If you’re trying to figure out what to pack for your Royal Caribbean cruise, especially what to wear for the theme nights, you don’t have to wait until you’re onboard to find out.
Theme nights usually appear in the Royal Caribbean app about 1–3 weeks before you sail, sometimes even sooner. They’re listed in the Daily Planner under the 5:00 PM time slot for each day of your cruise.
Where to Find Theme Nights
Here’s how to check:
- Open the Royal Caribbean app and make sure your upcoming sailing is selected.
- Tap on Daily Planner.
- Scroll to the 5:00 PM time slot on each day.
- Look for titles like White Night, Caribbean Night, ’70s Disco Party, or Dress Your Best Night.
If nothing shows up yet, don’t worry. They’re added on a rolling basis. Sometimes you’ll see them 10–14 days before your cruise, and other times not until right before you sail.
What If Your App Doesn’t Show Anything Yet?
It’s totally normal. Royal doesn’t publish themes far in advance because they vary by ship and sailing. Keep checking the app every few days, especially after you’ve checked in for your cruise.
If they still haven’t appeared before you board, they’ll show up on embarkation day once the Cruise Compass goes live in the app.
What Are the Most Common Theme Nights?
You’ll see variations by ship, but these are the big ones:
- White Night or Glow Party
- ’70s or ’80s Night
- Tropical / Caribbean Night
- Dress Your Best Night (formerly “Formal Night”)
Do You Have to Participate?
No. Every theme night is optional.
Some people go all in: matching outfits, family photos, the whole thing. Others skip it completely. You’ll often see one person dressed up at the table next to someone who’s completely casual.
Royal makes these themes easy to join without buying anything special. If you packed a tropical shirt, something white, or a simple dressier outfit, you’ll blend right in.
Why Cruise Lines Have Theme Nights
Let’s be honest, the theme nights are there to add energy to the evenings and encourage guests to take photos with the ship’s photographers. They’re meant to be fun, not stressful.
It’s not about enforcing any standard of dress. It’s about giving you one more reason to enjoy the evening your way, whether that’s in a sequin dress or a linen shirt and sandals.
FAQs About Royal Caribbean Theme Nights
Q: How far in advance do theme nights show up in the app?
Usually 1–3 weeks before sailing, but it varies. Start checking daily once you’re about two weeks out.
Q: What time are they listed in the app?
Most appear in the 5:00 PM time slot in the Daily Planner.
Q: Are theme nights different on every ship?
Yes. Larger ships (like Oasis, Icon, or Quantum Class) tend to have more elaborate parties and themed entertainment. Smaller ships may have just one or two themed events.
Q: Do I have to participate in Dress Your Best Night?
No. It’s completely optional. You’ll see everything from gowns and suits to polos and nice shorts.
Q: Are there photographers on theme nights?
Yes, you’ll find plenty of photo stations around the ship. If you want family or couple photos, these nights are the best time to get them.
Q: Do theme nights cost extra?
No. All theme nights and parties are included in your cruise fare.
My Advice
Don’t overthink it. Pack a few things that make you feel good, maybe a white outfit, a tropical look, and something a little dressier, and you’ll be set for anything Royal Caribbean has planned.
Check the Royal app around 10–14 days before sailing, watch the 5:00 PM slots in your Daily Planner, and you’ll see the themes as they’re added.
The goal is to have fun, not stress about what everyone else is wearing.
✨ Planning Your Cruise?
Grab my Embarkation Day Planner. It’s packed with checklists, first-day essentials, and organization tips so you can start your cruise relaxed, not rushed.
👉 Follow me on TikTok for more CRUISE and travel tips before your next sailing.
Charity Bradley 
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