Passengers Say These Outdated Cruise Traditions Need to Be Scrapped – ‘It Makes No Sense in 2025′

Cruising has come a long way from the days of lobster thermidor, skeet shooting off the stern, and midnight conga lines around the buffet. Many of the quirkiest traditions have already been consigned to the cruise history books. But some still linger, like seaweed clinging to the hull, and not everyone thinks that’s a good thing.

So, I asked on Facebook: Which cruise traditions should walk the plank next? The responses didn’t disappoint.

1. Formal or Elegant Nights

Formal nights are the Marmite of cruising. Some love the chance to glam up and pose on the grand staircase like it’s the Oscars.

Others? They’d rather enjoy dinner in peace without having to wrestle with sequins or a bow tie. When I asked my audience, opinions were split; some adore the tradition, others hide in the buffet to avoid it.

Dressing up can be fun, but four formal nights on a two-week cruise? That’s a bit much. Two is plenty for me, and let the rest of us eat in comfort.

2. Compulsory Gratuities

Here’s a spicy one. Most cruisers do want to tip fairly, but automatic daily charges with vague explanations don’t sit right with everyone.

Yes, pooled tips help support behind-the-scenes staff, not just the ones handing you cocktails, and that matters. But when people feel they have no choice, resentment brews.

A little more transparency (and flexibility) could go a long way. Let passengers feel in control, and generosity might just increase.

Related reading: The Truth About Tipping on a Cruise: What Crew Members Really Think

3. Paying for WiFi

In 2025, paying extra for WiFi feels like a relic of the past, especially when even your local greasy spoon throws it in with your coffee.

Yes, satellites are pricey, and we’re floating in the middle of the ocean. But when checking, WhatsApp costs more than a shore excursion, something’s gone awry.

First-time cruisers are often shocked by how expensive (and slow) onboard internet can be. We’re not asking to binge Netflix, just let us send an email or upload a sunset pic without taking out a second mortgage. No surprise this was the most-mentioned tradition people want gone.

Related reading: Can You Use WhatsApp on a Cruise Ship? Here’s What You Need to Know

4. Shared Tables

For the extroverts, shared tables are a dream – new friends, interesting chats, maybe even a holiday romance.

For the rest of us? It’s forced small talk and fake interest in Colin’s stamp collection.

Keep the option, sure, but make solo or couple tables easier to book without having to beg the maître d’. Thankfully, many cruise lines are improving on this front.

Recommended reading: Cruise Table Sharing – A Charmed Tradition or Just Plain Awkward?

5. Set Dining Times

We don’t eat at 5.45pm sharp at home, so why on holiday?

Rigid dining slots feel out of step with the relaxed vibe of modern cruising. That’s why “dine when you like” options have soared in popularity; they fit better with excursions, naps, or just following your appetite.

Cruising should feel like freedom, not like being summoned to a school dinner.

6. Art Auctions

No shade if you’ve bought a painting or two, but honestly, who’s genuinely enjoying cruise ship art auctions?

They often feel more like a sales pitch than a cultural moment, and the art? Let’s just say it rarely matches your living room decor.

Most of us would rather spend that hour sipping wine on deck than bidding on a moody seascape we’ll later regret.

Related article: Family Speaks Out After Cruise Art Auction Leaves Them Feeling Scammed

7. Photos With Officers

You’re relaxed, cocktail in hand, and suddenly, you’re lined up for a photo with a stranger in a uniform.

It’s awkward, often unflattering, and let’s be honest, no one asked for it. The officers are lovely, I’m sure, but wouldn’t they rather be running the ship than making small talk with tipsy guests?

8. Smoking Areas

This one’s tricky, yes, smokers have rights too, but more cruisers are calling for smoke-free ships or, at the very least, smarter smoking zones.

Walking through a haze of smoke to reach the buffet isn’t ideal. Smoke drifts, regardless of where you draw the lines.

Maybe it’s time for better placement, improved ventilation, or fewer smoking spots altogether. It’s about balance and cleaner air for everyone.

Related reading: Carnival Adds More Smoke-Free Casino Areas — Here’s Where to Find Them

9. Comparing Cruises With ‘The Good Old Days’

There’s always that one person reminiscing about the “real” cruising era when tuxedos were standard, kids were invisible, and burgers were nowhere to be found.

Nostalgia is fine, but cruising has moved on. It’s more inclusive, more relaxed, and dare I say more fun for a wider crowd.

Let’s stop moaning about what’s gone and enjoy what’s next. The sea’s big enough for us all.

Related article: 8 Things Royal Caribbean Have Quietly Taken Away – And What’s Replaced Them

Wrapping It Up

Cruising has evolved, and that’s a good thing. While some traditions still hold charm, others feel like outdated baggage.

Modern cruises are about flexibility, variety, and fun for all types of travellers. Whether you’re in a hoodie or a bow tie, there’s space for you onboard.

We may not agree on every tradition that deserves to be binned, but one thing’s clear: cruising isn’t stuck in the past, it’s charting a course forward.

So tell me, what cruise tradition would you toss overboard?

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