More Information for Packing and Dress Code

What will I need to wear on an Alaskan Cruise?
Casual attire is the order of the day.  The key to staying comfortable on an Alaska cruise is dressing in layers. Wear something like a thin, long sleeved shirt (or even a short sleeved shirt) under a sweatshirt or sweater, and bring a waterproof windbreaker or raincoat to wear over everything. Gloves and a ski cap can be good to have too, in case you are outside on a cool, damp day. It can be quite chilly and even rainy in the fjords where you view the glaciers, but the sun can break through the clouds with little warning, warming things up a bit, thus the need for the layers.

What is the dress code for dinner?
We have all heard about how cruises have formal nights, right?  Well, this holds true for your cruise as well.  On a 7-day cruise, there will be 2 evenings that will be designated “formal dress”.  They have the formal nights on the days that the ship is at sea so you don’t have to worry about rushing back from your shore excursion to get all of the mud off.  The dress code for the formal evenings will be: Gentlemen – Dress slacks, dress shirts, and a suggested sport coat; Ladies – Cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts & blouses.  I recommend ladies wear flat shoes or a very low heel.  Not everyone can walk on heels when the boat is swaying.  On the other 5 casual evenings feel free to dress down a bit but they won’t allow jeans/shorts/t-shirts, etc.

What should I take with me on my cruise?
First of all, you should take binoculars and pack layers of clothing, especially remembering a waterproof windbreaker or raincoat of some sort. Also remember to pack sun block – those glaciers reflect a lot of the sun’s rays. And don’t forget your still camera and video camera, along with loads of tape and film (or memory cards). There is simply so much to photograph along the cruise route, and film, video tapes, and especially memory cards are very expensive on-board or even in port stores.

Can I wash my clothes while on board?
Yes, you can.  There are 2 self-service launderettes located on the stateroom decks.  The launderettes have 2-3 washers and dryers & one iron and ironing board.  The cost is $2 per washer load & $2 per dryer load.  Vending machines dispense small boxes of detergent & water softener at $1 per box.  Due to local environmental requirements, the washing machines will be closed when the ship is in port, however, the dryers & irons will be available for guest use.

Does Carnival provide irons/ironing boards in my cabin?
Unfortunately, they don’t.  Because it is a fire hazard, they do not have these in your cabin.  You can use the irons that are in the launderette or you can have your cabin steward take your clothes that need pressed & he will do it for you (for a fee).

Do I need to pack my Hair Dryer?
A hair dryer is provided at the desk/vanity in the stateroom.