What should I wear on embarkation day? Since you most likely will be doing a lot of walking and standing in line, comfortable shoes are key. Dress casually, and don't be surprised to see tropical wear on Caribbean cruises or even groups in matching T-shirts. Also make sure you check the weather beforehand.

The first day of a cruise, known as Embarkation Day, requires a "strategic" approach to clothing because your checked luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until late in the evening. Most experienced cruisers wear a comfortable "resort casual" outfit to the port—think chinos, a polo shirt, or a sundress with comfortable walking shoes. Since the pools and hot tubs are open immediately upon boarding, it is a pro-tip to wear your swimsuit under your clothes or pack it in your "carry-on" day bag, along with sunscreen and flip-flops. This allows you to start your vacation on the pool deck while others are stuck waiting for their bags. For the first night's dinner, most cruise lines maintain a relaxed "come as you are" dress code because they understand guests may still be waiting for their formal wear. However, avoiding tank tops and swimwear in the main dining room is still expected. Layering is also key, as the ship's air conditioning can be quite chilly compared to the humid outdoor docks.