River cruise dress code
Checked October 2026
Dress on a river cruise is comfortable with a touch of smart, according to AmaWaterways' guidance. It suggests something dressier for the Welcome and Farewell dinners. For Egypt it adds breathable fabrics and modest dress for temple visits. Dress notes differ by line and ship, so ask for the ones for your sailing.
This page draws on one line's dress guidance and one Nile seller's guide, read on 15 October 2026. Another line may ask for something different.
Is there a dress code?
Not a formal one, in AmaWaterways' guidance. Its FAQ describes dress on board as comfortable, with a touch of smart.
It suggests something dressier for the Welcome and Farewell dinners. So pack one outfit for those evenings. The rest of the week can stay easy.
What do you wear in the evenings on a river cruise?
Most evenings follow the same comfortable, touch-smart level. The Welcome and Farewell dinners are the two nights that ask for more. Ask the seller what dressier means on your ship.
What shoes do you need?
Walking shoes for excursions, and one dressier pair, says the line's first-time cruiser FAQ. It also suggests layers for changing climates. They help on days that start cool and warm up.
On hair tools, there's a hair dryer in every stateroom. Curling irons and straighteners are restricted. So leave them at home, or ask the line first.
What should you wear on a Nile cruise?
For Egypt, AmaWaterways' Egypt guidance advises:
- cotton or linen tops, in breathable fabrics
- a scarf or shawl
- clothing that does not bare legs and upper arms at religious sites
- shoes off for a mosque
- sunscreen of SPF 40 or higher
The tour operator Egypt Escapes' travel guide adds lightweight informal summer clothes for the boat. It also mentions an optional galabia party evening.
That is two sellers' guidance, not a rule. A scarf or shawl covers your shoulders at a religious site. Keep one to hand on excursion days.
What to confirm for your sailing
Dress notes change with the line, the ship and the trip. Ask these for yours:
- Is there a dressier evening, and which nights are they?
- What footwear do the excursions need?
- Are there rules on what you wear in the restaurant?
- Are there rules for temple or mosque visits on this itinerary?
Our travel team can confirm the dress notes for your line and ship. Use the form below to tell us which sailing you have in mind.