What swimsuit to pack for a cruise
Updated: 05.11.2026
In short: Pack two or three swimsuits for a cruise so one can dry while you wear another. Bring one easy all-rounder like a tankini or one-piece, one active suit for excursions, and one you love for deck photos. Add a cover-up you can walk around the ship in.
See it on you: Try a cruise swimsuit on your photo.
How many swimsuits to bring
Cabins are small and swimsuits dry slowly in humid air. A simple rule:
- 3–4 night cruise: 2 swimsuits.
- 7 night cruise: 3 swimsuits.
- Longer trips: 3–4, and rinse them by hand.
A simple cruise swimsuit plan
| Swimsuit | Best for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tankini set | Pool deck, buffets, family time | Coverage, easy bathroom trips |
| Sporty one-piece | Snorkeling, water parks, slides | Stays put when you move |
| Statement suit | Sunset deck, photos | Your "feel great" look |
| Rash guard or swim top | Long snorkel trips | Extra sun cover |
Why a tankini works so well on a cruise
A tankini is two pieces with one-piece coverage. On a ship, that matters.
- You can pull it on fast for the pool and change back quickly.
- You can mix tops and bottoms to make more outfits from less.
- Bathroom trips are easy on long excursion days.
- Sizes can differ top and bottom, which helps many bodies.
Classic stripes, like black and white, look sharp on deck and pair with almost any cover-up.
Not sure a tankini or one-piece suits you better? Try a cruise swimsuit on your photo.
Fabrics and details that travel well
- Quick-dry, chlorine-resistant fabric. Ship pools often use strong chlorine.
- Dark colors and prints. They hide sunscreen marks and look fresh longer.
- Firm lining. Comfortable for long days.
- Adjustable straps. Easy to tweak for comfort.
What to avoid packing
- Delicate trims like sequins or beads. They snag on loungers and railings.
- Only white suits. They show sunscreen and can go see-through when wet.
- Suits you've never worn. Test the fit at home before you leave.
- Too many "maybe" suits. Space is tight. Pick pieces you will actually wear.
Don't forget cover-ups
Most ships expect you to cover up in dining areas and inside. Bring:
- A light dress or kaftan you can throw on.
- Shorts and a loose shirt for deck walks.
- Slides or sandals for wet decks.
Need help with your size? Use our swimsuit size chart and your own measurements.
Excursion tips
- Wear your swimsuit under your clothes on beach days.
- Pack a dry bag with a spare suit and a small towel.
- For snorkeling, choose a secure one-piece or sporty top.
See it on you before you buy
Building your cruise wardrobe online? Upload one full-length photo and a link or screenshot of each swimsuit from any store. In about 30 seconds, AnyTry shows the cut, color and coverage on your own body, so you can pick the two or three that work best together.
Try a cruise swimsuit on your photo
FAQ
How many swimsuits do I need for a 7-day cruise?
Three is a good number. One can dry while you wear another, and you have a spare for excursions.
Is a tankini a good choice for a cruise?
Yes. It gives coverage, mixes and matches well, and makes changing and bathroom trips easy.
Can I check how a swimsuit looks before my trip?
Yes. AnyTry shows the cut and color on your own photo. Pick your size from your measurements.