dress is simple yet elegant, with a backless design that stands out.

Its ankle-length cut and low back provide a chic feminine look for any formal cruise event.

The dress features a silicone strip at the bust for security and an invisible side zip for comfort and style.

👗 PURCHASE BACKLESS SATIN MAXI DRESS HERE

35. Velvet Maxi Dress with Bell Sleeves

This velvet maxi dress is a happy medium between not being too exposed but still wanting a little peekaboo moment.

The velvet and bell sleeves add a subtle flair and drama to this classic v-neck cut.

The wrap design ties at the waist, giving a flattering fit that flows into a full-length skirt.

👗 PURCHASE VELVET MAXI DRESS WITH BELL SLEEVES HERE

36. V-Neck Formal Gown with Deep Slit

This sleeveless cruise dress is a classic silhouette perfect for any formal night onboard.

The dress features a deep V-neck and a high side slit for an Angelina leg moment.

The gown is fitted through the midsection to accentuate your shape with a back zipper for ease when getting dressed.

👗 PURCHASE FORMAL GOWN WITH DEEP SLIT HERE

37. Velvet Halterneck Midi Dress

This halterneck sleeveless dress is stylish and elegant, with a unique cowl neck back for a sophisticated touch.

The velvet wrap design fits perfectly, highlighting your figure and the asymmetrical hem adds a modern twist.

It’s a great choice for any evening event, whether you’re getting dolled up for photos or checking out a show in the Royal Theater on the Symphony of the Seas.

👗 PURCHASE HALTERNECK MIDI DRESS HERE

38. One Shoulder Long Sleeve Formal Dress

This one-shoulder long-sleeve dress combines style and sophistication with a ruched waist and full-length design that highlights your figure.

The asymmetrical hem gives it a contemporary edge, and the thigh-high slit adds interest to the look while balancing out the sleeved arm.

It’s the perfect women’s cruise dress for special evenings like a dinner at Wonderland on Royal Caribbean ships.

👗 PURCHASE ONE SHOULDER LONG SLEEVE DRESS HERE

39. Plus Size Puff Sleeve Sequin Evening Gown

This plus size off-shoulder sequin dress will turn you into the belle of the ball.

The sweetheart neckline adds a romantic touch, and the ruched detailing with a cinched waist makes it flattering and comfortable.

Its floor-length design along with puff sleeves and sparkling sequins adds drama to this dress in all the right places.

👗 PURCHASE PLUS SIZE SEQUIN GOWN HERE

40. Sequin Maxi Gown with Spaghetti Straps

This sequin maxi gown is the perfect cruise formal dress for New Year’s Eve.

With a deep V-neck and low back, it’s giving sexyback while still looking chic.

The spaghetti straps are also adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit.

👗 PURCHASE SEQUIN MAXI GOWN HERE

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Best Coverup Cruise Dresses from Amazon

No roundup of the best cruise dresses from Amazon would be complete without a few swim coverups.

These beachy dresses allow you to quickly cover up without worrying about still being wet from the pool.

You can wear these when you’re heading back to your room from a day of activities on deck or in port while still looking stylish and not getting your regular cruise clothing soaked.

41. Crochet Flared Sleeve Beach Dress

This crochet beach dress with flared sleeves is the perfect piece to wear over your cruise swimsuit.

It features a loose round neck so that it’s easy to put on after getting out of the water.

The mini dress length, flared sleeves, and scalloped hem add feminine touches to the tunic shape so that the dress is still flattering for everyone.

👗 PURCHASE CROCHET FLARED SLEEVE BEACH DRESS HERE

42. Oversized Tunic Swimsuit Cover Up

This oversized tunic swimsuit cover-up was made for beach days.

It has a deep V-neck making it easy to put on and take off, a side split, and an asymmetrical hem that’s shorter in the front and longer in the back for a relaxed look.

The roll-up cuffed sleeves add a casual touch, making it a must-have for any cruise to tropical destinations.

👗 PURCHASE OVERSIZED TUNIC COVER UP HERE

43. Crochet Mini Dress Cover Up

This crochet mini dress cover up is super cute and perfect for beach parties or catamaran tours out to sandbars.

It has short sleeves to protect your shoulders from the sun along with button detailing on the neckline for a feminine touch.

The dress gathers at the waist to give you both shape and style when you rock this boho cover up.

👗 PURCHASE CROCHET MINI DRESS COVER UP HERE

44. Short Sleeve Button Down Beach Dress

This stylish short-sleeved button-down beach dress strikes the perfect balance between comfort and chic.

With its side split design, it offers a breezy, effortless look that’s ideal for strolling along the shore or lounging at a seaside café.

Its long, cardigan-like silhouette makes it an incredibly versatile piece for any cruise wardrobe, easily transitioning from port exploring to a beach party.

👗 PURCHASE SHORT SLEEVE BUTTON DOWN BEACH DRESS HERE

45. Tie Dye Kimono

This tie-dye kimono cover-up is the perfect blend of boho style and comfort.

Its one-size, flowy design fits everyone, while the vibrant pattern brings some fun to your beach or pool outfit.

It’s a great pick for anyone looking to make a stylish statement while staying comfortable in the sun.

👗 PURCHASE TIE DYE KIMONO HERE

Tips for Packing Women’s Dresses for Cruises

As a former crew member and carry-on only traveler, here are my top tips for packing women’s dresses for cruises.

Choose Wrinkle-Free Fabrics

Choosing fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily makes cruising with dresses a hundred times easier.

My go-to is jersey fabric, and a bonus is it’s so comfortable it feels like you’re wearing pajamas!

When I worked on ships, my formal gown was a jersey maxi dress with a beaded halter– and I never had to press it once.

Roll, Don’t Fold

This is a common packing hack many minimalist travelers swear by.

While not all clothing rolls well, it’s worth a try for your dresses since they might take up more space when folded.

I found that rolling my summer dresses in particular was more effective than folding.

Request Laundering Services Early

If you do need to have your cruise dresses pressed, make sure you send them in as soon as you get onboard as the laundering turnaround time can take a couple of days.

Keep in mind that many cruises have a formal night on Day 2, so there’s a chance your dress may not be ready by this evening.

Cruise Essentials

Whether you’re cruising for the first time or looking for gifts for cruise lovers, don’t forget these essentials:

Compression Packing Cubes

Compression packing cubes keep your luggage organized and compressed to save you space.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

A hanging toiletry bag is definitely needed for those small stateroom bathrooms when counter space is limited.

Travel Jewelry Organizer

A travel jewelry organizer lets you bring your favorite jewelry without worrying about them getting tangled or lost in your bags.

Charging Bank

A charging bank ensures that your phone is always ready to capture your most memorable moments at sea.

Foldable Tote

A foldable tote takes up almost zero space to bring, but expands to carry souvenirs or wet clothes from the beach back to the ship easily.

All-In-One Makeup Palette

An all-in-one makeup palette is my favorite way to look your best for formal night without worrying about bringing a full makeup kit onboard.

Travel Size Perfume

Travel size perfume keeps you smelling fresh within the TSA carry-on liquid allotment.

Towel Bands

Towel bands keep your towels from flying away at beaches or on the tanning deck.

Waterproof Phone Case

A waterproof phone case ensures your phone stays dry and sand-free.

FAQ: Women’s Cruise Dresses

Do you need nice clothes for a cruise?

For most cruise lines, you don’t need nice clothes for a cruise if you don’t want to dress up.

Most family and budget cruise lines have suggested evening attire themes but they are not required to enjoy the shows or meals in the main dining room.

You can always eat at the buffet as well which is very casual and where you’ll see cruisers who prefer their shorts and tees dining at.

Do note though that shorts and casual tank tops might not be allowed for some cruise ships’ main dining room and specialty restaurants.

What is appropriate to wear to dinner on a cruise?

For women’s cruise dinner attire, basically anything that’s not swimwear is acceptable.

Clothing may also depend on the night’s theme, cruise line, and if you care to get dressed up.

Here are some women’s dinner cruise outfit ideas:

Casual

• Summer dress
• Linen shorts or slacks
• Jeans
• Midi skirt
• T-shirt
• Linen shirt

Smart Casual/Cocktail

• Smart slacks
• Silk slip dress
• Cocktail dress
• Blouse

What color to wear on a cruise?

The world is your oyster!

If you’re cruising to tropical destinations, don’t be afraid to break out your bright dresses.

After all, there probably aren’t a whole lot of occasions you can wear that highlighter orange dress to– so why not on your cruise?

White, black, and navy are also classics if you want to stick to a tried and true cruise palette.

Final Thoughts: Best Amazon Dresses for Cruises

Finding the best Amazon dresses for cruises doesn’t have to be difficult, you just have to know what to look for.

I hope these suggestions of the top cruise dresses for women help you out and look your best on your next vacation at sea!

👗 Buy the best dresses for cruises here

Read More of My Best Cruise Tips

• Women’s Clothing for Cruises: Simple and Affordable Outfit Ideas
• How to Pack for a 7-Day Caribbean Cruise in a Carry On
• 25+ Best Swimsuits for Cruises to Look Your Best
• 115+ Best Gifts for Cruise Lovers: Practical Ideas from a Crew Member
• 220+ Best Cruise Quotes for Instagram to Level Up Your Feed
• What Working on Cruise Ships is Really Like: Pros & Cons

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